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2018 Ram 2500 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 13, 2026·Ethan Miller·9 Critical Recalls
2018 Ram 2500 Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant recall activity, especially concerning airbags and steering systems, demands thorough inspection and verification of completed repairs.
  • Zero consumer complaints do not negate the concerns raised by numerous recalls and a high TSB count.
  • Safety systems, including airbags and braking controls, have been the subject of multiple critical recalls.
  • Potential repair costs associated with addressing outstanding recalls or potential future issues should be factored into the purchase decision.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Ram 2500

The 2018 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty truck built for demanding tasks. For the used market, however, its appeal is tempered by a notable number of recalls, particularly concerning safety-critical components such as airbags and steering linkages. Despite a clean complaint record, a high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential underlying issues that owners should be aware of. Fuel economy figures are unavailable, as expected for this class of truck.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls address airbag inflator issues, specifically curtain inflators. These can pose a rupture risk, expelling shrapnel. While no complaints are logged, the repeated nature of recalls indicates a persistent concern.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls16
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing heavy-duty capability and towing over long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a dependable daily driver with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Ram 2500 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Ram 2500.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
2
Transmission
Automatic

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbag System Malfunctions

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Steering Linkage Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Steering and Suspension Components

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
16 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Ram 2500 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Ram 2500 is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 16. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Ram 2500 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. Seating capacity is 2. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Ram 2500?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Ram 2500 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Ram 2500?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Steering and Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Ram 2500?▾

Base MSRP is $52,795.

What transmission does the 2018 Ram 2500 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ram 2500, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Ram 2500?▾

6 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Ram 2500?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ram 2500, seating capacity is 2.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Ram 2500?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 3/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Ram 2500?▾

This model year has 16 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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