Head-to-head reliability
RAM Promaster 1500 vs Toyota Camry
How the RAM Promaster 1500 and Toyota Camry compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
RAM Promaster 1500 vs Toyota Camry: Over 10 years, the ProMaster 1500 has 5 complaints and 0 recalls, while the Camry has 2,056 complaints and 31 recalls. The Camry also has 171 crash-related complaints and 158 injuries, but the ProMaster has none. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the RAM Promaster 1500 or Toyota Camry more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
RAM Promaster 1500
The RAM ProMaster 1500 is a full-size van often used for work or converted into a camper. Over 10 years, it has only 5 complaints and no recalls, which suggests very few reported problems. However, the complaints that do exist include backup camera failures, A-pillar trim blocking the side mirror, and a recall for the power train. For a buyer, this means low reported issue volume, but you should still check these specific areas.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a popular midsize sedan with a strong reputation, but NHTSA data shows 2,056 complaints and 31 recalls over 10 years. Owners report issues with the power train, engine, brakes, and electrical systems, including stalling, delayed acceleration, and brake noise. There have also been 171 crash-related complaints and 158 injuries reported. This indicates that while many Camrys are reliable, some have serious safety-related problems.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | RAM Promaster 1500 | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 5 Better | 2,056 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 0 Better | 31 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 171 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.5 Better | 205.6 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 158 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 1 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
RAM Promaster 1500
- 01UNKNOWN OR OTHER2
- 02VISIBILITY1
- 03STRUCTURE1
- 04POWER TRAIN1
- 05EQUIPMENT1
Owners report backup camera problems where the image shows the floor instead of obstacles, and missing parking grid lines. This can make reversing less safe. Another complaint mentions a propane system issue in a Winnebago conversion, but that is specific to converted vans.
The driver's side A-pillar trim can block the side view mirror, reducing what the driver can see. This was reported on a 2023 model and could be a hazard when changing lanes or turning.
The same A-pillar trim issue is also listed under structure, meaning it may be a design or build problem. Buyers should check that the trim does not obstruct the mirror.
One owner received a recall notice for a power train issue (NHTSA Campaign 23V301000) but the repair part was not available. This suggests that even with a recall, getting it fixed can be delayed.
“This vehicle was transformed into a Solis Pocket 36A motorhome by Winnebago in 2022. This, as well as many others converted by Winnebago in 2023 abs 2024 as well, contains a propane tank, heater, and 2 burner stovetop. They used Teflon tape on propane connect…”
“The rear backup camera does not work correctly. The picture is of the floor and not the obstacle directly behind the vehicle. Also, the grid lines that assist in parking no longer appear. Yes - this vehicle is available for inspection. It is a safety issue be…”
Toyota Camry
- 01POWER TRAIN385
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER323
- 03ENGINE315
- 04SERVICE BRAKES285
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM237
Owners report the ignition key getting stuck and not coming out even when the car is in Park, requiring a battery disconnect. Others report hesitation and shuddering while driving, with the check engine light on. These can leave you stranded or cause unsafe driving.
Some owners experience a delayed reaction when pressing the accelerator, with the car taking several seconds to move. This lag can be dangerous when merging or crossing traffic.
The electronic parking brake may not disengage, requiring a tow. Also, a clicking or vibrating noise from the brake pedal area is common, which Toyota says is from the ABS system. This noise can be annoying and may indicate a brake issue.
Multiple systems like stability control, power steering, blind spot monitoring, and lane keeping can malfunction at once. This can make the car hard to control and disable safety features.
“My 2023 Toyota Camry has developed an intermittent defect where the ignition key becomes stuck and cannot be removed even though the dashboard shows the vehicle is in Park. The only way to remove the key is to disconnect the vehicle's battery, which is not a…”
“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was hesitating and shuddering, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
RAM Promaster 1500
No recalls on record.
Toyota Camry — 31 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The lug nuts that attach the wheels to the vehicle may be loose, which can result in wheel detachment.
The risk: A wheel that detaches from a moving vehicle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and tighten the lug nuts, and replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short cir…
The risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
Buyer analysis
RAM Promaster 1500 or Toyota Camry: which should you buy?
The RAM ProMaster 1500 has far fewer complaints per year (0.5) compared to the Toyota Camry (205.6), and no recalls versus 31 for the Camry. In practice, this means the ProMaster 1500 has a much lower reported rate of problems, but the Camry's higher numbers may reflect its larger sales volume. Still, the Camry's complaints include serious safety issues like crashes and injuries, while the ProMaster's are fewer and less severe.
Key differences
- The RAM ProMaster 1500 has only 5 complaints and 0 recalls over 10 years, while the Toyota Camry has 2,056 complaints and 31 recalls.
- Camry owners report serious safety issues like crashes (171) and injuries (158), but ProMaster has none reported.
- ProMaster complaints focus on backup camera, A-pillar trim, and a power train recall; Camry complaints cover engine hesitation, stuck keys, brake problems, and electrical malfunctions.
- The Camry's higher complaint count may be due to higher sales, but the severity of reported issues is greater.
- Check the backup camera display: make sure it shows the area behind the van correctly and that parking grid lines appear.
- Inspect the driver's side A-pillar trim: ensure it does not block your view of the side mirror when seated in a normal driving position.
- Test the ignition key: make sure it can be removed easily when the car is in Park, and that it doesn't get stuck.
- Listen for brake noises: a clicking or vibrating sound from the brake pedal area could indicate an ABS issue.
Before you buy
- Ask for the vehicle's complete NHTSA complaint and recall history by VIN.
- For the ProMaster, test the backup camera and check the A-pillar trim for visibility.
- For the Camry, test drive at various speeds to check for hesitation or shuddering, and test the brakes and parking brake.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle, focusing on the areas mentioned in complaints.
- Confirm that any open recalls have been repaired, especially the power train recall on the ProMaster.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | RAM Promaster 1500 | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 0 | 163 |
| 2024 | 0 | 50 |
| 2023 | 1 | 64 |
| 2022 | 0 | 61 |
| 2021 | 4 | 157 |
| 2020 | 0 | 274 |
| 2019 | 0 | 395 |
| 2018 | 0 | 744 |
| 2017 | 0 | 148 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific RAM Promaster 1500 or Toyota Camry in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- RAM Promaster 1500 vs Toyota Camry
- RAM Promaster 1500 total complaints
- 5
- Toyota Camry total complaints
- 2,056
- RAM Promaster 1500 total recalls
- 0
- Toyota Camry total recalls
- 31
- RAM Promaster 1500 avg complaints/year
- 0.5
- Toyota Camry avg complaints/year
- 205.6
- More reliable overall
- RAM Promaster 1500
- RAM Promaster 1500 top complaint area
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Toyota Camry top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN