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What year does Cummins have transmission problems?

Cummins, a leading manufacturer of diesel engines and related components, has faced transmission issues in some of its vehicles over the years. While the company has generally maintained a reputation for reliability, certain model years have been associated with transmission-related problems. This article delves into the details of Cummins' transmission problems, providing a comprehensive overview of the issue.


Cummins Transmission Problems: An Overview


Cummins is known for producing high-quality diesel engines, but the company's transmissions have not always lived up to the same standard. Over the years, various Cummins-powered vehicles have experienced transmission-related problems, ranging from premature wear and tear to complete transmission failures. These issues have been reported across multiple model years and vehicle types, indicating a broader systemic problem.


Affected Model Years and Vehicles


The Cummins transmission problems have been most prevalent in the following model years and vehicle types:



  • 2003-2007 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks with the Cummins 5.9L diesel engine

  • 2007-2012 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks with the Cummins 6.7L diesel engine

  • 2010-2015 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks with the Cummins 6.7L diesel engine


These transmission issues have been reported by numerous owners and have led to significant repair costs, often exceeding $3,000 to $5,000 per incident. The problems have been severe enough to prompt class-action lawsuits and increased scrutiny of Cummins' quality control measures.


Causes and Symptoms of Cummins Transmission Problems


The primary causes of Cummins transmission problems include:



  • Premature wear and tear on transmission components, such as gears, bearings, and clutches

  • Transmission fluid leaks leading to insufficient lubrication and overheating

  • Electrical and software-related issues affecting the transmission control module


Symptoms of these transmission problems may include:



  • Delayed or erratic shifting

  • Difficulty engaging gears

  • Transmission slippage or failure to hold gears

  • Grinding or whining noises from the transmission

  • Transmission fluid leaks


These symptoms can progressively worsen over time, ultimately leading to a complete transmission failure and the need for a costly replacement.


Cummins' Response and Mitigation Efforts


Cummins has acknowledged the transmission problems and has taken some steps to address them, including:



  • Issuing technical service bulletins (TSBs) to provide guidance to dealers and mechanics on addressing common transmission issues

  • Extending the warranty coverage for certain transmission components in affected vehiclesli>
  • Implementing design changes and improvements in newer model year transmissions to address the root causes of the problemsli>

However, many Cummins owners have reported ongoing issues and difficulties in getting their vehicles repaired or replaced under the company's warranty policies. The transmission problems have continued to be a source of frustration for Cummins customers, leading to increased scrutiny and legal action against the company.


Conclusion


The Cummins transmission problems have been a significant challenge for the company and its customers. While Cummins has taken some steps to address the issues, the persistent nature of the problems and the high repair costs have led to ongoing dissatisfaction and legal action. As Cummins continues to refine its transmission designs and quality control measures, it will be crucial for the company to regain the trust of its customers and demonstrate a commitment to resolving these longstanding transmission-related concerns.

Which Ram 2500 to stay away from?


With over 300 consumer complaints and 13 recalls, the 2016 RAM 2500 is a model year that should be approached with caution. In addition to the all-too-familiar engine issues, this truck also had vehicle speed control problems.



How long do Dodge Cummins transmissions last?


If you are towing normal. As in, driving normal, stockish truck, not doing burn outs, it will literally last 300,000+ miles. It's really not the nightmare Reddit makes it out to be. Buy a deep pan and a trans tune and you can make a stock 68rfe hold 100+HP over stock for longer than you'd own the truck.



What year ram 2500 6.7 to avoid?


The answer is that the 2012-2016 and 2018 model years of Ram 2500 trucks are the worst years. These model years have more complaints and issues than the best years. This doesn't mean they are completely bad, but it does mean they are less reliable, and you should avoid them when purchasing a new or old Ram 2500 truck.



Do RAM 2500 have bad transmission?


Unfortunately, Dodge transmission problems seem to be present in the 2500 series. If you own one of these trucks, you must know the most common Dodge Ram 2500 transmission problems. Here are a few things that can (and sometimes do) go wrong with Ram 2500 transmissions.



What year should I not buy a Dodge Ram 2500?


General Buying Advice: Avoid The 2013-2018 Model Years
This is because the 2500 (since it became a standalone brand) had a trouble-filled start. As such, if you're in the market for the most reliable RAM 2500 year, skip the 2013 to 2018 models because they're riddled with reliability woes, recalls, and complaints.



What is the biggest problem with the 5.9 Cummins?


The Cummins 5.9L engine's most notorious, though not inevitable, problem is fuel pump failure. In particular, the lift pump and injector pump wear out over time.



What year is the Dodge Cummins most reliable?


Since its inception, the early second-generation Dodge Ram with the 5.9-liter, 12-valve Cummins diesel engine has been iconic. Because of the engine's ability to make cheap horsepower and its super-durable construction, the 1994-1998 trucks will always be highly preferred.



Do Cummins have transmission problems?


Some of the most common problems with this transmission involve being stuck in a gear, failure of the torque converter to lock, or hard shifts. These problems are known to make successful mods to this transmission nearly impossible.



What year Cummins not to buy?


That's three decades of hard work - there are bound to be Dodge Cummins years to avoid after all that time. We recommend staying away from the 1991, 1992, 1993, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2011 models. Many issues stem from these years.



What year did Cummins have bad transmissions?


1991-1993 Dodge Cummins
However, the first generation's 1991-1993 model years disappointed the users with several issues. The most common problems with these model years are handling issues, transmission problems, electrical system failure, and significant rust issues.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.