The 2019 Ram ProMaster lasts around 150,000 miles with some transmission linkage and door track issues reported. At $26,900 to $36,998, it’s cheaper than some competitors while still offering a ton of practicality for people that need to haul a lot of cargo.
Is the 2019 Ram ProMaster a Good Used Van?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Ram ProMaster, yet it’s only built for cargo and tradesmen, giving it a lower overall score for people looking for a daily driver.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 5/10 – Interior materials are very cheap and basic, the seats are not as supportive as some competitors, cargo space is outstanding for its size.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are no major problems reported by 2019 ProMaster owners, in general, models from 2015–2022 are all decently reliable.
- Performance 5/10 – Performance is poor from the standard V6 engine, which is built for hauling rather than being exciting to drive.
- Safety 6/10 – The 2019 ProMaster is reasonably safe, earning a 3-star rating in government crash tests. Optional safety features include a rearview camera.
- Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is fine at up to 15 MPG, giving up to 360 miles of range out of the 24-gallon tank. Gas costs are $22 higher than average at $364 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2019 Ram ProMaster is cheaper than some other cargo vans available with a high roof with average depreciation rates, making it a decent value.
What Do Critics Say About the Ram ProMaster?
- Car and Driver gives the 2019 Ram ProMaster a 5.5/10 saying that it’s a great choice for handymen or people moving a lot of cargo, but the driving position is a bit fussy.
- Edmunds rates the ProMaster a 2.3/5, enjoying the tight turning radius for a van of its size, but doesn’t like the lower towing capacity.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Ram ProMaster a 3.4/5, praising the strong V6 engine, but owners don’t like that there’s not a passenger version available.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Ram ProMaster Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Ram ProMaster include the transmission not going into gear, the doors not closing properly, along with some window issues. Overall, these problems are similar to other full-size commercial vans on the market, leading to some slightly higher repair costs as they age.
The transmission not going into gear is the most widespread complaint from 2019 Ram ProMaster owners, showing up at around 45,000 miles. There is usually a problem with the transmission linkage which causes it to lock up while going into gear. Replacing the linkage solves the problem, costing around $1,100 depending on local labor rates.
The doors not closing properly is another problem mentioned by some other 2019 ProMaster owners within the first 10,000 miles. When you load items into the van things can get stuck in the tracks, which can cause damage to the door track. Having the door track fixed and re-aligned costs around $200, but if parts need to be replaced it costs over $500.
Window issues have also been reported by 2019 Ram ProMaster owners at around 20,000 miles. Usually there are some problems with the window regulator which prevents it from rolling down. Replacing the window regulator is a fairly involved process, costing around $650.
There are six recalls on the 2019 Ram ProMaster, which is similar to other full size vans from the same year. The most serious recall covers the transmission not going into park, which can cause the van to roll away. Dealerships will update the power control module for free to prevent the issue from happening. Other recalls include the seat belts, which Ram will also replace for free.
How Long Will the 2019 Ram ProMaster Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Ram ProMaster can last around 150,000 miles, which is similar to other vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $1,072 per year.
As a used 2019 Ram ProMaster reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the backup warning sensor for $275, transmission oil cooler liner costing $325, along with the wheel hubs which cost $625.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is okay for a large van, offering a 5-inch touchscreen with two USB ports. Optional upgrades include a Wi-Fi hotspot.
There’s a standard rearview camera on the Ram ProMaster, but there’s not any other optional advanced safety technology.
Is the 2019 Ram ProMaster a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Ram ProMaster is a decent value if you’re in the market for a full size cargo van with decent reliability ratings. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $26,900 to $36,998, making it more than a Nissan NV or Chevrolet Express. When new, the price range was $32,590 to $40,850. Depreciation is similar to other vans, losing about 8% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Ram ProMaster?
There are three main models of the 2019 Ram ProMaster available from the base 1500 series through to the 3500 series. All models come standard with front-wheel drive. There are also various wheelbase configurations as well as standard and high roof models.
ProMaster 1500 is the entry-level model with:
- GVWR: 8,550 pounds.
- Payload rating: 3,770 to 3,990 pounds, depending on configuration.
- Standard 118-inch wheelbase with low cargo roof.
- Optional 136-inch wheelbase model with either low or high cargo roof.
- Features include:
- 16-inch steel wheels.
- Split-opening rear doors.
- Manually adjustable mirrors.
- Remote locking and unlocking.
- Full-size spare tire.
- Rearview camera.
- Air conditioning and cloth upholstery.
- Telescoping-only steering wheel, cargo lights, tie-down rings.
- 5-inch touchscreen, two USB ports.
- Four-speaker audio system with auxiliary audio jack and media player interface.
ProMaster 2500 is a step up, adding:
- GVWR: 8,900 pounds.
- Payload rating: 3,700 to 4,130 pounds.
- Available in high-roof with 136-inch or 159-inch wheelbase.
- Shares standard features with the 1500.
- Heavy-duty suspension to handle increased payloads.
- Optional features include:
- Alloy wheels, power-folding/heated mirrors.
- Rear windows, daytime running lights, rear parking sensors.
- Cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, vinyl upholstery.
- Heated seats, lumbar adjustment, double passenger seat, swivel seats.
- Suspended driver’s seat, cargo-area climate control, satellite radio, navigation system, tow hitch.
ProMaster 3500 is the flagship model which has:
- GVWR: 9,350 pounds.
- Payload rating: 4,020 to 4,430 pounds.
- Standard high roof and 159-inch wheelbase.
- Optional extended version with longer cargo area.
- Comes with the same standard features as the 1500.
- Heavy-duty suspension.
- Optional features (similar to 2500), with additional options through Mopar:
- Remote engine start, electronic vehicle tracking.
- Carpeted/rubberized floor mats, LED cargo lighting.
- Spray-in bedliner, Wi-Fi hotspot.
What Engines Come In the Ram ProMaster?
The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine produces 280 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torque at up to 15 MPG. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Official 0-60 mph times for the ProMaster are not typically touted as a selling point, given its primary role as a cargo van, but real-world tests suggest a time of around 8.1 seconds. As for towing, the 2019 ProMaster can tow up to 6,800 pounds.
What Colors Does the Ram ProMaster Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Ram ProMaster?
The 2019 Ram ProMaster is primarily designed with utility in mind, but it does offer certain comfort features to make long hours on the road more bearable for drivers. The front seats are adjustable, and the upright seating position provides a clear view of the road, which many drivers find advantageous in city driving and while maneuvering in tight spaces. The cockpit is functional, with controls that are easy to reach and use.
While it may not offer the plush comforts of a luxury sedan or SUV, it does come with modern conveniences such as air conditioning, a touchscreen interface, and optional navigation. Additionally, the ride quality is decent for a van of its size, though some road noise and roughness can be expected, particularly when the van is empty. For those spending considerable time in their ProMaster, it’s a workhorse that provides a reasonably comfortable environment, but those seeking more upscale or refined interiors might look toward some of the competition in the commercial van segment.
How Much Storage Space Does the Ram ProMaster Have?
The 2019 Ram ProMaster is a versatile cargo van designed primarily for businesses and commercial purposes. Depending on the exact model and configuration, storage space can vary. The Ram ProMaster offers three wheelbase lengths: 118-inch, 136-inch, and 159-inch, and two roof heights: standard and high. The storage capacity ranges from around 259 cubic feet in the ProMaster 1500 with the short wheelbase and standard roof, up to around 463 cubic feet in the ProMaster 3500 with the extended wheelbase and high roof.
To give you a practical idea of what this means: In the largest configuration, the 463 cubic feet of storage space could accommodate items like a dozen standard-sized bicycles, multiple large appliances, or hundreds of boxes of office supplies. It’s spacious enough to function as a mobile workshop or even be converted into a compact RV or camper. The vast space is particularly advantageous for businesses such as delivery services, construction, or event planning, where carrying large or numerous items is essential.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Ram ProMaster was launched for the 2014 model year.
2015: Remains unchanged from when it was launched last year.
2016: Some new optional 20-amp auxiliary switches and chrome grille.
2017: No changes from earlier years.
2018: 5-inch touchscreen and rearview camera are now standard on all models.
2019: Small front-end styling changes.
2020: More wheelbase and roof height choices available, maximum towing capacity increased.
2021: Additional driver safety features added, standard crosswind assist, and a new digital rearview mirror.
How Does the Ram ProMaster Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Ram Promaster is a decent full size van, although it’s built to haul cargo and does not offer any passenger configurations which are found on some of the competitors.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is another large van which is available for about $2,500 more. The Mercedes Sprinter stands out with the ability to add passenger seats, while the Ram ProMaster has some higher roof options. We recommend the Mercedes Sprinter since it’s a bit more reliable and has a better cabin.
The Ford Transit is another competitor, which can be found for around $1,500 more. Long-term reliability ratings are better in the Ford Transit, while the Ram ProMaster has a higher towing capacity. We recommend the Ford Transit since it’s a more affordable choice to own.
