2018 Ram 2500

2018 Ram 2500

Overview

The 2018 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust towing and hauling capabilities. Reliability for this model year is generally considered strong, particularly with its proven powertrain options. Owners often praise its durability for demanding work and recreational use. However, like any vehicle, specific components can experience issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, covering key systems such as the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior. Understanding these potential areas can help owners with proactive maintenance and informed repairs.

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Engine

6.4L HEMI V8

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration Issues

• Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, incomplete regeneration cycles.
• Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1500

EGR System Issues

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, black smoke.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of EGR valve and cooler.
• Cost: $400 - $1200

Transmission

68RFE 6-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Shudder

• Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Fluid flush and filter change, torque converter replacement.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

AISIN AS69RC 6-Speed Automatic (Diesel)

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Electrical

General Electrical System

Infotainment System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
• Solution: Software updates, system reset, or head unit replacement.
• Cost: $100 - $1000

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

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Summary Verdict

The 2018 Ram 2500 demonstrates solid reliability, especially for its class. The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine is particularly trouble-free. The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel, while powerful and durable, can experience issues related to its emissions control systems, such as DPF regeneration and EGR problems, which are common in modern diesel trucks. The AISIN AS69RC transmission paired with the diesel is highly regarded for its robustness. The 68RFE automatic, while generally capable, may occasionally exhibit torque converter shudder. Electrical and interior components are typically reliable, with minor infotainment glitches being the most commonly cited, usually resolvable with software updates. Overall, the 2018 Ram 2500 is a dependable choice for heavy-duty needs, with potential issues primarily concentrated in the diesel emissions system and specific transmission components.