Last updated: 2026-04-20
2020 Ram Promaster Reliability Report
The 2020 Ram Promaster scores 62/100 ("Good"). With 7 recalls and 34 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
7
Complaints
34
Complaint Rate
6.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$858
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,500
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (6)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.
- Year 8 in the First generation (2013-2022) (2013–2022).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 1st generation Promaster (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2013: First generation (2013-2022) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2020: This Model Year
2020 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.
Should You Buy the 2020 Ram Promaster?
At 62/100, the 2020 Ram Promaster lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.
Owners log 34 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to unknown or other (6). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2021 Ram Promaster, which scored 4 points lower. See also the 2019 Ram Promaster for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for Truck
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 34 complaints reported
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (6 complaints)
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (6 complaints)
Compare 2020 Ram Promaster With
2020 Ford F-150
Reliability: 67/100
2020 Toyota Tundra
Reliability: 74/100
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
Reliability: 63/100
2020 Chevrolet Silverado
Reliability: 67/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 7 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6)
- POWER TRAIN (6)
Recall Overview
7
recalls on record
The 2020 Ram Promaster has 7 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
6.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 11.9
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
0
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Ram Promaster Recall Details
7 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Ram Promaster. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Ram Promaster vans and 1500 pickups. The affected vehicles may have an improperly crimped diffuser in the side curtain airbag which may result in the diffuser detaching from the inflator in the event of an air bag deployment.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the air bag may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bag assemblies, free of charge. The recall began July 16, 2020. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is W52.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Ram ProMaster City vehicles. If one or both turn signal lights fail, the flashing rate may not change to warn the driver of the failure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
The driver may be unaware that the turn signals are not signaling their intentions to other drivers, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the Body Controller Module (BCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y71.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Ram ProMaster City vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may have internal damage, which could result in a loss of braking performance or autonomous braking functions.
Consequence
The loss of braking performance or autonomous braking functions can increase the risk of a vehicle crash without prior warning.
Remedy
FCA US, LLC will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ABS module, free of charge. The recall began on March 30, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Buying a used 2020 Ram Promaster? Check its history first
Every 2020 Ram Promaster has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 Ram Promaster NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Ram PromasterRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$858
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2020 Ram Promaster Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Drive Axle Assembly Drain & Refill | $173 – $201 |
| MAP Sensor Replacement | $87 – $146 |
| Transmission Position Sensor Replacement | $540 – $752 |
| Dashboard Replacement | $2,441 – $2,869 |
| Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Diagnosis | $118 – $173 |
| Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement | $448 – $483 |
| Power Steering System Leak Inspection | $61 – $90 |
| Yaw Sensor Replacement | $199 – $239 |
| Headlamp Control Module Replacement | $892 – $1,018 |
| Brake Caliper Replacement | $753 – $822 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
24 MPG
Running cost: $3,350/yr
Fuel + repair
21 city / 28 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Promaster City 2.4L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 21 | 28 | 24 | $2,500 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Ram Promaster.
Check for transmission hard shifting or failure to engage gears
Inspect for engine cooling fan running when vehicle is off
Test rearview camera for inverted or blank screen
Verify window switch operation for proper up/down function
Ensure steering wheel returns to center after turns
Inspect seat belts for proper operation and anchoring
2020 Ram Promaster Common Problems by Component
34 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
6 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Ram Promaster frequently report issues with the rearview camera, which often malfunctions by displaying a blank screen or inverted image, severely impacting visibility when reversing. Complaints also describe a problem with the vehicle's cooling system, where a failed fan module leads to engine overheating and subsequent engine damage, with one owner noting the issue occurred shortly after purchase. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle's awning deploying unexpectedly while driving, and Bluetooth connectivity issues that require driver intervention, potentially creating unsafe driving conditions. These issues are noted at various mileage ranges and can pose significant safety risks, especially when they occur on busy roadways.
POWER TRAIN
6 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Ram Promaster frequently report issues related to the transmission, with common symptoms including failure to engage gears properly and unexpected downshifting. Complaints often describe hard shifting into gears, particularly from a standstill, and a persistent problem even after transmission replacement attempts. Several owners mention experiencing these issues at mileages ranging from approximately 64,000 to 95,000 miles. Safety concerns are noted, such as loss of traction and control, especially in snowy conditions, due to unwanted downshifting and engine braking. Potential buyers should be aware of these transmission-related concerns and the associated safety implications.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners report several issues with the 2020 Ram Promaster's electrical system, notably involving the fuse box, window switches, and backup camera. Complaints frequently mention repeated occurrences of a melted fuse box, with one incident leading to a fire. Window switch malfunctions are described, including instances where the window raises instead of lowering, posing a potential safety hazard. Backup camera issues are also common, with reports of image flipping or intermittent failure, impacting rear visibility. These problems are noted across various timelines, with some owners experiencing recurring failures despite multiple repair attempts. Safety implications include fire risk and compromised visibility, which are significant for potential buyers to consider.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Ram Promaster report issues primarily related to engine cooling and transmission. A common problem involves the engine cooling fan continuing to run even when the vehicle is off, often linked to failures in the wiring harness, fuse box, and cooling fan module. Complaints frequently mention the transmission unexpectedly downshifting, jerking, and failing to function, particularly in reverse, often accompanied by a check engine light. These issues are reported at mileages ranging from approximately 65,000 to 137,000 miles. Additionally, owners note delays in recall repairs due to unavailable parts, affecting the vehicle's operational reliability. Safety implications include potential loss of control due to transmission malfunctions, although no crashes or fires are reported.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsOwners report persistent steering issues with the 2020 Ram ProMaster, specifically noting that the steering wheel does not return to its original position after being fully turned to the left or right, requiring manual assistance. This symptom is described as a potential accident risk, especially during turns under 90 degrees or U-turns. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle being inoperable for extended periods, with one vehicle reported to be out of service for over a year due to various mechanical failures. Safety implications are highlighted by owners, who express concern over the steering defect posing a serious road safety risk. These issues are often noted alongside other mechanical problems, such as transmission failures, suggesting a pattern of recurring mechanical defects.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Ram Promaster report issues with the rearview camera, specifically noting that the image may appear inverted or black while reversing. These complaints indicate that the problem persists due to unavailability of parts for a recall repair, with one owner experiencing the issue at approximately 110,000 miles. The failure of the rearview camera to display correctly could affect the driver's ability to safely maneuver the vehicle in reverse, although no accidents or injuries are reported in these complaints. Potential buyers should be aware of this recurring issue and the associated delay in obtaining the necessary repair parts.
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Ram Promaster report issues with the seat belts, specifically noting that seat belt anchors for car seats are missing and second-row seat belts remain locked and inoperable. These problems prevent the use of seat belts, which owners describe as a significant safety issue. The complaints do not specify mileage or timelines, so potential buyers should be aware of these seat belt issues regardless of vehicle age or usage. Safety implications are noted, as the inability to use seat belts can compromise passenger safety.
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2020 Ram Promaster City. The contact stated that after experiencing a flat tire, it was discovered that the spare tire could not be removed or released from the spare tire mounting section of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who cut the tire storage section of the vehicle in order to remove the spare tire. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was not yet notified. The failure mileage was 10,000.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintWe were driving on I -75 near mm 224 when we felt the van kind of wobble then heard a noise like we dropped something. We pulled over, all four tires were inflated, so we looked under each tire, we noticed the tread was missing. We drove slowly about 5 miles, to the nearest tire shop, which was Devito’s Auto Repair 2420 US Hwy 301 in Ellenton, FL, who switched out our tire and recommended we change out the remaining three when we get home, as these tire are known to separate tread.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2020 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while driving about 70 mph there was a thumping noise originating from the rear passenger side. The vehicle was veered to the side of the road and inspected. On another occasion when the vehicle was reversing a crunching sound was heard emanating from the rear passenger side. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where the emergency brake was replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 20,940.
When Do 2020 Ram Promaster Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ram Promaster Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Ram Promaster Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Ram Promaster year is 2018 with a reliability score of 68/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2026 (65/100) and 2023 (63/100).
Ram Promaster Years to Avoid
No Ram Promaster years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Ram Promaster maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Ram Promaster Reliability Score Trend
Ram Promaster reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 62/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 65/100 | Good |
Ram Promaster Reliability Compared to Other Years
2020 Ram Promaster Common Questions
10 questions from 2020 Ram Promaster owners.
My windows don’t work
I’m having a problem with my rear windows and they won’t go down I was told to fix replace the main power switch and I did that and my rears don’t work I also noticed that my passenger window doesn’t go down unless the driver rolls it down with their switch More than a year
Ram 3500 will not start
When trying to start the truck the starter clicks once but will not turnover. Any idea what to check. Started today
Vibration and droning sound in vehicle while driving
The issues are at an rpm at 1050 at any speed keeping it steady in this exact range. If you go slower it will drop a gear and is fine. If you go above this rpm in this gear it goes away. They changed the transmission valve body and updated software. This didn't fix the problem. What it did do is raise the idle rpm from 500 to 550 and lowered the warmup rpm, which was much higher. I've been on 2 tech rides 1 to show him the issues that he could not duplicate, then he drove and replicated issues. Another issue l brought it in for was the clunking when slowing down to a stop. It seems fixed for now only the clunking issue. Now 1/7/2026 they are telling me that the vehicle is within normal operating conditions. I have less than 7800 miles on a brand new 2023 Ram 1500 mild hybrid. What would correct this problem would be for the transmission computer to drop to a lower gear just above the 1050 rpm to avoid lugging the engine. More than a year
ram1500 tradesnan
lost keyffob how canI i start truck
coolant consumption
2025 Ram 1500 3.6 E torque motor, new 9 moths old 5000 miles burned through 3 gallons of coolant so far, no leaks was pressure tested with negative results, also the first cold start of the day 32 degrees and lower I have a loud screaming squeal from my motor for about 15 seconds, not the belts they have been tested. this new truck has spent a total of two weeks in the dealer shop and I'm frustrated and angry with this situation. the dealer said (we don't know what's wrong) wait for the recall. More than a year
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Ram Promaster reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Ram Promaster?
How many recalls does the 2020 Ram Promaster have?
Is the 2020 Ram Promaster expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Ram Promaster without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Ram Promaster.
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