3C7WRMDL6JG3603702018 RAM 5500
2018 RAM 5500 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 8 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 39 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.
Executive Summary
2018 RAM 5500
2018 RAM 5500 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 8 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 39 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.
- 8 open recalls including safety-critical systems (Brake system recall)
- 39 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — above average for this class
- Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
- Brakes is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- Engine or platform shared with models that have documented failure issues
- Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
39 owner complaints filed — top areas: Brakes (62%), Suspension/Wheels (15%), Engine/Powertrain (10%). 1 crash reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- RAM
- Model
- 5500
- Year
- 2018
- Trim / Series
- DP
- Body Style
- Incomplete
- Vehicle Type
- INCOMPLETE VEHICLE
- Drive Type
- 4x2
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
- Engine
- 6-cyl 6.7L
- Manufacturer
- CHRYSLER DE MEXICO TOLUCA
- Assembly
- SALTILLO, COAHUILA, MEXICO
Assembly Plant Quality
Plant: SALTILLO, COAHUILA
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Brake system recall
- ▸2 recall(s) involve fire or ignition risk
- ⚠3 recalls on same component: Electrical
- ⚠4 recalls on same component: Brakes
- ⚠Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
6.7L Cummins diesel: DEF/SCR system failures, NOx sensor faults, and urea injector failures leading to engine derate — class action lawsuits pending
Deferred Failure Risk
Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones
Owners of the 2018 RAM 5500 report brakes issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2018 RAM 5500 report suspension/wheels issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2018 RAM 5500 report engine/powertrain issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
8 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 8 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 8 recalls is ~68%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
RAM has a below-average recall completion rate (82%). Open recalls on this vehicle may go unaddressed longer than average (~23 months). Verify completion before purchase.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~23 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
SummaryUnruh Fire, Inc. (Unruh Fire) is recalling one 2018 Dodge 5500-based fire truck equipped with Whelen brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.Read full details...
~27% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
SummaryChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 RAM 4500 and 5500 cab chassis trucks. The primary and secondary brake hoses located between the brake master cylinder and the hydraulic control unit may have been manufactured without anti-corrosion plating on the ferrules, which can allow the ferrules to corrode.Read full details...
~32% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SummaryChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
SummaryBlanchat Mfg., Inc. (Blanchat) is recalling one 2018 B-27 Minuteman vehicle built on a RAM 5500 chassis and equipped with Whelen brake lights recalled under 18E-063. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.Read full details...
~27% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
SummaryChrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.Read full details...
~35% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SummaryChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
EQUIPMENT
SummaryChrysler (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 valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdfRead full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
SummaryChrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The hydraulic control unit (HCU) may fail, which can cause the anti-lock brake (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control systems to fail.Read full details...
~31% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
Recall Remedy Effectiveness — Complaints Continue After Fix
RECALL DIDN'T FIX ITOwner complaints filed AFTER recall remedies were issued for the same components
100% of complaints about "SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS" were filed AFTER recall campaign 18V277000 (2018-01-05) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.
Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.
Complaint Intelligence
39 complaints analyzed across 6 system categories
Service Brakes leads owner complaints (67%), most reported when the vehicle was 5–7 yrs old. Also common: Hydraulic (36%), Wheels (13%).
Based on 39 complaints with a reported incident date. Too few owners cited mileage (2) to report a reliable failure-mileage range.
⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME39 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, the hydraulic brake warning light, ABS warning light, and other unknown warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the stopping distance increased. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); the vehicle was previously repaired under the recall, but the failure recurred. The contact stated an alternate replacement part was used during the recall repair, causing premature failure. The dealer was notified. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by telephone. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. 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 experienced the failure, and the ABS and traction control warning lights were illuminated with an audible alarm while driving. The failure mileage was 8,000.
Subject: Complaint Regarding Delayed Safety Recall Repair – 2018 Ram 5500 (Recall C4B / NHTSA Recall 24V-896) I own a 2018 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab, VIN [XXX]. My truck is subject to Safety Recall C4B (NHTSA Recall 24V-896) involving the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU). I have attempted to have this safety recall completed, but the repair has been delayed because the required replacement part has reportedly been unavailable. This is a federally mandated safety recall involving the vehicle’s braking system. I am concerned that I have been unable to obtain the required repair within a reasonable period of time. The continued delay creates uncertainty about the safe operation of my vehicle and prevents me from having the recall corrected as required. I request that NHTSA investigate the availability of recall parts and the length of time owners are being required to wait for completion of this safety recall. I also request that NHTSA review whether the manufacturer is meeting its obligations to provide a timely remedy for affected vehicles. Vehicle Information: * Year: 2018 * Make: Ram * Model: 5500 Chassis Cab * VIN: [XXX] * Recall: C4B / NHTSA Recall 24V-896 Thank you for your attention to this matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was intermittently illuminated. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts for the recall repair was not yet available. The part was available for other year, make, and models. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
recall C4B hydraulic control unit still not addressed as of may 7 2026 recall received on
Ref NHTSA 24v-896, Recall C4B The problem started back in 2021 when the anti-lock brake Hydraulic Control Unit failed. It was replaces and then it failed again in Dec 2024 while on vacation. When returning home in Jan 2025, the truck was brought to the dealer for repair. It was found to have failed again and told that a repair parts were not available, nor was it known when the redesigned part would be available. Shortly after that I received a letter stating that my truck was included and confirmed to be part of this recall. I have been severely impacted (restricted use of) due to safety concerns when driving this truck. I've not been able to get any assistance from Ram dealership or Ram customer service. What can be done to resolve this issue with RAM? Thanks for you assistance! [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); 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 contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and traction control systems' warning lights illuminated. Due to the failure, the cruise control became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the failure was related to the recall, and confirmed that parts were not yet available. A second dealer, S & L Motors (2298 WI-32, Pulaski, WI 54162); was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); 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 contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brake, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, a warning chime activated continuously. The ABS and Brake warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to parts not being available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while attempting to come to a complete stop, the vehicle hesitated to respond while the brake pedal was depressed. The ABS and the Traction Control warning lights were intermittently illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to repair the recall is not available. The manufacturer has exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Because the vehicle currently has this recall, the State of CA will not allow the vehicle to be registered and is now out of operation. In addition, this vehicle is used for business and has resulted in several weeks being out of operation. ABS and traction control warning lights have illuminated while driving over uneven pavement. The vehicle is currently at the dealership and I was informed the manufacturer was not providing parts for the RAM 5500 series. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and has confirmed that parts are NOT available for the RAM 5500 series.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being driven at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and traction control warning lights illuminated while driving over speed bumps or uneven pavement. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the manufacturer was not providing parts for the 5500 series vehicles. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not available for the 5500 series vehicles. The failure mileage was approximately 91,741.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500 .The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall 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. The contact was informed by the dealer that parts to repair the recall repair were not yet available.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS, traction control, speed control, and engine brake became inoperable. There was an abnormal ding sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact called another local dealer, Deland Chrysler (2173 S Woodland Blvd, DeLand, FL 32720), but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 failure mileage was approximately 60,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to decelerate as intended and the brake pedal felt firm while being depressed. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. Additionally, the contact stated that the ABS system was previously repaired; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. 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 issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available
My ABS pump went out, causing my stability control to not function and cruise control to not function. Cruise control would randomly deactivate, causing a momentary loss of control and ABS function. Dash light illuminated with codes relating to ABS pump and traction control. ABS pump was replaced (part no. 68195569AB) and problem was fixed, but FCA will not reimburse me since I did the work myself.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the ABS and Traction Control Service warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the cruise control failed to operate once the warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a defective ABS module. The contact was informed that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The mechanic called an unstated dealer and was informed that parts for the repair were unavailable and that there was no ETA on when parts would be available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.
The ABS module has failed. This has caused the service ABS light to come one, the service electronic braking system to come one, and the service electronic throttle control light to come on. The module according to Chrysler is part number 68347099AC which is unavailable at any dealer in the country. We have called many dealers and they have searched for the part to no avail. We have contact Mopar corporate and they told us there is no update on this part. We feel that operating the vehicle is unsafe but we don't know what to do without the part. Chrysler has offered no assistance. I have attached photos of the check engine lights as well as a photo from the scan tool showing the failure of the module - it cannot communicate.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving 60 MPH with the cruise control activated, the ABS warning light and the Traction Control Service message was displayed with an audible pinging sound intermittently. Additionally, after the message and audible ping, the cruise control message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the ABS/HCU module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 11,870. The contact stated the dashboard alarm (ping) alerting the driver of loss of traction control on the dashboard pinged no less than 300 times in the 1168 mile trip.
The ABS/HCU module has experienced a premature failure which is a huge safety risk as it controls my vehicles' Anti-lock Braking System, Traction Control & Cruise Control systems. Since experiencing this failure, my vehicle has had numerous safety incidents where Braking would lockup, traction with the roadway is lost etc. Please initiate a recall for this issue for these generation of trucks so this safety issue can be addressed.
Twice in the past year I have experienced a loss of the ABS braking system. Warning messages appear to service the ABS braking system as well as a general braking system malfunction. This loss of ABS is intermittent. I have taken it to the dealer to have it fixed both times, and they have replace the hydraulic control unit and ABS module. Mechanic told me this is a very common problem with these trucks. I was put at risk by not having a functioning ABS.
Abs/Hcs module failed causing intermittent braking issues along with intermittent warning light. Had to replace both the pump and module to resolve the issue. Over $1500 in repair.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V398000 (Wheels) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. 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 disconnect.
ABS system lights flashing, and other alarms show up. Have been told by the dealer the ABS system will not work when lights are flashing, but standard braking will work. This affects the cruise control system and trailer brakes will not work when the system is flashing. Can not use this vehicle to pull my trailer. This is a true safety issue and is causing a loss of revenue. To just tell the public you don't when good parts will be available to fix the issue in not excusable. Dodge / Ram should have to buy the truck back if they can't fix it.
ABS TRACTION CONTROL VECHICLE INFO SCREEN SERVICE ABS SYSTEM EBS SYSTEM SERVICE HAVE HAD THE VECHICL FIXED MULTIPLE TIMES BY DEALERSHIP FIXED TEMPORARILY THAN ALL THE ALARMS GO BACK ON AFTER A SHORT TIME ITS BEEN FIXED MULTIPLE TIME PROBLEM ALWAYS RETURNS
ABS module has been replaced twice on this truck. The latest was two weeks ago. However the problem of service ABS and service electronic braking messages still appear randomly, killing the cruise control and dinging. The dealership who took 2 months to get the ABS module this time stated that the Hydraulic Control Module was now bad and back ordered forever so I will have to live with it, apparently forever by the sound of it. So now I’m cruising around in a 15k lb bucket truck with no sign of getting it repaired in sight without buying another for 150k.
RADIO UCONNECT 8.4 SCREEN DELAMINATING CAUSING RADIO TO GHOST TOUCH THE SCREEN AND MAKE SOS CALLS BY ITSELF. TURNS RADIO ON AND OFF AND FUNCTIONS ALL ON ITS OWN VERY DISTRACTING. ALSO HAPPENED ON MY OTHER 2018 RAM 3500
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the rear wheel studs fractured. There were no warning lights. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer which diagnosed failure with the wheel studs. The wheel studs were replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V398000 (Wheels). The approximate failure mileage was 60,000. The contact has noted that this incident has happened 10 times and twice since the recall repair.
At 95;000 miles abs and traction control lights going on and off on and off, now lights stays on brakes lock up when stopping quickly. Speed control no longer works due to this problem. After a google search I found lots of the same problems with other years and model’s having the Cummins 6.7 diesel motors.The ABS module fails, but you can’t replace the module, you have to replace the whole abs unit which is very costly
The steering shaft completely failed while driving. Thankfully the driver was leaving a customer and pulling out of a drive which he was able to drive into a ditch to keep from being hit or hitting others. The problem was fixed by Pliler International in Longview, TX. It has not been inspected by anyone other than mechanic shop. No warnings at the time of incident.
The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V398000 (Wheels) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer had been notified about the recall; however, the contact was informed that the part was not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of the recall. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
ON MARCH 23, 2021, WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, I STARTED HEARING THE SAME HUMMING NOISE I HEARD 8 MONTHS AGO WHEN I HAD THE TRANSFER CASE PROBLEM. THIS WAS THE NEW TRANSFER CASE THE DEALERSHIP HAD PUT IN, AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THERE WAS A LOUD BANG/EXPLOSION SOUND FROM WHERE THE TRANSFER CASE EXPLODED. I WAS DRIVING AT 60 MPH AND WAS NOT ABLE TO BRAKE AS I LOST THE BRAKES AFTER THE TRANSFER CASE EXPLODED. AFTER ABOUT 30 SECONDS THE TRUCK COMPLETELY TURNED OFF AND IT STARTED SLOWING DOWN ON ITS OWN, AND AFTER NEARLY HITTING SEVERAL CARS ON THE HIGHWAY I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER ON THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. THE ENGINE WIRING HARNESS WAS DAMAGED AS WAS THE DRIVESHAFT, BRAKE LINES AND FUEL LINES. APPARENTLY THESE RAM TRANSFER CASES ARE FAULTY... EVEN THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER THAT TOWED ME TO THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP SAID HE'S HAD TO REPLACE THE TRANSFER CASE ON HIS FLEET OF TOW TRUCKS 3 TIMES, AND HIS RAM TRUCKS WERE 2019. IS CHRYSLER GOING TO WAIT UNTIL SOMEONE DIES BEFORE THEY DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM THAT APPARENTLY HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS NOW?*DT
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 RAM 5500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 45 MPH, THE TRANSFER CASE EXPLODED. THE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT FRACTURED IN HALF AND PUNCHED A HOLE IN THE FLOORBOARD OF THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OFF THE HIGHWAY SAFELY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE WITH THE TRANSFER CASE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC CLOSER TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO PARTS NOT BEING AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIRS. CONWAY CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (2385 CHURCH STREET, CONWAY, SC 29526, (843) 438-4363) WAS CONTACTED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.*DT*DT *TR*DT*JB
I HAVE A 2018 RAM 5500 AND WAS DRIVING UP THE INTERSTATE WORKING IN MY TRUCK AT POSTED SPEED AND THE TRUCK STARTED TO MAKE A VERY LOUD NOISE AND BOOM! THE TRUCK BUCKED LIKE I HAD HIT A SOLID WALL. THE TRUCKS INDICATOR LIGHT FOR AIRBAGS HAD CAME ON, BUT DIDN'T DEPLOY EVEN THOUGH I HADN'T ACTUALLY HIT ANYTHING, THANKFULLY. COME TO FIND OUT AFTER HAVING TO GET A TOW TO THE DEALERSHIP THE TRANSFER CASE HAD EXPLODED AND CAME APART WHICH MADE THE DRIVESHAFT BREAK LOOSE AND COME THROUGH THE FLOORBOARD. WHO KNOWS WHAT ALL DAMAGE WAS DONE BECAUSE THE TRUCK SAT AT DEALERSHIP FOR 6 BUSINESS DAYS BEFORE THEY EVEN MADE AN ATTEMPT TO LOOK AT IT. WHEN I WOULD CALL I WAS JUST PUSHED TO THE NEXT DAY. THEN WHEN SOMEONE HAD FINALLY GOT BACK WITH ME I WAS TOLD THAT CHRYSLER WAS WANTING SPECIFIC INFORMATION, SUCH AS MAINTENANCE RECORD , TOOLS THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN USED. I SHOULD TELL YOU THAT THIS TRUCK HAS 82K MILES ON IT, SO IT SHOULD STILL BE COVERED UNDER ORIGINAL WARRANTY. WELL, CHRYSLER HAS REFUSED TO STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT. I WAS SUCKERED INTO ALL THE GREAT BOASTING ABOUT HOW TOUGH THESE TRUCKS ARE. I WAS DUMB ENOUGH THAT I'VE BOUGHT 4 RAM PRODUCTS , BECAUSE I'VE ALWAYS BEEN A FAN AND PROUD TO DRIVE A DODGE PRODUCT. WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT CHRYSLER WOULD HAVE THE AUDACITY TO CLAIM THEY HAD ONE OF THE BEST PRODUCTS AND THEN NOT STAND BEHIND A LOYAL CONSUMER.
THE REAR WHEEL STUDS BUST OFF WHEN THE WHEELS GET MUD IN THEM. ONCE THE FIRST ONE GOES THE OTHERS GO RIGHT AWAY. THIS WAS ON A HIGHWAY, IN MOTION DRIVING STRAIGHT. WE ALSO OWN A 2013 RAM 5500 VIN #[XXX] THAT WE'VE HAD THEM BREAK OFF OF ABOUT 5 DIFFERENT TIMES. I ASSUMED A RECALL WAS IN THE WORKS BUT I'VE SEEN NOTHING TO DATE SO I DECIDED IT WAS PAST TIME TO ACT BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. I PERSONALLY KNOW OF OTHERS WHO HAVE HAD THE DUALS COME COMPLETELY OFF AND INTO TRAFFIC. WE HAVE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH WE HAVE GOTTEN THE TRUCK SHUT DOWN PRIOR TO THE WHEELS FALLING OFF. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
MY TRUCK FROM NEW GAD TURBO EXHAUST MANIFOLDS KEPT WARPING BREAKING BOLTS IN THE HEAD EVERYTIME MY RADIO QUITS AND REBOOTS AND GLITCHES AFTER TRUCK UPDATES RUNS POORLY WITH EXCESSIVE EGT AND DEALERS TEFUSED TO DO ANYTHING FOR ME KEPT TELLIN ME THEY DIDNT HAVE PROPER TECH OR TOOLS OR WAS TOLD ALL WAS NORNAL AND MY FRINT 19.5 WHEEL CRACKED IN THE MIDDLE WITH NO IMPACT OR TIRE DAMMAGE RADIO WUITS AND FREEZES REBOOTS SEVERAL TIMEX A DAY
THE FRAME HAS CRACKED! THIS ISN'T THE FIRST I'VE HEARD ABOUT THESE FRAMES CRACKING EITHER. THERE'S A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ONLINE ABOUT THE DODGE 5500 CRACKED FRAMES
I PARKED MY TRUCK AND TURNED IT OFF. WENT INSIDE AND ABOUT 15 MINUTES LATER MY TRUCK ROLLED DOWN A HILL AND WENT ACROSS A BUSY ROUTE 15 . THE TRUCK WAS STILL IN PARK AND THE ENGINE WAS OFF AND THE WHEEL WAS STILL LOCKED AT THE BOTTOM. IT RIPPED THE PLOW OFF MY TRUCK. I'M HAVING A HARD TIME WITH THE DEALERSHIP AND MY INSURANCE IS GIVING ME A RUN AROUND. THEY DON'T WANNA COVER MY PLOW AND WANNA USE USED PARTS ON IT. I DON'T SEE WHY I SHOULD HAVE TO EAT THE DAMAGE. I DID NOTHING WRONG AND I'M PAYING FOR IT. NOT RIGHT. I'M SELF-EMPLOYED AND I'M LOSING MONEY EVERY DAY. I'VE CALLED CHRYSLER ABOUT IT AND NOBODY IS GETTING BACK TO ME. MY POOR DAUGHTER IS SO UPSET ABOUT THIS IT'S MAKING HER SICK. I DON'T KNOW WHY WE SHOULD HAVE TO SUFFER OVER THIS. I JUST SPENT 62,000 DOLLARS ON THIS THING AND IT'S A JUNK NOW. IT WOULD BE NICE TO GET SOME ANSWERS ON IT. THANKS SO MUCH *DT*JB *TR
Component Failure Cascade Risk
Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures
▸ Loss of brake assist and ABS in emergency — can significantly extend stopping distances
▸ Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
▸ Engine derate or no-start condition — DEF system failure puts vehicle into limp mode limiting speed to 5mph
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 39 total NHTSA complaints filed over 8 years, with the worst year being 2026 (9 complaints).
The amber reliability line averaged 95/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 90/100 in 2019.
Notably, despite 39 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.
Red dots on the amber line flag 2019, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $31,614 (~$527/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 2018 RAM 5500 — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
30% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.
- ▸Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act
- ▸Multiple prior recalls — pattern of safety issues on this model
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Insurance Cost Estimate
Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty History
Federal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations
RAM has been fined $105M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2015: Failure to conduct timely recalls on 23 campaigns.
State-Specific Legal Protections
What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | 3C7WRMDL6JG360370 |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Make | RAM |
| Model | 5500 |
| Series | DP |
| Vehicle Type | INCOMPLETE VEHICLE |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Incomplete |
| Drive Type | 4x2 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Displacement (L) | 6.7 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | CHRYSLER DE MEXICO TOLUCA |
| Assembly City | SALTILLO |
| Assembly Country | MEXICO |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | 3C7 |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 6 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | J |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | G |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 360370 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 8 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 39 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 11/1/2026, 3:58:25 AM.