2016 Ram 1500 Transmission Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are transmission problems on the 2016 Ram 1500?
202 owners have reported transmission problems on the 2016 Ram 1500, 13% of all complaints for this year and the 5th most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 11,000–56,000 miles. 4 recalls cover this area.
202 complaints 13% of all 2016 complaints 32,000 miles typical
Which parts fail
The specific part named in each complaint.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (143 of 202). The amber line is the middle value.
When problems were reported
Transmission complaints by the year the problem happened.
Transmission complaints by 1500 year
Related recalls
Column shift
Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition. Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge.
Recall 17V821000 · Dec 2017Differential unit
Can stallThe differential pin retaining screw may come loose while driving, potentially causing the differential to break or lock up. A broken or locked up differential may result in a loss of motive power and possibly a loss of vehicle control. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the differential retaining pin, free of charge.
Recall 17V198000 · Mar 2017Front halfshafts may break without warning
Crash riskThe front halfshafts may have been made incorrectly, so they can fracture suddenly while driving. A broken halfshaft can damage underbody parts and leave road debris, which raises the risk of a crash.
Fix: The dealer will replace both front halfshafts at no cost to you.
Recall 16V301000 · May 2016Rear axle may break, wheel can separate
Crash riskSome rear axle shafts may not have been heat treated correctly, so they can fracture. If that happens, a wheel can separate from the vehicle and raise the risk of a crash.
Fix: The dealer will inspect the vehicle and replace the rear axle assembly if needed, free of charge.
Recall 15V661000 · Oct 2015Get an email when your 2016 Ram 1500 gets a new recall
We check NHTSA every month. If a new recall or safety investigation covers the 2016 Ram 1500, you'll hear about it the same week.
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Other 2016 Ram 1500 problems
Common questions
What are common 2016 Ram 1500 transmission problems?
Complaints most often name the control module (TCM / PCM / TECM).
At what mileage do 2016 Ram 1500 transmission problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 11,000–56,000 miles. The middle value is about 32,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2016 Ram 1500 transmission problems?
Yes: 17V821000, 17V198000, 16V301000, 15V661000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Which 1500 year has the most transmission complaints?
The 2015 1500, with 226 complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.