Transmission out at 52,000 miles

[Bill1987]

Hello,
I have a 2014 Dodge Ram 4x4 5.7 Hemi. 2 weeks ago I was driving to work and my truck wouldn’t shift into 3rd gear. I took it to my local mechanic who has said the entire transmission need to be repalces. That’s going to cost me $5000. This seems unacceptable at only 52,000 miles. Has anyone else had this problem? I just got off the phone with Dodge and they they basically said sorry not much we can do.

 

[Tach_tech]

Well what’s the actual problem with the transmission? What transmission is it?

 

[Bill1987]

I believe it’s a 6 speed

 

[Tach_tech]

I believe it’s a 6 speed

Do you know what’s actually wrong with it? What codes are set? The solenoid pack is a very common failure.

 

[NH RAM]

Go from your local mechanic to your local transmission shop and get another opinion. My 2014 had the ZF 8 speed as did my 2016 and I had no issues- but I think in 2014 the ZF was an option. Do you have the 8 speed or 6 speed?

Edit: OP added 6 speed info while I typed a response.

 

[WY.Ram]

My 66RFE shelled out at 48k mi. I bought the new trans, $5400. I was chapped.
I don't recall what was the exact diagnosis, clutch packs maybe. I still have the paper work, receipt anyway. Failure might be on there, not sure. My symptom was delayed engagement, never once displayed a code.

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[crash68]

I believe it’s a 6 speed

6 speed has a column or console shifter
8 speed has the rotary shift knob

Definitely get a second opinion from a transmission shop.

 

[Burla]

Did you already agree to the 5 grand? With it being 3rd gear it is less likely to be clutches, od tends to go out first on those. So if it isn't clutches, it is very fixable from bottom of the trans and a fairly easy dyi job believe it or not. I wont waste your time if the truck is already getting work done, but if not let us know.

The rfe has some weaknesses that are easily addressable for a long lasting transmission, unfortunately not a lot of people have access to the info or knowledge there is a need there.

 

[Bill1987]

No we have not agreed to pay it. We would need to save up to pay for it.

 

[PoMansRam]

Is there a check engine light? If so, what are the codes? A lot of things can cause shifting issues and it doesn't necessarily have to be the transmission itself.

 

[RJL1]

As others have said, bring it to a well respected transmission repair facility.

 

[Dodge 1500 4X4]

For sure check back with us there are members here that have allot of knowledge on the 66RFE or ZF870HP, Take it to a transmission shop for a diagnosis not the Stealership.

 

[Burla]

No we have not agreed to pay it. We would need to save up to pay for it.

So the strategy which carries risk but potential reward is to replace the valve body and solenoid pack, which are the known weaknesses of the rfe. The risk is if it doesn't fix the issue, the transmission shop may or may not give you credit for those items when you need an entire transmission. verify that you have 66rfe and order the correct parts by year, we have had guys order wrong stuff and it didnt work out.

Start researching which VB you want, find some good places with good info, here is one sonnax, I have no idea about this quality or ats. Or build your own with a kit, will be maximum fun. The valve body is right there when you drop the pan, all you need is torx bit I believe. They have VB with all upgrades, or oem replacement. I would find one with upgrades if you are looking for longevity. Which means, plate or gasket upgrade (gasket is cheaper), pistons and rings, and maybe some other stuff watch VB video.

So with a good atf4 fluid x8 quarts and filters no matter what ou go with it should be less the 750 bucks, and is maybe just one step above oil change as far as mechanical know how to do, this is a very doable easy dyi job. You may need a simple quick learn when done, I'm not sure either way, another thing to research.