Do 2015 Ram 1500 have transmission problems?

There have been reports of transmission problems in some 2015 Ram 1500s, particularly with the 8‑speed automatic. Not every truck is affected, and many owners have had reliable performance. This article explains what has been reported, how the manufacturer has responded, and practical steps owners can take if they experience issues.

Overview of reported problems

Below is a summary of the issues most commonly described by owners and technicians in relation to the 2015 Ram 1500’s transmission. The purpose is to outline symptoms that readers can recognize and discuss with a dealer or mechanic.

• Shuddering or harsh shifting, especially around typical highway speeds.


• Slipping out of gear or failure to engage properly after shifting.


• Delayed engagement or uncommanded downshifts/upshifts.


• Unusual noises or grinding sounds coming from the transmission area.


• Transmission overheating or warning lights related to the gearbox.


• Inconsistent performance, with some drivers reporting normal operation and others reporting repeated faults.

These reports show that issues are not universal for all 2015 Ram 1500s, but they have been significant enough to prompt dealer investigations, service bulletins, and, in some cases, recalls or warranty coverage discussions for affected vehicles.

Manufacturer responses and industry actions

FCA US and its service network have addressed reported transmission concerns through a combination of software updates, component inspections, and, in some cases, physical replacements. The actions described below reflect the kinds of remedies that have appeared in public notices and official communications over the years.

• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) addressing transmission control module software calibration and valve body behavior to smooth out shifting and improve reliability.


• Repairs that can include software updates, valve body inspection or replacement, and, when warranted, torque converter work or replacement.


• Recall campaigns that targeted certain Ram 1500 model years, including some 2013–2016 trucks, to address transmission-related faults. Recalls depend on the vehicle’s VIN and production date.


• Warranty considerations and, in some cases, extended coverage for transmission components in affected models, depending on the vehicle’s history and warranty eligibility.


• Involvement of consumer protections and class-action discussions in some jurisdictions, addressing claims of shudder, slipping, and other transmission problems.

Overall, the industry response has combined service bulletins with formal recall activity where appropriate, along with guidance to owners about proper maintenance and diagnostic steps. The extent of coverage and the specific remedies vary by vehicle and by region, so owners should verify current status for their VIN.

What to do if you own a 2015 Ram 1500

If you own a 2015 Ram 1500 and are experiencing transmission symptoms, use the following steps to protect your vehicle and your ownership experience. The steps are designed to help you document the issue, receive a proper diagnosis, and determine whether warranty or recall coverage applies.

1. Check for any open recalls or service campaigns on your VIN. Use the NHTSA recall database or FCA’s official recall tool to verify status.


2. Note the symptoms with dates, driving conditions, and how the issue affects driving safety (e.g., sudden loss of power, shudder at highway speeds, or failed engagement).


3. Schedule a diagnostic visit with a certified dealership or an independent shop familiar with Ram/Chrysler transmissions. Request a transmission diagnostic report and any available software updates.


4. Ask about the transmission control module software, valve body calibration, and torque converter checks—these are common focal points in service bulletins for this family of transmissions.


5. Confirm fluid condition and level, and discuss whether a fluid service, drain-and-fill, or full replacement is recommended, based on the diagnostic findings.


6. If the vehicle is within the original powertrain warranty or an extended coverage program, request the repair under warranty. If out of warranty, discuss options with the service advisor, including potential goodwill measures or eligible recall-related work.


7. Keep a detailed service history and any repair receipts. If you are unsatisfied with the dealership’s assessment, consider seeking a second opinion or escalating the issue with FCA Customer Care or a consumer protection agency.

Following these steps helps ensure that you address transmission concerns promptly and transparently, while also clarifying what coverage might apply to your specific 2015 Ram 1500.

Summary

In short, the 2015 Ram 1500 can experience transmission-related issues, particularly with the model’s 8-speed automatic transmission. While not all vehicles are affected, a notable subset of owners has reported symptoms such as shuddering, harsh shifts, slipping, and delayed engagement. Manufacturer responses have included software updates, valve body and torque converter work, and recall campaigns for affected units. If you own a 2015 Ram 1500, check for recalls, document any symptoms, and work with a qualified technician to determine whether repairs are covered under warranty or a service program. Keeping informed and proactive can help minimize downtime and maximize the truck’s performance.

What year ram 1500 5.7 to avoid?

Years to avoid for the 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 include 2011-2012, primarily for "Hemi tick" and lifter issues, and 2014, due to reports of catastrophic steering failures. Other years to approach with caution are 2018-2019, due to electrical and infotainment system problems, and 2004 and 2013-2015, which have documented issues with engine stalling and transmission failures, respectively.
 
Years to be cautious of

• 2011-2012: Notorious for "Hemi tick" from failed lifters or other engine issues. 2011 also had reports of engine failure, MDS issues, and water pump failures. 
• 2013-2015: Documented severe transmission failures, particularly in 2013 and 2015 models. 2015 also had numerous recalls and problems with its electrical, transmission, engine, and fuel systems. 
• 2014: Several complaints have logged total steering loss, sometimes at highway speeds. 
• 2018-2019: Reports of issues with electrical and infotainment systems are more common. 
• 2004: Engine stalling issues persisted, and there were power train concerns. 

What to look for in a reliable Hemi Ram 1500

• 2010: Generally has better engine reliability, though it was known for a weak engine combined with poor fuel economy. 
• 2018 and newer: The 5.7L Hemi V-8 is considered more reliable in these years. 
• 2020 and newer: Models have fewer issues than late 2010s versions. 
• Ram 1500 Classic models: These are also reported to do well, having fewer complex systems than the redesigned 2019 and newer models. 

What years did Dodge Ram have transmission problems?

Dodge Ram models from 1994–2002, 2010–2016, 2018, and 2021–2025 have been cited for various transmission problems. Issues reported include hard shifting, slipping, fluid leaks, and complete failure, with particular problems noted in the 8-speed automatic transmission introduced in 2013. 
You can watch this video to learn about common failure points in the 8-speed Dodge Ram transmission: 1mNational TransmissionYouTube · Oct 1, 2025
Dodge Ram 1500 transmission issues

• 1994-2002: The first generation of these trucks, starting around 1994, experienced transmission failures, often reported around 70,000 miles. 
• 2010-2016: Models from these years, especially those with the 5.7-liter engine, reported transmission problems, including hard shifting, slipping, and failures. The 2012 model is specifically noted for sudden jerking and noise, while the 2014 and 2015 models had issues with downshifting, hesitation, and hard shifts. 
• 2021-2025: More recent models continue to have recurring issues, such as hard shifting, slipping, and unexpected shifts into neutral. Some of these problems are linked to the 8-speed automatic transmission, which has been used since 2013. 

Other Dodge Ram models with transmission issues

• 2018 and 2012-2016 2500: These truck models have also been associated with chronic transmission defects. 

What is the transmission problem on a 2015 Dodge Ram 1500?

Short answer: The most common Dodge Ram 1500 transmission problem is hard shifting and slipping gears, and it is seen commonly in the 2012, 2013, and 2015 models, though these issues can also appear in newer models, including the 2018 and 2019 Ram 1500.

What is the life expectancy of a Ram 1500 transmission?

200,000 miles
Multiple factors can increase or decrease a Ram 1500 transmission's lifespan. It typically depends on how well you maintain it, your driving habits, and the environment in which you typically operate it. On average, a well-maintained Ram 1500 will last at least 200,000 miles or 15 years.