What years did Dodge have transmission problems?

Category: automotive pickup trucks
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Dodge trucks manufactured between 1999 and 2003 are especially prone to transmission problems. These trucks used the Dodge 45RFE automatic transmission, which had significant reliability issues. The Dodge 45RFE transmission was used in Dodge Durango, Ram and Dakota pickup trucks with smaller V8 engines.



Also know, does RAM still have transmission problems?

Over the course of its production, Dodge offered several different transmissions in the Ram pickup. These included both manual and automatic transmissions. Problems with the Ram automatic transmission include leaking fluid, unwanted shifting between gears and abrupt automatic shifts.

Also Know, how do I know what transmission I have in my Dodge? Instructions
  1. Look inside the truck cab on the driver's side to see if there is a clutch pedal.
  2. Open the hood of the truck and locate the transmission fluid container.
  3. Read the vehicle owner manual and you will be able to identify the vehicle's transmission information.

Thereof, what are the signs your transmission is going out?

If your car suddenly starts giving off vibrations and strange noises like grinding or whining, the transmission is saying, “Drive me to a mechanic.” You'll also experience gears slipping – when the engine speeds up or revs, but your car doesn't accelerate very quickly, or move at all (that's a really bad sign).

Is the 48re a good transmission?

The 48RE is a good tranny. That is, it's strong and reliable under stock or near stock conditions.

37 Related Question Answers Found

What truck brand breaks down the most?

The Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks in Consumer Reports Rankings
  • Nissan Frontier.
  • Toyota Tacoma.
  • Ford F-350.
  • Chevrolet Avalanche.
  • Ford F-250.
  • Ram 1500.
  • GMC Canyon. The Canyon is closely related to the Chevy Colorado.
  • Chevrolet Colorado. The Colorado is one of the most popular midsize pickups in the U.S. | Chevrolet.

How many miles will a Ram 1500 last?

While Ram offers a best-in-class diesel powertrain warranty of up to 100,000 miles and a gas powertrain warranty of up to 60,000 miles, many drivers have reported driving Ram pickups for over 20 years, with mileage of over 300,000 miles.

How much does it cost to rebuild a transmission for a Dodge Ram?

According to Transmission Repair Cost Guide readers, the average cost of transmission replacement ranges from $1800 to $3400. A used/salvage transmission ranges from $800 to $1500, a rebuilt transmission from $1100 to $2800 and a remanufactured from $1300 to $3400.

How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Dodge Ram 1500?


The average cost for a Dodge Ram 1500 automatic transmission diagnosis is between $88 and $111. Labor costs are estimated between $88 and $111. Estimate does not include taxes and fees.

Is the Dodge Ram 1500 a good truck?

Is the Ram 1500 a Good Truck? The Ram 1500 is an excellent truck. It can tow and haul more than most competitors, and it delivers an extremely cushioned ride. There are plenty of top-notch materials in the cabin, as well as incredibly spacious seats.

Does VIN number tell your transmission?

Vehicle Identification NumberVIN NUMBER
This is a 17-character number that uniquely identifies the transmission type, factory installed engine, where it was built, among other details. The VIN can be found at on the door tag on the driver's door, or on a metal dash plaque found on the dashboard.

Why do 46re transmissions fail?

46RE Technical Service Bulletins | TSBs
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.

What does a failing transmission sound like?

Grinding or odd sounds: Automatic and manual transmission both make unique sounds when they start to go bad. On an automatic transmission, you may hear humming, whining or a buzzing sound. You'll also feel as if every gear is wobbling into place.

Is it worth fixing a transmission?


In this case, it's typically not worth getting the car fixed unless it holds significant sentimental value. For example, it can cost between $3000 and $4000 to fix the CVT transmission in a 10 year old 2005 Ford Freestyle when the value of the car is less than $4000 at the time of failure.

What happens if your transmission goes out while driving?

When your transmission goes out, your car's handling will be affected. You may experience vibrations, slippage (engine revs but vehicle does not accelerate as it should) or different shift patterns in your vehicle. This may be caused by a bad fluid pump in the transmission, which can lead to total gear breakdown.

Can you drive with a bad transmission?

Driving on a bad transmission is never a good idea and you should not do it. Technically the vehicle can still be driven, but every time you do drive it you are risking your chances. If metal shavings begin to chip off and get into your coolant, you will have a much larger repair on your hands.

How much does it cost to replace a transmission?

Cost to rebuild or replace your transmission
Avner says the average cost of a rebuilt transmission is $2,800 to $3,800, and the average cost of a replacement transmission is $4,000 to $8,000.

What happens if u dont change transmission fluid?

What happens if I do not change the transmission fluid when it is recommended? Letting your car run low on transmission fluid can cause the transmission to shift improperly or not at all. It also can harm the internal parts of your transmission, which will not be properly lubricated.

How long can a car last with a bad transmission?


Without service and maintenance, some transmissions can fail in as little as 100,000 miles. If you drive around 10-15,000 miles a year, your transmission could be down for the count in seven years! With care and service, transmissions can last 300,000 miles or more.

What are the symptoms of a bad transmission solenoid?

If you're experiencing transmission solenoid troubles, it will become evident in one of four ways:
  • Delayed gear shifting.
  • You can't downshift, and your engine continues to rev even when applying the brakes.
  • Your transmission gets stuck in neutral.
  • Shifting gears become rough and choppy.

Can bad spark plugs cause transmission problems?

Wait, a bad spark plug? So, if a spark plug is worn, the extra load, combined with the leaner mixture can degrade the spark, causing an intermittent misfire. And since there's no cushion between the engine and transmission, you feel every misfire through the entire car.