15 problems related to automatic transmission have been reported for the 1997 Dodge RAM. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While driving at 35-45 mph vehicle suddenly stopped accelerating. The vehicle felt as if it was in neutral. Transmission burned fluid, causing it to fail. A mechanic ant the transmission repair shop indicated that this was due to the coolant not circulating through the transmission when vehicle was idling in the park gear. Transmission needed to be rebuilt. Consumer was told by two different mechanics that rear wheel drive Chrysler vehicles if in park with the engine running, coolant doesn't circulate to the transmission. Consumer phoned Chrysler customer service and they advised her to contact NHTSA for a possible recall. Consumer learned of the trans coolant connect recall. Then she recalled that part being replaced prior to the failure. The fluid was checked before the vehicle was towed, and it was thick and brown as a result of being burnt. The consumer feels a fair resolution would be for Chrysler to reimburse her at least half the cost of the transmission repairs.
Transmission would have late or no shift into third gear causing engine to rev to high rpms not allowing the vehicle to go over 45 mph. Upon taking the vehicle for repairs the mechanic informed us that the manfacturer was aware of the problem, which was caused by an inner seal groove. Has there ever been a recall or has the manufacter offered any compensation for this defect?.
Manufacturer replaced part free of charge, however, I had to pay for 12 hours of labor. Having an obviously defective part in a three year old vehicle, should not warrant a penalty of payment by me.
While driving at 60 mph, transmission went out without any kind of warning. Truck was towed to the dealership. Transmission was replaced on Feb 4, 2000, it failed on the next day, Feb 5, 200o, with 46 miles. Please provide any further information.
Transmission light & the anti-brake system light keep coming on.
Slight jerkiness between 45 - 50 mph, less noticable jerkiness at higher speeds. Dealer stated that Dodge does not have an answer to the problem. The component has not failed, but it is very irritating to say the least. There was one occasion where I had 2 sudden jerks while traveling at 50 mph. The dealer where I have the vehicle serviced didn't have an answer. I am surprised that this has not been reported before. I know of a 1998 Ram 1500 that has the same problem.
Transmission will not downshift/ upshift, causing stalling or hesitation usually at an intersection. 4 repair attempts this year.
When driving at any speed an d without prior warning vehicle is stalling/grinding and jerking. Also, when there is alot of pressure within the vehicle, there is a very loud noise coming from the vehicle .
At speed above 50mph, transmission/engine surges up approximately 150 rpm. This generally occurs when load is placed on engine, as in going up a long shallow grade. Dealer says it is just the way the truck drives, but it is beyond that. The tranny is a four speed automatic, and limiting it to 3rd gear does not fix the problem. Help.
Transmission overdrive does not shift properly in cold temperatures.
Intermittently transmission hesitates and then will kick in. Dealer has inspected vehicle. Please provide further details.
While shifting from park into reverse vehicle will stall. Dealers did check vehicle and replaced various sensors, but problem remains. Owner is very concerned for his safety.
When driving consumer noticed vehicle was overheating/melting parts within the transmission. Consumer has contacted the dealer, dealer has replaced parts. Please provide any further details.
When driving at 55-60 mph consumer noticed loss of acceleration. Vehicle started to jerk. Consumer contacted the dealer, dealer linked the problem to the transmission. Please provide any further details.
Transmission problems.