If your a construction worker and haul a lot of tools/materials do yourself a favour and don’t even bother with these. I have a 2017 3500 EXT. I’ve gone through two transmissions. Very underpowered. But I do love the interior and and the rear cargo dimensions. The flat walls make outfitting the rear with shelving a dream. The low makes getting in and out a breeze. I just really wish on this new model they would’ve put a stronger motor and transmission.
i have a 2017 2500 that has been nothing but problems also. Tranny went at 70k, had to replace the rear leaf springs since they cracked, e-brake problems, and not to mention the headlights needing replaced every 3 months. I am tossed on getting another one or going the transit route
@@plumbingjps I feel for ya. I just recently had the ESC light come on. Goes into limp mode, not fun on the highway. I think I’m going back to the sprinter but I might try the transit.
Ben, I owned a 2022 Ram 2500 Promaster High Roof for my business last year. Got it brand new from a Dealer in NY. I used it for my Motorcycle Transport/Towing business. The Tranny & mounts went at 76,000 miles and i barely even put half the amount of cargo capacity in it. After i replace the tranny it never ran right. Completer piece of junk! Ive also owned 3 Ram 1500 Hemi's and the tranny went on my 22 just recently! I will never buy another Chrysler product ever again!
my brother bought a brand new 2016 promaster 2500. At 140 k miles, the engine completely broke down. He sold the junk for 1 k. Also, this product was made so that most repairs can only be done by the dealer, so you get ripped off on repairs as well. Minors repairs will cost you big time.
You wont find a "reliable" cargo van period. Sprinter is even worse while costing way more. Transit has tranny problems to the same extent as the Promaster.
@@CJ30123 I agree 100%! Auto manufacturers are building poorer quality vehicles more than ever these last few years. Quality control doesnt even exist. The Ram promaster comes with the same powertrain as their minivan which goes to show you. How the hell is that thing capable of towing and holding a payload of up to nearly 5,000lbs! Impossible! Manufacturers are lying to the public to make sales!
I drive a 2017 Promaster 2500 high roof daily. Service van. 85000 miles last year. Has over 360000 miles. Brakes twice, replaced oil cooler, the flywheel cracked and was replaced, rear shocks. Plugs at 209000miles. Still gets around 17 mpg with shelves bins tools and parts. I've spent a little over $2200 in 265000 miles (not counting oil changes) I change the oil 10 times a year (or more). This van has been great. I have put more miles on it in 2 years than most put on a van in 10 years. I'm sure the 9 speed would make it even better.
I thought the same thing about opening the slider from the inside but I learned that it worked like a 1940’s car door lock. Push it forward and it locks, pull it back and it unlocks. If it’s locked you have to pull it twice, once to unlock and again to open.
You are probably one of the lucky ones. Me and many other sprinter owners have repeated problems with emission filters, sensors, and reduced power due to the enforced "limp mode".
I’ve driven thousands of miles on all 3 big vans, as rentals for film production and the one I dreaded the most was the Promaster. Terrible driving position, sluggish powertrain (though the new one may fix that?). Sprinter would be my choice if someone else was paying the bills/maintenance. The driving position allowed for very confident driving of such a large vehicle even in dense urban areas.
I also work in film production. Im reviewing all cargo vans before I pull the trigger. My biggest question is which cargo van offers more power, more cargo space and less maintenance. Still unsure at this point.
I drive for a living and Ford wins out. I keep hoping dodge will do rear wheel drive and fix their issues! Dodge is great because of width 6’3” person can sleep width wise. Mercedes just look good no thanks unless like he said someone taking the risk.
I drive the amazon vans hopefully these are built better. Our year and a half old vans are already breaking down. The new updated infotainment and gauge cluster looks really nice though. But soon we’ll be getting the electric Rivian vans.
@@Natethegreat200cI saw Chrysler minivans all the time too including two we owned personally and both loved sitting in the mechanic shop. My mechanic loved them too.
I have a 2016 and had the coil packs go at 60k. Being that it's FWD, it slips and slides when it rains and forget about not getting stuck in the snow. Keep in mind that contractors keep weight in the rear of the van so with the weight, the fronts lighter than the rear! I would not get another!!
The lights on the top are not "cargo lights". They are clearance or cab roof lights, to identify that an oversized vehicle is approaching to other traffic.
So I’m looking for a van to customize. Yesterday I built both the promaster and transit in SWB 2500 mid roof cargo models pretty much loaded with every comfort / convenience item available. They were within a few hundred dollars MRSP at around $64K USD and change, and the transit was AWD. I was surprised that was the case. Expected the FWD promaster to be thousands less expensive.
Forklift tech, and unfortunately we’ve been switched to these due to Amazon procuring damn near every Transit made for the next two years. My previous one was a Nissan NV3500, which was an absolute beast. It’s a shame they don’t make them anymore. Problems with the PM3500: 1. The seat is so high, it feels like you’re seeing out of the top of the windshield and your head is going to hit the roof. I’m 5’10”, so not super tall. 2. Horrible window pillar placement. What’s the point of the mirrors when it’s blocked by an obnoxiously thick window pillar? 3. Windows don’t go down the full way, and they’re tiny. 5. Horrible location of the OBD port. Like most fleet vehicle drivers, we have a tracking / info system that uses an OBD dongle. I’ve had to install an extension cable to keep it from getting kicked out since they put the OBD port right near the left footwell. 6. Solid. Rear. Axle. Enjoy feeling like the Space Shuttle Columbia coming apart every time you hit a bump. 7. Front wheel drive. There’s a reason why cargo vans all have rear wheel drive. 8. No tilt wheel. You can telescope it about an inch, but it’s at a weird angle and you can’t adjust it. This is literally a basic feature in cars since the 1980s. 9. No room to move the seat back, so enjoy driving with your kneecaps pressed into the dash. 10. Every bit of cabin storage space requires you to reach. Convenient cup holder? Nope. Good luck not crashing when you reach for your morning coffee. 11. No center console. While this is getting increasingly hard to find in cargo vans, it’s still an annoyance. 12. Absolutely no “git ‘n shit.” Motor and 9-speed transmission is weak. Always feels like you’re struggling to move. 13. It’s a Fiat.
Same here, brought brand New @ 51,000 had to replace water pump and radiation @ 81,000 had to get new engine 😢 not a good engine but they have good space !!!!
I have a 3500 extended been an awesome van drive every day for work. 116600 miles and no problem. Loaded with 4000 pounds of payload. Like every brand sadly some have issues.
I don't even know why they even attempt to sell cargo vans up north in Canada without at least all-wheel drive if not 4x4. I rarely even see Dodge promasters
I really like the look of the Promaster, but I've heard nothing..and I mean NOTHING...good about driving them. Pretty much everyone says the cab is horrible, with terrible seats and a worse driving position. Comments on the under-powered drive train vary, but mostly it's a dog. They could probably fix that with a turbo or something, but I doubt they'll do it. It's a shame, really.
The Vans are nice as far as space and entry into cargo area . Unfortunately their drivetrain does not hold up to trades that carry heavy tools and equipment, ( Plumbing, HVAC , etc). Due to the front wheel drive configuration, Towing capacity is low compared to Ford & Chevrolet Rear Drive vans
I have a high roof 136 converted and it’s so maneuverable I use it as my daily drive. Small enough to parallel park downtown and awesome turning radius for U-turns.
@@Erin-Thor That may have been more true with certain years of Sprinters but the newer ones seemingly break down just as often as Transits or Promasters. The big difference I've found from watching van life videos is even still, Sprinter owners have the biggest issues with Def, price of maintenance & mechanic/dealership availability. Diesel engines still aren't as easily worked on compared to gas engines... here in the U.S. anyway.
Hi Ben I have a 2023 proMaster my question is how can I take off the sound of the alarm every time I take the alarm off or looking the horn noise is annoying? You have any i deas
Problem is delivery. I ordered mine a year ago. How long is an order taking to delivery where you are? Are you getting ANY deliveries? Not up here in Canada, 3 so far after a year, for the entire country, from what i was told.
Here are a few issues I’m experiencing with the Promasters ( I have 3 unit ) 1. Front headlights keep burning out possibly because water leaks inside the headlight housing. 2. Cheap plastic license plate holder , washer fluid sprayers nozzles keep falling/loosening. 3.The optional massive side mirrors keep getting smashed off by other vehicles . Overall great truck, power 👍, space incredible and fairly reliable. Great review thank you
As an owner of 4 of those crap houses, let me add 4. Oil cooler assembly breaks at around 70-80K. 5. After the assembly something goes wrong with the throttle( not sure it happened to two of the 4 vans after the plastic oil assembly sprung a leak)
@@SickKnowledge82 Totally agree with you. The reason we got them was because of the body style and how versatile it looked however over time those amenities loose their appeal. The engine is out of the dodge caravan a frickin mini van. We used them for lots of city driving full with equipment and tools. I was replacing transmission fluid every other oil change and it was black. Headlights were a stocked item to replace, 3 of them had the oil cooler assembly break at around 60-70k miles and two of them needed extra repairs after that… Overall its not worth owning this type of van. Better pay a bit more and get a quality work van. I see it this way when the van is out and about it’s making money when it’s sitting in the shop its not.
@@ivanangelov7087I don’t see anything major you had issue with. Stop crying. It’s a work HOUSE! That’s why they get you to and from where you need to go.
My 2014 promaster 118 wb is great..adventure work vehicle..its short but its 8ft bed 6ft wide and 5ft high inside...perfect space ship..wow prices are high
I’ve been waiting for this video. Am in the market right now. Thanks Ben! Price in Canada with the Accessories I want is $58,000, 159” wheelbase. About $2,500 in options.
Good luck at finding one on the lot for a reasonable price. Sold my 2018 promaster 2500 159 for 10k more than I paid for it after putting 110,000km on it. Took 19 months for my 22 model to come in
@@MJ88206 If you look at the MSRP, you'll find a major difference in pricing. Typically US vehicle prices are a bit cheaper after currency conversion but that isn't the case here.
Most Ford and Mercedes dealers are pricing bandits now, ridiculous ADMs. Ram is first to pull back on the greed a bit. Have a 2014 model and it has never let me down. When I upgrade, it will be another.
The FWD only is a HUGE letdown. Yeah, sure, you get a lower cargo floor, but I know I've made deliveries in a Transit that a FWD van would have gotten stuck. If you've ever made a delivery to a few saw mills, you know what I mean. I feel like this would still make a great option for city drivers that are making lots of parcel deliveries though
My place of employment just replaced my 18 promaster 3500 with a 23 promaster 3500. I actually like the ProMasters, but I had that van for 2 days. On the second day, I drove it most of the day. Stopped by the office to grab something that I needed for my next stop. Went to crank it back up and the dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree, sent out an SOS and made an emergency call. THE VAN THOUGHT IT HAD BEEN IN A CRASH!!!?!?! THE CRASH DETECTION SYSTEM ACTIVATED AND CUT THE FUEL OFF AND IT WOULD NOT CRANK BACK!!!!! SITTING STILL IN FRONT OF THE OFFICE!!!!! That's a serious issue that needs to be addressed by RAM! Great van when it's actually drivable. Only has 228 miles on it and it's useless until it can be repaired.
We have a 2016 Promaster 2500 all built out. However, if the new Promaster's come with the 62TE transmission, count me out on them. For the adventure/van lifer Ford's new transit trail is going to slaughter Mercedes and some of the rams market.
You are absolutely right I had ordered a brand new 22 sprinter standard roof, and I hated the way it drove. I hated the acceleration. I had the twin turbo four-cylinder gasoline motor as opposed to the diesel. The one thing that drove me nuts the most was at any price level the Mercedes sprinter does not offer a glove box. Like my old one Their whole dashboard looks like it was designed by club car or EZGO. Yes, the Golf Carts that’s what I’m talking about. I also miss the dashboard mounted shifter then I’ll give you a stupid electronic stock on the column. That is ridiculous to operate. They also do not offer the V6 3.0 diesel. I’m looking forward to possibly buying the new ram pro master.
I m driving one 2023, my concern is the cup holders. you can't reach your water if you are driving. The 360 camera system is amazing.Im 6.2 ft the seat are to high /the instruments are amazing /the storage space does not make sense especially whit the high seats.
Ben, thanks for this review. I am considering a AWD Transit for my van project but after your video, I think I don’t really need the Transit´s extra ponies and AWD besides, the Ram´s ticket price is very attractive. I just need to overcome my “you-only-Fiat-once” old stigma. 😊
There’s nothing unique about this van. I’m staying with my Ford transit all wheel drive mainly because the pro master breakdown way more than Ford vans do.
Lies…it’s really a personal preference but Ram promaster is no joke believe me I’ve had several independent contracts using this machine going some crazy rural off road places and this vehicle handle it like a real G …mechanical wise this is a strong vehicle and mines is a2017
Bought a brand new 2018 Promaster 2500 hr 159" wb....the following is everything that was replaced driving it 100k miles from May of 2018-may of 2022: Also the following was replaced under warranty, made it a little better but lost nearly 12 months of work due to downtime. Fan blower motor Front struts and strut mounts Rack and pinion Transmission cooler Radiator fan Engine Catalytic converters Driver side brake caliper (Dealership crashed the van once and damaged it a second time) Roof mounted clearance lights .... essentially after 99600 miles I had a brand new Promaster again -_-.
I drive a promaster everyday. They are crap! Ergonomics are sad. Bought a stereo removal kit to fix the loose pin in the wiring harness. Broken passenger window switch. Oh yeah! Had the tranny replaced at 30k. The engine was done at 19k. Crap!! Of the highest order. Supposedly made to work...my @ss!
I agree. The company I work for replaced the engine at 4k miles (warranty), another was overheating. Junk!. My brother bought one for his business and the engine was rebuilt at 30k miles. It's has 70k miles today and the engine is tapping again. JUNK!!!
@@Sofakinglazy1291 Yikes, sorry about that. You pretty much validated my concerns. I've spoken to several owners who had to replace the transmission early on.
@@heldrichsantirzo3430 We don't get the Citroen or Opel badged versions in Australia, wouldn't make sense to have all 4 versions of the same van on sale here. The Fiat badged version is by far the biggest seller here.
Nice tour, considering buying one but considering the volume of posts outlining problems, addressing reliability or quality would have been more useful
How was the turning radius on the ProMaster? I currently have a Toyota Sienna that has the best turning radius I've ever encountered. It's so important to have a good turning radius. Watching you drive it looked like it was decent, but thought I'd ask for an honest opinion. Thanks for sharing.
They're very tight turning vans especially the short wheel base, but you'll destroy your CV Axles and have to replace them /very/ often if you like to do full 180 degree turn arounds with any throttle applied.
Looks like a (not so successful) mid-cycle styling refresh. Frankly, the front end of the 2022 looked MUCH better. Does Ram offer their 2.4 liter 4-cylinder in the 1500 short van? They should.
Yes, 4wd or AWD makes a difference. (for offroading/boondocking) I've watched enough van lifers who have the promaster, who more often than not get stuck or have issues climbing with the Promaster.
Is this a good van for flooring? Loading carpet, hardwoods and tile? I have a 2017 Diesel transit and since began with a low fuel pressure and blocked fuel filter issues its has left me on the road twice now. $900 on towing for those 2 times. Just want to get rid of it because im tired of the issue not getting fixed by Ford.
That is the Ram 'Patina Package'. It allows purchasers of brand new Ram products to 'experience the feel' of a vehicle driven for 200K miles before they drive their new vehicle off the lot! MSRP is $666.66 plus tax and destination fees. All the cool kids check this option block because actually getting 200K out of these things is probably not going to happen.
The only bad news for them would be if someone actually made some you could buy instead of this order and wait a yr or 2 and you MIGHT get one if you dont die first, LOL! I dont think a transmission is a worry to them.
Definitely a Dodge product I would never buy based on owners experiences and I owned a Ram 1500 hemi and now own an AWD Challenger. If Toyota came out with a similar type AWD van it would be a game changer.
Love the ProMaster but disappointed with the low ground clearance, any chance Dodge will raise it? Can they be lifted with a lift kit? You can't go back roads exploring as much in one of those
identical ground clearance to the Transit. Slightly less than the Sprinter. I never understand where people in their minds think they are taking these vans. They are huge. Well kept forest roads is fine. Off road trails none of them will do because of sheer size and horrible departure angles.
Hi and thanks for this review ! I am in the market for this particular van... I have been offered a 2015 version with 115K miles, a little dented but drives and engine in good shape. They want 18K for it.. You think that is a good deal?
Send one to me here in Australia to evaluate it against our 316 Sprinters. I very much doubt the promaster will handle temps over 50 deg. and the thousands of Ks on unsealed roads that out Sprinters do every day.
Only problem that I have with this Ram Promaster van…… bring back 3.0 turbo diesel engine!!!! I got one and I have 700K on it and still running. And my MPG is 25-26 per gallon. Why, why you stop putting this best engine in the world and left us with this 3.6 gas engine that can’t pull this van over the road.
Hello there this is Mucio l have 2016 promaster high roof 3500 diesel that doesn't want to run over 35 mph it only has 84k miles on it do you know anything good about them does it's worth it to Ammco transmission or do you recommend get rid of it..
Nice review. A few (possibly "dumb") questions: * Would anyone think that getting one of these vans for potential future use as a camper van would be smarter than buying an already-converted camper van/RV with beds, wet bath, galley etc.? Or could it potentially make more sense to buy one of these stripped-down stock vans and then install your own things? * Is it common for people to buy these vehicles in their stock condition and then add side windows? Not sure if they're available from the factory with windows but if so that would be great. * Since they're cargo vans teh walls are pretty bare but seem to have lots of holes and other cut-outs -- are those there for installing shelving or other features for commercial use? I'm wondering if they could likewise be used to clamp-down beds and other "home like" things.
Doing the work yourself would be cheaper, but not waranteed like a store bought one. If you pay 60k and then put 10k into it, it's nowhere near the 100k+ that a sore bought one costs. People customize the Promaster the most because it is the cheapest to get into.
@@dolguldur4706 Probably cuz he can sleep perpendicular in it, the others can't. He's probably living the BusLife right now looking at his profile pic, getting hosed by gas prices, he's looking for a smaller vehicle to live like a bum. 😂
@@dodgesportsman772 I think he is implying it's great, but it's not that old... When the engine detonates and or he has to replace the transmission as with every promaster I've owned, he'll go back to Ford. I love Dodge, I do. I go through the 2003-2007 Dodge Caravans like mad, but I dont touch newer Dodge after Mercedes. Maybe if these new promasters are actually good, I'll consider getting a newer model, but after years and years of wasting money on Fiat crap, we invest our money in new Fords over new Dodges. I haven't had to replace an engine in my 3.7l Transits (which is the only engine we get in them, and unfortunately we can't get newer transits with the 3.7) but lord help me with Dodge's 3.6l crap. 2018 Ford Transit doesn't burn a drop of oil even at 220k miles, with 500 miles put on it every single day. 2018 Promaster drinks a quart of oil every week and it only has 140k miles. And that's our last promaster we got and are never getting another one after it (our third promaster... Same issues as the last ones. Burns oil like mad, and eats up the transmission for no reason.) Moral of the story, you get what you pay for. And I don't like overpaying...
@@CrudelyDone THANK YOU SIR! I had my heart set on the promaster for my small business but I will absolutely take another look at Ford...any ideas on the Nissan cargo vans?
All the brands are not up to par Anymore….. does not matter what you buy, it’s how you treat the vehicle…. Do the maintenance, just get over it…. The workforce has changed… it’s not the old days…. Just drive, move on…
If your a construction worker and haul a lot of tools/materials do yourself a favour and don’t even bother with these. I have a 2017 3500 EXT. I’ve gone through two transmissions. Very underpowered. But I do love the interior and and the rear cargo dimensions. The flat walls make outfitting the rear with shelving a dream. The low makes getting in and out a breeze. I just really wish on this new model they would’ve put a stronger motor and transmission.
i have a 2019 2500 159 only and i know what ur talking about man i’m scared my transmissions gonna go as well it has 96 thousand km
I have a 2021 2500 I'm planning on trading it for a 2024 but I'm not sure if they fixed the issues with previous models
i have a 2017 2500 that has been nothing but problems also. Tranny went at 70k, had to replace the rear leaf springs since they cracked, e-brake problems, and not to mention the headlights needing replaced every 3 months. I am tossed on getting another one or going the transit route
@@plumbingjps I feel for ya. I just recently had the ESC light come on. Goes into limp mode, not fun on the highway. I think I’m going back to the sprinter but I might try the transit.
Did you ever service the transmission?
Ben, I owned a 2022 Ram 2500 Promaster High Roof for my business last year. Got it brand new from a Dealer in NY. I used it for my Motorcycle Transport/Towing business. The Tranny & mounts went at 76,000 miles and i barely even put half the amount of cargo capacity in it. After i replace the tranny it never ran right. Completer piece of junk! Ive also owned 3 Ram 1500 Hemi's and the tranny went on my 22 just recently! I will never buy another Chrysler product ever again!
my brother bought a brand new 2016 promaster 2500. At 140 k miles, the engine completely broke down. He sold the junk for 1 k. Also, this product was made so that most repairs can only be done by the dealer, so you get ripped off on repairs as well. Minors repairs will cost you big time.
@@steveh5882 not true at all. Its a Pentastar engine. Been around forever. Any mechanic would know it.
You wont find a "reliable" cargo van period. Sprinter is even worse while costing way more. Transit has tranny problems to the same extent as the Promaster.
@@CJ30123 I agree 100%! Auto manufacturers are building poorer quality vehicles more than ever these last few years. Quality control doesnt even exist. The Ram promaster comes with the same powertrain as their minivan which goes to show you. How the hell is that thing capable of towing and holding a payload of up to nearly 5,000lbs! Impossible! Manufacturers are lying to the public to make sales!
I drive a 2017 Promaster 2500 high roof daily. Service van. 85000 miles last year. Has over 360000 miles. Brakes twice, replaced oil cooler, the flywheel cracked and was replaced, rear shocks. Plugs at 209000miles. Still gets around 17 mpg with shelves bins tools and parts. I've spent a little over $2200 in 265000 miles (not counting oil changes) I change the oil 10 times a year (or more). This van has been great. I have put more miles on it in 2 years than most put on a van in 10 years. I'm sure the 9 speed would make it even better.
I thought the same thing about opening the slider from the inside but I learned that it worked like a 1940’s car door lock. Push it forward and it locks, pull it back and it unlocks. If it’s locked you have to pull it twice, once to unlock and again to open.
Bought a Sprinter in 2014 best van I have ever owned 250,000 miles and still going strong with no problems.
What year Sprinter? Is it diesel?
@@NicoProv it’s a 2014 with the 6 cylinder diesel. Great van
@@RickStorni is it super loud? I never owned a diesel
@@NicoProv no it is real quiet you almost don’t even hear it also uses Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) so there are no diesel fumes or smoke either
You are probably one of the lucky ones. Me and many other sprinter owners have repeated problems with emission filters, sensors, and reduced power due to the enforced "limp mode".
I’ve driven thousands of miles on all 3 big vans, as rentals for film production and the one I dreaded the most was the Promaster. Terrible driving position, sluggish powertrain (though the new one may fix that?). Sprinter would be my choice if someone else was paying the bills/maintenance. The driving position allowed for very confident driving of such a large vehicle even in dense urban areas.
The city is much different the full size promaster. Completely different vehicle.
@@jjschulz3472huh? so is the Nissan NV200 but I’m talking about full size vans
I also work in film production. Im reviewing all cargo vans before I pull the trigger. My biggest question is which cargo van offers more power, more cargo space and less maintenance. Still unsure at this point.
I drive for a living and Ford wins out. I keep hoping dodge will do rear wheel drive and fix their issues! Dodge is great because of width 6’3” person can sleep width wise. Mercedes just look good no thanks unless like he said someone taking the risk.
@@johnnybravisimo007 that would be the Ford no doubt. Many more ford dealers for service too
I drive the amazon vans hopefully these are built better. Our year and a half old vans are already breaking down. The new updated infotainment and gauge cluster looks really nice though. But soon we’ll be getting the electric Rivian vans.
What do you mean breaking down?
@@jaisacinandanakrsnadasa1597right. He’s fulll of shit. Guarantee you. I see these vans ALL THE TIME
@@Natethegreat200cI saw Chrysler minivans all the time too including two we owned personally and both loved sitting in the mechanic shop. My mechanic loved them too.
Have they upgraded the head gaskets on the Pentastar for heavy duty use, or are they still made of bubble wrap?
Don’t know. Even if they did upgrade them, it would still be a different kind of bubble wrap.
Made by Fiat, maintaining a forty year plus tradition of unreliability.
I have a 2016 and had the coil packs go at 60k. Being that it's FWD, it slips and slides when it rains and forget about not getting stuck in the snow. Keep in mind that contractors keep weight in the rear of the van so with the weight, the fronts lighter than the rear! I would not get another!!
The lights on the top are not "cargo lights". They are clearance or cab roof lights, to identify that an oversized vehicle is approaching to other traffic.
So I’m looking for a van to customize. Yesterday I built both the promaster and transit in SWB 2500 mid roof cargo models pretty much loaded with every comfort / convenience item available. They were within a few hundred dollars MRSP at around $64K USD and change, and the transit was AWD. I was surprised that was the case. Expected the FWD promaster to be thousands less expensive.
Forklift tech, and unfortunately we’ve been switched to these due to Amazon procuring damn near every Transit made for the next two years. My previous one was a Nissan NV3500, which was an absolute beast. It’s a shame they don’t make them anymore.
Problems with the PM3500:
1. The seat is so high, it feels like you’re seeing out of the top of the windshield and your head is going to hit the roof. I’m 5’10”, so not super tall.
2. Horrible window pillar placement. What’s the point of the mirrors when it’s blocked by an obnoxiously thick window pillar?
3. Windows don’t go down the full way, and they’re tiny.
5. Horrible location of the OBD port. Like most fleet vehicle drivers, we have a tracking / info system that uses an OBD dongle. I’ve had to install an extension cable to keep it from getting kicked out since they put the OBD port right near the left footwell.
6. Solid. Rear. Axle. Enjoy feeling like the Space Shuttle Columbia coming apart every time you hit a bump.
7. Front wheel drive. There’s a reason why cargo vans all have rear wheel drive.
8. No tilt wheel. You can telescope it about an inch, but it’s at a weird angle and you can’t adjust it. This is literally a basic feature in cars since the 1980s.
9. No room to move the seat back, so enjoy driving with your kneecaps pressed into the dash.
10. Every bit of cabin storage space requires you to reach. Convenient cup holder? Nope. Good luck not crashing when you reach for your morning coffee.
11. No center console. While this is getting increasingly hard to find in cargo vans, it’s still an annoyance.
12. Absolutely no “git ‘n shit.” Motor and 9-speed transmission is weak. Always feels like you’re struggling to move.
13. It’s a Fiat.
It’s been a year since this video came out and still Ram is the bottom of the line when it comes to van based RVs.
I use my 2018 Promaster for hvac work . Its been great.
Buy a promaster if you want the van to be in the shop more than on the road, my experience with pro-masters is they suck.
Thank you. Your TRUTH is APPRECIATED by ME!
I’m gay
Same here, brought brand New @ 51,000 had to replace water pump and radiation @ 81,000 had to get new engine 😢 not a good engine but they have good space !!!!
I have a 3500 extended been an awesome van drive every day for work. 116600 miles and no problem. Loaded with 4000 pounds of payload. Like every brand sadly some have issues.
Ha ha, I’ve heard the same thing said about the piece of 💩 Ford Transit - Rust buckets! 😆
I don't even know why they even attempt to sell cargo vans up north in Canada without at least all-wheel drive if not 4x4. I rarely even see Dodge promasters
I really like the look of the Promaster, but I've heard nothing..and I mean NOTHING...good about driving them. Pretty much everyone says the cab is horrible, with terrible seats and a worse driving position. Comments on the under-powered drive train vary, but mostly it's a dog. They could probably fix that with a turbo or something, but I doubt they'll do it. It's a shame, really.
Wow , very nice but the transmission it’s not good 😂
The Vans are nice as far as space and entry into cargo area . Unfortunately their drivetrain does not hold up to trades that carry heavy tools and equipment, ( Plumbing, HVAC , etc). Due to the front wheel drive configuration, Towing capacity is low compared to Ford & Chevrolet Rear Drive vans
I feel like it's great for lots of in-town parcel delivery, but not much else
Self destruct mode can kick in at any moment. Trust me. Run.
I have a high roof 136 converted and it’s so maneuverable I use it as my daily drive. Small enough to parallel park downtown and awesome turning radius for U-turns.
Same here! got a 19 promaster 136 high roof.. LOVE IT!!!
@@mcbewild you won’t love it when it keeps breaking down on you.
@@konghy2 - Transits are far from perfect LOL! Mercedes Sprinters are more reliable, but cost a bunch more when they do break.
@@Erin-Thor That may have been more true with certain years of Sprinters but the newer ones seemingly break down just as often as Transits or Promasters. The big difference I've found from watching van life videos is even still, Sprinter owners have the biggest issues with Def, price of maintenance & mechanic/dealership availability. Diesel engines still aren't as easily worked on compared to gas engines... here in the U.S. anyway.
@@FEARNoMore - Thanks!
Love mine. 22mpg highway, drives great, totally reliable .
Yeah right. This vans takes 19-20 per gallon.
Hi Ben I have a 2023 proMaster my question is how can I take off the sound of the alarm every time I take the alarm off or looking the horn noise is annoying? You have any i deas
Problem is delivery. I ordered mine a year ago. How long is an order taking to delivery where you are? Are you getting ANY deliveries? Not up here in Canada, 3 so far after a year, for the entire country, from what i was told.
WHATS the difference between Trims? cargo, SLT and SLT+ ???
Here are a few issues I’m experiencing with the Promasters ( I have 3 unit )
1. Front headlights keep burning out possibly because water leaks inside the headlight housing.
2. Cheap plastic license plate holder , washer fluid sprayers nozzles keep falling/loosening.
3.The optional massive side mirrors keep getting smashed off by other vehicles .
Overall great truck, power 👍, space incredible and fairly reliable.
Great review thank you
Amazon LED headlights are the way to go
As an owner of 4 of those crap houses, let me add
4. Oil cooler assembly breaks at around 70-80K.
5. After the assembly something goes wrong with the throttle( not sure it happened to two of the 4 vans after the plastic oil assembly sprung a leak)
@@SickKnowledge82
Totally agree with you. The reason we got them was because of the body style and how versatile it looked however over time those amenities loose their appeal. The engine is out of the dodge caravan a frickin mini van. We used them for lots of city driving full with equipment and tools. I was replacing transmission fluid every other oil change and it was black. Headlights were a stocked item to replace, 3 of them had the oil cooler assembly break at around 60-70k miles and two of them needed extra repairs after that…
Overall its not worth owning this type of van. Better pay a bit more and get a quality work van. I see it this way when the van is out and about it’s making money when it’s sitting in the shop its not.
@@ivanangelov7087boy a damn leaking housing is nothing. You people be absolutely CRYING over NOTHING
@@ivanangelov7087I don’t see anything major you had issue with. Stop crying. It’s a work HOUSE! That’s why they get you to and from where you need to go.
My 2014 promaster 118 wb is great..adventure work vehicle..its short but its 8ft bed 6ft wide and 5ft high inside...perfect space ship..wow prices are high
I'm trying to decide between Ram ProMaster, GMC Savana, and Ford Transit.
I’ve been waiting for this video. Am in the market right now. Thanks Ben! Price in Canada with the Accessories I want is $58,000, 159” wheelbase. About $2,500 in options.
Canadian or US dollar?
Good luck at finding one on the lot for a reasonable price. Sold my 2018 promaster 2500 159 for 10k more than I paid for it after putting 110,000km on it. Took 19 months for my 22 model to come in
@@MJ88206 If you look at the MSRP, you'll find a major difference in pricing. Typically US vehicle prices are a bit cheaper after currency conversion but that isn't the case here.
@@MJ88206 that’s Canadian funds
Most Ford and Mercedes dealers are pricing bandits now, ridiculous ADMs. Ram is first to pull back on the greed a bit. Have a 2014 model and it has never let me down. When I upgrade, it will be another.
The FWD only is a HUGE letdown. Yeah, sure, you get a lower cargo floor, but I know I've made deliveries in a Transit that a FWD van would have gotten stuck. If you've ever made a delivery to a few saw mills, you know what I mean.
I feel like this would still make a great option for city drivers that are making lots of parcel deliveries though
Also, do you know the space inside dimensions of Height? Over 6 feet ?
My place of employment just replaced my 18 promaster 3500 with a 23 promaster 3500.
I actually like the ProMasters, but I had that van for 2 days. On the second day, I drove it most of the day. Stopped by the office to grab something that I needed for my next stop. Went to crank it back up and the dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree, sent out an SOS and made an emergency call. THE VAN THOUGHT IT HAD BEEN IN A CRASH!!!?!?! THE CRASH DETECTION SYSTEM ACTIVATED AND CUT THE FUEL OFF AND IT WOULD NOT CRANK BACK!!!!! SITTING STILL IN FRONT OF THE OFFICE!!!!!
That's a serious issue that needs to be addressed by RAM!
Great van when it's actually drivable. Only has 228 miles on it and it's useless until it can be repaired.
Servo or relay issue. That can happen with virtually any new vehicle.
We have a 2016 Promaster 2500 all built out. However, if the new Promaster's come with the 62TE transmission, count me out on them. For the adventure/van lifer Ford's new transit trail is going to slaughter Mercedes and some of the rams market.
You are absolutely right I had ordered a brand new 22 sprinter standard roof, and I hated the way it drove. I hated the acceleration. I had the twin turbo four-cylinder gasoline motor as opposed to the diesel. The one thing that drove me nuts the most was at any price level the Mercedes sprinter does not offer a glove box. Like my old one Their whole dashboard looks like it was designed by club car or EZGO. Yes, the Golf Carts that’s what I’m talking about. I also miss the dashboard mounted shifter then I’ll give you a stupid electronic stock on the column. That is ridiculous to operate. They also do not offer the V6 3.0 diesel. I’m looking forward to possibly buying the new ram pro master.
I m driving one 2023, my concern is the cup holders. you can't reach your water if you are driving. The 360 camera system is amazing.Im 6.2 ft the seat are to high /the instruments are amazing /the storage space does not make sense especially whit the high seats.
Ben, thanks for this review. I am considering a AWD Transit for my van project but after your video, I think I don’t really need the Transit´s extra ponies and AWD besides, the Ram´s ticket price is very attractive. I just need to overcome my “you-only-Fiat-once” old stigma. 😊
There’s nothing unique about this van. I’m staying with my Ford transit all wheel drive mainly because the pro master breakdown way more than Ford vans do.
Lies…it’s really a personal preference but Ram promaster is no joke believe me I’ve had several independent contracts using this machine going some crazy rural off road places and this vehicle handle it like a real G …mechanical wise this is a strong vehicle and mines is a2017
Bought a brand new 2018 Promaster 2500 hr 159" wb....the following is everything that was replaced driving it 100k miles from May of 2018-may of 2022:
Also the following was replaced under warranty, made it a little better but lost nearly 12 months of work due to downtime.
Fan blower motor
Front struts and strut mounts
Rack and pinion
Transmission cooler
Radiator fan
Engine
Catalytic converters
Driver side brake caliper
(Dealership crashed the van once and damaged it a second time)
Roof mounted clearance lights
.... essentially after 99600 miles I had a brand new Promaster again -_-.
I drive a promaster everyday. They are crap! Ergonomics are sad. Bought a stereo removal kit to fix the loose pin in the wiring harness. Broken passenger window switch. Oh yeah! Had the tranny replaced at 30k. The engine was done at 19k. Crap!! Of the highest order. Supposedly made to work...my @ss!
I agree. The company I work for replaced the engine at 4k miles (warranty), another was overheating. Junk!. My brother bought one for his business and the engine was rebuilt at 30k miles. It's has 70k miles today and the engine is tapping again. JUNK!!!
@@Sofakinglazy1291 Yikes, sorry about that. You pretty much validated my concerns. I've spoken to several owners who had to replace the transmission early on.
Can any of the big three come out with a true 4wd diesel chassis?
These are sold in Australia as the Fiat Ducato or a Peugeot Boxer.
Too Citroen Relay
@@heldrichsantirzo3430 We don't get the Citroen or Opel badged versions in Australia, wouldn't make sense to have all 4 versions of the same van on sale here. The Fiat badged version is by far the biggest seller here.
Nice tour, considering buying one but considering the volume of posts outlining problems, addressing reliability or quality would have been more useful
Dude, it’s how you treat the machine…. Do the maintenance, and you’ll be okay… ford, Chevy, sprinter, whatever… they all the same
How was the turning radius on the ProMaster? I currently have a Toyota Sienna that has the best turning radius I've ever encountered. It's so important to have a good turning radius. Watching you drive it looked like it was decent, but thought I'd ask for an honest opinion. Thanks for sharing.
it is great. Turns super tight.
They're very tight turning vans especially the short wheel base, but you'll destroy your CV Axles and have to replace them /very/ often if you like to do full 180 degree turn arounds with any throttle applied.
Should recall on every transmission Ram. Wish Toyota built one
Halogen globes and front wheel drive . Wow Ram has gone all out . Is it 2023 or 1990s.
And being a fiat, the electrics suck and it burns bulbs out constantly. Try changing a headlight bulb.
Looks like a (not so successful) mid-cycle styling refresh. Frankly, the front end of the 2022 looked MUCH better.
Does Ram offer their 2.4 liter 4-cylinder in the 1500 short van? They should.
Test drive the V6 and see if a 2.4 makes sense.
I like the white. So clean. I am excited to try the new transmission.
Yes, 4wd or AWD makes a difference. (for offroading/boondocking) I've watched enough van lifers who have the promaster, who more often than not get stuck or have issues climbing with the Promaster.
No discussion of new active driving assist features?
I am interested in the Pro Master Crew any thoughts
What's the gas mileage on each? What are the actual dimensions for the cargo area?
There’s enough room back there for a DJ and a dance floor 😂
Is this a good van for flooring? Loading carpet, hardwoods and tile?
I have a 2017 Diesel transit and since began with a low fuel pressure and blocked fuel filter issues its has left me on the road twice now. $900 on towing for those 2 times. Just want to get rid of it because im tired of the issue not getting fixed by Ford.
RAM 1500 Pro master 2017(not disel) , good car?
I have a promaster the most irritating thing to me is the cup holder placement. Why tf is it so low and out of reach?
Ben...what going on with that air intake looking so dirty?
Not sure
That is the Ram 'Patina Package'. It allows purchasers of brand new Ram products to 'experience the feel' of a vehicle driven for 200K miles before they drive their new vehicle off the lot! MSRP is $666.66 plus tax and destination fees.
All the cool kids check this option block because actually getting 200K out of these things is probably not going to happen.
I have a 2024 Solis Pocket 36B ProMaster. I have a Mercedes 4wd 2021. The cost of maintaining is $$$$ just for people who have TH-cam .
What is the fuel economy rating? I cannot find it & if you use it as a work van that is a big thing for cost of fuel.
10mpg
The only bad news for them would be if someone actually made some you could buy instead of this order and wait a yr or 2 and you MIGHT get one if you dont die first, LOL! I dont think a transmission is a worry to them.
Good news for Ford and Mercedes that Ram still has no AWD for it's promaster.
Is it true that the ram promaster 1500 van is going to go up in price in 2024?
You can't overland with this thing. A friend kept getting stuck on damp ground in the woods.
Without four-wheel drive, it’s pointless. This is like saying I invented a new kind of Taco by adding a bit of seasoning to the shell.
Do they make electronic options?
Definitely a Dodge product I would never buy based on owners experiences and I owned a Ram 1500 hemi and now own an AWD Challenger. If Toyota came out with a similar type AWD van it would be a game changer.
IDK why they wouldn’t. They have the Hiace internationally. If its about the Chicken Tax I mean…that didn’t stop Nissan.
Run, run Fast as you can from a Promaster. They self destruct right before your eyes! 81,000 and $6,000 in repairs so far! Run.
Will Amazon purchase these vans I mean they are good?
5:05 is space measured in "tons"?? lol
What’s the MPG?
Love the ProMaster but disappointed with the low ground clearance, any chance Dodge will raise it? Can they be lifted with a lift kit?
You can't go back roads exploring as much in one of those
The Sprinter only has 1” more clearance than the Promaster. How many more roads will that give you access to?
identical ground clearance to the Transit. Slightly less than the Sprinter. I never understand where people in their minds think they are taking these vans. They are huge. Well kept forest roads is fine. Off road trails none of them will do because of sheer size and horrible departure angles.
@@CJ30123 Good point, didn't think about that, even a lifted ProMaster would still be way too wide for off road trails.
I’m looking at buying the longer base. Thank you for sharing 👍🤗
Quigley equipped ford transit for me because the low range but for two wheel drive vans I do like the ProMaster quite a bit
Hi and thanks for this review ! I am in the market for this particular van... I have been offered a 2015 version with 115K miles, a little dented but drives and engine in good shape. They want 18K for it.. You think that is a good deal?
Yes!
Send one to me here in Australia to evaluate it against our 316 Sprinters. I very much doubt the promaster will handle temps over 50 deg. and the thousands of Ks on unsealed roads that out Sprinters do every day.
What's the reliability of this vehicle?
I been hearing from many hotsjots drivers dont buy those are really bad
Only problem that I have with this Ram Promaster van…… bring back 3.0 turbo diesel engine!!!! I got one and I have 700K on it and still running. And my MPG is 25-26 per gallon. Why, why you stop putting this best engine in the world and left us with this 3.6 gas engine that can’t pull this van over the road.
Booyah 👊 😁 👍 🇺🇲, not a Dodge guy but I follow you so. ✌️
Give it 60’000 miles and the transmission will start falling apart. I like the ram better other than the transmission
Hello there this is Mucio l have 2016 promaster high roof 3500 diesel that doesn't want to run over 35 mph it only has 84k miles on it do you know anything good about them does it's worth it to Ammco transmission or do you recommend get rid of it..
Absolutely need AWD. What's the range on a full charge?
???? It's a gas engine not electric
It’s a gasoline motor, unless you meant mpg with a full tank!
Long wheel base all day long. If only they were in stock, like, anywhere.
? does it have tilt/telescoping steering wheel?
I own a 2023. No tilt steering wheel. Steering wheel does telescope but I don't use that feature.
Heard enough after 1st minute. Ram doesn’t offer AWD or 4WD even in 2023. Doesn’t even come close to Ford or Benz with that limitation
So the nine speed should be better then the older pro masters. It’s still a minivan light suv transmission though so maybe not.
it is not a minivan light suv, it is a front wheels drive transmission.
@@mdf417 exactly, stuff like mini vans, Honda pilots, Nissan pathfinders,
@@StoneyBaloneyUSA all capacity transmission are calculated to fit with the motor HP
What's the reliability of this Fiat in past models?
need chrome no black plastic
The RAM promaster is a FIAT DUCATO rebadged for the American market & with a Chrysler drivetrain. Remember Fiat owns Chrysler.
MPG , ?
Gonna bug Ben until he does a review on Dodge Durango R/T Hemi Orange ... 😭😭
Long wheel base... thank you!!
Hi , do these have a blind spot warning system
Nice review.
A few (possibly "dumb") questions:
* Would anyone think that getting one of these vans for potential future use as a camper van would be smarter than buying an already-converted camper van/RV with beds, wet bath, galley etc.? Or could it potentially make more sense to buy one of these stripped-down stock vans and then install your own things?
* Is it common for people to buy these vehicles in their stock condition and then add side windows? Not sure if they're available from the factory with windows but if so that would be great.
* Since they're cargo vans teh walls are pretty bare but seem to have lots of holes and other cut-outs -- are those there for installing shelving or other features for commercial use? I'm wondering if they could likewise be used to clamp-down beds and other "home like" things.
Doing the work yourself would be cheaper, but not waranteed like a store bought one. If you pay 60k and then put 10k into it, it's nowhere near the 100k+ that a sore bought one costs. People customize the Promaster the most because it is the cheapest to get into.
My dream American van! Brilliant job Ben.
What makes you choose this over sprinter or transit?
It's not American though. It's a rebadged Fiat with a 3.6l v6.
@@dolguldur4706 Probably cuz he can sleep perpendicular in it, the others can't. He's probably living the BusLife right now looking at his profile pic, getting hosed by gas prices, he's looking for a smaller vehicle to live like a bum. 😂
Literally everyone has to talk about converting these cargo vans into campers.
Sprinter stuck I'm an amazon driver they dint turn
Turning circle is second to none on this model
Minor repairs on the promaster will cost you crazy money. Most repairs can only be made by the dealership.
What are you talking about? Simplest and easiest to work on.
I'm a Ford guy but I bought the 1500 ProMaster last year. 22 Thor Rize. Last vehicle I will ever buy!
Last vehicle you will every buy? As it's really great or total junk?
@@dodgesportsman772 I think he is implying it's great, but it's not that old... When the engine detonates and or he has to replace the transmission as with every promaster I've owned, he'll go back to Ford. I love Dodge, I do. I go through the 2003-2007 Dodge Caravans like mad, but I dont touch newer Dodge after Mercedes. Maybe if these new promasters are actually good, I'll consider getting a newer model, but after years and years of wasting money on Fiat crap, we invest our money in new Fords over new Dodges. I haven't had to replace an engine in my 3.7l Transits (which is the only engine we get in them, and unfortunately we can't get newer transits with the 3.7) but lord help me with Dodge's 3.6l crap.
2018 Ford Transit doesn't burn a drop of oil even at 220k miles, with 500 miles put on it every single day. 2018 Promaster drinks a quart of oil every week and it only has 140k miles. And that's our last promaster we got and are never getting another one after it (our third promaster... Same issues as the last ones. Burns oil like mad, and eats up the transmission for no reason.) Moral of the story, you get what you pay for. And I don't like overpaying...
@@CrudelyDone THANK YOU SIR! I had my heart set on the promaster for my small business but I will absolutely take another look at Ford...any ideas on the Nissan cargo vans?
What about tilt wheel?
I own a 2023. The steering wheel does not tilt.
If it had all wheel drive or 4 wheel it would be special a front wheel drive full size van is not what I want
All the brands are not up to par Anymore….. does not matter what you buy, it’s how you treat the vehicle…. Do the maintenance, just get over it…. The workforce has changed… it’s not the old days…. Just drive, move on…
Halogen lights? Omggg