Before you buy
This 2018 Ram 5500 has 35 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Brake System.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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RAM 5500 2018 has 35 NHTSA complaints, with 22 related to the brake system and 11 specifically hydraulic issues. There are 8 recalls. Buyers should inspect brakes thoroughly and check for open recalls. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Ram
- Model
- 5500
- Model year
- 2018
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 35
- Crash-related complaints
- 1
- Safety recall campaigns
- 8
- Top reported component
- Brake System
- Reliability signal
- Notable Issues
Common problems
Most common 2018 Ram 5500 problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Brake System
Hydraulic
Wheel Issues
Complaint patterns center on Brake System, Hydraulic, Wheel Issues. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2018 Ram 5500?
The 2018 RAM 5500 has a high number of brake complaints and recalls, so proceed with caution. A thorough brake system inspection and recall check are essential before purchase.
Brake system failures can lead to safety risks and costly repairs. With 22 brake complaints, this is the most significant concern for this model year.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who are willing to invest in pre-purchase inspection and have access to a trusted mechanic for potential brake repairs.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a trouble-free heavy-duty truck with minimal maintenance concerns should avoid this year.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2018 Ram 5500
Inspection Focus
- Inspect brake system thoroughly, including hydraulic lines and master cylinder.
- Check for any open recalls related to brakes or other components.
- Test drive to evaluate brake feel and check for unintended acceleration.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect brake system, including hydraulic components.
- Verify all 8 recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for brake and drivetrain repairs.
- Have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2018 Ram 5500, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2018 RAM 5500 has 35 complaints and 8 recalls. The brake system accounts for 22 complaints, with hydraulic issues specifically cited 11 times. Buyers should prioritize brake inspection and recall verification. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, 2018 has a notably high number of brake complaints, but data for other years is limited.
Recall context: With 8 recalls, it is critical to verify all open recalls are completed before purchase.
- Brake system complaints total 22, the highest of any component.
- Hydraulic issues account for 11 complaints within the brake system.
- There is 1 crash-related complaint, indicating potential safety risk.
- Brake System: 22 complaints, including hydraulic failures.
- Wheel Issues: 5 complaints, possibly related to brake components.
- Unintended Acceleration: 4 complaints, which may be linked to brake or drivetrain.
Full breakdown
All 2018 Ram 5500 complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Ram 5500. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brake System | 22 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 11 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2018 Ram 5500. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
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 f…
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 …
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 …
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 …
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…
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 St…
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 th…
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 th…
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…
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 dec…
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 e…
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…
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 veh…
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 de…
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 th…
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 lo…
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 …
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 …
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Ram 5500.
Safety recalls
2018 Ram 5500 recalls
8 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2018 Ram 5500. With 8 recalls, it is critical to verify all open recalls are completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
EQUIPMENT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2018 Ram 5500 buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2018 Ram 5500 reliable?▾
Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 35 owner complaints, 1 crash-related complaints, and 8 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2018 RAM 5500 has a high number of brake complaints and recalls, so proceed with caution. A thorough brake system inspection and recall check are essential before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Ram 5500?▾
#1: Brake System (22 complaints). #2: Hydraulic (11 complaints). #3: Wheel Issues (5 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2018 Ram 5500?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2018 Ram 5500?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2018 Ram 5500, NHTSA complaints include 1 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 35 total complaints. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2018 Ram 5500 have any recalls?▾
Yes. 8 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2018 Ram 5500. A major recall area is EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS. With 8 recalls, it is critical to verify all open recalls are completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2018 Ram 5500?▾
The 2018 RAM 5500 has a high number of brake complaints and recalls, so proceed with caution. A thorough brake system inspection and recall check are essential before purchase. Brake system failures can lead to safety risks and costly repairs. With 22 brake complaints, this is the most significant concern for this model year. Pay extra attention to Brake System during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Ram 5500 reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.