Do 2021 Dodge Rams have transmission problems?

Overall, 2021 Ram 1500 pickups do not exhibit a widespread transmission problem. Most owners report reliable performance, but a minority have experienced issues that have shown up in owner reports and service notices. This article digs into what buyers should know, based on manufacturer information, consumer feedback, and industry reporting.

What the 2021 Ram 1500 uses for a transmission

The 2021 Ram 1500 lineup relies on an eight‑speed automatic transmission that is shared across several engines, including the 3.6‑liter Pentastar V6, the 5.7‑liter Hemi V8, and the 3.0‑liter EcoDiesel. The transmission is designed for smooth shifting and responsive performance, but as with any modern drivetrain, it can be subject to wear, software updates, and occasional hiccups. Understanding the setup helps distinguish manufacturing concerns from typical wear‑and‑tear or routine maintenance issues.

Reported issues from owners

Below is a snapshot of issues that have appeared in owner feedback and regulatory complaint databases. These items reflect experiences reported by some buyers and are not universal across all 2021 Ram 1500 trucks.

• Harsh or rough shifting, particularly during cold starts or low‑speed driving.


• Delayed engagement or hesitation when accelerating from a stop or merging onto a highway.


• Transmission warning lights or fault codes appearing in the instrument cluster.


• Occasional hard downshifts or a sensation of a “shudder” at certain speeds.


• In rare cases, complete transmission failure or the need for major repairs, typically within the vehicle’s warranty period.

These reports come from a mix of consumer feedback platforms and regulatory databases. They are not necessarily indicative of a systemic defect but signal that some owners have experienced symptoms that warranted service or component repairs.

What the manufacturer and independent observers say

Automaker communications and third‑party reviews offer a balanced view. Stellantis (the parent company of Ram) has issued software updates and, in some instances, recalls that address transmission control modules, shift logic, or related systems on certain production dates. Independent outlets emphasize that the Ram 1500’s eight‑speed unit is generally competitive in its class for smooth operation, but that any modern automatic transmission can develop issues with mileage, towing strain, heavy payload use, or insufficient maintenance. For buyers and owners, the takeaway is to stay current with software updates, adhere to the maintenance schedule, and seek professional diagnosis if symptoms arise.

Before taking action, owners should be alert to service bulletins and recalls that may apply to their specific VIN range. A dealership can verify whether a TCM/PCM software update, a valve body inspection, or a sensor replacement is warranted based on the vehicle’s history and current fault codes.

Maintenance tips and practical steps for owners

To reduce the likelihood of transmission trouble and to catch issues early, consider these best practices. This list provides context for what owners can do beyond basic driving habits.

• Keep up with the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including transmission fluid changes or checks when applicable.


• Have the transmission software updated at a authorized service center if your vehicle is subject to a TCM/PCM update bulletin.


• Monitor for symptoms such as unusual noises, slipping, shuddering, or unusual shifting patterns, and have a technician diagnose promptly.

Conclusion: Proactive maintenance and timely software updates are the most effective ways to minimize transmission issues on the 2021 Ram 1500. If you experience symptoms, a dealer visit can determine whether a software fix, sensor replacement, or more extensive repair is needed.

Bottom line for shoppers and owners

For potential buyers, a careful pre‑purchase inspection that focuses on the transmission behavior during test drives is prudent, especially if the truck has higher mileage or a heavy payload history. For current owners, keeping up with updates and seeking early diagnosis when symptoms appear can help prevent more serious problems down the line. Overall, while some 2021 Ram 1500 trucks have reported transmission symptoms, there is no consensus that the 2021 model year suffers from a systemic transmission defect.

Summary

In summary, the 2021 Ram 1500’s eight‑speed automatic transmission is not broadly plagued by a universal defect. There are documented cases of transmission‑related complaints from a subset of owners, including rough shifting and occasional hesitations, but these do not indicate a widespread, year‑specific failure pattern. Regular maintenance, prompt software updates, and professional diagnostics when symptoms arise remain the best approach for current owners and prospective buyers. As with many modern trucks designed for towing and heavy use, informed ownership and proactive service planning are the key to reliability.

Do 2021 Ram 1500 have transmission problems?

One of the most frequent complaints from RAM 1500 owners is related to transmission malfunctions. These include hard shifting, slipping, and unexpectedly shifting into neutral transmission.

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. 

Do new RAMs still have transmission problems?

Dodge Ram trucks, particularly those from 2021 to 2025, are renowned for their robust performance, impressive towing capabilities, and overall dependability. However, despite these commendable strengths, recurring Dodge Ram transmission problems continue to frustrate many owners.

What are the most common problems with a 2021 Ram 1500?

Common problems reported for the 2021 Ram 1500 include issues with its electronic systems like the UConnect infotainment screen, which can freeze or fade, as well as electrical malfunctions with the eTorque mild hybrid system leading to stalling, battery drain, and power loss. Other frequently reported problems involve the powertrain, with concerns about hard shifting transmissions, and engine issues such as exhaust leaks from broken manifold bolts and the "Hemi tick" due to camshaft and lifter wear.
 
This video explains some of the common problems with the 2021 Ram 1500, including engine and transmission issues: 53sChris DrivesYouTube · Jun 23, 2024
Electrical and infotainment

• UConnect/Infotainment System: Owners report screens freezing, fading, and becoming unresponsive, requiring a hard reset. 
• eTorque System: This system has been associated with problems like unexpected engine stalling, battery drain and charging issues, and a rough start-stop performance. Some owners also experience warning lights or malfunctions in other systems tied to the eTorque system. 
• Other electrical issues: These can include malfunctions with the remote start, seat heaters, and phone pairing. 

Engine and powertrain

• Engine Stalling: Some models, particularly those with the 5.7L Hemi eTorque, have experienced unexpected stalling due to software issues or problems with the eTorque system itself. 
• Exhaust Leaks: A common issue is an exhaust leak from broken or warped bolts on the exhaust manifold, causing a ticking noise and potential performance issues. 
• Transmission: Issues like hard shifting, slipping, and unexpected shifts into neutral have been reported, sometimes linked to software glitches in the transmission control module. 
• "Hemi Tick": This is a known noise in some Hemi engines, caused by premature camshaft and lifter wear. 
• Diesel and EcoDiesel Engine: Models with the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine have reported common oil leaks and EGR cooler failures. 

Other issues

• Leaking: Some owners have experienced water leaks from the third brake light, rear window, or shark fin antenna. 
• Brake System: Recalls have addressed issues with the master cylinder push rod, and some owners have reported the anti-lock brake (ABS) warning light coming on. 
• Steering: Excessive play in the steering wheel has been noted as a common issue. 
• Air Suspension: Some owners have experienced issues with the air suspension, particularly in cold weather. 
• Chassis Cracks: In some instances, the chassis around the coil towers may develop cracks, especially with heavy loads like towing.