Ram Promaster Review - From an Owner - Good and Bad

A bonus video with my take on the Ram Promaster 2500 Van I purchased and converted into a mobile locksmith shop. While Im really happy with most aspects the 900.00 stereo / navigation was a ripoff and totally useless. No love for anything "Tom Tom" Love the van - hate the radio. Im hoping FCA will use me as a beta tester for a new stereo :) LOL

[@cesalt2408]

I love your profession, and though I'm deep into another career I still think about locksmithing. So cool!! Maybe a second career? Anyway, I bought a 3500 extended, no NAV, after watching a couple travel in Mexico and South America in a DYI camper using the same model. I do lots of traveling and am tired of hotels. Time to get to our nation's forests in a trustworthy vehicle.

[@Leatherkid01]

For Euro based vehicle multimedia....usually the radio have to be deleted off the CEM (computer) then you can put in an aftermarket head unit :)....to avoid the dash from lighting up like a Christmas tree hahah

[@RedTed1958]

Great Review! Thank you! The stereo is an important enough component for my needs to sway me to a different make. Again thank you!

[@Mike956881]

Im getting ready to buy this van for conversion and really appreciate the tip on the navi - saved me some money!

[@jeffzwally]

Great tips and info - been looking at buying the 159 extended and good to hear that the oil change and filter are easy.

[@Priesttx57]

Thanks, that was very helpful. I'm looking into buying one and converting it into a campervan.

[@clubmike2910]

I am thinking the same thing, are you watching Bob?

[@rickuyeda4818]

Good luck. It's actually a Fiat.

[@cattsmahal1005]

Thank you o much for this review. I just bought my 2019 Promaster this past Oct.

[@KingstonChickens]

I'm glad to hear you like the V6 Pentastar. I am going to upgrade to a newer Grand Cherokee soon and I have been kinda torn between the V6 and Hemi V8. I have a 60 mile round trip commute to work so I think the V6 would be better for fuel consumption

[@americanrambler4972]

My Promaster City has the same radio, without the NAV. After experiencing the navigation system in my wife’s car, and finding the one for this radio was even worse, I am glad I did not spend the money for the in-car system. Using the maps app on my cell phone is far superior. And it communicates the commands through the Bluetooth connection to the speakers. I do miss not having a backup camera though. Should have got that. It’s very expensive to add after the fact. The radio itself is quite satisfactory overall. While there are better ones, this one works well enough I do not wish I had a fancier one.

[@channelcatchaser9426]

Great video. I learned a long time ago that factory navigation is a total waste of money. I have 50k on my 1500 promaster and love it. I've seen videos of the van with 300k on them.

[@billlangdon193]

Heck you have enough room in the back of the van to paint the Prius. Cool review and nice upgrades. You sure deserve it.

[@tkftombo]

We have a 2012 Prius and an 2015 F150, both with factory navigation. We have to stop both vehicles to add an address to the factory navigation. We have better luck buying a portable Garmin unit. And, to update the Garmin, it is free online. To update the factory navigation, must be done at the dealer and a cost over $100.

[@sandygraham7943]

Great review ! Thank you , I'm shopping Promasters right now .

[@rockswatersky3442]

AGREE RE TOM TOM!!!! I’m driving a 2016 Promaster. I love this vehicle. I live in it. Travel the country. I rarely use Tom Tom because it tries to take me down roads that are closed, ignores my specifications regarding avoiding toll roads and has gone so far as to take me on a 45 minute route That led me back to the store I requested, right next to the one I left. Sucks!!

[@Yestopeace365]

Great review, I like what you did to make your mobile office and business.

[@Unc1eMike]

I've had my 2017 ProMaster 2500 for about 2 years and can say I'm very happy with it, except for the radio. I didn't get the factory navigation (I think they all suck), but unlike you I think the phone integration sucks too. All I want is a button on the steering wheel (or even the dash) that interrupts what the radio is doing and let's me talk to Google Assistant on my phone via the radio. But no, the $500+ radio can't do that (the $130 Kenwood in my E250 did this just fine) - it only lets me use the crappy built-in voice command system. It can't understand half of what I say, and the voice sounds like a slightly improved, breathy, female version of Steven Hawking. Like you, I've worked around that, mounting a tablet for navigation, and through some trickery on my phone I can get the Media button on the radio to initiate Google Assistant on my phone, but that eliminates my ability to play music from my phone (not a problem for me).

[@ajaymcmahon3127]

Love the video. Thanks for taking the time to do it.

[@patrickgamache9935]

I have 2015 . I just chance the radio to a JVC KM-M750BT by a professional installers. It improve the sound GPS is incredible and I am thrilled with the system. Pat

[@tjn5845]

Great review! Could you provide a link to the dash phone holder you added - looks really handy. Thanks

[@seekingjoynow1722]

Very thorough review. I will use mine for camping so will buy a RV type navigation system by Garmin.

[@neilfantacone7534]

I've been a truck driver for over 15 years. You can still buy a street atlas for 25$

[@VocalVirgo]

Does that rear heating and air conditioning unit run off of your engines heating and air conditioner? How much was the unit? And it fits into the bulkhead above the seats? If so, running/idling the engine for A/C and heating uses about .50 - .57 GPHof fuel. Did you calculate that into your MPG's? Because that will make your van "appear" to get that low of MPG's if you idle a bit without subtraction out idling hours... And what is the oil changing filter tool that you're talking about? Thanks.

[@jkolodzinski]

I got Garmin for $130 with free lifetime updates. Good for the US and Canada. No problems. I wonder if I can buy ProMaster without this option.

[@jimcameron9848]

Great review! I am always surprised by the low tech Dodge Ram will use ... most likely on account of Fiat who now use my Dodge Grand Caravan door switches in the Maserati! Great video!

[@arnenystrom4283]

I have a 2017 RAM Promaster and had no issues with adding an aftermarket radio from Crutchfield. I installed the Sony XAV-AX100 with Apple Car Play and have been using since Sept 2018. Crutchfield provided an installation kit, wiring harness and detailed Promaster wiring technical support. I'm even thinking of upgrading the radio in the future to a Kenwood KMX1037s with Maestros RR2 so that I can have wireless Apple Car Play and real time vehicle diagnostics. As far as the backup camera, mine didn't come with one, so I added an aftermarket one, the SDS360 for RAM Promaster and it's razer sharp day and night and looks similar to the factory one. I now have 44,000 miles on my van with no issues. One tip, since you don't have a rear window, remove the rear view mirror, it twists off. I removed mine and the view out the front window is so much better.

[@RedneckGarage]

So which radio did yours come with originally ?

[@arnenystrom4283]

@@RedneckGarage the stock single DIN radio with tray. If I had the more advanced radio, I'd also need the Maestro RR or RR2 to enable UConnect like I did on my other FCA vehicles. Maestro has full support for RAM Promaster. You can lookup the details by going to maestro.idatalink.com/ and select the vehicle.

[@georgewagner6741]

Did you have to add the rear A/C on aftermarket or did you do the factory rear A/C option?

[@moabwheeling]

Really nice van Dave , its a shame about your radio . The lettering came out really good . Hopefully it will serve you well for the years to come . Take care brother .

[@RedneckGarage]

Thanks yeah it looks really good thanks bro

[@markguthrie6333]

Replace your backup lights with LED lights so you'll be able to see you're backup camera

[@markguthrie6333]

@sidecarnutz ok good lookin out...but maybe someone has made a compatible one then. I dunno. Thanks tho.

[@danhambrick6331]

Glad it has been a good vehicle for you Dave.That sucks that the navigation is so poor,hopefully you will figure something out.

[@RedneckGarage]

I got a hammer ..... Lol

[@NitroLambretta]

Thanks for the great review, Next time I lock myself out of my place on Bell road I'm calling you!!!!!!!

[@narguijo769]

Looking into purchasing a 2020 soon. We sell produce and may have to switch to pickup/delivery due to recent events. I'm considering the 3500 high roof extended version. Where did you pick up the steps, and do you have more info on the rear cooling unit? I may purchase one with the 3 seats in the front and the divider. Could I add rear cooling with that factory installed divider? Thanks for the video!!!

[@ultimatesoccershow]

GREAT VIDEO...I LEARNED A LOT AND YOU HAVE GIVEN ME CONFIDENCE TO BUY ONE THIS SUNDAY!! CHEERS...................CAPS LOCKED SORRY!!

[@farmboysgarage7595]

Nice review Dave! So you're saying you don't like the radio? ;)

[@JoeMicalizziMPC]

I'm so spoiled using Google Maps and for FREE, not sure why I'd use anything else! If the radio has an video input perhaps you could feed you smartphone into it or frankly just use the screen as you have it mounted above the radio?

[@senseofstile]

The only thing I don't like about that promaster is the steering wheel position.

[@cattsmahal1005]

senseofstile -yes I’m 5.5” and it’s a little problematic. However, when I installed my swivel adapter for my seat, I feel like my body is passion better when driving. And GEEEZZ! I’m so glad I didn’t include the navigation system. I just use my phone. 👏👏👏

[@senseofstile]

@@cattsmahal1005 Thanks for the info

[@reneesimpson7094]

Good job! I enjoyed your review. You’ve got a talent for talking!

[@RedneckGarage]

thanks Renee :)

[@Ccisports]

I am switching from an NV 200 to a promaster 2500 as well. This video is great thanks so much!

[@michaelross7153]

Do like a good van, this is a great one! Looking very professional inside there.

[@RedneckGarage]

Thanks MIchael !!!

[@joannegoodman1388]

Getting ready to buy a 2019. Do you recommend the pro master versus the Ford transit medium Roof short wheelbase

[@dzuir]

Did you put after market key on the doors? For safety ? What about security in the doors to prevent some broke in. Thanks. Grate video

[@toobglued]

something about that laugh.. like " i just picked yer lock and stole your car! " equally funny as is evil

[@elgringoec]

Appreciate that good info! You still running it? Any chance of a longer-term review? 🤔🙏☮️

[@3generationadventure]

Hi great review!! After 2 years with your van, there are pro master owners who claim transmission damage in less than 20,000 miles and the driver's side bulb is damaged, have you experienced any of this in your van? I am in between ford and promaster 159 high roof for the total cost of the van is much less. I really appreciate your comment, thanks in advance.

[@mt-nv4jd]

I like the requirement to pull over and stop to enter next destination. It's the same as texting while driving.

[@jcrefasi1]

I agree BUT You wouldn't have to stop if it took voice commands. My 2016 PM allows me to do voice to text. But doesn't have a nav system. I use voice commands for Google assistant to open Google maps

[@pj3p488]

I agree the navigation is the absolute worst piece of crap ever. BTW I have a 1500 High 136" and use it for my plumbing business. 20K miles 17.6 mpg so far. My only other gripe is two separate buttons for door locks.

[@escoofimpakt]

Does the body of the promaster rust easily? I've seen allot of Ford Transit high tops where 2016 and 2017 models are just plagued with rust already in the door jams and especially underneath and under the front bumper support. I was thinking of getting either the Transit or the promaster but seems like the Transit has allot of issues.

[@floridadawg9857]

Great review Dave...….

[@fixinggrace]

I use Google Maps for navigating myself. Better than a GPS. LED lights for the backup lights might help, if they’re legal in your area. I have them on my 2018 Grand Caravan and they’re a big help.

[@RedneckGarage]

I may try some led bulbs or mount some rear backup leds on a relay - still undecided :)

[@johndoe-io8fh]

Excellent review! Thanks

[@12vLife]

A lot of vibration back there when running the engine/AC? you run the engine for hours while parked? know what kind gas it waste while in idle and running AC? would you run the engine overnight?

[@avalongrooming]

I had one. After 1st year I had nothing but problems with headlights. $140 each time to replace. I can change old headlights but these you have to remove 2 panels and 2 screws and several with socket wrench to remove headlight etc. I would just have to take in. My mechanic said bad wiring. They went out going over speed bumps. He laughed and said slow down. I said I promise i'm going slow. Then 50,000 miles transmission problems.This was my grooming van. I just could not pay $5,000 to fix. I spent too much constantly fixing the onan generator but thats a whole nother story. I got rid of it. Other than that I did love it. Smooth on the interstate.

[@fratermus5502]

The headlight issue is alleged to be due to the headlamp assembly getting too hot. I have replaced two of the bulbs and can do it in 6 minutes now.

[@foto21]

Cool review, but what do you really think of the radio?

[@commoncents456]

Great review. Just for laughs, take it over a truck scale and see how much keys weigh. Locksmiths with cube Van's dont have that much equipment. The rear pro heat looks awesome. Would like a review on how well it works. Be cautious on adding auxiliary back up lights. Too bright and it washes tha camera away. I'm thinking of setting up a promaster therapy group. What do you think? LOL

[@Park_Place]

Try a Transit or Sprinter instead. Higher and longer, as well as more comfortable

[@razor3003]

Too bad the mpg's aren't a little better but that's about what I'd expect & I appreciate your honesty. You prob said but did you buy it new?

[@davidhollfelder9940]

You can use an I-Datalink Maestro CH3 with your aftermarket radio to “emulate” the factory radio .. I strongly recommend professional installation as the idiosyncrasies, software issues/updates when installing aftermarket an radio in newer vehicles can/will be overwhelming .. the Pioneer NEX series aftermarket radios are excellent .. feature smart phone capabilities such as Apple Car Play, and Bluetooth speakerphone ...

[@steventoney4018]

Alpine Halo9 / Halo11 is another good choice.. second the need of idatalink Maestro and professional install

[@marks6663]

I see you got rid of that NV200. Did you ever solve the tire problem?

[@MrSaranm]

Hey boss, any chance of an update? 3 years later, are you still happy with the van? Any major issues? Looking into buying one myself.

[@yourpcmd]

Do you have a link to the clip board addition you got? I so need that.

[@dmitrykuznetsov6976]

What year maps on your GPS? My maps 2014 and no way for updates. Thanks

[@FOMC6780]

Funny review Dave, does it come with a CD player?

[@alderelitewoodworks2676]

Nice video. Could you please provide a link to the pop-up clipboard?

[@H-RutherfordHill]

Axxess makes an interface for installing an aftermarket stereo and Metra makes a double-din dash kit.

[@Canoecamper]

Won't let you search while moving? Well I'm glad since I'll be sharing the road with you!

[@jeremyallen3448]

300 thousand on a 17 model. Plenty of complaints but prolly would buy another. Front wheel drive. Great gas mileage.

[@VGofRI]

Love my 2018 promaster 1500. Hate the nav and just yesterday I got a lifter tick at 28k miles. Seems common on these. Make sure you get the extended warranty.

[@perpetualfeast]

interested in seeing after market remote start vid for sure.. thx.

[@pentleyholmes]

How is the cabin on long drives it looks tight

[@reallytho99]

How is it running now? I really wanted to get one of these but reports of bad things and bad warranty support scared me away. Reportedly no response from dodge?

[@toobglued]

there are videos out there talking about how many issues with the 2015-17. transmissions failing mainly. def reluctant to buy one

[@Evil_Morty2000]

This is the shittiest euro van out there,its a Fiat in europe and fiats are shit,just get a Transit,best selling vans in europe.

[@alexanderkasyanov4946]

Thanks for the video. I do need to make a copy of the key. How much does it cost?

[@wasserball]

Built in GPS is very expensive for it can do. I would use a Garmin, attach it to the dash with a homemade bracket, with free updates too.

[@chicagogreendesign]

Can you provide 2 things. The storage wall units you installed and the remote starter you sampled.

[@rickuyeda4818]

It's actually a Fiat, re-badged for Chrysler. Chrysler use to use the Mercedes Sprinter vans, however, when it came to service, you had to go to Mercedes. Fiat's are not known for reliability.

[@WanderingG-Ma]

Love the review on your van. I agree with the radio/navigation system.

[@RedneckGarage]

Thank you Lisa !!

[@malanvogt]

my company owns 3 of these and we have since 2015. They have been nightmares. The doors and been wildly unreliable. the front suspension is garbage and needed replaced fairly quickly. The transmission failed on one and the engines all leak coolant like crazy.

[@adrianoalves8147]

Thank you for the video lots of great information .

[@BackCountryWrenching]

Convert it to 4x4 and that would make a sweet stealth camper

[@RedneckGarage]

The wiring would be easier than that harness your hacking up lol

[@dondakota920]

Not sure you would ever get the clearance I'd want in a 4x4 rv.

[@CMKloser]

Converting a front wheel drive to 4x4 is not smart... There is no drive shaft going to the back wheels, get a transit to convert.

[@taapbfaapbtaapbtaapb7160]

Can you program a spare key for Promaster at home with computer? Thanks

[@vita8208]

I had aftermarket navigation with apple play for 3 years and had no problems.

[@jlue7704]

Thanks for the video. The GPS looks bad but the GPS on my Toyota is worse.

[@jontashiro7521]

Nice post I have the same truck I’m interested in the make and model of your remote start.

[@RedneckGarage]

Fortin - Evo One

[@MirchiBoy]

Awesome 👍

[@cathietonkin5577]

Can you add a portable radio i.e. SiriusXM system???? I so need my Sirius when I’m traveling!!!!

[@neilfantacone7534]

Let us know when you replace the transmission. Usually goes after the warranty runs out.

[@douglashammon1]

I totally agree with you on the Nav....totally worthless. I have a RAM truck, 2017 2500 with the 8" radio. I also use Google. There is a vendor that sells a unit that has Google for DIY install, but about $1600. If I was going to keep this vehicle, I would get that eventually.

[@59Hawkeyes]

Thank You!

[@tinshield]

Not sure why FCA doesn’t have the 8” Uconnect as an option as it has Car Play and Android Auto. Kind of dumb but hopefully will add it as an option soon.

[@KoreanBeautyOwner]

How do you flip up center console

[@lvtaylortaylor9904]

Good job on the review !!!

[@57Carlibra]

Switch out your back up lights to LEDs, they are at least twice as bright. Also, just use Waze or Google maps from your phone.

[@dtancar]

very helpful! Thank you

[@1683clifton]

I would agree with the stop requirement because better.

[@altonriggs2352]

Dave..have considered a 12 step Crysler Product Withdrawl program? Extreme Jeepism is a symptom of deeper problems!!!!

[@RedneckGarage]

Hahahahaha

[@johnfritz2944]

So Dave, what do you think of the radio?? :)

[@kylemcgowan1]

Which brand of remote start?

[@troutster4436]

whaaaaaaat. I NEED that remote start! that is way too clutch......

[@nealrcn]

The ford may not be better. But its radio sure it. If you get the premium large screen radio the nav works a charm. It also comes with cellular connectivity so 5g hotspot. Which is good for office and another connection when out in the woods.

[@southhillfarm2795]

The Promaster should never have gotten rid of the diesel option. I think it was the transmission that came with the diesel option that killed it.

[@gregbooth7998]

What do you think about the radio though?

[@x-man4702]

That's the Fiat Ducato in Europe, one of the best selling work vans there. Here in the U.S. they use a Chrysler engine, the popular V6.

[@zoom8772]

Only cause its cheap tho.. it's the worst when it comes to comfort.. Maybe only Iveco is worse

[@christopherdean6150]

Zoom LMAO

[@MrS-sk1py]

The nav remove the speaker from the top headliner and place it closer too you that should fix the issue with the navigation or a nice 9 inch screen by Sony