Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission Problems & Cost

The Dodge Ram 1500 was equipped with the A518 (46RE) or the 545RFE transmission. The late model Ram 1500 also had the option for the 6-speed 65RFE, along with a number of other gearboxes. But they aren’t without their problems though, so let’s look at some of the most common Dodge Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 Transmission Models

Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission: 42RLE
Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission: A518 (46RE)
Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission: 545RFE
Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission: 47RE
Ram 1500 Transmission: 65RFE
Ram 1500 Transmission: 8HP70

Dodge Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 Transmission Prices:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
46RE (A518)2053
47RE (A618)2204
42RLE2152
545RFE2348
65RFE2478

What are the DTC codes related to Dodge Ram 1500 transmission problems?

Trouble CodeDescription
P0700Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
P0705Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)
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
P0729Gear 6 Incorrect Ratio
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 Ram 1500 Transmission Recalls & Known Problems

Recall 03V503000 – Loose fasteners on transfer case
2004 Ram 1500
Summary – Most likely due to a glitch on the assembly line, the attaching fasteners on some Dodge 4×4 trucks may not have been tightened properly, which could cause leaks between the transmission and the four-wheel drive transfer case.
Consequence – If this problem occurs, the propeller shaft could separate and damage critical fuel system components. This can lead to a fuel leak, and in the presence of an ignition source, an underbody fire. The loss of transmission fluid can also result in transmission/transfer case damage, an inoperable 4wd system, and a big red spot in your driveway.
Remedy – Dodge dealers were given the correct torque specs to use when tightening the transfer case to the transmission fasteners. A recall for this problem was issued in December 2003. Owners can contact Fiat-Chrysler at 1-800-992-1997, or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 (refer to recall ’03V503000′)

Recall 97V084000 – Transmission cooler lines
1994 – 1997 Dodge Ram pickups equipped with V6 or V8 gasoline engines and an automatic transmission
1995 – 1997 Dodge Ram pickups equipped with the V-10 gasoline engine and an automatic transmission
1996 – 1997 Dodge Ram Van and Ram Wagon equipped with an automatic transmission
Summary – In certain operating conditions, the transmission fluid temperature can cause the plastic retainers in the transmission cooler pressure line quick connect fittings to melt.
Consequence – If this occurs, the fitting may separate engine transmission fluid could spray onto the engine and exhaust system, potentially causing a fire.
Solution – In May 1997, Dodge dealers were instructed to replace the quick connect fittings with ones that incorporated a stainless steel retainer. Chances are, this problem has already been addressed in your vehicle. However, if you’re still concerned, you can call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236

Recall 14V-161 / P13 – Failed Park engagement
2014 Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi and 8-speed automatic transmission
Summary – According to the recall, some 125 copies of the 2014 Ram 1500 equipped to with the 8HP transmission may have had improperly machined Park rod guide plate mounting surfaces inside of the transmission case, which could cause the fasteners to loosen, preventing the Park prawl from fully engaging.
Consequence – If the above condition occurs, the transmission may slip out of the park position and unexpectedly roll away, causing serious injury or property damage.
Remedy – The transmission will have to be replaced. Concerned owners can contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. You can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236

Ram 1500 Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

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 21-11-97 – Reverse buzz – 46RE Transmission
1996 – 1997 Dodge Ram Van/Ram Wagon – 1996 Dodge Dakota – 1996 – 1997 Dodge Ram
Problem – A buzz or moaning sound may be heard when shifting into reverse. This transmission problem may be more noticeable on cold vehicles – have been parked for several hours or overnight.
Solution – In order to repair this 46RE transmission problem, the rear band adjusting lever, reaction lever and strut, and the regulator valve pressure plug and sleeve will all have to be replaced.

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 21-19-95A – Slips in reverse at mid throttle
1996 Dodge Ram – 1996 Dodge Ram Van/RamWagon – 1996 Dodge Dakota
Problem – Drivers may notice that the transmission slips in reverse, when they have applied mid/half throttle.
Solution – The 36RH or 46RE transmission regulator valve line pressure sleeve and plug will need to be replaced. The reverse drum, reverse band and rear servo assembly should also be inspected and possibly replaced if any damage is found.

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 21-004-17 – Low/reverse solenoid failure – 65RFE transmission
2016 – 2017 Ram 1500 – 2016 – 2017 RAM 2500 – 2016 – 2017 Ram 3500 – 2016 – 2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis
Problem – Drivers may experience extreme difficulty and/or the inability to engage Drive or Reverse.
Solution – These 65RFE transmission problems could be due to the premature failure of the low/reverse solenoid assembly.

Other Dodge Ram Technical Service Bulletins

TSB 247853
A small number of 2008 Dodge Ram trucks were fitted with a defective shift cable that could loosen itself, preventing the driver from manually selecting low gears with the shift lever.

TSB 224763
The 2007 1500 came from the factory with transmission control software that could lead to harsh or erratic shifting. This TSB addressed the issue with a software patch that dealers could use to reprogram the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module).

TSB 138954
The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) on the 2003 model contained software errors that prevented it from detecting problems with the governor pressure sensor. To fix the problem, dealers were issued a software update for the PCM.

Common Problems with the Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission

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.

Premature forward clutch failure
Problem – It’s not uncommon to experience premature forward clutch failure, which can prevent the vehicle being driven.
Solution – This can be caused by a number of issues including valve body failure, a worn stator bushing, a failed forward clutch piston seal, a failed forward drum assembly, the use of power programmers/chips to increase engine output, which can overwhelm a number of internal components.

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 Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 transmission need to be replaced?

The overall lifespan of a Dodge Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 transmission issues diagnosed?

It is fairly easy to guesstimate what the root cause of your Dodge Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 transmission replaced?

In order to replace your Dodge Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Dodge Ram 1500 Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Dodge Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 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 Ram 1500 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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Anonymous
2 years ago

When I turn left or right at a light without stopping it’s like it’s in neutral for a few seconds have to let off the gas before it slams into gear

David
2 years ago

2008 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7L flex fuel 545rfe. First lost overdrive, kept driving and lost everything except 1st and 2nd gear. I know I need a new transmission but my question is do I need to change my axel gears also because I changed my wheel size. Originally had 17in P265 and currently has 33in. Wheels. Transmission broke shortly after changing wheels.

justin chastain
3 years ago

My 2008 dodge ram 1500 quad cab 5.7l 4×4 was leaving a gas station when it popped and seemed like i went into neutral. It wants to pull but only at like 3 thousand rpms. I changed the tranny filters and new fluid , and codes it throws is p0721 and 3 p0716 . I would love for a easy fix but luck dont seem to be moving my way. Any help would be cery much appreciated

Steve Bird
3 years ago

2015 ram 1500 4×4 big horn. A buzz noise when I let off gas and truck is slowing down. Can hear it at 50 mph and again at 30mph. Notice a slight increase in my tach and back to normal as noise starts and stops

Anonymous
3 years ago

From first. Going into second, it shutter and then goes in third

John McTaggart
3 years ago

2002 Dodge Ram 1500 slt 2wd
4.7 mag eng.RFE TRANS
I have 1and2 no drive

Jack webb
3 years ago

2010 Dodge Ram 1500 sport crew cab 4wd has 74000 miles will not shift to higher gear but if it is on 4 speed and will then rev up like it’s in neutral then it will gear down to 1 st speed abd stay there.

Donald Gibson
3 years ago

I have a 2012 dodge ram 1500, when I shift it down in drive it’s like it doesn’t want to take off until I step down on the accelirater and then it will release all of a sudden

Chris
3 years ago

I was going to town it started to wobble assuming death wobble which is new as of the last two weeks. I floored it got up to 80 didn’t stop I was letting her slow on her own. Noticed she’d died I pulled over tried starting her she acted like battery was dead. This went on for almost an hour then finally she started thought whew. Anyway put her in drive and nothing she has self propelled no more since. Codes are P0841 and P0868. She has 176,280 miles has pulled a 10,000 pound camper a few thousand miles. I desperately need her fixed. We are needing to leave again in a couple months

Dale Palke
3 years ago

2014 Ram 1500 about 125,000 miles. Vehicle shudders when when accelerating from low speeds seems to occur around 15mph and around 25. Not noticeable at higher appeds

EMM Jayy
3 years ago
Reply to  Dale Palke

Change piston assembly on 2C and 3C clutches.

Billy Knickerbocker
3 years ago

When you first start the truck it goes fine when driving it it acts like it just goes into neutral and revs up shut it off and restart it it goes again

EMM Jayy
3 years ago

Torque converter dog clutch

Anonymous
3 years ago

Have a 97 1500 and was running great then with no warning, the truck will barely move unless its at very high RPMs. Changed the sensor, solenoid, filter and fluid still nothing.

S.T.
3 years ago

Truck drove fine on open roads/interstates. I drive a lot of back roads and highways with curves and hills.Truck (2004 Ram 1500/4.7L V8/545RFE 2WD) couldn’t seem to figure out which gear to use. No hot rodding/jackrabbit starts. Yesterday I apparently lost gears 2&3. Reverse is OK. Transmission came from AAMCO. Limped it to safe place and parked it. Tranny has roughly 100, 000 miles on it-maybe more. Fluid levels never low- no leaks noted prior to failure.

Last edited 3 years ago by S.T.
Daniel D Ganoe
3 years ago

2013 ram 15004×4 outdoorsman clicking or clanking noise from front between 30-50 mph. seems to stop under or over those speeds. thought possibly issue with cv axle or front differential, wife says sounds like its coming from front center. noticed possible hairline crack in different, seems to shift harsh in 3rd n 4th gear once in a great while 2nd. but seems to run perfectly fine at highway speed

Wade Davis
3 years ago

Trans fluid looks perfect. But it goes directly into limp mode. It says transmission relay always on. In sure its a wiring issue but wanting to go ahead and buy a new trans

Vivian Lee
3 years ago

Ok guys help before I burn this truck to the ground. I have a 2001 dodge ram 1500 5.2 46re tranny. A friend of mine had it he changed the torch converter. And could never get it started again. I bought it from him. Brought it home and changed the crank sensor in it. Still wouldn’t crank. Thought maybe got a bad one. So put another one in still nothing. So someone said it was the ignition switch. So I change that. Still nothing. So I put it in the shop. $900.00 and almost a yr later the guy from the shop called and said he found it. That the wiring harness was messed up. Well I went and paid it. Told him I would pick it up after work. Well I got it and started up fine. But driving home it was like it was stuck in limp mode or something. Would not change gears. Anyway shop wouldn’t do anything so I started Google. I read the codes and it was saying overdriver/lockup sensor. So I dropped the pan. I replaced the sensors, filter, gasket and put it all back together. Cleared the codes(off the dash). Still doing the same thing. I found a couple spots on the harness that didn’t look the best so I chaned the harness out. And it still doing the same thing. If you pull codes now its saying 0753 shift solenoid A. So do I chance that solenoid again. Someone plz help. Thanks

EMM Jayy
3 years ago
Reply to  Vivian Lee

Change clutch plates, if slips thats the cause, friction paper wear.

Jwv
3 years ago

2007 ram,208xxx miles,dropped out of gear,nothing ,no park,reverse or drive,free wheeling,its 4×4.4wd light blinks then bang it grabs 4×4 light out,40 mh same thing ?????

Scott Buse
3 years ago

Just bought a 2004 Ram 1500 with roughly 143xxx miles on it. People I got it from said they went to pass another person and it just quit pulling. No forward drive gears and no reverse either

JDS
3 years ago

1995 dodge ram 1500. Runs great then after a few minites of driving and exceeding 50mph the o/d kicks off and on. We replaced the throttle sensor but still having o/d issues. Shifts great until reaching 50+ mph

Dwayne Johnson
3 years ago

I have a 2004 Dodge Ram I pulled out my driveway and all of a sudden have no gears nothing so I waited a day or so went out put it in Neutral and Shift it and it went into gear,but wen I took it to trans shop they did tests and say I needed to have it rebuilt DTCS po706 po869 po932 po876 po935 say multiple trans electronic malfunctions po876 pressure switch malfunction wouldn’t that alone cus trans to stop shifting po 896 line pressure fault also I’m gonna try respect wires as well any feedback wud be helpful thx

Garrett
3 years ago

Transmission bumps in 4th gear and throws incorrect gear ratio 4 and 5 no other problems and transmission has a slow leak

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