Dodge Ram 2500 Transmission Shifting Problems

Jan 26, 2021

Blue 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 With White Background

As a rugged and powerful pickup truck made by a reliable manufacturer, there is a lot to like about the Dodge Ram 2500. However, no vehicle is immune to issues, and several common problems have been reported with the Dodge Ram 2500 that are worth looking into before you purchase this model. In this article, we’ll take a look at common transmission shifting problems with the Dodge Ram 2500.

What are the common Dodge Ram 2500 transmission problems?

There have been several common problems reported with the Dodge Ram 2500’s transmission, including issues such as:

Difficulty shifting
Transmission failure
Broken shifter cable

Thankfully, we will take a look at each of these commonly reported problems with the Dodge Ram 2500’s transmission shifting to help you decide if the Dodge Ram 2500 is the right choice for your next used automotive purchase.

3 Problems Common in the Dodge Ram 2500’s Transmission

Issues with the Dodge Ram 2500’s transmission can be found across all model years, however, the 2003 and 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 seem to be the most problematic models. Before you purchase a used Dodge Ram 2500, here the common transmission problems that you should be aware of.

Difficulty Shifting

Several owners of 2003 and 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 models that are equipped with manual transmissions have reported difficulty shifting gears. In some cases, the driver is forced to wiggle the gear selector to get the transmission to shift gears, and several owners have also reported a loud grinding noise when they try to change gears.

Transmission Failure

Numerous owners of the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 have filed complaints stating that the transmission in their truck failed completely and needed to be replaced. This, of course, is a problem that renders the vehicle completely inoperable and one that can be very costly to fix.

Broken Shifter Cable

The shifter cable is the component responsible for connecting the transmission to the shifter assembly, making it possible to shift gears. Unfortunately, several owners of the 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 have reported a broken shifter cable in their truck that had to be replaced.

Owner Reviews

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Quang Nguyen-outboard mechanic Tracy CA 209.914.0043 on November 10, 2022

What truck to buy? Money is not an issue! Truck quality is

Hello I own a 2018 Ram 2500 diesel. The gear shift lever was not secured and loctite properly so the screw came loose and shifting the lever broke the bracket that holds it. This is going to be a huge job that’s not warrantied by the manufacturer. I aman outboard mechanic so I put on a cable holder and secure the shift lever in for shifting but Ram should use stainless steel or even metal bracket instead of weak galvanized with a single screw to secure people’s life to safety! I figure if this issue is common, Ram should recall their trucks. I paid $76000 for a truck that has 2 sensors (particulate matter and B2) die before 60k mile and door that slung open and damaged by 20mph win. No spacer to protect door. Now shift lever’a holder bracket is broken off! Very disappointed. It does better than my recent2015 Ford F350 diesel transmission and rear view (which is tiny) camera wise. But still can any mfg build a good truck for the money? Tundra won’t do my type of works; towing heavy boats up to 28’ boats

Ralph Orrenmaa on July 16, 2023

2018 Ram 2500 6.4 Transmission problems

I purchased 2018 Ram 2500 6.4 hemi new, I do maintenance on my vehicles even sooner than recommended. I changed the transmission oil, using Mopar, and filters at 40,000 miles. At 78,000 the shift celenoid went out, cost me $600 for a new one which solved the problem. At about 80,000 started having more issues, had to take it in. They said it showed about 5 issues and are having to pull the transmission to figure out what the problem is. I have never used this truck to tow, I only drive it to work.

Ralph O on July 19, 2023

2018 Dodge Ram 2500 6.4 Hemi Transmission Problems

I purchased a 2018 Dodge Ram 2500 6.4 Hemi new. I never tow anything with this vehicle, just drive to work.I perform all maintenance as recommended, and usually sooner. I changed the transmission oil, Mopar, and filters at 40,000 miles. At about 78,000 miles, I had to replace the shift celenoid and then at 80,000 I began having issues and took it in to repair shop. The transmission is being pulled to find the issue, as there were about 5 listed with diagnostics.

John A

John A. is a freelance writer and automotive enthusiast currently living in Myrtle Beach, SC. When he's not working, John enjoys writing fiction, practicing mixed martial arts, and joyriding in his 2018 Ford Mustang GT.