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ProblemsByVin File / 2018-RAM-4500
2018 · ram

ram 4500 problems

1 safety recall. 8 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
8.8 / 10

Above-average reliability for the segment. Few systemic issues on file.

0
Critical
1
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 1 category with 3+ complaints

brakes
6 reports · avg $450
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2018 4500 · powertrain
4X4 DRIVE SHAFT FAILED. WHILE TRAVELING ON INTERSTATE THE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT BROKE AT THE U-JOINT. I'VE ONLY USED THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE OPTION 2-3 TIMES AND THE TRANSFER WAS IN 2H AT TIME OF FAILURE. FRONT ALUMINUM WHEELS FRACTURED. BOTH FRONT WHEELS GOT HAIRLINE CRACKS. ONE…
10/08/2020 · NHTSA ODI #11363348.0
2018 4500 · brakes
The Anti-Lock Brake(ABS) & Electronic Stability Control(ESC) warning lights will come on and off during normally driving conditions. When The ESC light comes on the cruise control is non functioning. If the cruise control is set when the warning light is off, the cruise will…
09/09/2024 · NHTSA ODI #11613604.0
2018 4500 · brakes
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 4500. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the check engine warning light and other unknown warning lights were illuminated, before the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the turbo had…
06/27/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11669720.0
2018 4500 · brakes
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 4500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for…
05/16/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11661508.0

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Active recalls showing 1 of 1

severe NHTSA 18V277000 01/05/2018

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 RAM 4500 and 5500 cab chassis trucks

If the ferrules corrode, the brake fluid may leak and cause a loss of braking, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake hoses and replace them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 19, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U41.

Common questions

Is the 2018 RAM 4500 reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.8 out of 10 based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2018 RAM 4500 is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2018 RAM 4500?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is brakes, with 6 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $450 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The brakes is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $450 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my RAM 4500 has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2018 RAM 4500?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 8 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $450, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 4 days ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with ram. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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