Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. RAM
  6. /
  7. 3500
RAM · Known Issues

2010 RAM 3500 Problems: 4 Known Issues

2010 model year · 4,500+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

2010 · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual coming soon

Your interest helps us choose what to build next.

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,500+ owner reports, the 2010 RAM 3500 has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing ($400-$8,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing with 4,500 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $80 to $8,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • 3500 Transmission1
  • 3500 Exhaust1
  • 3500 Electrical1
  • 3500 Suspension1
  • Recalls22
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Transmission1
  • Exhaust1
  • Electrical1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls22
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS2025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007
Community reported
4,500 owners

On the 2007-2018 RAM 3500 6.7L Cummins, the 2007-2018 RAM 3500 with the 68RFE 6-speed automatic transmission suffers from premature failure when towing heavy loads (over 10,000 lbs). The 68RFE is a derivative of the older 545RFE and was not adequately engineered for the torque output of the 6.7L Cummins. The overdrive clutch pack, solenoid pack, and torque converter are the primary failure points. Overheating during sustained towing destroys the clutch packs and warps the valve body. Many trucks experience complete transmission failure between 80,000-150,000 miles if used for regular towing. Rebuild cost: $3,000-5,000. Built/upgraded transmission: $5,000-8,000.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler LHS

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission slipping under heavy load
  • Flare between 3rd and 4th gear
  • No 3rd gear or no overdrive
  • Transmission overheating warning while towing
  • Harsh or delayed shifts
  • Check engine light with transmission codes
  • Complete loss of forward or reverse gears

How to Fix

For minor issues: Complete fluid and filter change with Mopar ATF+4 (68218057AA) and solenoid pack replacement ($400-800). For overheating prevention: Install an auxiliary transmission cooler and keep temps under 220F. For rebuilds: Use a reputable heavy-duty builder (SunCoast, Randys Worldwide, BD Diesel). A properly built 68RFE with billet shafts, upgraded clutch packs, and triple-disc torque converter ($5,000-8,000) will handle 800+ lb-ft of torque. For 2019+ trucks, the Aisin AS69RC replaced the 68RFE.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Geno's Garage QSK2004 68RFE service kit

    Verify transmission, pan and required fluid quantity.

    Geno's Garage
  • Genuine Mopar ATF+4 68218058AC

    68RFE only; verify transmission and service versus overhaul fill quantity.

    Mopar Store

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $8,000

Research This Issue

Based on 4,500 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence4,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2010-2025 RAM 3500 6.7L Cummins, the exhaust manifold mounting studs on the 6.7L Cummins break due to repeated thermal expansion and contraction cycles. Broken studs allow the manifold to separate from the cylinder head, creating exhaust leaks that produce a ticking noise and reduce turbo efficiency. The center studs (#3 and #4 cylinders) fail most frequently. Attempting to remove broken studs often requires extracting them from the cylinder head, adding complexity to the repair.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 2500

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking or hissing noise from the exhaust manifold area
  • Exhaust leak noise that changes with engine RPM
  • Soot or carbon deposits around manifold-to-head joint
  • Noise louder on cold start and fades slightly when warm
  • Slight power loss from exhaust leak affecting turbo

How to Fix

Remove broken studs using a left-hand drill bit and easy-out extractor set. If the stud breaks flush or below the head surface, a professional machine shop extraction may be needed. Replace all studs with upgraded ARP 247-4206 stud kit, which is stronger than OEM. Always replace the exhaust manifold gaskets during this repair. Budget $400-$1,200 depending on how many studs are broken and whether machine shop extraction is needed.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipARP 247-4206 exhaust manifold stud kit is the definitive upgrade. Stronger than OEM and far less likely to break again. Worth the investment on any Cummins.
  • WarningSoak broken studs with PB Blaster for 24+ hours before attempting extraction. Rushing the extraction is how studs break off flush with the head, turning a $400 job into a $1,200 machine shop visit.
Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2010-2025 RAM 3500 6.7 Cummins, the intake grid heater relay fails, preventing the grid heater from warming intake air during cold starts. The grid heater draws significant current (up to 200 amps), and the relay contacts eventually burn and weld or fail open. Without the grid heater, cold-start performance degrades significantly in temperatures below 40°F — longer cranking, white smoke, rough idle, and potential no-start conditions in extreme cold.

This issue also affects: RAM 2500

Common Symptoms

  • Hard starting or extended cranking in cold weather
  • White smoke on cold start
  • Grid heater warning light not illuminating
  • Rough idle for several minutes after cold start
  • Check engine light with grid heater circuit codes

How to Fix

Replace the grid heater relay (Mopar 56055666AB or equivalent). The relay is located on the intake manifold or firewall area and is a straightforward replacement. Some owners upgrade to a heavy-duty aftermarket relay rated for higher amperage to extend lifespan. Also inspect the grid heater element itself for damage or corrosion while the relay is being replaced. Budget $80-$250 for parts and labor.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mopar 5187880AC grid-heater relay

    2006-2018 Dodge/Ram 5.9L/6.7L Cummins as listed; within this card use for confirmed 2010-2018 applications.

    Geno's Garage

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

  • TipThe grid heater relay is cheap and easy to replace yourself. Keep a spare in the glovebox if you live in a cold climate — a $30 relay can save you from a no-start situation in winter.
  • TipWhen replacing the relay, inspect the connector terminals for heat damage or corrosion. Burned terminals will kill a new relay quickly — replace the pigtail connector if damaged.
Typical repair cost:$80 - $250

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2010-2025 RAM 3500, the front hub bearings (wheel bearing assemblies) in the RAM 3500 fail prematurely, particularly on trucks that carry heavy loads in the bed or tow heavy trailers. The factory hub bearings are adequate for unloaded driving but wear rapidly under sustained heavy GVWR/GCWR conditions. 4x4 models are more affected due to the additional stress of the front axle components. Bearing failure typically occurs between 60,000-100,000 miles on heavy-use trucks.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler

Common Symptoms

  • Humming or droning noise that changes with vehicle speed
  • Noise increases when turning in one direction
  • ABS or traction control warning light
  • Play or looseness felt in the front wheel
  • Vibration in steering wheel at highway speeds

How to Fix

Replace the front hub bearing assembly (Timken HA590576 or Moog 515162 are highly rated). The hub bearing is a bolt-on unit on these trucks — 4 bolts from the back of the steering knuckle. Replace both sides if one has failed, as the other is likely not far behind. Use ABS-compatible hub assemblies. Budget $300-$700 per side for parts and labor.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Timken HA590467 front hub and bearing

    Confirm VIN, drive, cab/chassis, build date, spline and ABS connector.

    AM Autoparts
  • Timken HA590628 front hub and bearing

    Confirm the exact notes and ABS lead before ordering.

    PartsGeek
  • Genuine Mopar 68292887AA front hub and bearing

    2019-2025 Ram 3500 6.4L/6.7L listed configurations; confirm VIN, axle ratio and current supersession, including 68292887AB where applicable.

    MoparPartsGiant

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

  • TipTimken HA590576 and Moog 515162 are the top choices for replacement. Avoid cheap imported hub bearings — they often fail within 20,000 miles on a 3500 that tows.
  • TipWhen one front hub bearing goes, replace both sides. If one failed at 80,000 miles, the other is likely at 85% wear and will fail within 10,000-15,000 miles.
Typical repair cost:$300 - $700

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls22 recalls

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 vehicles equipped with a 3.5" cluster and column shifter. A software error may cause the gear selection display to be inaccurate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."

Campaign #25V29700008/05/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Ram Cab Chassis, and Ram 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. A software error may cause the instrument panel cluster display to be blank. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems," 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems," and 102, "Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect."

Campaign #25V82600001/12/2025

AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2025 Ram 2500 Pickup, 3500 Pickup, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis trucks. A software error in the occupant restraint controller module may cause the driver's side air bag and/or seat belt pretensioner not to deploy in a crash and disable the electronic stability control (ESC) system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of RAM 3500 problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your RAM 3500. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.

Other RAM Models

RAM 150072RAM 250025RAM ProMaster City14RAM ProMaster5RAM 1500 Classic5Ram 15001

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common RAM 3500 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,500+ owner reports, the 2010 RAM 3500 has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing, Exhaust Manifold Stud Failure (6.7L Cummins), Grid Heater Relay Failure (6.7L Cummins). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the RAM 3500 reliable?

The 2010 RAM 3500 has 4 known issues documented across 4,500+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common RAM 3500 problems?

Repair costs for known RAM 3500 issues range from $80 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing, typically costs $400-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2018 RAM 3500 68RFE Automatic Transmission Failure When Towing?

The 2007-2018 RAM 3500 with the 68RFE 6-speed automatic transmission suffers from premature failure when towing heavy loads (over 10,000 lbs). The 68RFE is a derivative of the older 545RFE and was not adequately engineered for the torque output of the 6.7L Cummins. The overdrive… Repairs typically run $400-$8,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2010-2025 RAM 3500 Exhaust Manifold Stud Failure (6.7L Cummins)?

The exhaust manifold mounting studs on the 6.7L Cummins break due to repeated thermal expansion and contraction cycles. Broken studs allow the manifold to separate from the cylinder head, creating exhaust leaks that produce a ticking noise and reduce turbo efficiency. The center… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 4,500+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #25V88200018/12/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500 Cab Chassis, and Ram 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. A software error may cause the instrument panel display to fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards numbers 102, "Transmission Shift Position Sequence," 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems," 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment," 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems for Light Vehicles," 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems," 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring System," and/or 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Campaign #26V22500009/04/2026

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Jeep Wagoneer S, 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500 Cab Chassis, Ram 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2026 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. Due to an improperly designed trailer tow module, the trailer lights may fail to illuminate and the trailer brakes may fail.

Campaign #26V05900002/02/2026

+ 17 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2010-2025 RAM 3500 Grid Heater Relay Failure (6.7L Cummins)?

The intake grid heater relay fails, preventing the grid heater from warming intake air during cold starts. The grid heater draws significant current (up to 200 amps), and the relay contacts eventually burn and weld or fail open. Without the grid heater, cold-start performance deg… Repairs typically run $80-$250. Severity: medium.

What is the 2010-2025 RAM 3500 Front Hub Bearing Failure Under Heavy Load?

The front hub bearings (wheel bearing assemblies) in the RAM 3500 fail prematurely, particularly on trucks that carry heavy loads in the bed or tow heavy trailers. The factory hub bearings are adequate for unloaded driving but wear rapidly under sustained heavy GVWR/GCWR conditio… Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: medium.