Dodge Durango Transmission Problems & Cost | 46RE | 545RFE | W5A580 | 65RFE

The Dodge Durango was equipped with the 46RE (A518), the 545RFE the W5A580 (NAG1) or in later models the 6-speed 65RFE transmission. But they aren’t without their problems though, so let’s look at some of the most common Dodge Durango transmission problems, look at cost estimates and figure out what you can do about them.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Dodge Durango Transmission Models

Dodge Durango Transmission: 42RLE
Dodge Durango Transmission: 46RE (A518)
Dodge Durango Transmission: 545RFE
Dodge Durango Transmission: W5A590
Dodge Durango Transmission: 65RFE (2012-Up)

Dodge Durango Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate

Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.

Replacement Dodge Durango Transmissions:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
42RLE2152
545RFE2348
65RFE2478
W5A580 / NAG12589

What are the DTC codes related to Dodge Durango transmission problems?

Trouble CodeDescription
P0700Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
P0706Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0710Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit
P0711Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0712Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0713Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0714Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent P0715
P0717Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
P0720Output Speed Sensor Circuit
P0730Incorrect Gear Ratio
P0731Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
P0732Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio
P0733Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio
P0734Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio
P0735Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
P0740Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0742Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0743Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Electrical
P0748Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0750Shift Solenoid 'A'
P0751Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off
P0755Shift Solenoid 'B'
P0760Shift Solenoid 'C'
P0765Shift Solenoid 'D'
P07833-4 Shift
P0841Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “A” Circuit Range/Performance
P0846Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “B” Circuit Range/Performance
P0871Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “C” Circuit Range/Performance
P0880TCM Power Input Signal
P0881TCM Power Input Signal Range/Performance
P0882TCM Power Input Signal Low
P0884TCM Power Input Signal Intermittent
P0888TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit
P0891TCM Power Relay Sense Circuit High
P0897Transmission Fluid Deteriorated

Dodge Durango Transmission Recalls

Recall 05V460000 / E14 – Transmission may not hold in the park position
2005 – 2006 Chrysler 300 – 2005 – 2006 Dodge Charger – 2006 Dodge Dakota – 2005 Dodge Durango – 2005 – 2006 Dodge Magnum – 2005 – 2006 Jeep Liberty – 2005 – 2006 Jeep Wrangler
Summary – In November 2005, Chrysler recalled 256,409 vehicles equipped with the 42RLE transmission, because the cup plug that holds the park prawl anchor shaft may not have been properly installed. If the shaft moves out of position, the vehicle may not be able to achieve the Park position.
Consequence – If this occurs and the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle could unexpectedly roll away, causing serious injury and damage.
Remedy – Dealers were instructed to install a bracket to ensure that the 42RLE parking prawl anchor shaft will stay in the proper position. Concerned owners may call Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.

Dodge Durango Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 21-002-07 REV. B – 2007 Dodge Durango
Problem – Durango’s equipped with the 42RLE transmission, may experience transmission shudder when the transmission temperature is between 38° C and 54° C (100° F and 130° F) during steady state driving with the torque convertor in partial lock (EMCC) operation. The shudder feels like the vehicle is being driven over rumble strips.
Solution – A new torque converter will need to be installed, and PCM re-flashed with the latest software version.

TSB 21-08-99 – Buzz, whining or moaning sound when reverse is selected
1996 – 1999 Dodge Ram Van – 1996 – 1999 Dodge Dakota – 1996 – 1999 Dodge Ram – 1998 – 1999 Dodge Durango – 1997 – 1999 Jeep Wrangler TJ – 1996 – 1999 Jeep Cherokee – 1996 – 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ/WJ
Problem – An intermittent buzz, whining, or moaning sound may be noticed when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.
Solution – A new regulator valve may solve this problem. However, the issue can also be caused by a number of things, including a cracked pump housing, a torn pump gasket, low transmission fluid level, a dirty transmission filter, restricted transmission cooler flow, a worn valve inside of the valve body, or a worn valve body.

TSB 21-11-00 – Check engine light with P1740 DTC for TCC or OD performance – 46RE transmission
2000 – 2001 Dodge Ram Van – 2000 – 2001 Dodge Dakota – 2000 – 2001 Dodge Ram – 2000 – 2001 Dodge Durango
Problem – There may be a check engine light illuminated, with a P1740 diagnostic trouble code for the torque converter clutch or overdrive performance.
Solution – A revised 46RE valve body pressure boost valve cover plate may need to be installed. To properly diagnose this condition, a technician will need to form a torque converter clutch stall test. If the TCC does not engage properly (the vehicle actually stalls), the following components may need to be considered: A cut or worn input shaft seals, a missing pump lockup circuit check ball, or a worn converter hub, input shaft, reaction shaft and/or pump rotor.

TSB 21-015-05 – Delayed gear engagement – 545RFE Transmission
2000 – 2004 Dodge Dakota – 2000 – 2006 Dodge Durango – 2003 – 2006 Dodge Ram – 2002 – 2006 Jeep Liberty – 1999 – 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee – 2006 Jeep Commander
Problem – Drivers may notice an initial delayed gear engagement with the shift into Drive or reverse after the vehicle has been parked overnight/is cold. This may occur after having the transmission serviced and having the transmission cooler return filter replaced.
Solution – If the OEM transmission cooler return filter (part #04799662AB) was used, it can allow the transmission fluid to drain back out of the torque converter, causing the delay/slip on initial gear engagement. Installing an upgraded transmission cooler return filter should cure the problem.

TSB 21-010-12 – Clunk noise when shifting from drive to neutral – 65RFE transmission
2011 – 2012 Ram 1500 – 2011 – 2012 Ram 2500 – 2011 – 2012 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis – 2011 – 2012 Dodge Durango – 2011 – 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Problem – Drivers may notice a pronounced clunking noise when shifting from drive to neutral. This may be particularly evident when the vehicle is hot or at normal operating temperatures.
Solution – These 65RFE transmission problems may be caused by the underdrive clutch releasing too quickly. To correct the issue a revised spacer plate will need to be installed inside of the valve body.

TSB 21-008-08 – 2009 Durango 5.7L Hemi
Problem – Driver’s may experience an intermittent Check Engine Light, with the Diagnostic Trouble Code – DTC: P0A2D
Solution – This issue is likely due to a failed body harness connector at the transmission, or a failed transmission internal wiring harness.

Common Dodge Durango Transmission Problems

Shifting problems and solenoid/pressure switch DTCs – 42RLE transmission
Problem – Drivers may experience 42RLE transmission problems that include slipping and harsh shifts. The check engine light may also be illuminated with the following codes stored in the ECU: P0750, P0755, P0760, P0765, P0846, P0871, P0841.
Solution – The problem may be caused by corrosion in the 10 pin solenoid harness connector. This may also be caused by a wiring issue between the TCM/ECU and the transmission harness connector. A new design 42RLE 10-pin connector will need to be installed and/or wiring issues repaired.

Delayed and/or harsh 3-4 or 4-5 shifts – 545RFE Transmission
Problem – Owners may experience an unusually delayed or harsh 3-4 or 4-5 gear change, where the transmission doesn’t seem to want to go into that particular gear.
Solution – This issue is related to valve body problems where the material used to make one of the checkballs has broken down to the point that fluid is able to get past and engage the underdrive clutch during those shifts. An upgraded #2 checkball will be needed to solve the issue.

Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light

Can I drive with a transmission problem?

If your Dodge Durango can still make it up and down the road, you might say “It’s fine, I’ll just drive it until I can get it fixed”. But that is not always a good idea, depending on the symptoms. You see, there are a lot of (very expensive) moving parts inside of a transmission, and if something isn’t right, continuing to drive with a transmission problem could damage something else.

How often does a Dodge Durango transmission need to be replaced?

The overall lifespan of a Dodge Durango transmission largely depends on how well it was maintained. Factory design flaws also factor into this equation, along with how/how hard you drive. But on average, we’ve seen the Dodge Durango transmission last for between 130,000-180,000 miles. A high quality replacement transmission however, can last considerably longer if all of the factory design flaws have been addressed and the vehicle has been maintained.

How are Dodge Durango transmission issues diagnosed?

It is fairly easy to guesstimate what the root cause of your Dodge Durango transmission problems might be, but you won’t truly know unless you have the right tools and experience. A good mechanic or transmission repair center will be able to connect your truck to a computer and find out which diagnostic trouble codes (DTC’s) have been stored. Once they know what to look for, they can perform a visual inspection to verify the problem.

How is a Dodge Durango transmission replaced?

In order to replace your Dodge Durango transmission, the truck has to be lifted from the ground in order to gain access to all of the parts that will need to be unbolted. Then the transmission can be lowered to the ground (typically with a transmission jack), so the new transmission can be installed.

Recommendations for Dodge Durango transmission issues?

To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Dodge Durango transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Dodge Durango Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Dodge Durango Transmission

The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used transmission or used transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Dodge Durango Transmission

Another option would be a rebuilt transmission or rebuilt transmission. A local repair shop will remove your transmission, then install a bunch of new parts during the rebuild. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each transmission rebuilder will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Dodge Durango Transmission

Many owners depend on their vehicle to commute and get things done. Their gasoline engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured transmission.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

What Problem Does Your Dodge Durango Have?

Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!

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Al
4 years ago

Straining on initial take off

Brook Bult
4 years ago

Bought a 2012 Dodge Durango 2 months ago, and in the last week it has started shifting into low, unexpectedly. Sometimes it is just the light that comes on, other times it really does shift into low. It has about 120,000 miles on it.

Donald
4 years ago

I have a 99 Durango just recently it started to have shifting issues. It won’t shift out of 1st gear unless I completely take my foot off the gas. Then i have to ease back into it until I get up to 40 mph

James
3 years ago
Reply to  Donald

I’m having the same problem with mine now 2000 durango 5.9L did you figure out cause I’m still trying to fix it…

Tom
3 years ago
Reply to  James

Also having the same problem on ’99 Durango 5.2L. Did either of you figure it out?

Brent
4 years ago

Want go in reverse

Heb56
4 years ago

I have 2 Durango . 1999 5.9 slt 4×4 with manual transfer . 2002 5.9 r/t 4×4 with electric transfer . Are the transmissions the same and interchangable ?

deana m Phillips
4 years ago

I have a 2003 durango slt 4×4 with the 4.7 in it the expansion plug on the back of the motor sprung a leak so we replaced it but had 2 take the transmission & drop it down out the way 2 get 2 it so we get it put all back 2gether & 1st it wouldnt start so i have 2 start it using the starter wire now 2 the termnial but 2 make matters worse when i go into reverse it does fine but when i put it in drive & push the gas it doesnt wanna go any where at least not like it supposed 2 but if i drop it down into 1st gear it will go then but it smells like its burning something & im scared 2 drive it much cuz i think it might make it worse. We rechecked everything & made sure it was in right but then some1 said it could b 1 of the sensors r broke on it. Any ideas or does any1 know whats wrong with it i love my truck & ive already been thru 1 motor & transmission swap b4 about a yr ago i cant afford it again. Thanks in advance 2 any1 who can help.

Jason
4 years ago

I have a 03 Durango sxt 1st gen 4.7 5 speen auto ..the trans shifts perfect but for some reason it will start fine in the morning and after sitting for over 8hrs but if I make a quick run the gauge cluster will not show park or neutral even though its physically in park and neutral so I can not start the vehicle. The mechanic told me it was the neutral switch but he changed it and it still does it …..please help I am lost and put over 8k into this truck fixing it up

Jason Stone
4 years ago
Reply to  Jason

Mine is doing the exact same thing. Seems to be a problem in the transmission solenoid pack? Looking for answers

Josh
4 years ago

I have a 98 dodge durango when i first take off it goes fine as long i ease into it but if i take of normal it does a long whinning noise once it gets to 20mph its goes fine

Mike g
4 years ago

I have a 99 that I replaced the transmissio, now the speedometer don’t work and it won’t shift outta 1st

Kevin
4 years ago

05 durango awd 5.7.
Driving down the road and it no longer goes anywhere. There is a whining sound when the motor is running but the idle will not kick down when selecting a gear. I had a trouble code but couldnt pull it before the battery died and cleared it.

Ron
4 years ago
Reply to  Kevin

I have a 1999 with same prolem.what. is it

Mike
4 years ago

2004 Dodge Durango Limited – V8 – 5.7L 345ci GAS MFI vin D – 2 valve OHV when using cruise control on a downhill grade it will disengage overdrive and will not shift back into overdrive we have to come to a complete stop before accelerating and then shifts just fine

Mike
3 years ago
Reply to  Mike

I have same problem on my o4 Durango 5.7

Billy
5 years ago

Durango 06 won’t take 3rd gear

Billy
5 years ago

My Durango won’t take 3rd gear

Jason Stone
4 years ago
Reply to  Billy

Accumalator plate, transmission valve body.

Paul morris
5 years ago

I have a 2000 rt Durango and seems to drive in 2nd gear only. Reverse works good no overdrive. Vehicle has been parked for a year but worked good before then. Oil looks and smells good. 160,000 miles

Angelo serpe
4 years ago
Reply to  Paul morris

Check harness

Stefanie
5 years ago

2013 Durango. Transmission is completely shot and needs to be replaced. 78,000 miles. The vehicle was always taken care of and serviced.

Jimmie
5 years ago

2006 Dodge Durango, 4×4, 5.7 hemi motor. Automatic

While driving regularly, when starting to decelerate, check engine light comes on, when check codes it shows of faulty pressure switch, loses 1st and overdrive. Shifts fine before codes show up. Replaced the pressure switch. Threw same codes. Took to transmission shop, they said to replace shift sylonoid pack. I did so, and it still has the same issues. They had told me, that may not fix my problem, it was just the next step. Any help?

Becca mendi
5 years ago

Replaced trans an all parts but not pumping fluid

Tyler P Evans
5 years ago

I have a 2002 dodge durango 5-45rfe 4.7. It has a transmission issue. I can shut it off start it back up drive 1-2. But once it hit 50 to 55mph it locks up the tourqeconverter then limp mode kicks in. In turn I no longer have any gear shift anymore. But if i shut it off and on again it starts back in 1st. I think it might be the pcm as i have changed everything else possible. Except valve body and internals. But the PCM is my next try. Get a replacement if that doesn’t fix it. My next venture is a full rebuild. Might even put upgraded parts into it so I don’t have any issues for a long while.

Chris Smith
6 years ago

I have a 98 4×4 Durango .

Just changed out the fluid and filter and there were slight deposits on the magnet, however there was also some aluminum in the pan….right at 200,000 miles.
The transmission has trouble shifting into drive from second and does eventually shift but acts like it is over revving out of gear until it catches the drive gear.
Even letting off the throttle this is happening at around 3000 rpm.
All other operations seem to be normal.

Robert
6 years ago

I have a Durango 05 and when I put the gear shifter to 1st and 2nd the transmission runs perfect. While in Drive, 1st delays shifting to second at 2k rpms while driving slow and shifts from 2nd to 3rd with no issues. Reverse works perfect and there are no problems shifting gears with the gear shifter. Once my Durango gets into third gear there is no pull/traction. I can rev the engine while in gear but it slowly loses speed until it shifts back to second where everything is ok again. Ran the codes myself and was given P0700,P0731,P0732, and P0700 P. I have already tried resetting the check engine light. Light came back on. Manually reset the PCM by disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes. Same the light came on and troubles with 3rd gear. Now at this point the next thing for me to check selonoid before taking the transmission out.. any ideas at this point

James
5 years ago
Reply to  Robert

Do what the code say needs replaced wow its telling you what to do.

Brock Reed
7 years ago

I have a 2001 dodge durango and whenever I drop it down into reverse it will die instantly but It drives just fine when I put it in drive 1st and 2nd.

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