Last updated: 2026-03-04

2018 Ram 1500 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2018 Ram 1500 scores 64/100 ("Good"). With 15 recalls and 605 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
15
Complaints
605
Complaint Rate
13.5
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$691
Below avgMajor Repair Risk
13%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
15 recalls on record
Should You Buy the 2018 Ram 1500?
The 2018 Ram 1500 scores 64/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 605 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (132). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2019 Ram 1500, which scored 6 points lower.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- $245 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize trucks
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (13%)
Cons
- Above-average recall count
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Uconnect infotainment system and backup camera (132 complaints)
- STEERING: Sudden loss of power steering assistance (65 complaints)
Compare 2018 Ram 1500 With
2018 Ford F-150
Score: 58/100
2018 Chevrolet Silverado
Score: 70/100
2018 GMC Sierra 1500
Score: 66/100
2018 Toyota Tundra
Score: 69/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 15 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (132)
- STEERING (65)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (61)
- ENGINE (57)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (48)
- POWER TRAIN (46)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (44)
- FUEL SYSTEM (42)
- SERVICE BRAKES (24)
- SUSPENSION (18)
- AIR BAGS (14)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (13)
- STRUCTURE (10)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (5)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (5)
- SEAT BELTS (5)
- EQUIPMENT (3)
- TIRES (3)
- WHEELS (3)
- SEATS (2)
- VISIBILITY (2)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1)
Recall Overview
15
recalls on record
The 2018 Ram 1500 has 15 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
13.5
per 10k soldSegment avg: 18.4
Safety Incidents
Crashes
25
Fires
8
Injuries
25
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Ram 1500 Recall Details
15 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Ram 1500. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and Ram 3500 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
Consequence
An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 83C, 91C, and 92C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning September 18, 2025.
AIR BAGS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
Consequence
An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate, causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
Consequence
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 3, 2023. Some owner notification letters were mailed October 31, 2023. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated July 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 66A. This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-475.
Showing 10 of 15 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2018 Ram 1500 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 19.8%
Safety Technologies
Ram 1500 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$691
vs $936 avg for fullsize trucks
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2018 Ram 1500
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect Uconnect screen for delamination and ghost touches
- Test power steering functionality for intermittent failures
- Listen for unusual engine noises or knocking
- Check for engine oil leaks or low oil pressure warnings
- Ensure fuel tank fills properly without frequent nozzle shutoff
- Verify ABS and traction control systems are operational
- Inspect air suspension for unexpected lowering or rough ride
Check Any 2018 Ram 1500's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2018 1500 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Ram 1500 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2018 Ram 1500 Common Problems by Component
605 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
132 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the Uconnect infotainment system and backup camera. Common symptoms include malfunctioning touchscreens that result in erratic behavior such as changing radio stations, altering climate controls, and causing distractions while driving. Many complaints highlight screen delamination and ghost touching, leading to safety concerns like loss of control over defrost functions, which can be hazardous in poor visibility conditions. Backup camera failures are also a recurrent issue, with owners describing intermittent or complete loss of image, posing a risk when reversing. These problems often manifest around 30,000 to 40,000 miles, and some reports involve crashes and fires, indicating potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
STEERING
65 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the power steering system, particularly involving sudden loss of power steering assistance. Common symptoms include the steering wheel locking up or becoming difficult to turn, often accompanied by dashboard warning lights such as "Service Power Steering." These issues are frequently described as occurring abruptly and intermittently, sometimes after hitting a bump or during wet conditions. Several reports mention that the problem can manifest at various speeds, posing a safety risk, and there are accounts of crashes and one injury associated with these failures. Many complaints indicate that the vehicles involved do not fall under existing recalls despite similarities in symptoms, with some owners experiencing these issues around 80,000 miles or earlier. This information is crucial for potential buyers to consider, as repairs are noted to be costly and not always covered under warranty.
ENGINE
57 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report engine failures characterized by sudden loss of power, knocking noises, and engine stalls. Complaints often describe incidents occurring at highway speeds, with some engines seizing completely or throwing rods, leading to significant mechanical damage. These issues are commonly reported around 45,000 to 142,000 miles. Safety implications include near-misses with traffic and the potential for accidents due to sudden engine failure, though no crashes are explicitly mentioned. Additionally, multiple owners indicate prolonged delays in receiving recall-related repairs, particularly for the high-pressure fuel pump and crankshaft position issues, which may contribute to ongoing operational risks.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (48 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
48 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with refueling, where the fuel pump nozzle shuts off prematurely or fuel spills out of the filler neck. These symptoms often require manual intervention to continue fueling and can result in gasoline overflow, posing safety and environmental hazards. Complaints often mention difficulties beginning shortly after purchase, persisting and worsening over time, with some vehicles requiring extensive repairs like gas tank replacement. Additionally, some owners describe problems with fuel tank straps rusting and detaching, which could potentially lead to significant safety risks. One complaint also involves a fire incident, linked to a high-pressure fuel pump recall, highlighting potential safety implications.
POWER TRAIN (46 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
46 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the power train, notably involving engine failures and crankshaft problems. Symptoms often described include loss of power, engine overheating, and unusual noises, with some incidents leading to complete engine seizures or the need for full engine replacements. Complaints often emerge around the 60,000 to 90,000-mile mark, with several cases involving engine failures even at lower mileages, such as 11,900 miles. Safety implications are evident, with reports of crashes and loss of vehicle control, particularly when the vehicle unexpectedly shuts down at high speeds. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these recurring issues, especially the potential for sudden power loss and the associated safety risks.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (44 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
44 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the engine and engine cooling systems, with common problems including engine stalling and failure to restart. Many complaints describe symptoms such as abnormal sounds, smoke, and burning odors, often accompanied by warning lights. Failures related to the crankshaft position sensor tone wheel and exhaust manifold issues are notable, with some owners experiencing coolant leaks and oil leaks leading to engine failure. These issues often occur around 11,000 to 186,000 miles. Safety implications include reports of engine stalls at high speeds and one instance involving smoke and potential fire risk, which may concern prospective buyers.
SERVICE BRAKES (24 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
24 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the ABS control module, which often results in the failure of the ABS system, traction control, and cruise control. Typical symptoms include illuminated warning lights for ABS and traction control, and in some cases, the brake pedal seizing, leading to loss of control. Complaints suggest these issues can occur at varying mileages, with some instances reported under 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of the vehicle becoming undrivable or hydroplaning, and two complaints involve crashes. Potential buyers should be aware of the difficulty in obtaining replacement parts, as many owners mention prolonged backorders and unresolved repairs.
SUSPENSION (18 complaints)
SUSPENSION
18 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the air suspension system, with common symptoms including the front suspension lowering unexpectedly, rough rides, and the vehicle being difficult to drive. Complaints often describe the failure occurring multiple times, sometimes as early as 7,000 miles, and becoming more problematic in cold weather. There are also reports of the suspension failing at high speeds, leading to potential safety hazards such as loss of vehicle control. Additionally, some owners mention rust and corrosion on suspension components, particularly in regions with harsh winter conditions. These patterns suggest potential safety risks and recurring maintenance issues that prospective buyers should consider.
AIR BAGS (14 complaints)
AIR BAGS
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with airbag non-deployment in the 2018 Ram 1500, particularly during crashes. Complaints often mention significant front-end damage or side impacts where airbags failed to deploy, leading to injuries in multiple cases. These issues are noted in vehicles with mileage ranging from approximately 39,000 to 61,000 miles. Additionally, some owners describe persistent airbag warning lights and costly sensor or wiring repairs. The pattern of airbag failures in crash scenarios suggests potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (13 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
13 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with vehicle speed control, particularly involving cruise control malfunction and unexpected acceleration. Complaints commonly describe cruise control that fails to engage or disengage properly, sometimes requiring multiple attempts to activate. Several reports indicate a lag in throttle response, particularly during acceleration from a stop or when merging, which can create hazardous driving situations. Additionally, some owners experience sudden deceleration or unintended acceleration, including one incident resulting in a crash with minor injuries. These issues often occur at various mileages, with some reports emerging as early as 2,400 miles, suggesting potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
When Do 2018 Ram 1500 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ram 1500 Years
Best Ram 1500 Years to Buy
The best Ram 1500 year is 2024 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (73/100) and 2023 (72/100).
Ram 1500 Years to Avoid
The worst Ram 1500 year is 2019 with a score of 58/100, primarily due to steering (313) issues.
See full Ram 1500 years-to-avoid analysis →Ram 1500 Reliability Score Trend
Ram 1500 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 72/100 compared to 63/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 73/100 | Good |
Ram 1500 Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 74/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 2 | 18 |
| 2025 | 73/100 | -4 | Good | 5 | 186 |
| 2024 | 77/100 | +5 | Good | 4 | 57 |
| 2023 | 72/100 | +8 | Good | 10 | 145 |
| 2022 | 64/100 | +1 | Good | 15 | 506 |
| 2021 | 63/100 | -2 | Good | 14 | 611 |
| 2020 | 65/100 | +7 | Good | 13 | 559 |
| 2019 | 58/100 | -6 | Mixed | 29 | 1364 |
| 2018(selected) | 64/100 | — | Good | 15 | 605 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Ram 1500 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Ram 1500?
How many recalls does the 2018 Ram 1500 have?
Is the 2018 Ram 1500 expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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