The early Chrysler 4.7L V8 engines (RPOs: EVA and EVC) used in Dodge and Jeep vehicles from the late 1990s through the mid‑2000s are known for top-end failures, oiling issues, and sludge buildup. Poor oiling passages and heat retention can lead to camshaft seizure, dropped valves, and catastrophic upper-end damage if oil changes are missed or delayed.
These engines can be serviceable with meticulous maintenance, but many used examples show signs of wear, ticking, or sludge-related failure. Buyers should proceed with caution and verify maintenance history carefully.
| Year(s) | Make | Model | Should Purchase? | Reason | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 | Dodge | Dakota | Caution | Top-end wear and oiling issues |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVA Known for cam/lifter failures and sludge buildup Requires strict oil change intervals |
|
| 2006 2007 | Dodge | Dakota | Caution | Oiling issues can still cause top-end failure |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVC Later calibration but still sensitive to maintenance Inspect for ticking or valvetrain noise |
|
| 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 | Dodge | Durango | Caution | Oiling issues can cause top-end failure |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVA Heat retention contributes to sludge Verify oil change history carefully |
|
| 2005 2006 2007 | Dodge | Durango | Caution | Top-end wear and sludge risk |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVC Still prone to oiling issues if neglected Listen for upper-end noise on test drive |
|
| 2002 2003 2004 | Dodge | Ram 1500 | Caution | Top-end failures reported at moderate mileage |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVA Sensitive to oil quality and change intervals Sludge can block oil passages |
|
| 2005 2006 2007 | Dodge | Ram 1500 | Caution | Oiling issues and valvetrain wear |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVC Later version but still not robust to neglect Avoid if maintenance history is unknown |
|
| 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Caution | Common top-end wear and oil starvation |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVA Early models especially prone to sludge Inspect for ticking and low oil pressure history |
|
| 2004 2005 | Jeep | Grand Cherokee | Caution | Oiling and sludge concerns remain |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVC Later calibration but same basic architecture Only consider with excellent, documented service |
|
| 2006 2007 | Jeep | Commander | Caution | Oiling issues can lead to valvetrain failure |
Engine: 4.7L V8 - EVC Later application of the 4.7L Inspect for top-end noise and sludge evidence |
The early 4.7L V8 engines (EVA and EVC) used in Dodge and Jeep vehicles from 1999–2007 are known for top-end failures, oiling issues, and sludge buildup. They can last with perfect maintenance, but many used examples show significant wear. Buyers should proceed with caution and verify oil change history before considering long-term ownership.