The Ram ProMaster City years to avoid hold more surprises than one might expect. From ignitions that falter without warning to engines prone to unexpected fires, the 2014 to 2018 models present a minefield of mechanical issues. Each year carries its own set of troubles that make them notorious among owners. Let’s delve into the specifics of these problematic years and understand why steering clear of them can save a lot of future headaches.
2014: The Debut Disaster
The 2014 Ram ProMaster City was a chaotic debut. Ignitions that cut out mid-drive turned simple commutes into nerve-wracking experiences. Brakes that vibrated ominously at high speeds made highway driving feel like a gamble. Add to that heated seats that barely functioned, and you had a vehicle that was far from user-friendly. This model felt like an unpolished attempt to enter the market, filled with reliability issues that left drivers cold, both literally and figuratively.
2015-2018: The Fire Hazard Quartet
The 2015-2018 models were a series of unfortunate mechanical missteps. These years were notorious for their tendency to catch fire due to faulty cooling fans in both the 3.0-liter diesel and 3.6-liter gasoline engines. This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience; it was a serious safety hazard. On top of that, transmissions that unpredictably shifted into neutral created a driving experience akin to walking on thin ice. The constant recalls for these years were a testament to their unreliability, turning what should have been dependable workhorses into vehicles that required constant vigilance and repair.
2014: Ignition Issues
The ignition system in the 2014 model had a distressing habit of failing without warning. This could happen at any time, turning a routine drive into a dangerous situation. Such failures often left drivers stranded and frustrated, with the added risk of sudden stalls in high-traffic areas.
2015: Engine Fires
The 2015 model year was marred by a significant defect: engines that could catch fire. This was due to issues with the cooling fans, which were prone to malfunctioning. Both the 3.0-liter diesel and 3.6-liter gasoline engines had this problem, making them hazardous choices for anyone in need of a reliable vehicle. The risk of a fire starting unexpectedly was not only a financial concern but a serious safety threat.
2016: Transmission Troubles
In 2016, the Ram ProMaster City experienced significant transmission problems, marking it as one of the Ram ProMaster City years to avoid. Vehicles would shift into neutral without warning, creating a jarring and potentially dangerous situation for drivers. This issue added a layer of unpredictability to every drive, as the van could suddenly lose power and control, especially hazardous on highways or in heavy traffic.
2017: Recalls Galore
The 2017 models continued the trend of mechanical failures, with numerous recalls that plagued owners. From faulty brakes to electrical issues, these vans demanded constant attention and repairs. The frequency and variety of recalls turned ownership into a burdensome experience, with reliability and safety consistently in question.
2018: Persistent Issues
By 2018, it was clear that the ProMaster City still had significant problems. Despite efforts to improve, the vans were still prone to the same issues that had plagued earlier models. Engine fires, transmission failures, and a host of other mechanical defects made these years problematic. Owners often found themselves returning to the dealership for repairs, dealing with persistent and unresolved issues.
