105 of the
915 complaints filed about the RAM Promaster
are about the transmission —
11% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2019.
105
Complaints
11%
Share of all complaints
6
Crashes
0
Fires
Transmission & Drivetrain complaints by model year
Component/System: Structure – Cowl / Air Intake / Engine Issue: Water intrusion through cowl leading to intake flooding and engine hydrolock Summary of the Defect The vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure caused by water intrusion through the two piece cowl assembly. The seal between the two cowl sections failed, allowing rainwater to pour directly into the engine compartment. The intake manifold sits directly beneath this leak point and contains a recessed area where water can pool. After heavy rainfall, water entered the intake system and subsequently reached cylinders 2 and 4, causing the engine to hydrolock upon startup. The engine was rendered inoperable at only 29,139 miles. Detailed Description of the Incident The vehicle was parked outside an auto repair facility for a routine battery replacement. It was not driven during this period. Over the course of two heavy rain events, water entered the engine compartment through the failed seam in the two piece cowl. When the repair facility attempted to start the vehicle, the engine immediately hydrolocked. Upon disassembly: •The air intake tract was found full of water. •The intake manifold contained pooled water. •Cylinders 2 and 4 contained water. •The engine suffered internal damage consistent with hydrolock and was declared a total loss. All findings were documented by the mechanic, including photographs and diagnostic notes. Safety Concern This failure represents a serious safety defect. Water intrusion through a structural component should not be able to reach the intake manifold or engine cylinders under any circumstances — especially while the vehicle is stationary. A sudden hydrolock event can cause: •Immediate engine shutdown •Loss of motive power •Loss of power steering and braking assist •Potential loss of control if occurring while driving •Extremely costly engine destruction Inspected by mechanic. Nobody else. No warnings.
NHTSA complaint #11757003 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle experienced severe, premature component failures posing direct safety hazards while operating a commercial work van: 1. Parking Brake Seizure (01/25/2025 @ 49,197 miles): The parking brake pivot assembly completely seized, causing the rear brake assembly to lock up and rendering the vehicle unsafe to operate on public roads. Replaced under Invoice #CHCS490962. 2. Catastrophic Transmission & Drivetrain Failure (05/15/2026 @ 66,082 miles): The transmission suffered recurring fluid leaks beginning at 49,197 miles (pan leak reseal) and 51,648 miles (complete front pump replacement). At 66,082 miles, the transmission suffered complete internal failure (burnt fluid, clutch metal material), resulting in total loss of reverse power and gear slipping while operating. Both front strut mounts failed on the same visit. Experiencing brake lockup and sudden total loss of transmission control under 66,000 miles on a commercial vehicle presents significant safety risks to vehicle operators and traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11753014 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving the dash screen show a caution with a note that vehicle is in "Limp Mode" as I was on a freeway this became a huge problem putting my life at risk and for others moving at the speed of traffic then suddenly having to decelerate in order to move around me. This problem has been reported to the dealership and confirmed that this is a common issue, there was no warning ahead of time.
NHTSA complaint #11743532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving, the vehicle experienced a sudden and complete loss of motive power without warning. The driver coasted off the road into a swale and required a tow to an authorized RAM dealer, December 9 2025 to CDJR of Tampa Bay, Tampa FL. The dealer initially indicated the failure was covered under Recall 44A, then changed their position and characterized it as a powertrain warranty repair. Following that repair the vehicle was returned immediately in January 2026 when it would not engage reverse. In May 2026 the vehicle experienced a CV joint failure at 20,411 miles — approximately 1,000 miles after the January repair. The RAM ProMaster 3500 is front wheel drive and CV joints connect directly to the transmission. The recurring failures following the repair present a serious safety concern. The December repair receipt is 10 pages and January is 5 the unit is currently at an authorized mopar shop. Please let us know if you require those receipts.
NHTSA complaint #11739413 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
12/2020 First the TPS sensor failed at 1,000 miles and almost caused an accident. Would not go over 25mph, was shifting hard, and the service engine light was on. Verified and replaced at dealership. Second, the rear view camera stopped working while backing up and almost caused an accident - no back windows - major safety issue. Replaced by me as they have no replacement for it even though its under recall. No warnings. Third, the transmission was shifting hard and fell out while I was driving on the freeway at 55,000. Damaged transmission and crankshaft and joints. Verified and replaced at dealership. No warnings, no lights Fourth, the transmission bolt was found loose, hard shifts, and has an internal breakdown at 71,000 miles. Verified first by independent shop - they tightened the bolt for me and is now sitting at the dealership waiting on another transmission that has been verified and approved under warranty. No warnings, no lights
NHTSA complaint #11736324 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I own a 2019 Ram ProMaster. The vehicle previously received the manufacturer recall repair for the transmission park issue (software update). After the recall repair, the vehicle experienced a safety issue where it would roll freely while in “Park,” as if it were in neutral, even though the dashboard indicated “P.” This created a rollaway risk. This happened August 2025 intermittently. Miles on the vehicle 68k. I recently (4/17/2025) serviced the transmission (approximately 73,000 miles) and found significant internal damage evidence. The transmission fluid was heavily contaminated, and I found approximately 11 square metal fragments around 1/4 inch in size inside the transmission pan and filter. This amount and size of metal debris indicates internal transmission failure. The prior rollaway condition combined with internal debris suggests the recall repair did not fully resolve the defect. Although the vehicle is currently engaging Park, the condition was intermittent and may reoccur without warning. This presents an ongoing safety risk of unintended vehicle movement. I am concerned that the recall remedy (software update) is insufficient to address mechanical failure inside the transmission, and that other vehicles may have the same unresolved defect.
NHTSA complaint #11732183 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving in forward motion, the van seems to brake or downshift for a brief second. Seems to pull to left a little. Could be very hazardous if this isn’t fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11730689 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On [XXX], while driving my 2021 Ram ProMaster 2500 at highway speed in Florida, the van suddenly lost all power and came to a near stop, then re-engaged. Vehicles were in front and behind me, creating an immediate risk of serious collision, injury, or death. I pulled over ~30 minutes, restarted, but it could not exceed 20 mph while RPMs were high. AutoZone confirmed limp mode and advised a dealer. I drove it home to Port Charlotte, then had it towed to Gettel Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, Punta Gorda, FL, where after two weeks it was diagnosed with a failed transmission requiring replacement. The transmission can be inspected at the dealership. No warning lamps appeared before failure. Problem confirmed by AutoZone and the dealer. I contacted Stellantis (Case #[XXXX], contact Regina Knox; dealership contact Noel), but repair assistance was denied. The van also has two active recalls, including risk of rolling out of park, unremedied. This transmission failure constitutes a serious and imminent safety defect, creating a hazard to myself and the public. I request NHTSA investigate this defect, compel Stellantis to repair it at their cost, and consider any further regulatory action necessary to prevent injury or death. Vehicle info: 2021 Ram ProMaster 2500, 130,000 miles, VIN [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11727047 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2015 Ram Promaster 2500. The contact stated that, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, indicating a torque converter failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the torque converter was replaced. The failure recurred and was repaired an additional two times. During the final repair, the mechanic determined that fluid was leaking from the radiator into the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 108,000.
NHTSA complaint #11723817 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moisture in the air has corroded the wiring harness and connections to the Rack and Pinion causing the power steering to freak out and jerk the sheen all over the place and then cut out while driving.
NHTSA complaint #11722004 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I purchased the vehicle above used on 4/22/2024 with roughly 70,000 miles on it. At 121,000 miles I lost the reverse gear in the transmission and the vehicle displayed 2 code P0736 and P0792. I call my local Chrysler dealership and inform him of the situation, and the service manage advise me of a recall 44A / NHTSA 23V-301 and asks for the VIN. He tells me that the recall has been completed on the vehicle and the cost to fix (replace the transmission) the vehicle will cost me about $4,000.00. I read the recall notice, and it states the vehicle effected had roughly 133,000 miles. The recall must have been closed by the previous owner but that does not change the fact that the manufactures initial repair did not cure the problem being that my vehicle had the catastrophic failure close to when the manufacture stated the problem in the recall. There are many owners of the same vehicle out there that will attest to the transmission failure on these vehicles. I would hope your department will take a serious look into this matter and hold the manufacture accountable and reimburse the cost of the repairs to the owners.
NHTSA complaint #11719287 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2019 Ram Promaster 2500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission was slipping and failed to shift to 3rd gear. The contact stated that the failure persisted while driving on one occasion, which required the driver to pull over and to restart the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that while at a complete stop in highway traffic, the vehicle stalled. The contact shifted to park(P) and was able to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that while driving 10-12 MPH downhill, the vehicle stalled, and the passenger's side of the vehicle crashed into a tree. The contact stated that the back window was fractured. The air bags did not deploy. There was no injury sustained. The police officers were contacted, and the police officers sent a tow truck was sent, but it did not arrive at the scene. No police report was filed. The vehicle was pulled out, and the contact was able to drive the vehicle away from the scene. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. Additionally, the contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V720000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
NHTSA complaint #11717194 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2020 Ram Promaster 1500. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked, and the transmission downshifted unexpectedly. The check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, while shifted in reverse(R), the vehicle failed to function as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that parts were not available to repair the vehicle. The vehicle remained at the dealer for over a year and a half. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that on the day the contact was supposed to pick up the vehicle, the contact noticed oil stains on the ground. The contact stated that an abnormal sound was coming from the steering wheel when the gear lever was in reverse(R). The steering wheel failed to function as intended; when the steering wheel was moved, the steering wheel remained frozen in position, and force was used to turn the steering wheel. The maintenance record showed that service was performed. However, when the contact checked the oil, the oil was black, and there was a rotten odor coming from the oil and the vehicle remained at the dealer. The contact later received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V552000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION) and 25V720000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact stated that when the heater was activated, heat was coming from the vents on the passenger side, and heat failed to come from the driver’s side. The contact was informed that the vehicle was repaired. The vehicle was retrieved, and days later the transmission failed to function as needed. The dealer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that the transmission had been repaired and no more repairs were needed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was informed that a field inspector would be sent to inspect the vehicle at the residence. The contact stated that days later the manufacturer sent a letter that the case was closed. The failure milea
NHTSA complaint #11716001 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The powertrain transmission failed after a prior warranty replacement. The vehicle began experiencing improper and delayed gear shifting, loss of power, and inability to maintain speed. This condition made the vehicle unsafe to operate, especially in highway traffic, as it could not respond properly to normal driving conditions or surrounding vehicles. The problem was confirmed by a dealership, and all diagnostic procedures and documentation requested by the manufacturer were completed. The vehicle has been out of service for several weeks awaiting another warranty transmission replacement, with no estimated timeline provided. The transmission is currently at the dealership and available for inspection upon request. No crash occurred, but the failure created a serious safety risk due to loss of drivability in traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11712183 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle experienced a sudden and complete loss of steering control during normal driving on a public roadway. The steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn, and the vehicle became immobilized, creating a serious risk of collision and injury. The vehicle was towed to an authorized RAM dealership, where inspection confirmed a broken serpentine belt, abnormal alternator noise, and metal contamination throughout the entire power steering system. The dealer advised that the entire power steering system requires replacement. The presence of metal debris in a critical steering system indicates a pre-existing mechanical defect that could not reasonably develop within 27 days of normal use. No warning lights or messages appeared prior to the failure. At the time of sale, the vehicle was also subject to unresolved safety recall(s). The selling dealer refuses to rescind the sale or provide a refund.
NHTSA complaint #11709170 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My car will not reverse when put into reverse. No symptoms prior or any warning signs. Car will roll backwards as if in neutral and the engine will rev to high rpm. Engine codes P0792 and P0736 are present after issue arised. I have found another safety recall that describes my issue exactly with regards to 2019-2021 Ram Promasters. My car 2014 Ram Promaster has the same power train as what is listed in the safety recall [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11706919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle suddenly and without warning experienced a complete loss of steering control, rendering it undrivable and forcing it to stop on the side of a public roadway. This created a significant risk to my personal safety and to public safety. On the same day, the vehicle was towed to an authorized RAM dealership for inspection. The dealership confirmed that the serpentine belt had broken, there was abnormal noise from the alternator, and the entire power steering system was internally contaminated with metal shavings, requiring complete replacement of the power steering system. The selling dealer has refused to accept rescission of the sale and has also refused to cover the necessary repair costs. The vehicle was unlawfully sold to me while it was subject to an unresolved safety recall, demonstrating a serious disregard for my safety and the safety of others.
NHTSA complaint #11706836 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2015 Ram ProMaster 2500. The contact stated that the same day that the vehicle was purchased, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that after shifting to park(P) and the parking brake was engaged, the vehicle rolled backwards. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle with an unknown sensor failure. The sensor and the brakes were repaired. The contact retrieved the vehicle, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. When the gear lever was shifted to park(P) and the parking brake was engaged, the vehicle rolled backwards. The dealer was contacted, and the dealer at first refused to take the vehicle. After several months, the dealer took the vehicle, and it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel injectors, brakes, fuel tank, and an unknown sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was parked at the residence and had not been driven since. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
NHTSA complaint #11706117 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I, [XXX] , hereby declare under oath that I have been a victim of fraud, negligence, and unfair business practices by Ford of Kendall. On [XXX], I purchased a 2020 RAM ProMaster 1500 HR (VIN: [XXX] ) for $45,906, based on the seller’s claim that it was inspected, certified, with a clean title and under manufacturer warranty, and eligible for an extended warranty.” A CarMax report dated September 28, 2025, later revealed that the vehicle had been involved in a severe prior accident that was never disclosed, valuing it at only $5,500 and causing a loss of over $40,000. Since purchase, the vehicle has only been operational for about four months, spending the rest of the time in repair shops due to serious and recurring mechanical failures, including leaks, oil contamination, and defects in the steering, transmission systems and other problems. Check Google reviews by [XXX]. The alleged “repairs” were superficial, mechanical failures persisted, and invoices, service receipts, and technical reports were omitted, demonstrating a total lack of transparency. The vehicle represents a road safety risk and direct economic loss. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11703359 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
formal complaint for gross negligence, warranty breach, and repeated mechanical failures involving my RAM 2020 ProMaster 1500 HR (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle remained out of service for 1 year, 4 months, and 18 days due to transmission damage. Five days after the final delivery, the transmission failed again. in addition, there is a persistent problem with the steering system. The dealership insist that this is the " Normal Operation ", but this is a defect according to the owner’s manual. The transmission is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, and the supposedly replaced parts are covered by the GWC Warranty. November 14, 2025, the vehicle was transported to Miami Lakes Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM to be inspected by Mr. Christopher Byrne (Bosch EAA, [XXX] ), the technical inspector assigned by Stellantis to conduct the evaluation. After returning home with the vehicle following this inspection, new oil leaks became evident, apparently originating from the engine. It has now been one month and ten days since my initial communication with Stellantis FCA, and I have not received a single official update regarding the status of my claim. Likewise, ten business days have passed since the inspection performed by Mr. Byrne, without any delivery of the diagnostic results, findings, or a corrective action plan. I appreciate your attention to this matter and expect it to be handled with the urgency and rigor required for a case involving mechanical safety risks and manufacturer responsibility. I look forward to your prompt response. Finally we have not received an effective response, and the vehicle remains inoperable at my residence. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11703362 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.