2018 Ram 2500 Safety Report
2018 RAM 2500 plagued by widespread brake system complaints and critical recalls with unavailable parts, raising significant safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Ram 2500
Reliability Score
The 2018 Ram 2500 receives a reliability score of 35 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
Known Issues for the 2018 Ram 2500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Ram 2500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake System Failure (Abs/Hcu) Numerous complaints and a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000) indicate failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU) leading to loss of ABS, electronic stability control, and traction control. Many owners report parts for this recall are unavailable, leaving vehicles unsafe. |
High | Common | variable, often early to mid-life miles |
| Steering Linkage Loosening/Separation Recalls (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-021) address issues where the outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, potentially causing a loss of steering control and increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Side Curtain Air Bag Inflator Rupture Multiple recalls (e.g., NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-759) highlight a manufacturing defect in side curtain air bag inflators that can cause them to rupture, expelling sharp metal fragments and potentially causing injury. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Cruise Control Malfunction/Inoperability A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V-332) addresses wiring issues that could cause the cruise control to maintain speed or accelerate despite attempts to deactivate it, increasing crash risk. Some complaints also mention cruise control failing due to brake system issues. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Tailgate Latch Failure A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-347) indicates that the tailgate may open unexpectedly while driving, leading to cargo loss and creating a road hazard. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Ram 2500:
Over 991 complaints directly related to the service brakes, including ABS failure, extended stopping distances, and warning lights. This is the most frequently reported issue.
295 complaints specifically mention hydraulic brake issues, often tied to the hydraulic control unit (HCU) failure and related recall, leading to loss of ABS and stability control.
210 complaints link electrical system issues with brake problems, suggesting potential wiring or sensor malfunctions affecting brake performance and warning indicators.
128 complaints indicate problems where vehicle speed control interacts negatively with the braking system, potentially leading to unintended acceleration or cruise control malfunction.
39 complaints related to steering, including issues addressed by recalls concerning steering linkage loosening and potential loss of control.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Ram 2500
Is the 2018 RAM 2500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 RAM 2500 has significant safety concerns, primarily due to widespread and critical issues with its braking system, evidenced by 991 'SERVICE BRAKES' complaints and a major recall (24V896000) for hydraulic control unit failure. The inability to get recall repairs due to unavailable parts is a recurring complaint, leaving many vehicles with compromised braking. While crash test data is limited (N/A for frontal/side, 3-star rollover), the high volume of safety-critical complaints and recalls, including those for air bags and steering, suggests a cautious approach is warranted.
What are common problems with the 2018 RAM 2500?
The most reported issues for the 2018 RAM 2500 are overwhelmingly related to the braking system, with 'SERVICE BRAKES' accounting for 991 complaints and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' for 295. Many owners report ABS and traction control failures, often linked to a recall (24V896000) for which repair parts are frequently unavailable. Other notable problems include steering linkage issues (39 complaints) and various electrical system malfunctions that can impact braking and cruise control.
Are there any open recalls for the 2018 RAM 2500?
Yes, the 2018 RAM 2500 has 10 recalls, several of which are critical and may still be open for many vehicles. A particularly concerning recall is NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 regarding the hydraulic control unit (HCU) which can cause a loss of anti-lock brakes and stability control. Many complaints indicate that parts for this and other recalls, such as those for air bag inflators and steering linkages, are not readily available, preventing owners from getting necessary safety repairs.
How does the 2018 RAM 2500 perform in crash tests?
The 2018 RAM 2500 has limited NHTSA crash test ratings available. It received an 'N/A' for Overall, Frontal, and Side crash tests. The only available rating is a 3-star rating for Rollover, which indicates a higher risk of rollover compared to vehicles with 4 or 5-star ratings. This lack of comprehensive crash test data makes it difficult to fully assess its crashworthiness.
What should I do if I own a 2018 RAM 2500 with brake issues?
If you own a 2018 RAM 2500 experiencing brake issues, especially ABS or traction control warning lights, it is critical to address it immediately. Check if your vehicle is affected by NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) or other brake-related recalls. Contact your dealer, but be aware that many owners report parts for this specific recall are unavailable. Document all communications and consider reporting your issue to NHTSA if a remedy is not provided in a timely manner, as driving with compromised brakes significantly increases crash risk.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high volume of critical brake system complaints, numerous recalls with reported unavailable parts, and limited crash test data, potential buyers should exercise extreme caution and thoroughly investigate the service history, especially for recall completion, before considering a 2018 RAM 2500.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Ram 2500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Ram 2500. The data includes 2377 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 10 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 33 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.