P0700 on RAM: How to Diagnose & Fix
Transmission Control System Malfunction
2 RAM models · 4 documented issues · 2 critical · $150-$6,500 repair
P0700 on RAM by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic transmission can experience harsh shifting, hesitation, and jerky behavior. Some units have failed prematurely. Early model years (2013-2016) seem most affected. Multiple TSBs have been issued for software updates.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Transmission slipping
- Jerky acceleration
- Hesitation when accelerating
- Check engine light with trans codes
How to Fix
First step: Get latest transmission software update from dealer (often free). Change transmission fluid and filter every 60,000 miles using ZF Lifeguard 8 fluid only. If problems persist, valve body replacement may be needed ($1,500-2,500). Full transmission replacement runs $4,000-6,500.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Dorman 265-850 8-speed transmission pan/filter conversion
Confirm transmission code and OE pan cross-reference.
- ZF LifeguardFluid 8 seven-liter service fill
Confirm 845RE/8HP75 fluid specification and total quantity separately rather than inferring.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $1,500-2,500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch RAM 1500 forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
The 2019+ RAM 1500 uses the ZF 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission which exhibits harsh shifting, delayed engagement, hesitation between gears, and rough downshifts. While the transmission itself is mechanically robust, the calibration and TCM (Transmission Control Module) programming have been problematic since launch. Stellantis has released multiple software updates via TSBs to address shift quality. TSB 21-018-22 REV.A addresses rough 1-2 upshift and 2-1 downshift. Some trucks require valve body replacement if software updates do not resolve the issue.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or jerky 1-2 upshift
- Rough 2-1 downshift when stopping
- Hesitation or delay when accelerating from stop
- Transmission hunting between gears on hills
- Clunking noise when shifting into Drive or Reverse
- Delayed engagement when cold
How to Fix
First step: Visit dealer for the latest TCM software update (free under warranty). Reference TSB 21-018-22 REV.A for shift quality improvements. Perform a transmission adaptation reset after the update (dealer procedure). If software updates do not resolve the issue, valve body replacement may be needed ($800-1,500). Ensure transmission fluid is at proper level with correct Mopar ZF 8/9 speed ATF (68218925AB). Some owners report improvements after a complete fluid and filter change ($250-400).
The Ram 1500's transmission thermal-management/oil-cooler unit is the only place where engine coolant and automatic transmission fluid pass close together. When this cooler ruptures internally, coolant and ATF cross-contaminate, producing a pink 'strawberry milkshake' in both the cooling system and the transmission. This is a serious failure: contaminated ATF degrades clutches and seals inside the ZF 8-speed and can destroy the transmission if driven on, while loss of coolant risks overheating. Owners report this occurring in the 70k-mile range and across multiple model years. It is distinct from the previously covered torque-converter shudder/harsh-shift issues because the root cause is a cooling/cross-contamination failure, not a hydraulic/valve-body or converter problem.
Common Symptoms
- Pink/milky 'milkshake' in coolant reservoir
- Milky or contaminated transmission fluid
- Low coolant with no external leak
- Overheating
- Harsh shifting or slipping after contamination
- Sweet coolant smell
How to Fix
Stop driving immediately if a milkshake mixture is found. Replace the failed transmission oil cooler/thermal unit (verified Mopar PN 68322494AD for 2019-2026), then completely flush the cooling system and perform repeated transmission fluid-and-filter changes (or a full flush) to purge coolant from the transmission. If clutch material is already contaminated, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be required. Verify with a road test and fluid inspection afterward.
Sources for this issue (3)
The RAM ProMaster City uses the ZF 9HP48 9-speed automatic transmission which is plagued with harsh shifting, delayed engagement, gear hunting, and premature failure. The transmission struggles with low-speed maneuvers, often jerking or hesitating during parking lot driving. Some owners report the transmission failing to shift out of first gear or getting stuck in gear. Multiple TSBs have been issued for shift quality calibration (TSB 21-008-18 REV.C). The 9HP has been the subject of class-action lawsuits across multiple Stellantis vehicles. TCM software updates may help but many trucks need valve body replacement ($1,200-2,000) or complete transmission rebuild ($3,000-5,000).
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or jerky shifting at low speeds
- Hesitation when accelerating from stop
- Transmission hunting between gears
- Stuck in one gear (fails to upshift)
- Clunking when shifting into Drive or Reverse
- Delayed engagement (2-3 second delay)
- Check engine light with transmission fault codes
How to Fix
Start with TCM software update at dealer (free under warranty), reference TSB 21-008-18 REV.C. Have dealer perform transmission adaptation reset after update. If shifts remain harsh, request valve body inspection/replacement ($1,200-2,000). Ensure correct ZF 9-speed fluid is used (Mopar 68218925AA). Complete fluid change (not just drain and fill) every 40,000 miles. If transmission has failed completely, replacement/rebuild costs $3,000-5,000. Some owners opt for remanufactured transmissions from Jasper or AAMCO.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0700 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0700 mean on a RAM?
P0700 stands for "Transmission Control System Malfunction." P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. On RAM it is documented across 2 models: 1500, ProMaster City.
What are the most common causes of P0700?
The most common causes of P0700 are: Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault, Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor, Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission, Failing transmission control module (TCM), Internal transmission mechanical wear or clutch problems, Valve body fault or sticking valves. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0700 on a RAM?
Published repair estimates on RAM range from $150 to $6,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0700 on a different make?
View P0700 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.