2013–2018 Ram 1500 Transmission Repair in Glendale, AZ (845RE / 8HP70 / 65RFE)

Sun West Transmissions — Glendale, AZ. Free estimates on eight-speed and six-speed Ram 1500s, plus a 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty on qualifying transmission rebuilds and replacements.

The 2013 model year brought an eight-speed automatic to the Ram 1500, and it became the transmission most of these trucks carry. Paired with the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 5.7L Hemi or the 3.0L EcoDiesel, these pickups tow and haul across the West Valley in triple-digit heat. Some Hemi trucks, especially early ones, were built with a six-speed instead, so the first step is knowing which transmission is under your truck. Sun West Transmissions in Glendale tests before recommending anything and explains every option for your 2013-2018 Ram 1500 transmission.

Which Transmission Is in Your 2013–2018 Ram 1500?

The engine is the best starting point, though the 5.7L Hemi was offered with two different automatics during these years:

Engine	Transmission	Speeds	Notes
3.6L Pentastar V6	845RE	8	Built on ZF’s 8HP45 design
5.7L Hemi V8	8HP70	8	Most Hemi trucks in these years
5.7L Hemi V8 (some trucks, especially early ones)	65RFE	6	Six-speed; ATF+4 fluid
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (2014–2018)	8HP70	8	EcoDiesel arrived for 2014

Your VIN tells us the engine and factory transmission, and the ID tag on the case confirms it. Eight-speed trucks generally use a rotary shift dial on the dash, which is a quick clue. Call (623) 473-9800 and we will look it up.

Common Transmission Problems in 2013–2018 Ram 1500s

845RE behind the 3.6L V6

Common complaints include harsh or delayed shifts, clunks during low-speed shifts and occasional flare between gears. Software updates and an adaptive relearn help some trucks; others have worn clutches or valve body problems that need a teardown. Fluid seepage at the pan or connector seals is also worth checking, because a low fluid level can quickly turn a minor leak into a major repair. See our 845RE rebuild and Ram 1500 8-speed problems pages.

8HP70 behind the Hemi and EcoDiesel

The heavier-duty eight-speed handles more torque, yet owners report many of the same symptoms: rough or abrupt shifts, delayed engagement and a truck that drops into a limited-gear mode after a fault. Frequent towing in the heat speeds up wear on the clutches and fluid. Because the EcoDiesel makes strong low-end torque, those trucks deserve extra attention to fluid condition and cooling. Our diesel transmission repair page covers EcoDiesel service.

65RFE in some 5.7L Hemi trucks

The six-speed RFE unit can overheat under hard towing, develop solenoid pack problems and wear its clutches. When it detects a serious fault, it may go into limp mode and hold a single gear to protect itself. Learn more on our 65RFE rebuild page.

Warning Signs in a Ram 1500

• Harsh, delayed or clunky shifts
• A jolt when shifting into Drive or Reverse
• Slipping or RPM flare under acceleration
• A truck stuck in one gear or in limp mode
• Transmission warning messages or a check engine light
• Leaks under the truck or burnt-smelling fluid

If your Ram is stuck in one gear, avoid towing and limit driving until it is diagnosed. Many eight-speed complaints start small, and early testing can separate a software or sensor issue from internal damage.

2013–2018 Ram 1500 Transmission Prices

Your final cost depends on our findings. Current Sun West prices for these transmissions are on our price page:

Or call (623) 473-9800 for a free quote, and ask about financing.

Rebuild, Remanufactured or Used?

Sun West offers three ways to fix a failed Ram 1500 transmission:

• Rebuild: we overhaul your transmission with new wear parts and correct the problems we find inside.
• Remanufactured: a complete, already-rebuilt replacement that can reduce downtime.
• Used: a lower-cost option for higher-mileage trucks.

Qualifying rebuilds and replacements carry our 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty with no deductible on covered repairs, honored at our Glendale shop. We will compare the options for your truck side by side.

After Installation

Eight-speed Rams in particular rely on software and learned shift data. After installation we:

• Program or update the transmission control module as needed and complete the adaptive relearn
• Flush the cooler and lines, or replace the cooler if debris may be trapped inside
• Fill with the correct fluid: ATF+4 for the 65RFE, and the fluid specified for your eight-speed
• Road test the truck and recheck shift quality, codes and leaks

Arizona Heat and Towing Tips for Your Ram 1500

A half-ton Ram pulling a camper up the grades toward Prescott or Flagstaff sees serious transmission heat. To help it last:

• Use Tow/Haul mode with a trailer, and if your truck has steering-wheel gear buttons, use them to hold a lower gear on long grades
• Service the fluid sooner if you tow often, idle in traffic or drive mostly short trips; see our transmission fluid change page
• Keep the radiator and transmission cooler clean
• Stay within the towing rating for your engine, axle ratio and cab

For more, read how Arizona heat affects your transmission and towing and your transmission.

2013-2018 Ram 1500 Transmission FAQ

How do I know if my Ram 1500 has the 845RE or the 8HP70?

In most trucks it follows the engine: the 3.6L V6 uses the 845RE, while the Hemi and EcoDiesel use the 8HP70. Some Hemi trucks have the six-speed 65RFE instead. We confirm by VIN.

Can a software update fix harsh eight-speed shifts?

Sometimes. Updated software and an adaptive relearn help some trucks. If clutches or the valve body are worn, a repair or rebuild is the real fix.

Do you work on Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks too?

Yes. See our Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 transmission repair pages for heavy-duty models.