2021 RAM 2500 power train problems
This is a safety-related system. If you notice symptoms, stop driving and have it inspected.
Related recalls
- 22V835000 · Power Train › Automatic Transmission
FCA US, LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Ram 2500 and 2020-2022 Ram 3500 vehicles. A build-up of pressure and heat inside the transmission may result in a transmission fluid leak from the dipstick tube.…
Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Confirm by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What owners report
“I am writing to formally follow up regarding complaint/case number 97989810 through Dodge and to request that this matter be elevated for a complete technical review concerning my 2021 Ram 2500 6.7L Cummins, VIN [XXX]. Time - Line PRIOR FACTORY-WARRANTY REPAIR The XXX factory-warranty repair is an important part of this vehicle's mechanical history. That repair involved the timing-cover/timing-gear-case area and front crankshaft seal. As part of that repair, the harmonic balancer/vibration dam…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 09/10/2026
“There is a known issue with the Ram Power Wagon locking differential system where the electronic locking differential wiring harness will fault one of three ways. The first being that the wiring harness is two short so when the rear axle articulates there isn't enough slack therefore causing the plug in the diff housing to fail. The second is that sensor inside the housing faults due to gear oil build up on the sensor. Finally the third if the locker wiring inside the housing wears out causes th…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 09/07/2026
“The 68RFE automatic transmission in this 2021 Ram 2500 6.7L Cummins fails to engage reverse when the transmission reaches operating temperature. When the gear selector is placed in reverse and the accelerator is applied, the engine revs but the truck does not move. The defect is intermittent and temperature-dependent, which means it cannot be predicted or avoided by the driver. The vehicle is used to tow an enclosed cargo trailer weighing approximately 7,000 pounds.The safety risk: inability to …”
NHTSA complaint · filed 04/28/2026
“The lifters failed at 64,000 miles they where replaced under warranty. but now the lifters are making noise again with 71,000 miles since replaced. it’s a bad design that could be fixed permanently with the right parts! No warning lights just failure.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 01/04/2026
“I am reporting a serious safety issue with my 2021 Ram 2500 (VIN: [XXX] ). The truck has experienced three separate transmission failures within a few months. Each time the transmission was replaced, the vehicle failed again shortly afterward. At one point, the dealership returned the truck to me without transmission fluid, causing additional internal damage and creating an extreme safety risk. I have also had steering issues since the truck was new, which continue today despite multiple servic…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 12/04/2025
“Been driving over 2 months and zero issues. On a Thursday headed to store and transmission would not get out of first gear.made it to a shop 1.5 miles away and they said transmission was gone.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 06/22/2025
“The contact owns a 2021 Ram 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V835000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.”
NHTSA complaint · filed 06/07/2024
“I have attempted to get 2 recalls that require parts completed at my local Ram dealer who has called me both times saying that the parts were in, and they were ready to schedule the appointment to complete the recalls. The first appointment was on September 25th, 2023, and when the vehicle was checked in, I was informed they had no parts to complete 2 of the 3 recalls that existed at that time. They completed the recall that required no parts and said I was put back on the list for the ones that…”
NHTSA complaint · filed 12/11/2023
Unverified owner reports from NHTSA's public complaint database.
Check the one you're looking at
A free VIN report shows recalls that may apply, the 5-year cost, and whether it fits your budget. Then ask our AI about this exact problem.
- How common are 2021 RAM 2500 power train problems?
- 25 owners reported power train issues to NHTSA for the 2021 RAM 2500, 1 involving a crash. Counts scale with how many were sold.
- Is there a recall for 2021 RAM 2500 power train problems?
- Yes — campaign 22V835000. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers; confirm by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.