Dodge Ram 3500 Transmission Problems & Cost | 47RE | 48RE | 68RFE | AS68RC

The Dodge Ram 3500 was equipped with the A618 (47RE), or the 48RE in high-output Diesel models. The later model Ram 3500 Diesel has the 6-speed 68RFE, the AS68RC, or the AS69RC. But they aren’t without their problems though, so let’s look at some of the most common Dodge Ram 3500 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 3500 Transmission Models

Dodge Ram 2500 Transmission: A618 (47RE)
Dodge Ram 2500 Transmission: 48RE (High-Output Diesel)
Ram 2500 Transmission: 68RFE
Ram 2500 Transmission: AS68RC
Ram 2500 Transmission: AS69RC

Dodge Ram 3500 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 3500 Transmission Prices:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
47RE (A618)2204
48RE2712
68RFE3543

What are the DTC codes related to Dodge Ram 3500 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
P0721Output Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
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
P0741Torque Converter Clutch Circuit
P0742Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0743Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Electrical
P0744Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent
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
P0814Torque Converter Overstressed
P0814Transmission Range Display Circuit
P0841Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “A” Circuit Range/Performance
P0846Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “B” Circuit Range/Performance
P0868Transmission Fluid Pressure Low
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
P0933Hydraulic Pressure Sensor Range/Performance
P1864Torque Converter Enable Solenoid Electrical Fault
P1873Torque Converter Clutch Stator Temperature Switch Circuit Low Voltage
P1874Torque Converter Clutch Stator Temperature Switch Circuit High Voltage
P1887Torque Converter Clutch Release Switch
P2756Torque Converter Clutch Press Ctrl Solenoid
P2757Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Performance or Stuck Off
P2758Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Stuck On
P2759Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Electrical
P2760Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Intermittent
P2761Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Open
P2762Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Range/Performance
P2763Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit High
P2764Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Ctrl Circuit Low
P2769Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Low
P2770Torque Converter Clutch Circuit High

Dodge Ram 3500 Transmission Recalls & Known Problems

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 13V-344 / N50 – AS68RC transmission snap ring recall
2012 Ram 3500 cab chassis
2012 Ram 4500/5500 cab chassis
Summary – According to the recall, the forward primary clutch drum snap ring groove on the Aisin Seiki AS68RC 6-speed automatic transmission may not have been incorrectly machined. As a result, the snap ring itself could be ejected from the groove
Consequence – If this happens, the forward primary clutch may not be able to engage gears if the snap ring is ejected. This can result in a sudden loss of power, which could lead to an accident in certain conditions.
Remedy – According to the recall, just 85 trucks were affected, and Chrysler was supposed to replace the transmissions in those trucks. However, 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 3500 Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 21-08-00 – Delayed torque converter clutch lock-up and/or a P1740 DTC – 47RE transmission
1999 – 2000 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Cummins Diesel
Problem – On trucks that exhibit this 47RE transmission problem, there may be a noticeable lack of a transmission shift between 30 – 50 mph (38 – 80 km/h) due to a delayed torque converter clutch engagement/lockup. If and when the shift does occur, it may be unusually harsh.
Solution – A revised 47RE valve body upper housing separator plate will need to be installed (it improves fluid flow to the torque converter clutch).

TSB 21-009-07 – 1-2 shift hunt under light throttle – 48RE transmission
2004 – 2007 Ram 2500 – 2004 – 2007 Ram 3500
Problem – Engine light throttle conditions, drivers may notice that the transmission seems to hunt for a gear, or slip during the 1-2 shift.
Solution – A new 48RE governor pressure solenoid valve will be needed to fix this problem.

TSB 18-037-07 REV A – Low line pressure – 68RFE transmission
2007 Ram 2500 – 2007 Ram 3500
Problem – Drivers may experience an illuminated check engine light, with a P0868 DTC.
Solution – This may be due to a malfunctioning TCM, which may be cured with a software update.

TSB 21-010-12 – Clunk noise when shifting from drive to neutral – 68RFE 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 outside temperature is hot.
Solution – These 68RFE 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.

Other Dodge Ram TSBs

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 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 Dodge Ram 3500 Transmission Problems

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.

Engine RPM increase or partial engine stall when coming to a stop
Problem – Drivers may experience a sudden RPM surge when coming to a stop, which can cause difficulty holding the vehicle at a stop with the brakes. This is usually preceded by a partial engine stall, which the ECU tries to overcome by increasing the RPMs. Upon accelerating, upshift’s will feel much harder than usual. These 48RE transmission problems happen because torque converter clutch is applied, due to malfunctioning solenoids.
Solution – To correct this issue, the lockup solenoid and overdrive solenoid assembly (they’re one unit) will need to be replaced, or upgraded like they are in a remanufactured 48RE transmission.

Engine stalling in Reverse and/or Drive
Problem – The engine may stall when the vehicle is shifted into either reverse or drive.
Solution – These common 48RE transmission problems are usually caused by a stuck TCC switch valve, restricted transmission cooler lines, or torque converter failure.

Sudden shift to neutral after takeoff
68RFE transmission
Problem – Drivers may notice that the vehicle suddenly shifts into neutral after trying to pull away in Drive. There may also be a P0721 and P0933 DTC.
Solution – The 68RFE low sprag inside of the gearbox has most likely failed.

Forward movement in Low gear but not in Drive – AS69RC transmission
Problem – Drivers may not be able to get the vehicle to move when they place it into Drive. However it will move forward when manually shifted into Low gear.
Solution – It’s most likely that the F1 sprag inside of the transmission will need to be replaced. This is a common problem in vehicles that see ‘severe’ use.

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 3500 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 3500 transmission need to be replaced?

The overall lifespan of a Dodge Ram 3500 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 3500 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 3500 transmission issues diagnosed?

It is fairly easy to guesstimate what the root cause of your Dodge Ram 3500 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 3500 transmission replaced?

In order to replace your Dodge Ram 3500 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 3500 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 3500 transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Dodge Ram 3500 Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Dodge Ram 3500 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 3500 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 3500 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 3500 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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Greg
3 years ago

I have 2011 3500, chipped when I put my foot into it a bit seemsike it slips between 3-4 gear sometimes rpm rises check engine light comes on, an rhe temperature will rise, was thinking the bands need tightening or replacing,? What do you think

Jeffro
3 years ago
Reply to  Greg

My 2011 just started doing the same thing. Did you find an answer?

Allen McBride
2 years ago
Reply to  Greg

2016 dodge mega cab 3500 6.4 hemi when the transmission goes and stays in 4th gear that is limp mode that’s the computer telling the truck to go into limp. Mine would normally go back to normal if I pulled over and turned the truck off it normally started shifting normal. I just had it rebuilt and they did a fine job! The best transmission rebuilding shop found the problem when they pulled the pan, one bolt was in the pan and then there was only one of the six bolts was enough to hold servo/celllanoid part on the botttom transmission

Cag
3 years ago

My 48re won’t shift unless I do it manually. I changed pressure solenoid and transducer. No codes no slipping idk what the problem is

Hi my name is Glen
3 years ago
Reply to  Cag

Hi I had the same problem I finally changed the mass air flow sensor it changed the shifting and know shift right. figures it’s the only thing lift that i had not changed. Code reader read lean on mouth banks . I changed it , shifts fine know

k vincent
4 years ago

2011 ram 3500 diesel 68rfe newly rebuilt tranny. Cant get voltage from tipm to pin 10 at trans. connector. fuse j18 has voltage and relay checks good. circuit board inside tipm not grounding relay

Kevin Robert Jr
4 years ago

I have a 2008 Ram 3500 mega cab 4×4 with 6.7 Cummins and this horrible 68RFE transmission that now has no 5th or 6th gear(bad slipping) truck only has 195000km. I don’t tow..ever, but have occasionally put a couple hundred pounds in the back(oh no)lol. My 2000 F350 gasser has 270000km and I just put in my 3rd clutch

. . Now I guess I’m looking for aG56 manual to do a conversion because it’s still cheaper than paying 7000-12000 for a durable aftermarket built 68RFE. I can’t believe a major auto manufacturer can sell such a weak transmission.

Leonard
4 years ago

2012 dually ega cab 3500. 139k y momiles. stuck in 4th for few minutes. been not kicking out gear early mornings. was told i needed new transmission. 7k$

Jesse Schabell
4 years ago

I have a 99 dodge with cummins and a automatic it just quit pulling we rebuilt the transmission found the overdrive clutches were burnt I put everything in it new and now the overdrive clutches are dryer than when we put them in its not getting fluid to the OD assembly we pulled it they wasn’t a tcup of fluid in it . WHY?

Craig Linne Sr
4 years ago

I HAD MY TRANSMISSION REBUILT AT A DODGE DEALER, AND IT WAS A FAILURE.NOW I NEED A TRANSFER CASE TOO.WAS THIS CAUSE BY THE FAILURE

Susan
4 years ago

Have a 2007 3500 Dodge Ram truck. Keep having to replace the transmission as it keeps cracking. On our third transmission now.

Brett
4 years ago

I have a 09 ram3500 6.7 ltr .my transmission pressure sensor code . Is poping up on my T Mobile sinc up and drive. Could this be a costly fix?

Jim
4 years ago

I have a 2015 ram 3500 laramie. And transmition temp is at 242. What could it be

Mark Haney
4 years ago

I have a 2007 dodge diesel dually automatic no shifting into overdrive. What might be the problem?

Rich ward
4 years ago
Reply to  Mark Haney

Mine does same thing

Roger
4 years ago

I have a 06 3500 ram park it Saturday Sunday got in to go to town no reverse and only will do 30 in drive

Richard Brown
4 years ago

Have 2003 3500 when it’s above 80 degrees, transmission stays in 2 gear. took it to a transmission shop they told me my transmission was shot put a brand new transmission in it does the same thing so now they’re thinking it was a computer took the PCM out send it back you tested it everything’s fine now they’re thinking it’s has to do with the TCM module on firewall. Anybody help?

Clarence Gardner
4 years ago

2014 Ram 3500 , 6 speed Automatic . coming to a stop , doesn’t always shift to 1st gear , then when moving either clunky into gear or shifts sluggishly .

Jacob
4 years ago

You might need to detune the programmer you have on your truck because 68RFE isn’t designed to hold overtorque.

Dutch
4 years ago

Ok so completely out of the blue my abs and brake light came on and nothing any mechanic tried worked. So the teucks ecm and tipm were reset back to factory problem solved. Nkt so fast also at any time and for no known reason the trans temp dummy light will come on and. Truck loses all power and steering locks. Nobody not even the dealer can tell me why. So after $3,000 dollars with two mechanics other than buying two new batteries the trans temp light still is coming on at any time any speed and loss of power. After pulling to side of the road and recycling code 3 times it starts up again but can anyone out there suggest what were overlooking. This truck has every extra without being lifted it was set up in 2006 for pulling and an example is the transmission cooler top of the line and well maintained. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Matt
4 years ago
Reply to  Dutch

I know ive change the TIPM in a few dodge trucks due to corrosion the total integrated power management fuse box under hood will set all kinds of codes

sanford lieberg
5 years ago

I just bought a 2017 ram 3500 6.7 l cummings with 2k miles . drove it to river pulling around 15000 lbs.Truck would not go into automatic drive . Reverse only . Drove truck home with trailer by using electronic manual shift .Truck is at dealer now getting a new transmission .

Very Disappointed
5 years ago

2012 Dodge Ram 3500. Transmission went bad at 120,000 Kms. Springs blow out of transfer case. Stuck in US. The garage wants 8500 US. Is this reasonable?

Tad Segars
5 years ago

I paid 4,326 to a garage to repair my tranny on my dodge 3500 dually truck. Now he is saying my transfer case is bad and needs to be replaced I think he said for about 2600 dollars! Should my rebuild of 4,326 dollars included the transfer case?

Victor Jackson
5 years ago

I have 2004 Dodge Ram 3500 with 93000 miles on it & im pulling a RV Camper It was pulling fine & then all of a sudden it will not not get over 45mph. It cranks & idle fine, pulls off fine but will not get over 45. No check engine light or code light has come on. All gauges are normal

Michelle Kimber
5 years ago

We have a 2012 Dodge Ram 3500 with 102,000 km on it and the transmission has went out of it. This is absoltuely unacceptable for the amount you pay for these vehicles. Just out of warranty, bought extended warranty and it also has ran out. What kind of charge in Canada can we expect for a new transmission? We do not

We will NEVER buy another Chrysler product as they don’t stand behind it. We were hoping they would at least pay for half but they refuse.

William Charles
5 years ago

I have a 1996 Dodge Ram 3500 Dually with a 5.9 Cummins diesel 47re transmission the problem is it gets into overdrive and it goes in and out of overdrive at highway speeds between 50 and 65 mileage is 320,000 miles transmission was rebuilt at about 270,000 any help you could give me would be great thank you

John
4 years ago

Move your.ground.wire from behind.alternator to out over.fadiator to crossover to other battery. These models dont.tolerate noise in the.ground.circuit.from.alternator.

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