The 68RFE is the six-speed automatic Ram has paired with the 6.7L Cummins in 2500 and 3500 pickups since the 2007.5 model year. The most commonly reported 68RFE problems are overheating when towing, limp mode from solenoid pack and pressure switch faults, torque converter shudder and, on some earlier units, input shaft failures behind modified engines. Many issues start with heat or fluid, so check those first.
Common 68RFE problems
Overheating when towing
Heavy towing, mountain grades and added power push fluid temperature up. A thermal bypass valve in the cooler circuit decides when fluid flows through the cooler; if it sticks, fluid can bypass the cooler and run hot. Watch fluid temperature on long climbs and see transmission fluid temperature and transmission cooler.
Limp mode in second gear
Like other RFE transmissions, the 68RFE typically defaults to second gear when it detects a fault. Solenoid pack and pressure switch problems are frequent causes, often with codes such as P0841, P0846, P0868 or P0750. See limp mode.
Solenoid pack failures
The solenoids and pressure switches sit together in an assembly on the valve body. Failures cause harsh or flared shifts, missing gears and limp mode; see transmission solenoid symptoms.
Torque converter shudder
Shudder at steady speeds and converter lockup complaints are common on hard-working trucks; see torque converter shudder and P0741.
Input shaft and internal failures
Input shaft failures have been reported on some earlier 68RFE units, especially behind engines with added power. Slipping between gears and ratio codes (P0730) point to internal wear.
68RFE problems and fixes
| Symptom | Check first |
|---|---|
| Stuck in second, warning light | Codes, fluid level, solenoid pack connector and wiring |
| Hot fluid when towing | Fluid level and condition, cooler flow, thermal bypass valve |
| Shudder at cruise | Fluid condition, converter lockup data |
| Harsh shifts after a repair | Run the quick learn procedure with a scan tool |
| Slipping, burnt fluid, debris | Internal wear: rebuild or replace |
Fluid matters
Chrysler specifies ATF+4 for the 68RFE. Check the level hot, following the dipstick procedure for your truck; both low and overfilled fluid cause problems. See how to check transmission fluid and transmission fluid color.
Repair or replace a 68RFE?
Solenoid packs, sensors and cooler parts are repairs. Internal damage means a rebuild or replacement; see transmission rebuild vs replacement. Our RoadReady 68RFE is $4,299.00 and the towing-oriented StreetMonster 68RFE is $4,899.00, both with a torque converter; compare every version on our 68RFE transmissions page and read 68RFE vs Aisin if you tow near the limit.
More guides: solenoid pack symptoms and testing · 48RE vs 68RFE · 545RFE problems · 68RFE vs Allison 1000 · 66RFE vs 68RFE · 545RFE vs 68RFE · how long a 68RFE lasts.
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