2020 Ram 1500 transmission & drivetrain problems
Updated from NHTSA data · How we count
62 owners have reported transmission & drivetrain problems with the 2020 Ram 1500, 10% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 22,000 mi.
- Transmission & Drivetrain complaints
- 62
- Crashes
- 3
- Fires
- 0
- Injuries
- 0
- Related recalls
- 0
- Median mileage
- 22,000 mi
Specific components reported
Transmission & Drivetrain covers: transmission shifting, slipping, axles, driveshaft, transfer case.
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| Power train | 58 |
| Power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm) | 2 |
| Power train:automatic transmission:gear position indication (prndl) | 1 |
| Power train:driveline:driveshaft | 1 |
Transmission & Drivetrain complaints across Ram 1500 years
Mileage when the problem appeared
Related recalls
No recalls on file.
What owners say
- Filed Oct 5, 202695,959 miFLTowedElectrical SystemSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the messages “Power Steering Unavailable - Service Required”, “Service Air Suspension Immediately”, and “Blind Spot Unavailable” were displayed. The contact stated that after the messages were displayed, excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the transmission intermittently surged forward while depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle was…
NHTSA complaint #11768931 · source - Filed Aug 5, 2026GAElectrical SystemTransmission & Drivetrain
MGU Failed, 48v code P0DAF had early signs of premature failure. when on the highway, vehicle shut off completely, no power what so ever. Couldn't steer correctly and vehicle was going highway speeds (approximately 70mph) dealer has confirmed the issue being there MGU gone bad, but I have records of water intrusion multiple times on the rear seats, headliner & back glass (XL1) and water intrusion can cause BPCM to go bad along with the MGU to go bad. they first appeared on…
NHTSA complaint #11755103 · source - Filed Jun 25, 2026TXEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
I PCSd from Springfield, MO to Fort Bliss Texas. I bought the truck [XXX]. I make it to TX. Driving the first Saturday in TX on [XXX] it just shuts down and put me in a very scary situation. I was stuck in the middle of the high way. It does not drive. The Etorque/generator is bad and is now on order from my local Dodge dealership. It literally shut down my truck and will not start, run, nothing. It’s been in the shop for 40 days with a no ETA on the part ordered. This…
NHTSA complaint #11746568 · source - Filed Jun 15, 2026NHCrashTowedTransmission & Drivetrain
At 60mph the vehie suddenly did a 180 and went backwards down the road. Fortunately it was a straight stretch and no oncoming traffic. Rear axle sized up, drive shaft shrown, and rear shaft froze resulting in equivalent of rear brakes onky thus the 180. Rear axle lost all lubrication and this is very similar to existing safety recall on other Ram models but not this one.
NHTSA complaint #11744184 · source - Filed May 20, 2026FLFuel, Hybrid & EV PropulsionOther / UnknownTransmission & Drivetrain
While coming to a stop at an intersection, vehicle engine stalled and transmission automatically slammed itself into park, with no warning, nearly causing a collision. This issue has previously been recalled for other Ram Trucks - some were not appropriately recalled and pose a major safety risk.
NHTSA complaint #11738937 · source - Filed Mar 25, 2026AKTransmission & Drivetrain
Vehicle Info •2020 Ram 1500 •Approximately 70,000 miles •eTorque system ________________________________________ Complaint: I am reporting a failure of the eTorque system in my 2020 Ram 1500 that has rendered the vehicle inoperable for an extended period of time. The vehicle experienced an eTorque system failure and has been out of service since December 23, 2025. The vehicle is covered under the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. After a prolonged delay in obtaining…
NHTSA complaint #11727055 · source - Filed Jan 27, 2026TXElectrical SystemTransmission & Drivetrain
I am reporting a suspected safety defect involving the Motor Generator Unit (MGU) used in the eTorque system on my Ram 1500. The vehicle experienced an MGU failure that resulted in abnormal electrical behavior, warning messages, and impaired drivability. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Ram dealership, which confirmed the MGU has failed and requires replacement. The MGU is currently on national backorder with no estimated availability date. As a result, the vehicle…
NHTSA complaint #11713784 · source - Filed Jan 26, 2026NYCrashTowedSuspensionTransmission & DrivetrainWheels & Tires
The rear driver-side wheel detached from the axle, resulting in an immediate loss of vehicle control. As a result, the truck left the roadway. The detached wheel landedapproximately 150 feet behind the vehicle, on the opposite side of the road from where the truck ultimately stopped. Insurance has not yet completed its inspection of the vehicle; however, the crack and damage to the wheel were observed at the scene by a volunteer firefighter, the responding officer, and the…
NHTSA complaint #11713389 · source - Filed Jan 20, 2026MOTransmission & Drivetrain
I had just started my vehicle and drove about 3 blocks and was running 40 miles per hour when the truck sounded like it was revving up and it went into neutral and slowed down. I was able to pull to the side of the road and put the truck into park. I put it back into drive and drove back home. It was scary because I had small children with me and it happened at an intersection.
NHTSA complaint #11712165 · source - Filed Jan 15, 2026OKElectrical SystemEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this email to document a vehicle safety issue involving my 2020 Ram 1500 (5.7L eTorque). In November 2025, the vehicle experienced a failure of the eTorque motorized alternator / belt starter generator system, resulting in a loss of the electrical and charging system. As a result, the vehicle became non-drivable. The vehicle was delivered to an authorized Ram dealership on November 18, 2025, and has remained there continuously. The…
NHTSA complaint #11711141 · source - Filed Dec 20, 2025MOEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
My 2020 Ram 1500 exhaust manifold leak often causes a loud ticking noise, especially on startup, due to broken bolts or a cracked manifold.
NHTSA complaint #11706238 · source - Filed Oct 21, 2025TXElectrical SystemEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
The mgu/generator went out and left me stranded due to battery failure. I had no steering or power brakes. Everything electrical failed. Have been waiting for new mgu for 2 months.
NHTSA complaint #11694889 · source
Other 2020 Ram 1500 problem areas
- Engine (165)
- Electrical System (163)
- Other / Unknown (112)
- Fuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion (75)
- Steering (65)
- Visibility & Wipers (62)
- Body & Structure (47)
- Brakes (41)
- Driver Assistance & Safety Tech (28)
- Airbags (21)
- Lighting (19)
- Suspension (14)
- Seats & Seat Belts (13)
- Acceleration & Cruise Control (12)
- Wheels & Tires (6)
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology