Dodge & Ram Repair & Service in Cedar Rapids
HEMI power, Cummins diesel, and everything in between — serviced right.
Your Local Dodge & Ram Specialists in Cedar Rapids
From the hardworking Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 to the iconic Charger, Challenger, Durango, and Grand Caravan, Cedar Automotive delivers expert Dodge and Ram repair you can count on. Our technicians understand the engineering behind these vehicles and use professional-grade diagnostic tools to keep them running at peak performance. Whether you drive a daily commuter or a heavy-duty work truck, we treat every vehicle like our own.
Dodge and Ram vehicles are built tough, but they still need a shop that knows their quirks. Cedar Automotive handles everything from routine oil changes on your Ram 1500 to diagnosing HEMI lifter tick on a Charger R/T, to servicing the Cummins turbo diesel in your Ram 3500. We stock the correct OE-spec fluids and filters and follow manufacturer service intervals to protect your warranty.
Located in Cedar Rapids near the regional airport, we serve Dodge and Ram owners throughout Eastern Iowa. If your vehicle needs attention, give us a call or book online. Most repairs are quoted upfront with no surprises.
Dodge & Ram Services We Offer
- Oil changes and fluid services (HEMI & Cummins spec fluids)
- Brake pad, rotor, and caliper replacement
- HEMI engine diagnostics, lifter replacement, and performance service
- Automatic transmission service and repair (845RE, ZF 8-speed, 68RFE)
- Electrical diagnostics and Uconnect system troubleshooting
- Suspension, steering, and ball joint replacement
- 4WD and transfer case service
- Cummins diesel engine repair, turbo service, and DEF system maintenance
- Car key and key fob programming
Why Choose Cedar Automotive for Your Dodge or Ram?
HEMI & Cummins Experience
Our technicians have hands-on experience with HEMI V8s and Cummins turbo diesels. We know these engines inside and out and carry the correct tools and fluids for the job.
Upfront Pricing
We provide honest quotes before any work begins. No hidden fees, no surprises on your invoice. You approve everything before we turn a wrench.
Fast Turnaround
We know your Ram or Dodge is essential to your daily life. Most maintenance services are completed the same day, and we keep you updated on any repairs that take longer.
Common Dodge & Ram Issues We Fix
HEMI Tick & Lifter Failure
The distinctive "HEMI tick" in 5.7L and 6.4L engines is often caused by worn lifters or a collapsed lifter roller. Left unchecked, it can damage the camshaft. We diagnose the source of the noise and replace failed lifters to restore quiet, reliable operation.
Transmission Issues (845RE / ZF 8-Speed)
The 845RE and ZF 8-speed automatics used in many Dodge and Ram vehicles are known for harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and torque converter shudder. We perform fluid flushes, solenoid replacement, and complete transmission rebuilds as needed.
TIPM Module Failure
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) controls fuel pump relays, wipers, horn, and other electrical functions. Faulty TIPMs can cause no-start conditions, random warning lights, and intermittent electrical gremlins. We test and replace failed TIPM units.
Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage
Broken exhaust manifold bolts are extremely common on HEMI engines, causing an exhaust leak and a ticking noise especially during cold starts. We extract broken bolts and replace gaskets to eliminate the leak and restore proper exhaust flow.
Ball Joint Wear (Ram Trucks)
Ram trucks, especially 2500 and 3500 models, put heavy loads on front suspension ball joints. Worn ball joints cause clunking, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear. We inspect, press, and replace ball joints to keep your truck tracking straight and safe.
Cylinder Deactivation Problems (MDS)
The Multi-Displacement System (MDS) in HEMI engines can develop issues with the solenoids and lifters that control cylinder deactivation, leading to misfires, rough idle, and reduced fuel economy. We diagnose MDS-related faults and repair or disable the system as needed.
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you specialize in HEMI engine repairs?
Yes. Cedar Automotive has extensive experience with the 5.7L and 6.4L HEMI engines found in Ram trucks, Chargers, and Challengers. We handle common issues like HEMI tick and lifter failure, cylinder deactivation problems, and routine maintenance including oil changes with the correct spec fluids.
Can you work on Ram trucks with Cummins diesel engines?
Absolutely. We service Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel. Our services include fuel system diagnostics, turbo inspection, DEF system service, oil changes, and complete diesel engine repair.
What Dodge and Ram transmission issues do you repair?
We diagnose and repair common Dodge and Ram transmission problems including harsh shifting in the 845RE (TorqueFlite 8) and ZF 8-speed automatics, torque converter shudder, fluid leaks, and complete transmission rebuilds. We also service the 68RFE transmission found in heavy-duty Ram trucks.
Do you program Dodge keys and fobs?
Yes — we program Dodge keys and key fobs for all models including Challenger, Charger, Durango, and Ram trucks. We handle transponder keys, proximity fobs, and all-keys-lost programming at independent shop prices. Call (319) 450-7584 for a quote.