Ram 2500 transmission failure problems

Filed Aug 31, 2026 · Electrical, Transmission · SC

I am reporting a transmission safety problem with my 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins that began shortly after FCA campaign U29 was performed. Before the recall work, the transmission and original solenoid were functioning normally. I had no transmission symptoms, warning lights, or transmission codes. The dealership performed U29 and replaced the transmission solenoid May 4-6, 2026. I picked the truck up May 6 at 149,091 miles. About 79 miles later, the check-engine light came on and transmission problems began. While driving, including on the interstate, the truck would suddenly jerk, the RPMs would rise quickly, and the truck would lose speed. On several occasions, traffic behind me had to react quickly to avoid hitting me. The dealership told me the solenoid installed during the U29 repair was defective and replaced it with another solenoid. The same problems continued. The truck later developed code P0871, became undriveable, and was towed back June 1. The original transmission ultimately failed. The dealership then installed a Mopar remanufactured transmission. I picked it up June 13. Within roughly 600 miles, it developed substantially identical symptoms and failure patterns, including P0870 and P0871, limp mode, and another major transmission failure. It was towed back June 24. The dealership later found the overdrive clutch had disintegrated and metal was present in the transmission fluid. The failed remanufactured transmission is now being handled under its Mopar warranty, and the dealership is looking to install a third transmission without identifying a clear reason for the repeated failures. I am concerned the same problem could happen again and believe the U29 repair, replacement parts, or another related transmission problem should be investigated.

Filed Aug 25, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · MS

Motor completely over heated causing the hose to rupture underneath the intake manifold. Engine is unrepairable. Had to order new engine and a new intake manifold because it melted the current one. Also approximately 2 years ago, I also had to replace the transmission. This truck only has 155,000 miles in it and has had 2 major break downs. WHY? This truck is unsafe.

Filed May 4, 2026 · Transmission · NY

The transmission failed. Prior to the failure, the vehicle had an undiagnosed fluid leak believed to be coming from transmission-related hoses/lines. These hoses were replaced; however, the issue persisted and ultimately resulted in transmission failure. The failure occurred while the vehicle was in operation, which caused a sudden loss of power/drive capability. This created a hazardous situation, especially in traffic, as the vehicle was unable to accelerate or maintain speed, increasing the risk of a collision. The fluid leak and subsequent transmission failure were inspected by a service center. The leaking hoses were identified and replaced; however, this repair did not resolve the underlying issue, and the transmission ultimately failed. No indication of symptoms of failure prior.

Filed Apr 16, 2026 · Brakes, Engine · 82,792 miles · MA

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 2500. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the ABS and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The diagnostic test determined that there was a failure with the ECM. The ECM was replaced; however, soon after the repair, the warning lights returned with the vehicle going into LIMP Mode. The vehicle was taken back to dealer, where the vehicle remained for months while attempting to determine the cause of the failure. The contact was then informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where a diagnostic test indicated a failure with the hydraulic control unit (HCU). Several repairs were performed, but failed to correct the failure. The mechanic replaced the transmission twice; however, the failure returned after each repair. The manufacturer was notified about the failure, and the contact was provided with two case numbers. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the independent mechanic. The failure mileage was 82,792.

Filed Mar 13, 2026 · Transmission · 10,000 miles · NY

The contact owns a 2022 Ram 2500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the RPM fluctuated. Additionally, the vehicle made an abnormal sound while slowing down to come to a stop. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who discovered burnt transmission fluid and replaced the transmission, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

Filed Mar 13, 2026 · Transmission · FL

At approximately 1750 miles the truck transmission began to shift in lower gears extremely violently. Every time that truck would shift in this manner, it would cause a startle effect and divert my attention away from driving to trying to determine what was going on. I immediately took the truck to my local Ram repair shop where they found metal shavings in the transmission oil pan. They told me I would need a completely new transmission. This is unacceptable with a truck with only 1750 miles on it. The dealership said they would need authorization to replace the transmission and not sure if one would be readily available. This is the fourth time this vehicle will have been at this repair facility. The first three times were for a fault code called Turbo under boost. Way too much downtime for a truck with only 1750 miles. We had to postpone our vacation since this is the only vehicle I own that’s capable of towing our boat and trailer. Because of all these issues, we have not been able to tow the trailer one time with our new truck!!!!!! When I asked the dealership what they thought the problem was they said quality control at the factory and a subpar designed for the product. If Ram doesn’t change the design of this transmission, even with a new transmission installed, I am scared this may happen again and then cause an accident.

Filed Mar 4, 2026 · Transmission · KY

Transmission failure at 125,000 miles. Vehicle has been used minimally for towing. Mainly highway driving. Looking at a $10,000 repair bill.

Filed Dec 22, 2025 · Transmission · OR

I have a clunk to when coming to a stop, the transmission is down shifting, and just before it comes to a complete stop, the truck has a clunk that is felt through the vehicle and heard. at times while stopped the vehicle will lurch forward as though you have been hit from behind. The truck has been back to the dealership several times for this problem, two different dealerships because the first one gave up and was suggested to take it to another dealership per Ram. The truck has been shut down completely two time to put in relearn mode, three transmission replacements, four valve body replacements, and they wanted to put a fourth transmission in the truck, but the mechanic said he doubts thats the problem to Ram, and so now they want to say that its operating as design, Ram asked me to take it to a third dealership, so I did, the mechanic and I went for a drive in the truck, the mechanic said there is definitely a problem, but he would not take on this job because he would not want to deal with Ram and there politics. So that leaves me driving a 2022 Ram 2500 truck I purchased [XXX] that did not have this problem until after purchase six months later. Ram customer care has offered money for my inconvenience, I said I just want my truck fixed, they said they are not going to do anymore. I have a vehicle that has been in the shop for a total of eleven months since i have purchase it, has not been fixed, and every time I come to a stop I cringe because I know it is going to clunk and I didn't even take my new travel trailer out the last year because of fear of it breaking down. I paid good money for this truck, and it seems Ram does not care, they got my money and so they got what they wanted. If Ram cannot fix this, then let's talk about getting me in another truck. I am really frustrated, and do not know where to turn. Thank you [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Dec 4, 2025 · Steering, Transmission · FL

I am reporting a serious safety issue with my 2021 Ram 2500 (VIN: [XXX] ). The truck has experienced three separate transmission failures within a few months. Each time the transmission was replaced, the vehicle failed again shortly afterward. At one point, the dealership returned the truck to me without transmission fluid, causing additional internal damage and creating an extreme safety risk. I have also had steering issues since the truck was new, which continue today despite multiple service attempts. Shortly after purchase, the truck developed severe mold and water intrusion after the roof stop lamp was removed or stolen while the vehicle was at the dealership for service. This caused water to leak into the interior and contaminate the carpet. The dealership replaced the carpet but the issues continued. The repeated transmission failures, steering defects, and water intrusion have made this truck unsafe to drive. The vehicle has lost significant value, and the dealership and manufacturer have been unable to correct the defects after numerous attempts. I am requesting an the federal safety agency investigation into these issues, including: •Repeated transmission failures •Ongoing steering defects •Improper repair practices •Water intrusion and mold exposure •Dealer negligence These failures represent a serious safety hazard to both myself and others on the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jul 29, 2025 · Transmission · AZ

While driving the truck seems to jolt when trying to get into the next gear or it seems to be slipping a gear. At times the truck will stay in a gear too long and not switch over in a timely manner or it it will switch gears too quickly. The dealership and another quote says it seems it could be the transmission valve plate and solenoid all the way up to a new transmission is needed. The truck has only 53,000 miles and maintained routine oil Changes and maintenance. I would like to see if there is a recall or one needed because I have never owned vehicle that needed a transmission at 53,000. That’s insane.