2018 Ram 1500 Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Known Issues — 2018 Ram 1500
CRITICAL
3.0L EcoDiesel EGR cooler failure and coolant loss
CRITICAL
3.0L EcoDiesel DEF system failures
MODERATE
Uconnect infotainment freezing
MODERATE
Rear axle seal leak
MODERATE
MDS lifter tick on 5.7 HEMI
MINOR
Tailgate cable fraying
What to Inspect
- On EcoDiesel — check coolant level and EGR fault codes
- On 5.7 HEMI — check for MDS lifter tick
- Test Uconnect infotainment for freeze
- Check rear axle seals
- Inspect tailgate cables
- Test 4WD engagement through all modes
Expected Maintenance Costs
| Service | Interval | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Oil change (synthetic) | every 8,000 miles | $70-$110 |
| Transmission fluid service | every 60,000 miles | $200-$300 |
| Spark plugs (HEMI) | every 60,000 miles | $250-$400 |
| Rear differential fluid | every 45,000 miles | $100-$160 |
| Transfer case fluid (4WD) | every 60,000 miles | $100-$150 |
| DEF fluid refill (Diesel) | every 8,000 miles | $25-$50 |
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