A stock 68RFE behind a stock 6.7 Cummins, serviced regularly and towing within the truck’s rating, commonly lasts well over 100,000 miles, and many go much further. Its life drops sharply with added power, very heavy towing and overheating, which is where most of its reputation for failures comes from. A built 68RFE with stronger clutches and a heavy-duty converter is the usual answer for trucks that work hard or make more power.
Is the 68RFE that bad?
Not in unmodified trucks used within their ratings. Problems cluster in trucks with added power, frequent heavy towing or neglected fluid. Known issues include overheating, worn clutches, torque converter problems and valve body faults; see 68RFE problems.
How to make a 68RFE last
- Service the fluid and filters more often if you tow; use ATF+4.
- Use tow/haul mode and watch transmission temperature on long grades; see tow/haul mode.
- Keep the transmission cooler clean and the cooling system healthy; see transmission overheating.
- Do not add power without upgrading the transmission to match.
- Fix shift and solenoid codes promptly rather than driving on them; see transmission solenoid pack.
Signs it is wearing out
- Slipping or flaring between gears; see transmission slipping.
- Delayed engagement into drive or reverse.
- Harsh shifts that adaptive relearn does not cure.
- Dark, burnt fluid or heavy debris in the pan; see what the metal on the pan magnet means.
Checking a used Ram with a 68RFE
Ask how the truck was used and whether the engine has been modified, check the fluid condition, and scan for transmission codes. On a test drive, watch for flare on upshifts, harsh downshifts and delayed engagement, and check the transmission temperature reading after a long climb if the truck displays it. Records of regular fluid service are a good sign.
Stock vs built 68RFE
A stock unit is fine for a stock truck within its rating. A built unit with upgraded clutch packs, a stronger converter and valve body improvements suits heavy towing and modified engines. That is why replacement 68RFE units are offered in different build levels.
Alternatives on Ram trucks
High-output 3500 trucks offered the Aisin AS69RC; see 68RFE vs Aisin and 68RFE vs Allison 1000.
Replacement units we list
- RoadReady Dodge 68RFE: $4,299.00
- StreetMonster Dodge 68RFE: $4,899.00
- SportMonster Dodge 68RFE: $7,194.95
Each includes a torque converter. See 68RFE transmissions and how long a Cummins lasts.
More guides: how long an Allison 1000 lasts · how long a 48RE lasts.
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