How do I know what transmission I have in my Dodge Ram?
The easiest way is to decode the vehicle’s VIN/build data or inspect the transmission itself for a model code; you can also check the door sticker or ask a dealer with the VIN on hand. This will tell you the exact transmission family and sometimes the specific model.
In this guide, you’ll learn practical methods to identify your Ram’s transmission using official records, visible markings on the unit, and era-specific context. The goal is to give you reliable steps so you can confirm whether your truck uses a traditional 4-, 5-, 6-, or 8-speed automatic and, if needed, what exact transmission family is installed.
Check the VIN and build data
Using the VIN and official build information is one of the most reliable ways to identify your transmission without removing any parts. This method leverages factory documentation and decoding tools.
- Locate the 17-digit VIN. On most Dodges RAM, you’ll find it on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) and on the driver’s door jamb sticker.
- Record the VIN exactly as shown. A clean, legible VIN is essential for an accurate decode.
- Enter the VIN into a reputable VIN decoder or the official Mopar/Chrysler build-sheet lookup to retrieve drivetrain details. Look for a transmission code or description in the results.
- When possible, pull the original window sticker or factory build sheet for the vehicle’s exact drivetrain configuration. These documents typically list the transmission type or option codes tied to the VIN. If you don’t have them, your local dealer can pull a build sheet using the VIN.
In practice, VIN-based decoding is the quickest and most dependable way to confirm the transmission without physically inspecting the vehicle. If the decoder doesn’t clearly show a transmission name, cross-reference with the dealer’s records or a factory build sheet for definitive confirmation.
Inspect the transmission itself
If you’d rather identify by looking at the unit, physical markings on the transmission can reveal the model family. This method works even if the VIN data is incomplete or unavailable.
- Find the transmission code stamped on the side of the transmission case near the bell housing. Common examples include lines like “545RFE,” “68RFE,” or “8HP70/8HP75” for newer models. The exact text varies by model year and engine combination.
- Look for a small metal tag attached to the transmission with a code or model designation. This tag is frequently located near the top or on the bell-housing area and can provide a definitive transmission family.
- Note the number of forward gears visible from the selector or the gear indicator (4-speed, 5-speed, 6-speed, or 8-speed). While not always definitive on its own, gear count helps corroborate the stamped/model code.
- Take clear photos of any markings, stamps, or tags from multiple angles. Use these images to compare against official references or show a mechanic/dealer for confirmation.
Physical markings are a solid cross-check to VIN data, especially if the vehicle has been in service or if the documentation is missing or unclear. When in doubt, combine this with a VIN-based decode for confidence.
Common Ram transmission families by era
Understanding typical configurations by era can help you anticipate what to look for, but the exact transmission should always be confirmed by VIN or on-vehicle markings. Engine and trim combinations influence which transmission was installed.
- Older Rams (1990s to early 2000s): various four- and five-speed automatics such as 41TE/42RE and later 46RE/47RE families, plus early 5-speed units like 545RFE in some trucks with larger engines.
- Mid-2010s Rams: the 68RFE six-speed automatic appeared in many 2013–2018 models, especially with gasoline engines and some diesels.
- Late 2010s to present: the 8-speed automatic family from the ZF collaboration (often labeled as 8HP70/8HP75 in RAM 1500/2500/3500, depending on engine and market) became common in newer configurations. Some heavy-duty variants and regional specs can feature alternative or specialized units.
Again, this context is helpful for framing what you expect to find, but the VIN/build data and any direct markings on the unit are the most reliable sources for the exact transmission in your Dodge Ram.
What to do if you still can’t identify it
If you’re unsure after checking the VIN and inspecting the unit, contact your RAM dealer or a trusted shop with the VIN. A dealer can pull the official build data and confirm the transmission type. You can also share photos of any markings with a technician to get a definitive answer.
Summary
To determine your Dodge Ram’s transmission, start with the VIN and build data to identify the transmission code, then verify with any original window sticker or build sheet. If needed, inspect the transmission case or tag for a model designation and compare the gear count. Knowing the era and typical transmission families can help you anticipate what to expect, but VIN/build data or direct markings are the most reliable sources for an exact match.
Can I tell what transmission I have by the VIN?
Yes, you can often tell your transmission type by checking the VIN, but it's not guaranteed because transmission data isn't always encoded in the VIN according to a single standard. To find out for sure, you can use the VIN with an online decoder like the NHTSA VIN decoder, check with a dealership's parts department, or look for physical identifiers on the vehicle itself.
How to find your transmission using the VIN
- Use an online VIN decoder: Input your 17-character VIN into a decoder, such as the one provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Look for a "Transmission" or "Engine" category in the results. This is the most direct way, but it may only provide basic information like "manual" or "automatic".
- Contact a dealership: Provide the VIN to the parts department of your vehicle's dealership. They can look up your specific vehicle's original factory options and tell you the exact transmission it was built with.
- Check the vehicle's build sheet or window sticker: If you have them, these documents will list the original factory options for your vehicle, including the transmission type.
- Use a specialized decoder (if available): For certain vehicle brands, like BMW, there are specialized online resources (e.g., RealOEM) that can provide detailed information by inputting the last seven digits of the VIN.
If the VIN doesn't provide the answer
- Inspect the physical transmission: Crawl under the vehicle and look for a tag on the transmission itself, which will have a specific model number. You can also get a general idea of the type by looking at the shape of the oil pan or checking online for images of your vehicle's transmission.
- Provide other vehicle information: If the VIN decoder doesn't work, provide your vehicle's make, model, year, and engine size to a knowledgeable person or online forum, and they may be able to determine the correct transmission based on that information.
How to identify a Dodge Ram transmission?
Start by looking at the left hand side of the transmission, in the rear bottom (A). You will find some numbers, the last row identicates the transmission model.
What transmission comes with a 5.7 Hemi?
AVAILABLE 5.7L HEMI® V8 ENGINE WITH eTORQUE
With the TorqueFlite® 8 eight-speed automatic transmission.
What transmission is in a Dodge Ram 1500?
3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 ENGINE WITH eTORQUE
With the TorqueFlite® 8 Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission.
