Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ram Promaster
The 2017 Ram ProMaster shows a moderate level of reliability concerns based on recall and complaint data. With ten recalls and 57 owner complaints, issues primarily involve the transmission, electrical system, and engine. This model's problems should be thoroughly assessed during inspection since the evidence indicates potential risk areas.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ram Promaster has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 57 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V582000 Shifter Cable May Disconnect from Transmission NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V036000 Shifter Cable May Disconnect from Transmission NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V818000 Engine Cooling Fan May Seize and Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V333000 Seat Back may not Stay Upright NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V313000 Seat Back may not Stay Upright NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V332000 Seat Back may not Stay Upright NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V824000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V786000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V273000 Improper Air Bag Information/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V910000 Seat Mounted Air Bag Non-Deployment NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 20 complaints
- Engine 19 complaints
- Power Train 14 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 6 complaints
- Service Brakes 5 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 4 complaints
Of the 57 complaints on file, 2 report a crash and 3 a fire (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Shifter cable may disconnect
How to check: Check if the transmission shifts correctly through all gears.
Various electrical problems
How to check: Test all electrical components, including lights and dash.
Engine cooling fan may seize
How to check: Listen for unusual noises when A/C is active.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or persistent noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure no warning lights remain on dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts and acceleration.
Red flag: Transmission slips or struggles
- 04
Hard braking
What to check: Feel if the brakes engage smoothly and effectively.
Red flag: Vibration or delayed braking response
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for engine straining or odd noises.
Red flag: Excessive engine noise or hesitation
- 06
Turning maneuver
What to check: Steering should feel steady and responsive.
Red flag: Loose or unresponsive steering
- 07
Parking
What to check: Ensure gear shifts and parking brake engage smoothly.
Red flag: Difficulty engaging gears
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission cable been replaced?
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Any history of electrical system failures?
- Has the cooling fan been serviced?
- Any engine issues or repairs noted?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Repair and maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Warranty claims
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ram Promaster at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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