2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Review
Price:Â $25,995

Edmunds' Expert Review

by Cameron Rogers
Manager, Written Content
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. As a manager of written content, he writes and edits the reviews that help consumers find their perfect car. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
- Good low-traction performance and tight turning radius
- Wide variety of body styles to suit a range of business needs
- Available onboard internet connection
Cons
- Less towing capacity than other full-size vans
- Unrefined ride quality, even for a van
- Hard to find a comfortable driving position
What's new
- A 5-inch touchscreen and rearview camera are all newly standard
- Part of the first ProMaster Cargo generation introduced for 2014
There have been dramatic shifts in the full-size cargo van market over the last few years. The Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana and Nissan NV all ride on body-on-frame truck chassis, while newer models such as the Ford Transit utilize unibody construction for reduced weight and improved ride comfort. The 2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo takes it a step further and really throws convention out the window: Not only is it a unibody cargo van, but it's also front-wheel-drive in a segment otherwise dominated by rear-wheel-drive haulers.
For sale nearby
338 listings
- 107,655 miles
- Frame damage reported, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 6cyl automatic
- Drive 512 Auto Ranch (3 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Trip Computer
Close
Located in Austin, TX
Visit Drive 512 Auto Ranch online @ www.drive512.com to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 5**-8**-7*** today to schedule your test dri...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: Yes
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: 3C6TRVCGXJE112569
Stock: M3957
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-10-2025- $16,885good price
- 90,803 miles
- 1 accident, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 6cyl automatic
- Spotless Auto (66 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Parking sensors
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in San Antonio, TX
Visit Spotless Auto LLC online at spotlessautousa.com to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 210-785-4940 today to schedule your test dri...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: 3C6TRVAG9JE122707
Stock: 25246
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Going front-wheel drive brings a few benefits. The ProMaster's step-in and cargo-loading heights are the lowest in the class, and the extra weight over the driven wheels should give the ProMaster better traction when the road is slippery. A tight turning circle also helps with low-speed maneuverability. It can't tow as much as rivals, but its maximum payload capacity of 4,430 pounds is right up there with the rest of the class.
We think the 2018 Ram ProMaster is a good choice for commercial use as long as you're willing to overlook the van's unconventional looks and mediocre tow rating in exchange for greater mobility in the city and easy cargo loading and unloading.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
The 2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo breaks the cargo van mold with front-wheel drive and a unibody construction. It can't tow as much as rivals, but the low step-in height makes it easy to load equipment into the back and a tight turning radius makes it easy to navigate crowded city streets.
Trim tested
Edmunds has limited experience with the Ram ProMaster Cargo. The following is our take on what's significant about it and what you can expect.
Driving
Since the diesel was discontinued for this year, the 3.6-liter V6 is the only engine available. But it's a refined one, with smooth shifts and a notable lack of engine noise. It feels easy to drive this van in crowded urban centers thanks to its light steering and relatively tight turning radius.
Comfort
The seats are well-bolstered, but the steering wheel doesn't tilt, so many drivers may find the driving position is compromised.
Interior
There's nothing fancy about the ProMaster. Like all cargo vans, this beast is about function, not form. The ProMaster doesn't offer blind-spot monitoring, so consider the optional tow mirrors and side window glass for extra visibility.
Utility
A low liftover height makes it easy to load items or step into the boxy cargo area. Cargo capacity ranges from 259 cubic feet in the short-wheelbase, low-roof 1500 model to 467 cubes in the long-wheelbase, high-roof 3500 with the extended cargo area.
Technology
A rearview camera and a 5-inch touchscreen with Ram's intuitive Uconnect interface are standard.
Which ProMaster Cargo Van does Edmunds recommend?
Since the list of standard features is the same no matter which trim you specify, the model you decide on is based purely on your business needs. Keep in mind that lower numbers correspond to a smaller wheelbase and a shorter roof height. For instance, the 1500 is the only one available in the short-wheelbase and low-roof combination, while the 3500 can only be ordered in the long-wheelbase and high-roof combo.
Compare 2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van models
The 2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo is a large van with two seats and a large cargo area perfect for storing gear and upfitting. There are no traditional trim levels; instead, its 1500, 2500 and 3500 levels indicate the size of the vehicle (higher numbers translate to longer available wheelbases and taller roofs) as well as an increasing gross vehicle weight rating for higher payloads. The engine is a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine (280 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque) that drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 1500 carries a GVWR of 8,550 pounds, with a payload rating of 3,770 to 3,990 pounds, depending on how it's configured. A 118-inch wheelbase and low cargo roof are standard, while a 136-inch wheelbase with a low or high cargo roof is optional. The 2500's GVWR is listed at 8,900 pounds, with a payload rating of 3,700 to 4,130 pounds. It's available in a 136-inch or a 159-inch wheelbase with a high cargo roof. The GVWR for the 3500 is listed at 9,350 pounds, with a payload rating of 4,020 to 4,430 pounds. The 159-inch wheelbase is standard, but you can order an extended version with an even longer cargo area.
The standard features on the Ram ProMaster 1500 include 16-inch steel wheels, split-opening rear doors, manually adjustable mirrors, remote locking and unlocking, a rearview camera, air conditioning, cloth upholstery, a telescoping steering wheel, cargo lights, tie-down rings in the cargo area, a 5-inch touchscreen, and a four-speaker audio system with a USB port.
The 2500 and 3500 versions come with the same equipment as the 1500, but they feature a heavy-duty suspension to deal with the higher payload capabilities.
Optional features include alloy wheels, power-folding and heated mirrors, windows for the sliding rear doors, rear windows, daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, vinyl upholstery, heated seats, lumbar adjustment for one or both seats, a double passenger seat, swivel seats, a suspended driver's seat, cargo area climate control, satellite radio, a navigation system and a tow hitch.
A few options are also available through Mopar, including remote engine start, electronic vehicle tracking, carpeted or rubberized floor mats, LED cargo lighting, a spray-in bedliner and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

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Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van 1500 Low Roof 3dr Van w/118" WB (3.6L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Texas.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas
Not EPA tested  for ProMaster Cargo Van 1500 Low Roof
ProMaster Cargo Van 1500 Low Roof
vs
$237/mo
Avg. Midsize Van
See Edmunds pricing data
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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
2 out of 5 stars2/5Average
#22 out of 24 among Commercial Vans
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ram ProMaster Cargo Van from 2008-2022.$1,168/yr
vs. $851/yr
for Average Commercial Van
for Average Commercial Van
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.39x/yr
vs. 1.96x/yr
for Average Commercial Van
for Average Commercial Van
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).19.6%
vs. 17.8%
for Average Commercial Van
for Average Commercial Van
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Ram ProMaster Cargo Van Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(13%)
4(20%)
3(6%)
2(8%)
1(53%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
JUNK WARNING DO NOT BUY
1 out of 5 starsTjf, 07/27/2018
2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van 1500 Low Roof 3dr Van w/136" WB (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Just like all the other reviews, after 115000 needs new tranny, also entire top half of engine needed to be replaced. This is a legal lemon. I've replaced more headlights on this truck than all other trucks I've owned combined. Struts have been replaced twice the cargo doors never worked correctly need a new radiator for the second time. Please save yourself the money and aggravation … do not buy. This is by far the worse vehicle I've ever owned including the used trucks
560 miles from new and left rear brake locked up.
1 out of 5 starsJamie, 11/07/2018
2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van 1500 High Roof 3dr Van (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Do not buy. Traded my Ford for a lemon. I have had van 8 days. The day I left dealer to have motor shake and tires that are square. I drove van 45 mile home and tires got better and engine shake stopped after a couple of miles. I shook it off to bad gas. Well today driving down interstate 10 miles from home it starts to smell like something burning. Guess what left rear brake is stuck … and smoking. I was in fast lane and trying to move right. But now we motor starts to miss and power loss. Well after stopping to figure out what the hells going on and waiting an hour to cool off. It made it home. Called dealer to find they couldn't get it in till the next day. So here I sit. Story to continue. Lemon law will be on menu.☹
Worse van ever.
1 out of 5 starsDavid Khat, 07/11/2018
2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van 1500 High Roof 3dr Van (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
This announcement is in regards to the 2018 Dodge ProMaster Ram. We are an experienced and established logistic company with a fleet of 160 cargo vans contracted with several companies. In the past, we have used several cargo brands such as Ford, Chevy, and Nissan. Recently, our leasing agent has switched us to the 2018 Dodge ProMaster Ram. Immediately from the first month of service, we … have encountered countless problems that we have never experience before when using other make and models.
The two main issues are mechanical and vehicle structure within less than 700 miles.
The mechanical issues we have dealt with are the following,
Serpentine belt, controls several important part of the vehicle such as AC, alternator, and power steering. The serpentine belt comes off which is not normal, and we are unable to prevent this issues.
Transmission, the vehicle does not shift properly or not at all and the gears disconnect leading to rolling of the van which has lead to an accident in our fleet which has totaled another vehicle. The shifter in the vans are loose and/or becoming loose.
Within the first 3000 miles, the front tires bald without reason which is abnormal as well.
The structure issue is the door handle hinges. The door handle hinges mounted to the frame are weak and snap out regularly making it unable to open and the hinges actually break off the van.
In January and February 2018, we made a formal complaint to Dodge through out leasing company. We had two visits from two different Dodge personnel and discussed the issues state above. During the visits, the Dodge personnel admitted to being aware of the hinge issues. Dodge personnel offered to only assist us to the mechanical issues, transmission and serpentine belt. However, they have not fixed the vehicles thoroughly, and are continuously being serviced. Within Dodge service, we are not reimbursement or given an incentive for the down time these vehicles are being serviced. The front tires and structural issues are still being overlooked.
This announcement is to bring attention to all consumers to not invest in 2018 Dodge ProMaster Ram. Your money and safety are at risk. .....
7 promasters, always broken
2 out of 5 starsAdam, 08/05/2018
2018 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van 3500 High Roof 3dr Ext Van (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
We own a tour company and switched our fleet to these vans because the design is easy for clients to get in and out of. Boy, did we make a mistake. Out of 7 vans we have lights going out weekly, rain coming in from leaking roofs that we had in the shops over and over again. Out of 7 vans- 3 had transmission replacements in under 70,000 miles and 3 more had lifters clicking at under … 80,000 miles. We replace lights weekly and now we’re having airbag sensors going off. We honestly have had to rent vehicles all summer to replace these pieces of junk and if you buy one have a good tow/rescue plan because you’ll need it. Junk, junk, junk. We will be switching to a chevrolet custom up fitted van and it may not be as friendly for customers but at least it won’t be sitting in the shop for 2 weeks of every month.
2018 ProMaster Cargo Van Highlights
1500 Low Roof
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $29,995 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 259.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the ProMaster Cargo Van models:
- ParkSense Rear Park Assist
- Sounds an alert if an object is in close proximity to the rear bumper.
- ParkView Rear Backup Camera
- Provides a view directly behind the van to prevent collisions while reversing.
- Cargo Tie-Downs
- Keeps items from slipping and sliding around the cargo area.
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