What are the most common problems with the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

A critical steering recall (18V149000) involving the rack and pinion housing demands verification of repair.

How many recalls does the 2018 Ram Promaster City have?

The 2018 Ram Promaster City currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2018 Ram Promaster City a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. A critical steering recall (18V149000) involving the rack and pinion housing demands verification of repair. The high volume of 142 TSBs suggests potential for minor issues or underlying complexity. Fuel economy is a strong point, achieving 24 MPG combined. The 2.4L engine produces 178 horsepower, adequate for its intended utility purpose. Despite no owner complaints, the steering recall and numerous TSBs point to potential reliability concerns. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2018 Ram Promaster City.

2018 Ram Promaster City Report

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

Updated Jun 13, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

A critical steering recall (18V149000) involving the rack and pinion housing demands verification of repair.
The high volume of 142 TSBs suggests potential for minor issues or underlying complexity.
Fuel economy is a strong point, achieving 24 MPG combined.
The 2.4L engine produces 178 horsepower, adequate for its intended utility purpose.

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Overview

2018 Ram Promaster City

The 2018 Ram Promaster City offers a practical, compact cargo solution for urban environments. Its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, delivers a respectable 24 MPG combined. However, potential buyers should be aware of a significant steering recall and a high number of TSBs, indicating a need for diligent pre-purchase inspection. Despite no logged owner complaints, these factors contribute to a below-average reliability verdict.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall (18V149000) addresses potential cracking of the hydraulic rack and pinion housing due to a casting flaw. This can lead to power steering fluid loss and loss of power steering assist.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower: 178HP
Torque: 174 lb–ftLB-FT

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Small business owners needing a maneuverable urban cargo van.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking a trouble-free, long-term ownership experience without potential mechanical surprises.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Ram Promaster City Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 2
Horsepower: 178 hp
Torque: 174 lb-ft
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Wagon
MSRP Range: $25,590 - $28,890
EPA Combined MPG: 24

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering Rack Defect

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Tire Placard Information

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2018 Ram Promaster City reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Ram Promaster City is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Ram Promaster City for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 2. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 3729 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Ram Promaster City is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Ram Promaster City?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Rack and Pinion (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

MSRP range is $25,590 - $28,890.

What engine is in the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.4. Output is 178 hp • 174 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2018 Ram Promaster City use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ram Promaster City, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

4 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ram Promaster City, fuel economy range is 21-28 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2018 Ram Promaster City?

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

What body style is the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ram Promaster City, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Ram Promaster City use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ram Promaster City, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Ram Promaster City?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.