Used Car Checklists

2018 Ram ProMaster: What to check before buying

Only 1 owner complaint is on file with NHTSA for this car, so this sheet is short. Problems reported on other ProMaster years with the same design are listed below the checklist.

Ram ProMaster2018
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
0
Crashes reported
0
Reliability
Good
68/100 on Auto Reliability Index

Run the VIN before you go

A history report shows accidents, title brands, odometer readings, and open recalls for this 2018 Ram ProMaster. Ask the seller for the VIN; it is also on the dash at the base of the windshield.

Your inspection sheet

Tick items off on your phone at the car, or print it. Ticks stay on this device.

0/4 checked

1

Paperwork and questions

Before you go, or before you touch the car0/1

2

Walk-around and cabin

Engine off, key in hand0/1

3

Cold start, engine bay, and underside

Ask the seller not to warm the car up first0/1

4

Test drive

At least 20 minutes, with some highway0/1

These checks are specific to this model year. For tires, body panels, fluids, and the other basics every used car needs, use the general inspection guide.

Reported on other ProMaster years with the same design

Few owners have reported problems with this year yet. These years share the 2018's design and most of its parts, so their problems are the ones to look for on this car too.

2019 ProMaster

60 owner complaints
  • Transmission 20
  • Engine 11
  • Electrical 5

Worth adding to your 2018 checks

  • Run the VIN for open recalls and ask for dealer paperwork showing the transmission recall repair was actually done.
  • Shift through park, reverse, and drive several times; walk away from delayed engagement, no reverse, rattling, or grinding.
  • On the highway, watch for unexpected downshifts, slipping, or power loss, and check that the check engine light stays off.
Open the 2019 checklist

2020 ProMaster

34 owner complaints
  • Transmission 6
  • Electrical 5
  • Engine 3

Worth adding to your 2018 checks

  • Shift from Park into Drive and Reverse at a stop; reject delayed engagement or a hard thump into gear.
  • Drive in traffic and lift off the accelerator; watch for abrupt, unwanted downshifts or jerking.
  • Run the VIN for open recalls and ask the dealer whether repair parts are actually in stock.
Open the 2020 checklist

2021 ProMaster

98 owner complaints
  • Electrical 13
  • Engine 11
  • Lane keeping 9

Worth adding to your 2018 checks

  • Shift into reverse several times and confirm the rearview camera shows a clear, upright image every time.
  • Drive with blind spot monitoring on, brake often, and watch for a system-disabled message on the dash.
  • Park on a slope in Park without the parking brake and confirm the van does not roll.
Open the 2021 checklist

Which ProMaster is it?

EPA figures for each version of the 2018 Ram ProMaster. Use them to confirm you are looking at the version that was advertised, and as a yardstick on the test drive.

VersionDriveEPA rating
2.4L 4-cylFWD24 mpg
  • Reset the trip computer at the start of the drive. A ProMaster that averages well under the EPA 24 mpg combined on a mixed route may have an engine or tire problem.

Where the 2018 fits in the ProMaster's history

Redesigns and mid-cycle updates change what can go wrong.

The 2018 is the sixth model year of the ProMaster's first generation (2013–2022).

Ram updated the ProMaster for 2019, so a 2018 does not have those changes.

What changed for 2019 (not on a 2018)

  • Updated front fascia
  • Revised interior materials and features

Also looking at these instead of a ProMaster?

Cars shoppers compare with the Ram ProMaster, with their own 2018 checklists.

2018 owner complaints, side by side