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2020 Ram 1500 Laramie Transmission Shifting Hard/Delayed Engagement

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Ram 1500 Laramie

Hi all,

I'm having some concerning issues with the transmission in my 2020 Ram 1500 Laramie, equipped with the 5.7L Hemi and the 8-speed automatic. Lately, I've noticed some really hard shifts, especially from 1st to 2nd gear, and sometimes a noticeable delay when shifting into drive or reverse from park.

It's not constant, but it's happening more frequently, and it feels pretty jarring. There's no check engine light on yet, but I'm worried this could be a sign of a bigger problem. The truck has about 45,000 miles on it.

Has anyone else experienced similar transmission behavior with their 8-speed Ram? What could be causing this, and what should I be looking into?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Hard shifts and delayed engagement in the 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) in your 2020 Ram 1500 Laramie can be concerning. While these transmissions are generally robust, several factors can lead to these symptoms, even without a check engine light.

Common Causes:

  1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: The most common culprit. Low fluid levels can cause pressure issues, leading to hard shifts and delays. Contaminated fluid can also affect valve body operation.
  2. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software: Sometimes, the TCM's adaptive learning can get out of sync, or there might be a known software update from Dodge/Ram to address shifting anomalies.
  3. Valve Body Issues: The valve body directs hydraulic fluid to engage gears. If solenoids or passages within the valve body are sticking or failing, it can cause erratic shifting.
  4. Torque Converter Problems: A failing torque converter can cause shuddering, delayed engagement, and sometimes contribute to hard shifts.
  5. Internal Wear: Less common at 45,000 miles, but internal clutch pack wear or other mechanical issues could cause these symptoms.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Check Transmission Fluid Level & Condition: This is critical. The 8HP transmission has a specific procedure for checking fluid level (usually at a specific temperature). Look for dark, burnt-smelling fluid or metal particles.
  2. Scan for Codes (Even Without CEL): A professional scan tool can often pull 'pending' or 'history' codes from the TCM even if the check engine light isn't illuminated.
  3. Software Update: Inquire with a Dodge/Ram dealership if there are any available software updates or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to transmission shifting for your specific model year.
  4. Adaptive Learn Reset: Sometimes, resetting the transmission's adaptive learning values can help, but this should ideally be done by a professional.

When to See a Shop:

Given the complexity of modern automatic transmissions, it's highly recommended to have your Ram inspected by a qualified transmission specialist or a Dodge/Ram dealership. They have the necessary diagnostic tools to accurately check fluid levels, scan for specific transmission codes, and perform software updates. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe and costly transmission damage down the line.

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