How To Know If Your 65RFE or 66RFE Transmission Is Failing

The Chrysler 65RFE/66RFE six-speed automatic transmissions were introduced in 2012 for use in the Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango, and various other models.

We cover everything you need to know about the differences between these transmissions, common issues, and the symptoms to look out for when they are failing.

What Is The Difference Between The 65RFE And The 66RFE Transmissions?

The Chrysler 65RFE and 66RFE are part of the same family of transmissions and both use electronic controls for the shifting process. However, they do have some significant differences.

The 65RFE is a development of the 545RFE transmission. This older transmission was fitted to several Dodge and Jeep models between 2001 and 2011. The 65RFE was introduced in 2012 and features revised settings and an improved torque converter, but it is otherwise very similar to the 545RFE.

Both have six forward gears, but they do not shift sequentially in standard driving. Third gear (or 2^nd Prime as it is sometimes called) is only used during kickdown or other pre-programmed driving situations such as when towing.

The 66RFE uses geartrain components from the heavier-duty 68RFE. The reinforced components make it more suitable for more powerful engines, towing and hauling heavy payloads. This is also a six-speed transmission, and the gear ratios are slightly lower than in the 65RFE. However, all six forward gears are used in normal driving.

The 65RFE and 66RFE use the same outer transmission case, however swapping one out for the other may require tuning or replacing the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and it is advisable to check the dimensions of the output shaft spline beforehand.

Both the 65RFE and 66RFE were introduced in 2012, but the 66RFE remained in production until 2018, while the 65RFE was phased out by 2014.

Common Problems And Symptoms With The 65RFE And 66RFE Transmissions

Due to their similar basic design, there are several common issues that both the 65RFE and 66RFE transmissions can suffer from. We’ll cover the most common problems and their symptoms below.

66RFE Common Issues And Their Symptoms

Torque Converter – While the 66RFE torque converter’s basic design is sound, the stator sprag and other internal components can fail if the vehicle is often used for towing or has been modified. Excessive slipping and shuddering at highway speeds are the first signs that the torque converter is starting to fail.

High Pressure Oil Pump – The pump in the 66RFE allows for quick pressure increases; however, it tends to wear out and leak over time. The resultant loss in pressure can cause harsh gearchanges and inconsistent shifts.

Valve Body – The 66RFE is known for its weak valve body design that has a tendency to leak and cause several issues. Inconsistent or hard shifts between gears, especially from 2nd to 3rd or 3rd to 4^th are often caused by valve body wear or solenoid issues.

65RFE Common Issues And Their Symptoms

Valve Body- The 65RFE also suffers from valve body and solenoid issues, and only a complete rebuild with new components can cure the cross-leaking and poor shifting caused by a faulty valve body assembly.

Sprag Assembly – This is an important part for engaging reverse gear and is known for failing. If you are struggling to engage reverse or cannot reverse at all, the sprag assembly may well be broken.

Getting Stuck in One Gear – This can occur when limp mode is activated. This usually happens if there is a sensor failure or electronic control issues. You should drive to a safe parking spot to avoid further damage. You may also see the check engine or transmission warning light illuminate on your dashboard.

Both transmissions can also suffer from overheating if used beyond their operating parameters or if the vehicle continues to be driven while it is exhibiting one or more of the above-mentioned symptoms.

Regular maintenance and a moderate driving style can extend the life of your transmission. Still, once it starts to fail, the only real solution is to replace it with a remanufactured unit from a reputable supplier that resolves known issues to prevent premature failure.

How Much Do The 65RFE/66RFE Transmissions Cost?

Our fully remanufactured 65RFE/66RFE 6-speed automatic transmissions typically cost under $4k. This includes a standard 3-year warranty and the core charge waiver. (If you’re using this transmission for a 1-ton and up application, our 18 month, 50k mile Commercial Warranty will be applied to your purchase instead.)

Can I Opt For An Extended Warranty?

Absolutely. While our remanufactured transmissions come with a standard 3-year warranty, we also offer a selection of extended warranty options:

• 5-year Extended Warranty
• 7-year Extended Warranty
• Pure Care No Fault Coverage

Can I Replace A 65RFE/66RFE Transmission Myself?

Replacing or swapping a 65RFE or 66RFE transmission is a demanding task that requires more than just basic mechanical knowledge. These transmissions are large, heavy, and complex, so unless you’re highly experienced, it’s strongly recommended to have the job done by a professional. Mistakes during installation can lead to costly vehicle damage.

If you’re confident in your mechanical skills, it’s essential to follow detailed service manuals and take every safety precaution. Precision and patience are key throughout the entire process.

You may also need a vehicle lift, heavy-duty transmission stand, torque wrench set, breaker bar, pry bar, and tube wrench. If you don’t have these specialized transmission removal tools available, consider professional installation.

Where Should I Buy A 65RFE/66RFE Transmission?

Several suppliers offer remanufactured transmissions; however, not every company follows the strict remanufacturing process that every Powertrain Products transmission goes through.

We don’t simply rebuild transmissions; we put them through a rigorous remanufacturing regimen and rectify known factory faults to make them better than OE. That is why we can offer an industry-beating 7-year Million Mile warranty.

Keep in mind that our remanufactured transmissions are not intended for use on trucks with modified emissions systems, deleted emissions systems, or tuned vehicles. We do offer upgraded units for that purpose (contact us for more info) however, the warranty that comes with our stock units will be voided if used in this manner.

During our remanufacturing process:

• Each transmission undergoes a comprehensive process that includes full disassembly, detailed inspection, and triple-stage cleaning. All threads are chased at this point, and every bushing is replaced with brand-new components.
• Our most experienced technicians rebuild and inspect each valve body, which is then tested on our C.A.R.S. system to simulate real-world driving conditions and verify functionality and reliability.
• We install all new O-rings, gaskets, and seals during the reassembly phase. To finish, every unit is subjected to intensive spin and load testing on our custom-built dyno machines to ensure it’s completely ready for the road.

Powertrain Products Online Transmission Resources

Shop Powertrain Products For Remanufactured 65RFE/66RFE Transmissions

Powertrain Products stocks a full range of remanufactured transmissions for many makes of vehicles, including the Chrysler 65RFE/66RFE. To ensure you get the right transmission the first time, use our VIN decoder or your Transmission Tag Number.

Keep in mind that our remanufactured transmissions are not intended for use on trucks with modified emissions systems, deleted emissions systems, or tuned vehicles. We do offer upgraded units for that purpose (contact us for more info) however, the warranty that comes with our stock units will be voided if used in this manner.

Every Powertrain Products transmission is remanufactured to be better than OEM:

• We Offer An Unbeatable Warranty Up To Seven Years and One Million Miles
• Our Process Includes Newly Machined Parts For Superior Performance
• We Rectify Known Faults to Make Your Transmission Better Than New

We’re also the nation’s leading supplier of engines, differentials, and transfer cases. Call us at 888-842-0023 or contact us online.