There is no defensible published ranking showing which 68RFE failures are most common. The five categories below are documented diagnostic concerns, not a statistical top five. A trouble code or symptom is a clue, not a diagnosis: model year, build date, calibration, other codes, fluid and pan condition, and test results all affect the repair path.
1. Harsh, erratic, or delayed shifts
Drivers may report harsh shifts, erratic shift timing, delayed engagement, or a clunk while slowing down. These complaints can involve control or hydraulic conditions, but the symptom alone does not identify a failed part.
There is a narrowly applicable software example: FCA bulletin 18-027-16 Rev. B, dated May 21, 2016, lists “68RFE Transmission Overall Shift Quality Improvements” for specified 2016 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with a 6.7L Cummins, built on or before April 6, 2016, in NAFTA. For an equipped 68RFE, the bulletin includes a transmission Quicklearn after reprogramming. Check applicability by VIN and current manufacturer service information; this bulletin does not establish software as the cause of every shift complaint. FCA bulletin 18-027-16 Rev. B
2. Pressure-control codes, including P0870 and P0868
A pressure-related code does not automatically prove that the solenoid, pressure sensor, or valve body has failed. In a Chrysler StarParts technical tip, the manufacturer says that when a 68RFE (sales code DG7) sets only P0870, technicians should refrain from replacing the solenoid, pressure sensor, transmission, or valve body because a calibration issue is pending resolution. The instruction is to reset the code and contact STAR if it returns. This guidance is specific to the code-only scenario described; it is not a rule for every P0870 occurrence or model year. Chrysler StarParts P0870 tech tip
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FCA bulletin 18-027-16 Rev. B also lists P0868, “Line Pressure Low,” as a 68RFE-only DTC within its specified 2016 application. The bulletin directs technicians to use wiTECH and applicable TechCONNECT diagnostic procedures. P0868 should be investigated in the truck’s full diagnostic context rather than treated as proof of one failed component. FCA bulletin 18-027-16 Rev. B
3. Slipping or incorrect gear-ratio codes
A complaint such as “68RFE slipping” or a P0734 4th gear ratio incorrect code can have multiple causes. An archived 2008 68RFE P0734 service procedure calls for checks that include excessive debris; a plugged, cracked, or misinstalled primary filter or seal; a missing check ball; accumulator pistons, seals, and bleed orifices; solenoid-switch-valve components; clutch piston seals; reaction shaft support seal rings; pump surfaces; and a sticking main regulator valve.
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The procedure describes inspecting the pan, air-checking hydraulic circuits, repairing any identified causes, and then performing a verification test. This is not a DIY teardown checklist: internal inspection and hydraulic air checks require suitable tools, expertise, and service information. A basic code readout cannot establish internal clutch condition. The archived procedure should be checked against current OEM information for the truck’s VIN. 2008 P0734 diagnostic procedure
4. Torque-converter and TCC symptoms
Torque-converter clutch (TCC) concerns may present as no lockup, TCC slip, harsh apply or release, repeated converter damage, or overheating. Sonnax’s valve-body application chart associates 68RFE products with these symptoms, but it is a parts-maker application chart—not an independent failure-rate study or a diagnosis of a specific truck. It distinguishes parts by configuration and model-year limits, including entries marked 2018-earlier and 2019-later. Sonnax 68RFE valve-body application chart
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Before selecting a repair, a technician needs to consider the exact model year and valve-body configuration, diagnostic codes and event data, cooler-flow or pressure findings, pan debris, and evidence of clutch or converter damage. A symptom by itself is not enough to choose a valve-body kit or other part.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.5. High transmission temperature and low line pressure
A 68RFE transmission high temperature warning or code calls for finding the underlying cause, not assuming one particular modification will fix it. FCA bulletin 18-027-16 Rev. B lists P0218, “Transmission High Temperature Operation Activated,” and P0868, “Line Pressure Low,” as 68RFE-only DTCs for its specified 2016 application. The bulletin covers 2016 Ram 2500/3500 pickups with a 6.7L Cummins in NAFTA, built on or before April 6, 2016; its procedure includes ECM/PCM software reprogramming and a Quicklearn for 68RFE-equipped vehicles. Confirm applicability by VIN and current manufacturer service information. FCA bulletin 18-027-16 Rev. B
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An archived 2007 service procedure for P0218 says to repair the cause of overheating and check for applicable service bulletins. Sonnax lists thermal bypass eliminator kits, but a product listing alone does not establish that removing or altering a bypass is appropriate for a particular truck. 2007 P0218 diagnostic procedure · Sonnax 68RFE valve-body application chart
Quick Recap
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- FITMENT CHECK: Fits select Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram models with 45RFE/545RFE/65RFE/66RFE/68RFE transmissions; OE 5013470AC; verify OE
- OE NUMBER CHECK: Cross-reference 5013470AC; match the original part number and complete part configuration before ordering
- CONFIGURATION CHECK: Match the transmission or system type, OE number, filter shape, inlet position and included seals
- INSTALLATION NOTE: Follow the vehicle service procedure and fluid specification; clean the pan and verify all seals during installation
- BEFORE INSTALLATION: Compare the received part with the original before installation, painting or programming; do not proceed if any connection, position or dimension differs
What to check before choosing a repair
- Record the truck’s model year, build date, engine, VIN, and all stored codes—not just the code that first appeared.
- Note when the symptom occurs, such as during a particular shift, coastdown, converter lockup, or when the transmission is hot.
- Have fluid condition and pan debris assessed, along with relevant pressure, cooler-flow, and electronic data.
- For a repair involving internal components, use current VIN-specific service procedures and test results to guide the decision. A consumer scan tool may retrieve codes, but FCA’s bulletin specifies wiTECH and model-specific procedures; verify enhanced transmission-data and service-function coverage for the exact truck before buying a tool.
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