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Rough Shifting & Hesitation on 2017 Ram 1500 8-Speed

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Jason D. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:33 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn

Hi everyone, I'm experiencing some concerning transmission behavior with my 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn, which has the 8-speed automatic transmission. It's got about 70,000 miles on it.

Lately, I've noticed rough shifts, particularly from 1st to 2nd and sometimes 2nd to 3rd, especially when the truck is cold or under light acceleration. There's also a slight hesitation or 'clunk' feeling when downshifting at low speeds, like coming to a stop.

I've heard these 8-speeds are usually pretty smooth, so this has me a bit worried. Has anyone else had similar issues with their 2016-2018 Ram 1500? What was the fix? Could it be a software update, or something more serious?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:33 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic transmission in your 2017 Ram 1500 is generally robust, but rough shifting and hesitation can occur due to several factors. It's important to address these to prevent further issues.

Common Causes & Diagnostics:

  1. Adaptive Learning: These transmissions have adaptive learning capabilities. Sometimes, aggressive driving habits or a battery disconnect can cause the transmission to 'forget' its learned shift points, leading to rough shifts. A transmission re-learn procedure can sometimes resolve this.
    • Diagnostics: No specific codes, but a dealer can perform a 'quick learn' or reset adaptive values.
  2. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Even though the fluid is considered 'lifetime,' low fluid levels or degraded fluid can cause shifting issues. A leak or internal wear can lead to low fluid.
    • Diagnostics: Check fluid level (requires specific procedure and temperature) and condition. Look for leaks around the pan or lines. Codes like P0740 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction) or P0731 (Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio) might appear if fluid is severely low or contaminated.
  3. Valve Body Issues: The valve body controls fluid flow to engage clutches and bands. Solenoid failures or internal wear within the valve body can lead to erratic shifting.
    • Diagnostics: Specific solenoid codes (e.g., P0750 - Shift Solenoid A Malfunction) can point to valve body problems.
  4. Software Updates: Manufacturers often release software updates to refine shift logic, address known issues, and improve overall transmission performance. Your truck might be due for an update.

When to See a Shop:

  • If the rough shifting is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by a check engine light, it's best to have a qualified transmission specialist or Ram dealership inspect it. They can perform a diagnostic scan for transmission-specific trouble codes, check fluid levels and condition properly, and determine if a software update or more in-depth repair (like a valve body replacement) is necessary. Early intervention can prevent more extensive and costly transmission damage.
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