2018 Ram 4000

2018 Ram 4000

Overview

The 2018 Ram 4000 is a heavy-duty commercial truck designed for demanding work applications. Reliability is a key consideration for fleet operators and business owners. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, examining common failure points across its powertrain, chassis, and electrical systems. While generally robust, specific components and configurations can exhibit varying degrees of reliability. Understanding these potential issues can help in proactive maintenance and cost management for this workhorse vehicle.

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Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

Fuel Injector Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
• Cost: $800 - $1500 per injector

EGR Cooler Leaks

• Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant loss, overheating, sweet smell from exhaust.
• Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler assembly.
• Cost: $700 - $1200

Transmission

68RFE 6-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Shudder

• Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission fluid flush and filter change.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Overheating

• Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting, burning smell.
• Solution: Transmission cooler upgrade, fluid and filter change.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

G56 6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $1000 - $2000

Suspension

Heavy-Duty Leaf Spring Suspension

Leaf Spring Breakage

• Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of broken leaf springs.
• Cost: $400 - $800 per axle

Electrical

General Electrical System

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Wiring Harness Issues

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical component failures, dashboard warning lights, corrosion.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

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Summary Verdict

The 2018 Ram 4000, particularly with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, is generally considered a reliable work truck. The most commonly reported technical issues revolve around the powertrain, specifically fuel injectors and EGR coolers for the diesel engine, and torque converter shudder or overheating for the automatic transmission. Manual transmission clutches can also require replacement due to wear. Suspension components, like leaf springs, can experience breakage under heavy use. Electrical system issues, such as alternator failure or wiring harness problems, are also noted. Exterior and interior components show good reliability with no widespread reported issues. Proactive maintenance and addressing early symptoms are crucial for maximizing the longevity and minimizing downtime of the Ram 4000.