Ram ProMaster Common Problems

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2019 Ram Promaster frequently report powertrain issues, particularly related to transmission failures. Symptoms often include abnormal sounds, improper or delayed gear shifting, inability to maintain speed, and loss of motive power. Several complaints note these issues occurring at various mileage points, often around 50,000 to 108,000 miles, with some as early as 24,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with several owners describing situations where the vehicle loses power unexpectedly, posing risks in traffic. Buyers should be aware that some reports involve unresolved recall-related repairs, with parts availability issues delaying corrective actions.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster frequently report issues with backup cameras failing, with several noting the cameras either display a black screen or work intermittently. Complaints also highlight problems with cabinetry detaching in RV conversions, posing a risk of injury due to falling components. Water intrusion in the engine bay is another concern, with reports of gaps between the windshield and cowling allowing water to accumulate on electrical components. Several complaints mention these issues occurring over extended periods, with some camera failures persisting for over a year. These problems raise potential safety implications, such as reduced visibility and risk of injury from falling objects.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the backup camera and blind spot detection system. Complaints often describe the backup camera image as flickering, distorted, or going blank, especially when shifting into reverse. Similarly, the blind spot detection system is reported to disable itself unexpectedly, sometimes linked to braking or lighting conditions, which poses a potential safety risk. Additionally, one report describes a fire incident related to the vehicle's battery, highlighting a serious safety concern. These issues occur across various mileages, with some reports noting problems as early as 10,589 miles.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

STEERING

Owners report frequent issues with the 2023 Ram Promaster's steering, primarily involving electronic power steering (EPS) failures. Complaints frequently mention intermittent or complete loss of power steering, often attributed to water intrusion and corrosion in the wiring harness or EPS control module. Symptoms include the steering wheel locking up, becoming difficult to turn, or jerking unexpectedly, sometimes accompanied by warning lights such as the power steering module light and forward collision warning. These issues typically occur at various mileages, with some reports at as low as 13,500 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple owners describing near-misses or loss of control while driving, especially on highways or when encountering road bumps. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and may consider inspecting the vehicle for any signs of water damage or corrosion in the steering system.

STEERING

Owners report frequent power steering failures in the 2022 Ram Promaster, often linked to water intrusion in the steering connector or wiring harness. Typical symptoms include difficulty turning the steering wheel, aggressive jerking, and multiple warning messages such as "Service Power Steering" and "Service Hill Assist." These issues are commonly noted at mileages ranging from 21,000 to 80,000 miles. Some complaints describe the vehicle becoming difficult to control, particularly at higher speeds or when hitting bumps, posing potential safety risks. Buyers should be aware of the possibility of needing significant repairs like steering rack and wiring harness replacements.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report several issues with the 2023 Ram Promaster's electrical system, with three incidents involving vehicle fires. Complaints frequently mention engine compartment fires and issues with the cooling fan module, associated with an open recall for defective components. Other reported problems include malfunctions in the UConnect system, which may disable critical safety features such as automatic emergency braking and parking brakes. Additionally, some owners experience persistent issues with the 12v DC outlet catching fire and signal light malfunctions. These issues appear across various mileage ranges, with some occurring shortly after purchase, and they pose significant safety risks, particularly the fire incidents.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 3 fire, 0 injury reports

LANE DEPARTURE

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster frequently report issues with the blind spot monitoring system, which randomly disables itself during operation. Complaints describe the system turning off without warning, often requiring manual reactivation through the control panel, and some mention it occurring more frequently in warmer weather or when brakes are applied. This issue can lead to increased difficulty in making safe lane changes, as drivers may unknowingly rely on a non-functional system, posing potential safety risks. Some owners note the problem from the time of purchase, with one report indicating the issue at approximately 300 miles. The inability of dealerships to diagnose or resolve the problem is also commonly mentioned.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Owners of the 2023 Ram Promaster frequently report receiving recall notifications related to the engine and engine cooling system, specifically under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V720000. A common issue described is the unavailability of parts needed for recall repairs, with several owners noting that the manufacturer has exceeded a reasonable timeframe to provide these parts. One owner reports an abnormal whirring sound from the engine compartment while idling, attributed to a cooling fan issue, with the vehicle having approximately 5,275 miles. No incidents of crashes, fires, or loss of control are reported, but owners express concern over potential safety risks and are advised not to drive their vehicles. Buyers should be aware of these unresolved recall issues and the potential wait times for necessary repairs.