A List of the Most Common 5.7 Hemi Problems

The 5.7 Hemi V8 car engine by Chrysler has long been one of the most successful petrol engines and for a good reason. Since its introduction in 2003, 5.7 Hemi has proved to be reliable and efficient. But the 5.7 Hemi has its challenges and drop, as in any other component of the machine.

However, in contrast with the other generators, the 5.7 Hemi has comparatively few recorded issues. These issues and concerns are as follows:

• “Hemi tick”/the hum of the engine
• Exhaust the manifold screws snapping
• Issues of the Multi-Displacement Method (MDS)

If you ever have doubts about the durability and longevity of 5.7 Hemi, don’t worry about any of it. In this article, we’re going to detail what you should anticipate from this engine. Let’s speak about the Hemi without further ado.

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What makes a Hemi engine unique

Until we move into the nuts and bolts, we’re going to chat quickly about what makes 5.7 Hemi so unique.

The word “Hemi” is short for “hemispheric.” In the Hemi engine, the upper portion of the combustion chamber is hemispheric or rounded. The combustion chambers that have been used in many other engines have smooth tops. So why is that important?

Without being overly complicated due to its architecture’s geometry, the hemispheric engine is more potent than the flat-head engine. It wastes less energy by maximizing the friction in the combustion chamber and fully burning the gasoline. Stated, each aspect of the combustion process is more efficient.

Chrysler has long been developing hemispheric style engines, but the 5.7 Hemi is perhaps the most recent and sophisticated evolution of this classic concept.

Common problems with the 5.7 Hemi

Now we’re going to speak about the most widespread problems and concerns about this engine. If you’re searching the website, you’re likely to encounter user posts chatting to their Hemi regarding various topics. It is necessary to remember that this guide aims not to list every problem reported but rather to address some of the more popular ones.

The “Hemi tick”- a noisy engine

5.7 Hemi engines are vulnerable to something that has been called the “Hemi tick.” Certain people assume that this tick is not a concern. The people in this camp argue that it is merely a function of the push-rod motor’s architecture. After all, the push-wheel engine has more shifting parts, but a little additional noise is not exactly uncommon.

This opinion remains that, as long as the engine is not pushed incredibly firmly all the time, ticking does not trigger any difficulties per se. Others, though, say that the tick is, in truth, an issue that can be traced back to a variety of factors, like defective lifters, levers, or lousy gasoline.

Replace your old lifters, camshaft, and gasket with this handy kit.

But at the end of the day, it’s hard (if not impossible) to find a definitive answer for what triggers the Hemi tick. There appears to be no agreement about this ticking tone. Some people also relate the Hemi tick to the snapped exhaust manifold bolts, which takes us to the next famous 5.7 Hemi problem.

Snapping of exhaust manifold bolts

Another problem that would inevitably impact nearly any 5.7 Hemi owner is the snapping of the exhaust manifold bolts, especially the various sections attached to the back of the two cylinders.

One of the reasons suggested for this widespread phenomenon is that the rear two cylinders fire hotter than the others because they’re in the back of the engine room, making it difficult to cool. Some people believe that breaking these bolts will result in the Hemi tick that we spoke about earlier. Again, none here is definitively definite.

The consensus is that any 5.7 Hemi user should finally be prepared to pay for new exhaust manifold bolts. If you are technically inclined, this is something you may be willing to do yourself. But the overwhelming number of citizens would have to carry their car to a mechanic to repair these bolts.

Here’s a good replacement for snapped bolts: Everbuilt Exhaust Manifold Bolt Kit

Issues with the MDS

Modern Hemi engines are fitted with a multi-displacement system. The MDS shuts off four of the engine cylinders when cruising at a slow, steady pace. This MDS is designed to improve the engine’s fuel economy, and that’s one thing it actually does for sure.

There are not inherently common issues with the MDS per se, but more concerns regarding the scheme as a whole. Any Hemi owners claim their MDS engine deactivated and reactivated effortlessly. The MDS isn’t a 5.7 Hemi “issue,” but it’s a function that many owners sincerely hate. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to disable or uninstall this steering wheel device.

Droning noise

For quite a few users, the MDS doesn’t really live up to its potential. In fact, many Hemi owners complain of loud noise or droning sound that can be heard when shutting off the engine, which consequently activates the cylinders. And, if you happen to install aftermarket components for your exhaust system, expect that this sound gets even louder.

Potential long-term damage

There is skepticism among 5.7 Hemi owners that the MDS could theoretically below-grade for the engine in the long run. They think it can’t be expected for the machine to routinely switch off half of itself and then back on again. However, considering how comparatively modern this technology is, the jury is still out about whether this functionality is detrimental to the engine itself.

Other problems at high mileages

There are several records of the high-mileage Hemis plague issues. In certain situations, the exhaust manifold bolt problem we spoke about earlier has been known to be around 100,000 miles away. Apart from this problem and general wear and tear, the 5.7 Hemi can continue to operate well if well handled.

Expensive rebuilding costs

Getting a 5.7 Hemi engine restored can make a dent of $2500 to $7000 on your budget. This price range is broad since the cost would rely on some variables. Both considerations include the specific parts of the machine being repaired and the amount of work involved. E.g., you could be able to save some money by saving sections of another motor.

Bear in mind that an average engine repair is between $2,500 and $4,000 in component and labor costs. Plus, one of the key reasons is the make and type of vehicles. The more popular it is, the less expensive the pieces are going to be.

If you have the know-how and are confident you can pull off repairing or rebuilding your engine yourself, here’s a Hemi rebuilding kit that we found on Amazon.

Final Verdict: Is the 5.7 Hemi a good engine?

Overall, the Hemi 5.7 is an excellent engine. It has established a reputation as a successful and robust engine operator. If you speak to someone who owns a 5.7 Hemi motor, they’ll possibly have minimal, if any, negative words to tell about it. As every engine, the 5.7 Hemi has its characteristics, but it remains one of the most powerful engines available.

There are loads of testimonials on the 5.7 Hemi Car Forums lasting well over 200,000 miles, some even more than 300,000 miles. It is also worth noting that these accounts are from older Hemi engines. Chrysler improved on this engine year after year, but new Hemis is likely to last as long, if not longer.

If you adjust your oil daily and do other regular maintenance, 5.7 Hemi will go a long way. You should anticipate the 5.7 Hemi to last a long period of time with the right treatment. Some car portions are likely to be nickel-and-dimed as a general concept even before the Hemi gives out.

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