Dodge Ram Gear Selector Problems – Fixing Tips
Your Dodge Ram must be important for your everyday work, loading, unloading, towing, and whatnot. But what if suddenly the Dodge Ram gear selector starts acting up? All your duties will be put on hold because driving with a problematic gear selector is unsafe.
The common gear selector problems in your Dodge Ram include trouble in shifting gears, gear stuck in park mode, malfunctioning gear indicator, and issues with the gear limit function. However, these problems can be prevented by regular maintenance checkups of your gear selector, keeping the fluid levels up to mark, and keeping the battery healthy. On the other hand, if the problems are already starting to bother you, replacing the faulty components is usually a problem-solver.
Overview of Gear Selector Mechanism in Dodge Ram
The Dodge Ram 1500 offers a four wheel drive (4WD) system with features such as “4 High” and “4 Low” for better traction and control in various driving conditions, especially off-road or in challenging terrain. Additionally, it also includes a two-wheel-drive (2WD) system. In vehicles equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD), the phrase “two-wheel drive” (2WD) refers to a layout in which power is solely directed to either the front or rear wheels. However, the Dodge Ram 1500 is normally rear-wheel-drive.
The gear selector plays a crucial role in vehicle performance. It is important for transmission control. The driver can change between several gears, including Drive, Park, Reverse, Neutral, and other modes like Low or Overdrive, using the gear selector. The right gear must be chosen for the engine to run as efficiently and effectively as possible. Two-wheel drive (2WD), Four-Wheel Drive High (4WD High), and Four-Wheel NeutralDrive Low (4WD Low) modes adjust the distribution of power to the wheels based on driving conditions, providing better traction and control in various situations.
You can put the gear selector into the 4WD high position to activate four-wheel drive for additional grip on slippery roadways such as snow, mud, or loose gravel. This helps to increase traction without significantly reducing fuel efficiency by distributing power evenly to all four wheels. 4WD High is appropriate for faster driving conditions, such as highway driving, where additional traction is required.
For particularly difficult terrain or steep inclines, 4WD low offers the highest amount of torque and traction. This mode increases the engine’s torque output and reduces vehicle speed. It is mostly used for off-roading or harsh circumstances and is not intended for high-speed driving.
6 Common Dodge Ram Gear Selector Problems
1. Gear Selector Not Working
When the gear selector in your Dodge Ram is not working, you will face trouble when you try to shift gears. This can be rather dangerous when driving as gears are needed for the proper running of the vehicle.
If the gear selector is malfunctioning, you will notice resistance when you attempt to shift the gear as the gear will be stiff. Sometimes the gear may automatically shift from the entered gear to another one without you even touching it. It is also possible that the gear is stuck in position and doesn’t move. One more symptom of a faulty gear selector is strange noises arising from the gear when you shift it.
A broken shift cable can be behind the gear selector not working. An issue in the transmission control module can also cause this problem.
The solution to this problem is to diagnose the issue, and replace the faulty component, be it the defective shift cable or the transmission system. Sometimes, the entire transmission control module doesn’t need replacement, instead, a part within the system can be faulty, and only that can be repaired or replaced, being less heavy on your pocket.
2. Problems with Gear Selector Indicator
Drivers of Dodge Ram vehicles may experience issues regarding the shift indicator. When this happens, the display can say “Drive” when it should be saying “.”This may lead to confusion and complicate the process of figuring out what real gear the vehicle is in.
The chosen gear is not what the gear indicator on the display indicates.
A malfunctioning sensor, a broken display, or a wiring problem might be the source of problems with the gear selector indicator.
You must replace a broken sensor, inspect the electrical connections, or adjust the display settings to resolve this problem.
3. Issues with Gear Limit Function
The transmission’s capacity to shift into the full range of gears, including overdrive and low gear, may be limited by a defective gear limit in your Ram 1500. Depending on the driving circumstances, this restriction may have an impact on the vehicle’s towing capability, acceleration, and fuel economy.
The main symptom of an issue with the gear limit function is the gear may get stuck and fail to shift to other options. It is also possible that the gear suddenly shifts to another unintended gear choice. Rough shifting, resistance when gear shifting, and slipping may be observed as well.
A problem with the gear limit sensors and glitches in the software can cause issues in the gear limit function. If the transmission fluid is low or the electronic control unit is faulty, this too can cause the gear limit to malfunction.
The solution to issues in the gear limit function is to first diagnose the problem, such as low transmission fluid or fault in the sensors, and then fix it. Refill if the transmission fluid levels have fallen, and replace the faulty sensors. Also, check the wiring for any physical defects and replace them if they are broken.
4. Locked in Park Mode
When the driver is not able to shift the gear from park mode to any other mode, there is a fault in the Dodge Ram gear selector. The park position is the neutral gear, and the normal vehicle running is halted due to this lock in a particular position. You will not be able to move your vehicle at all.
The major symptom of the Dodge Ram getting stuck in an immobile mode is that you won’t be able to shift the gear. The gear will show immense resistance and you may end up breaking it if you try to shift it with force.
A broken Park/Neutral safety device, a defective shift interlock system, and issues in the transmission can all cause the vehicle to get locked in park mode.
To solve this issue, the park/neutral safety switch needs to be replaced if it is faulty, and the same goes for a malfunctioning shift interlock system. If the problem is in the transmission then it needs to be diagnosed and then fixed by a professional. However, if the transmission control module is slightly glitching, a software update may solve the underlying problems and you may be spared from replacing the entire transmission system.
5. Loose Gear Selector
The driver inside the Ram 1500 cabin shifts the gear to an intended level but the problem with a loose gear selector is that it becomes free and shifts to an unwanted gear.
The symptom of loose gears is the vehicle abruptly slipping out of the current gear or bouncing between gears with the driver’s involvement.
Loose or defective shifter cables cause a loose gear selector. The bolts become unsecured due to vibrations which lead to cables to unbound. It is easy for the shifter cable to twist, strain, wear out, or rip which may wreck the wire. Moreover, the torque converter in a Dodge Ram with an electronic gearbox consists of a cylinder, motor, and generator. When these parts fail, the gearbox may “slide” when you switch gears.
First, you should check the nuts and bolts and fasten them securely so that they do not cause loose wiring. Secondly, check the wires to see if they are broken so that you replace any defective ones. Also, get a professional to check complex gearbox components and replace any faulty parts.
6. Unpredictable or Challenging Gear Shifting
The gear-shifting mechanism is necessary for the smooth running of the Dodge vehicle. If there is unpredictable gear shifting in your Dodge Ram, it can be dangerous if you are driving at high speed and the gear makes the vehicle haphazardly slow down. The same goes for when it is difficult to shift gears because you won’t be able to drive at different speeds.
The symptoms of this problem include sudden shift in gear or resistance when you are trying to shift the gear.
These issues occur when the clutch plate malfunctions, the wires are defective, or the gears are worn out. A decrease in the transmission fluid, or issues in the transmission fluid can cause the the gear to act out of place.
Check every part of the Dodge Ram gear system including the wires, clutch plate, and transmission control system to diagnose to exact issue in the gearbox system. Replace the faulty components and refill the transmission fluid if its levels have decreased. Tighten the bolts if any part is loosened so that the Dodge Ram gear selector works properly.
What maintenance tips can help prevent gear selector problems in the future?
The prevention of gear selector problems is necessary for the seamless working of your Dodge Ram. Let’s have a look at some preventive measures and maintenance tips.
- Apply the Parking Brake: When parking your Dodge Ram, specifically on a steep pathway, be sure you apply the parking brake. By doing this, the gear selector mechanism is not as stressed and is less likely to become locked in Park mode.
- Operate the Gear Selector with Caution: It is crucial to cautiously move the gear selector because too much stress or rough handling can cause the gear insides to fall apart. When you go from drive to reverse, or the other way around, ensure that you shift the gear completely. By doing this, you can lessen the strain on the gear selector system and safeguard your transmission system.
- Keep Your Battery in Good Condition: Electrical problems might arise from a weak or dead battery, which could harm the gear selector mechanism. Make sure to disinfect the terminals of your battery on a routine basis and substitute it if needed.
- Keep a Check Load Levels: Every vehicle has a load capacity, and the same goes for your Dodge Ram. Do not cross that capacity because excess pressure and load on the vehicle can directly impact the gear selector which starts to malfunction.
- Monitor the Fluid Levels: The transmission fluid plays a crucial role in maintaining the gear selector. It is necessary to monitor fluid levels so that you may refill it as soon as it falls low. Secondly, if you notice fluid contamination or a smell of burning arising from the fluid, it indicates the need for fluid replacement.
How to Turn Off Gear Limit in Ram 1500
The Dodge Ram has many gear levels but the gear limit in the Ram 1500 puts a restriction on how high you shift the transmission. This allows the speed to stay in control when carrying heavy loads or towing. It works by the mechanism of ERS (Electronic Range Select) operation.
ERS System: With the gearbox in DRIVE with no ERS mode engaged, the driver can restrict to the top gear if paired with the ERS shift mechanism. The gearbox will maintain the gear while refusing to move above it, for instance, if you set the gear limit to fourth. It will, however, shift between the lower gears as usual.
So, how to turn off the gear limit in Ram 1500?
Well to turn it off, first you need to know how to turn it on. Let’s view it step by step.
- Press and hold the “-” key on the controls to put your car in ERS mode and reduce speed.
- The dashboard ought to indicate the exact gear position the transmission is in.
- To get the transmission activated in the top gear, press the“+” and“-“ keys.
- Holding down the “+” button will cause the gear limit sign to vanish from the display, allowing you to go back to Automative Drive mode and leave ERS mode.
At any speed, you may change the mode of your car from DRIVE to ERS. Moreover, when you are in DRIVE mode, the gear system will run automatically.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the gear selector in Dodge Ram 1500 works in either 4WD high, low, and auto, or 2WD, and problems such as issues in gear shifting, gear indicator, and gear limit can occur in it. You can replace the faulty components such as the wiring, gearbox, or transmission system to fix these problems. Also, fix any loose bolts and wires if they are the cause of gear selector problems. To prevent these issues, maintain your gear selector by keeping the transmission fluid levels in check, gently using the gear, keeping the battery healthy, and avoiding excess strain on the Dodge vehicle.
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Faqs:
Is it safe to drive my Dodge Ram if the gear indicator isn’t working correctly?
It is unsafe to drive the Dodge Ram if the gear indicator isn’t working correctly, especially in the dark because you won’t be able to see the gear lever’s position. Secondly, some safety features such as park/neutral safety switches rely on accurate gear indication to function properly. The gear indicator also helps diagnose transmission issues so considering all these points your safety will be compromised if you drive with a malfunctioning gear indicator.
How much does it typically cost to fix a gear selector problem in a Dodge Ram?
To fix a gear selector problem, the professional typically charges around $100-$200, and around $200 more for gear selector parts that need to be replaced.
Can I fix the gear selector issue myself, or should I seek professional help?
Even though you might think you can fix the gear selector issue yourself, seeking professional help is advised. This is because some underlying gear selector issues can be grave and only fixed by a professional. However, if there are some basic problems such as loose bolts and wires, you can easily fix them yourself.
My Dodge Ram gear selector is completely dead, what should I do?
If your Dodge Ram gear selector is completely dead, first diagnose the problem that caused it using testing mechanisms and physical inspection. Next, secure the loose bolts, and replace the faulty components, especially the battery or wires that are the source of the dead gear selector. Also, check the transmission fluid and refill it if its level is less.
My Dodge Ram gears feel clunky when shifting, what can I do?
If the Dodge Ram gear feels clunky when shifting, there is an issue in the gear selector caused either by a faulty transmission system, loose wires, or a broken shift cable. You can fix this issue by replacing the defective component and securing the loose wires tightly.
My Dodge Ram won’t shift out of the Park, what’s wrong?
If your Dodge Ram won’t shift out of Park mode, it is stuck due to a problem with the gear selector. To resolve this problem, you can either replace the shift interlock system or the park/neutral safety switch if they are broken. If the transmission is the issue, a professional diagnosis and repair are required. A software update, on the other hand, could be able to address any underlying issues with the transmission control module and save you from having to replace the entire transmission system.
