2021 Ram Promaster Reliability Report

Owners report two primary issues with the 2021 Ram Promaster's service brakes. First, multiple complaints describe brake calipers seizing, particularly at the rear, with symptoms like wheels not turning and brakes overheating, often after using the parking brake. This issue appears in vehicles with relatively low mileage, around 12,500 miles. Second, a recurring brake system warning light activates during downhill driving, especially on long descents, with owners noting it turns off after restarting the vehicle. This warning light issue is reported to occur consistently during mountain driving, with no resolution offered by dealers. These problems suggest potential safety implications, such as compromised braking performance or reduced driver awareness of actual brake system failures.

Owners report several power train issues with the 2021 Ram Promaster, primarily involving transmission failures. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle losing power or failing to shift properly, with some vehicles unable to exceed low speeds or losing the ability to reverse. These issues often arise at higher mileages, around 120,000 to 130,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with one report of a crash where the vehicle lost power and rolled backward, resulting in a collision with a tree. Buyers should be aware of these potential transmission problems, especially in vehicles with higher mileage.

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster frequently report issues with the rear-view camera, particularly that it displays a black or dim screen when the vehicle is in reverse. These failures are often described as intermittent, with some owners noting that the camera fails to activate entirely. Complaints often mention that these issues arise around 3,000 to 45,000 miles. In some cases, owners report safety implications, including minor crashes while reversing due to impaired visibility. Many owners express frustration with delays in recall repairs, indicating that parts are often unavailable, leaving the problem unresolved for extended periods.

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster frequently report issues related to recall repairs for the engine and engine cooling system, with parts for these repairs often unavailable. Multiple complaints mention the manufacturer exceeding reasonable timeframes for providing parts, impacting vehicle usability. One owner describes a vehicle stalling incident at approximately 6,000 miles, linked to the power control module, although no fault codes were retrieved. No crashes, fires, or loss of control are reported, but the delay in addressing recall repairs could affect vehicle reliability. Buyers should be aware of potential delays in obtaining recall-related repairs for this model.

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster report several issues with seat belts, primarily involving functionality and fit. Complaints frequently mention that seat belts fail to retract or extend properly, with one owner noting that the belts can lock down or let loose unexpectedly while driving. Some owners describe frayed seat belt webbing, although no failures have occurred due to this issue. There are also reports of seat belts being too short to accommodate passengers, especially in the rear seats, with one case noting this issue at approximately 3,072 miles. These problems could potentially affect passenger safety, as seat belts are critical for occupant protection.

Owners report recurring issues with the 2021 Ram Promaster's engine, particularly cracked cylinder heads necessitating full engine replacements around 80,000 miles. Two separate complaints describe this defect occurring in vehicles purchased simultaneously, suggesting a possible manufacturing batch issue. Additionally, multiple owners describe engine fires, with one incident occurring while the vehicle was parked and another while driving at 40 MPH, both resulting in total vehicle loss. These fires are linked to mechanical issues originating in the engine area, and one owner reported a burning odor and smoke entering the cabin before the fire. Such patterns suggest potential safety implications, especially concerning fire hazards.

Owners of the 2021 Ram Promaster report issues primarily related to the steering system, with multiple complaints describing a sudden and complete loss of steering control. This is often attributed to a broken serpentine belt and metal contamination throughout the power steering system, necessitating full system replacement. Symptoms include difficulty turning the steering wheel and immobilization of the vehicle, typically occurring early in the vehicle's life, with one report noting the issue within 27 days of purchase. Additionally, some owners note excessive steering sensitivity, particularly in the short wheelbase model, which could lead to unintended vehicle movement. These steering issues present significant safety risks, including loss of vehicle control, and may occur without warning indicators.