Unveiling the Culprit: Investigating Transmission Problems In Dodge RAM

Dodge RAM is the vehicle of choice for many off-roaders due to its rugged features. The model has been praised by many prestigious organizations including U.S. News & World Report. But no matter how durable and versatile RAM seems, ultimately it is just a machine. And like any other machine… it can run into problems. Many owners have reported that its gearbox is susceptible to various problems, which has put a big question mark on the vehicle’s reliability.

This blog post sheds light on some of the most reported transmission troubles in Dodge RAM. So, if you own a Dodge RAM or planning to purchase one shortly, you should read this blog post all the way through.

Most Common Transmission Troubles in Dodge RAM

The list below includes some of the major transmission problems that Dodge RAM owners often encounter. Please take a look…

#1- Vehicle popping in & out of gear

#2- Sporadic shifting when driving

#3- Getting stuck in a gear

#4- Smoking gearbox

#5- Transmission overheating

Common Causes of Transmission Trouble in Dodge RAM

Dodge RAM comes fitted with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. It is truly a mechanical marvel with a very complex network of parts. When such complications are involved many different things can go wrong. The below discussion highlights some of the common reasons why a Dodge RAM transmission may start acting up.

Reason #1- Low/ contaminated transmission fluid

The Dodge RAM's 8-speed automatic transmission is a very complex piece of machine; made up of many different parts, all metal. Lubrication is necessary for all these metal parts to work together without much friction. Automatic transmission fluid or ATF not only eliminates friction but also protects them against rust and corrosion. It also plays a crucial role in the transmission’s operation by maintaining optimal hydraulic pressure. If the ATF dries out or becomes contaminated, the transmission will malfunction.

Reason #2- Defective transmission sensor

Modern cars are fitted with all sorts of sensors. There are sensors for everything. There are sensors to monitor various parameters of transmission operation. The onboard computer keeps an eye on your Dodge's transmission health with the help of these sensors. If even one of these sensors malfunctions, there will be a visible impact on overall transmission operation. The transmission will exhibit strange behavior and may even stop operating.

Reason #3- Faulty control module

Wires and computers; that's all there is to modern cars. There are computers for everything; from regulating engine operation to regulating braking system operation. There is also a computer to monitor the functioning of the transmission. It not only monitors how the transmission operates but determines how it should operate. If it malfunctions due to some reason, the transmission will start acting up. If your Dodge RAM's transmission control module is having problems, you will face all kinds of issues like erratic gear shifting, getting stuck in gear, etc.

Reason #4- Fault in shift motor actuator

Another reason why your Dodge RAM’s transmission may get into trouble is a defective shift motor actuator.

So, What Should Be Your Course Of Action?

If there's one thing in your Dodge RAM that's as expensive as the engine, it's the transmission. If something is wrong with such a vital part, you could stand to lose thousands of dollars. If you don't want to spend a lot of money on transmission repairs, you should pay extra attention to your Dodge RAM's transmission. You should check its fluid level from time to time and if its level has gone below the recommended range, top it up. Also, check the transmission filter, if it has reached its saturation limit, get it replaced.

In the event that you notice something strange happening with your Dodge Ram's transmission, seek assistance from a trusted mechanic in your area. You must trace the problem to its root and fix it before it turns into something bigger.

Bottom Line

So, there you have it… a comprehensive list of things that can contribute to transmission problems in your Dodge RAM. The transmission system plays a crucial role in regulating the engine power. It's important that you give your Dodge Ram's transmission the attention it really deserves. If you think that there is something off with your RAM’s transmission, don’t hesitate to give your mechanic a call.