2018 Ram 700
2018 Ram 700
Overview
The 2018 Ram 700, a compact pickup truck primarily sold in Latin America, is generally considered a utilitarian and robust vehicle. It is built to handle demanding work environments, often featuring simpler mechanicals compared to larger trucks. Reliability is a key selling point, with many owners reporting consistent performance. However, like any vehicle, specific components can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential problem areas for the 2018 model year across its available configurations.
Engine
1.6L E.torQ Flex-Fuel
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6-Speed Automatic
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
Intermittent Power Loss
- Symptoms: Occasional failure of dashboard lights, infotainment system, or power windows.
- Solution: Diagnosis of wiring harness, fuse box, or grounding points. May require component replacement.
- Cost: $150 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
Corrosion on Undercarriage
- Symptoms: Rust formation on frame rails, suspension components, and exhaust system, particularly in areas with harsh winters or high salt usage.
- Solution: Rust treatment and undercoating application. Replacement of heavily corroded parts.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Interior
Interior Trim and Upholstery
Wear on Seat Bolsters
- Symptoms: Premature wear or tearing on the fabric or leather of the driver’s seat bolsters due to frequent entry and exit.
- Solution: Seat cover installation or professional upholstery repair/replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $400
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Ram 700 demonstrates good overall reliability, particularly in its powertrain. The 1.6L E.torQ engine and its associated manual and automatic transmissions are generally trouble-free. The chassis and suspension components also hold up well under typical use. The most commonly reported issues tend to be minor electrical glitches, such as intermittent power loss, and potential exterior corrosion on the undercarriage in specific climates. Interior wear on seat bolsters is also a noted concern, largely due to the nature of its use as a work vehicle. These issues are generally manageable and do not indicate systemic failures across the model.