2016 Ram Promaster City Safety Report
2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY Safety Analysis
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Ram Promaster City
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Ram Promaster City. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (4) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (56) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 0 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2018 | Compare against the 2018 Ram Promaster City with 1 complaints and 2 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Ram Promaster City before buying across this generation. |
Ram Promaster City Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Ram Promaster City years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Ram Promaster City | 75 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2015 Ram Promaster City | 86 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Ram Promaster City | 1 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Ram Promaster City | 5 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Ram Promaster City | 1 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Ram Promaster City | 5 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2016 Ram Promaster City Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Ram Promaster City, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Ram onlyPower Train
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Ram onlyExterior Lighting
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Exterior Lighting issues Ram onlyUnknown Or Other
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Ram onlyElectrical System
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Ram onlyPower Train,Electrical System
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Electrical System issues Ram onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ram Promaster City
Reliability Score
The 2016 Ram Promaster City receives a reliability score of 82 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2016 Ram Promaster City
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ram Promaster City:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure Multiple recalls and reports indicate transmission failures, leading to potential safety risks and costly repairs. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Electrical System Issues Recalls and reports highlight electrical system problems, including software issues, affecting various components. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Backup Camera Inversion Some owners report that the backup camera is inverted, making it difficult to see behind the vehicle. |
Low | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Sudden Vehicle Shutdown Reports of the vehicle suddenly shutting off at high speeds have been documented, posing safety risks. |
Medium | Common | 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 2016 Ram Promaster City:
Transmission issues are a common problem, with recalls and multiple reports of failures.
Electrical system issues, including software problems, are frequently reported.
Some owners report that the backup camera is inverted, affecting visibility.
Engine-related issues, including recalls, have been reported.
Recall Details for the 2016 Ram Promaster City
The following 4 recalls have been issued for the 2016 Ram Promaster City by NHTSA:
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the v...
Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall i...
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM ProMaster City vehicles. These vehicles have incorrect information on the tire placard including incorrect vehicle capacity weight, total number of occupants, tire pressure and/or "None" designation for the spare tire size when a full size spare tire is present. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence: The incorrect tire placard can cause the operator to exceed the vehicle's weight capacity, or inflate the tires to an incorrect pressure, affecting vehicle handling, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the incorrect tire placard with a corrected one, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T62.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 RAM ProMaster vehicles manufactured July 24, 2015, to February 15, 2016, and 2015-2016 ProMaster City vehicles manufactured August 15, 2014, to February 1, 2016. The Trailer Tow Lighting Control Module may have a software error on the affected vehicles and can prevent illumination of the trailer brake lights during brake actuation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standar...
Consequence: Trailer brake lights that are inoperative can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the Trailer Tow Light Control Module, free of charge. The recall began on June 20, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S22.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain RAM ProMaster Trailer Light Modules, part number 68229650AB. These accessory modules were sold for installation on RAM ProMaster and ProMaster City vehicles. The Trailer Tow Lighting Control Module may have a software error on the affected vehicles and can prevent illumination of the trailer brake lights during brake actuation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "L...
Consequence: Trailer brake lights that are inoperative can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will mail letters to owners to try to notify the purchasers of the modules, and dealers will replace the Trailer Tow Light Control Modules, free of charge. The recall began on June 20, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S29.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Ram Promaster City
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Ram Promaster City with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
I purchase this car used from a dealer. the transmission failed at 87564 miles. i had the a new transmission installed. The gear box or shifter failed at 91231 miles. I had that repaired. The timing chain started to fail at 100432 miles. this issue would cause the car to stall randomly. This I feel is a safety issue. The car is not being driven for the cost of repair is out of my budget.
The backup camera on our Ram is currently inverted. I am not sure if it is available for inspection. It makes it hard to see what is behind us when backing up. We received a notice about a recall concerning this issue but I do not see it mentioned on your website when looking up the vehicle. No warnings prior to it messing up. This has been a problem since we received the vehicle.
The contact owns a 2016 Ram ProMaster. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle suddenly shut off. The vehicle was unable to be restarted and was later towed to the local mechanic. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 170,000.
The 2 items that were listed on the recall caused the transmission to fail. In turn, I had to replace the transmission. If it weren't for the recall, the transmission would have been fine. I first noticed there was a problem when it wouldn't allow me to shift gears. When the dealership fixed the items listed on the recall, they stated that the transmission wasn't a part of the recall so they were...
ESC fault codes came on. Brake light switch intermittently not activating causing vehicle to set ESC fault.
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster City. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to be restarted. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission pump...
Dealer where I purchased vehicle said i have recall for both catalytic converters waited two months called back and they said they wanted to replace engine and i been waiting for a call back for 6 months
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster City. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the turn signals became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an unknown part was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there were no recalls associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Parking brake won't release when temperatures are at freezing or below. Consensus opinion on the internet is that water is getting into the cable + cable housing line and freezing, which causes the cable to stick inside the housing. Thus, when releasing the parking brake, the cable doesn't move and the pads are still pressing against the drums.
We have owned this vehicle for 4 years. We are now on our 3rd time having the transmission replaced.
The problem I'm having with my truck is I can't keep a head light from burning out. I just had one quit that was a month old. I've been using the spec. lamp from Sylvania H7. What really sucks about this is in the past 2 years I've installed at least 7 or 8 head lamps, and at a cost of $45 to $55 bucks each it's Bull#@#$. Why can't Dodge come up with a better head lamp.
Transmission fell out while driving. Mine and my daughter’s live was put at risk. Towing guy told me he’ve been towing Amazon trucks many times with the same problem and to check for recall because it happens too often. Independent service center confirmed. No warning lights, it felt like flat tire at first. Fortunately it happened while driving on street at 20 mph before approaching right turn.
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster City. The contact received a Catalyst Efficiency campaign program notice for Catalyst Efficiency; however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution...
E-Brake cable freezes or doesn't disengage causing damage to the rotors, brakes, pads. Dealership said that the e-brake cable had stretched causing the rear parking brake to lock and destroy the rotors, brake pads, shoes, wheel speed sensors, pad sensors. This issue was addressed while the vehicle was under manufacturer right before we purchased the vehicle. No action was taken due to no codes in...
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster City. The contact stated that when the engine battery was low-powered the vehicle's computer system had malfunctioned and the gear shifter could not be switched and the vehicle would not properly accelerate. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer(unknown) who reset the computer system and the failure was remedied. No further information was available. The m...
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would make abnormal grinding sounds. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and test-driven. The contact was informed that no issues were found. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH, the abnormal grinding sounds were getting increasingly lo...
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster. The contact stated while accelerating, the front end of the vehicle vibrated. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the driveshaft, front passenger’s and driver’s side CV boots, motor mounts, and the vehicle had several front-end alignments however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that all four tires were replaced. The cont...
Twice my van has unexpectedly and without warning shifted into neutral. The first incident was 8/24/21 and I was stopped at a red light. When the light turned green and went to drive and the display showed I was in neutral and the van wouldn’t move. The display on the shifter flashed neutral. The van was still on but wouldn’t move. I had the van towed to the nearest Dodge dealership and they could...
The contact owns a 2016 Ram Promaster. The contact stated that the vehicle headlight bulbs would blow approximately every 6 months. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed and repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was informed of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 80.
WE HAVE 3 RAM PROMASTERS AND ALL 3 HAVE AN OIL LEAK AT THE OIL COOLER, COSTING OVER $800 EACH TO HAVE REPAIRED. AGAIN, ALL 3 HAVE HAD THE SAME ISSUE RESULTING IN OVER $2,400 IN REPAIRS.
Showing 20 of 56 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ram Promaster City
Has the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY been recalled?
Yes, the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY has 4 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY have?
The 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY has 56 complaints filed with NHTSA. None of the complaints involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
The 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY does not have an NHTSA safety rating on file. This can happen for newer model years, specialty vehicles, or models that have not been crash-tested.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY involve engine (10 complaints), power train (7 complaints), exterior lighting (6 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other, electrical system, power train,electrical system.
How many crash reports does the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY have?
There are no crash reports associated with the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY in the NHTSA database.
How many fire reports does the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY have?
There are no fire reports for the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY.
How many injuries are reported for the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY.
Should I buy a 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 56 complaints, 4 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
The components with the most failures on the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY are: 1. ENGINE (10 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), 3. EXTERIOR LIGHTING (6 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints), 5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 10 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
Be aware of potential transmission and electrical system issues, as these are common problems with this model. Check for recalls and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing. The 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY has 56 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
The 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY receives a reliability score of 82/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 56 owner complaints, 4 recalls, and 0 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Transmission Failure and Electrical System Issues.
What are the known issues with the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY?
Known issues with the 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY include: Transmission Failure, Electrical System Issues, Backup Camera Inversion, Sudden Vehicle Shutdown. These are based on patterns found across 56 NHTSA complaints. 4 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common issues with the 2016 RAM Promaster City?
Transmission failures and electrical system problems are the most common issues, with multiple recalls affecting these components.
Are there any recalls related to the 2016 RAM Promaster City?
Yes, recalls have been issued for transmission and electrical system issues, including software problems.
What should I do if I notice issues with my 2016 RAM Promaster City?
Check for recalls and consult a mechanic to address any issues, especially if they involve the transmission or electrical system.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential transmission and electrical system issues, as these are common problems with this model. Check for recalls and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ram Promaster City
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ram Promaster City. The data includes 56 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16