What's wrong with my Ram 3500 transmission? Flare shifts, failure, or no reverse

Short answer: A flare between gears on a Ram 3500 usually needs a scan tool first: codes, shift adaptations and any software update, plus a check of the fluid. If the truck won't go in reverse or 4-low but drives forward, look at the transfer case before the transmission. One 6.7 diesel owner paid $5,000 after a failure at 75,000 miles. Run the VIN for the recalls below.

Symptom: The engine revs up between gears (a flare), shifts harshly, slips, or the truck won't move in reverse or in 4-low.

What to check first

1. Run your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the transmission and transfer case recalls.
2. Have the codes read with a scan tool that can see transmission data, not just the engine.
3. Check the fluid level and condition. Dark or burnt-smelling fluid is a warning sign.
4. If it won't go in reverse, check whether it moves in reverse in 2WD vs 4WD to separate the transfer case from the transmission.
5. Note when it happens: cold, hot, loaded or towing.

Likely causes

1. Transmission needs a scan-tool check or software relearn. These are electronically controlled transmissions. A flare shift is when the engine revs up between gears before the next gear grabs. A dealer-level scan tool can read codes, check shift adaptations and update software.
2. Old or low transmission fluid. Worn fluid can cause slipping and flares, especially when towing.
3. Internal transmission failure. Clutches or hard parts inside wear out, especially behind the high-torque diesel.
4. Broken transfer case. The transfer case sends power to the front wheels on 4x4 trucks. If it breaks, the truck may still drive forward in 2WD but not move in reverse or in 4-low.

What it usually costs

One 6.7 diesel owner paid $5,000 for a transmission repair at 75,000 miles. Owners didn't post prices for scans or fluid service.

Is it safe to keep driving?

A transmission that slips or loses drive can leave you stuck or lose power in traffic. Don't tow with it until it's checked. A truck that can't go in reverse is hard to drive safely.

DIY or shop?

Checking fluid is DIY. Scans, software, fluid service and internal repairs are shop work.

Recalls, bulletins and complaints in plain words

• Related recalls: NHTSA lists several drivetrain recalls on these trucks: 13V344000 (some 2012 Ram 3500: a loose snap ring inside the transmission can cut power to the wheels), 16V495000 (some 2016 Ram 3500: transfer case output shaft may fracture), and 17V821000 / 18V100000 (column-shift trucks: the brake-shift interlock pin can stick, letting the shifter move out of park without the brake). Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If your car is part of a recall, the dealer fixes it for free.
• Plain words: The complaint count below shows how often owners reported problems that mention these words to NHTSA. A count is not proof of a defect.
• NHTSA complaints: 105 keyword-matched complaints for Ram 3500 2011–2018 (of 1712 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-30; keywords: transmission, shift, reverse, transfer case, gear). This counts complaints that mention these words. It is not a defect finding.

What owners report

• In 2016 RAM 3500 - Trans issues on Car Talk, a 2016 Ram 3500 owner reported a flare shift from 3rd to 4th gear on the AS69RC transmission. Members said it's electronically controlled and likely needs a dealer-level scan tool, and asked whether the fluid had ever been changed.
• In 2016 RAM 3500 - Transmission no good. Beware on Car Talk, a 2016 Ram 3500 with the 6.7 diesel had its transmission fail at 75,000 miles, out of warranty, and the owner said it cost $5,000 to fix.
• In 2011 Dodge Ram 3500 won't go in reverse on Car Talk, a 2011 Ram 3500 would go forward in drive but wouldn't move in reverse or in 4-low. A member said that points to a broken transfer case.

Quick tip

Before anyone quotes a rebuild, get the scan and the fluid checked, and check the transfer case if reverse is the problem. And service the fluid if you tow; most of these trucks work hard.

Vehicle focus: Ram 3500 pickups and cab chassis, 2011-2018, gas and 6.7 diesel.

Safety / mechanic note

Transmission and drivetrain faults are safety items. Verify with a mechanic.