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2022 Ram 1500 Rebel - Hard Shifts and Transmission Hesitation

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:26 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Ram 1500 Rebel

Hi everyone,

My 2022 Ram 1500 Rebel, with the 5.7L Hemi and the 8-speed automatic, has been acting strange lately. It has about 35,000 miles on it. I've noticed some really hard shifts, especially from 1st to 2nd gear, and sometimes it feels like there's a delay in engagement when I put it into drive or reverse.

Occasionally, it also feels like it's slipping briefly before catching a gear. There's no check engine light on, and I haven't pulled any codes, but this definitely doesn't feel right. It's still under warranty, but I want to have some idea of what might be going on before I take it in.

Has anyone experienced similar transmission issues with their newer Ram 8-speeds? What could be causing this kind of behavior?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:26 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer: Hard shifts, delayed engagement, and slipping sensations in your 2022 Ram 1500 Rebel's 8-speed automatic transmission, even without a Check Engine Light, are concerning symptoms that warrant immediate attention. Here are potential causes:

  1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid:

    • Cause: The 8HP75 transmission is a sealed unit, but fluid levels can still drop due due to small leaks, or the fluid can degrade over time and mileage, especially with heavy use. Low fluid can cause pressure issues, leading to hard shifts and hesitation. Contaminated fluid can also affect valve body operation. While there isn't a dipstick, a shop can check the level and condition.

  2. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software/Adaptations:

    • Cause: The TCM learns your driving style and adjusts shift points accordingly. Sometimes, these 'adaptations' can become corrupted, or a software glitch can cause erratic shifting. A software update or a 'quick learn' procedure (resetting adaptations) performed by a dealership can often resolve these issues.

  3. Valve Body Issues:

    • Cause: The valve body directs hydraulic fluid to engage clutches and bands. If solenoids within the valve body are sticking or failing, or if there's debris, it can lead to inconsistent fluid pressure and resulting shift problems.

  4. Mechatronic Unit Failure:

    • Cause: The mechatronic unit integrates the TCM and valve body. A failure here can manifest as various shifting problems. This is a more significant repair.

  5. Internal Transmission Wear:

    • Cause: While less likely at 35,000 miles, excessive wear on clutches, bands, or other internal components could cause slipping and harsh engagement. This would typically be accompanied by metallic debris in the transmission fluid.

When to See a Shop: Given that your truck is a 2022 model with 35,000 miles, it should still be under the factory powertrain warranty. Do not delay in taking it to a Ram dealership. Transmission issues can quickly worsen and become very expensive. Driving with these symptoms could lead to further damage. The dealership has specialized diagnostic tools to read transmission-specific fault codes (even if the CEL isn't on), check fluid levels correctly, and perform necessary software updates or repairs under warranty.

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