Recall 20V043 affects 87,431 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks for a transmission-fluid leak fire risk. Repair is free at any franchised Ram dealer.
Ram is recalling 87,431 2019-2020 2500 and 3500 pickups equipped with six-speed automatic (68RFE) transmissions because pressure and heat inside the transmission can push fluid from the dipstick tube. Leaking transmission fluid can reach the turbocharger or another ignition source in the engine compartment, which increases the risk of a fire; Ram dealers will complete the repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The 68RFE six-speed automatic transmission in affected 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks uses pressurized transmission fluid to apply clutches inside the transmission and move power through each gear. A valve body separator plate helps direct that fluid through passages in the valve body, which is the hydraulic control section of the transmission.
On affected trucks, pressure and heat build inside the transmission. That pressure can force transmission fluid up and out of the dipstick tube, the tube used to check fluid level. If the expelled fluid reaches the turbocharger or another hot ignition source in the engine compartment, it can start a fire.
Before that happens, occupants can notice odd smells, unusual noises, or transmission surging. Those are warning signs that transmission fluid is being forced where it does not belong.
Who's affected?
Covers Ram 2500 and 3500 truck classes from the 2019 and 2020 model years, all tied to the automatic transmission.
| 2020 Ram 2500 | automatic transmission |
|---|---|
| 2019 Ram 2500 | automatic transmission |
| 2019 Ram 3500 | automatic transmission |
| 2020 Ram 3500 | automatic transmission |
| Units affected | 87,431 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 19 field incidents to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific truck is included.
What's the safety risk?
Leaking transmission fluid that reaches the turbocharger or another ignition source in the engine compartment increases the risk of a fire. Odd smells, noises, or transmission surging are warning signs. If you notice them, pull over where safe and call a Ram dealer before continuing. Repair is free at any franchised Ram dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2019-2020 Ram 2500 or 3500 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Ram dealer to schedule the free transmission separator-plate replacement and powertrain control module reprogramming that addresses the dipstick-tube transmission fluid leak.
- Bring the recall notice if Ram mailed one. If not, reference recall number 20V043 when you call.
- Ask the dealer to note Ram recall W03 on the repair order.
- Watch for transmission fluid smell, visible fluid, or smoke before the repair, and contact the dealer if any of those signs appear.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Ram technician replaces the transmission valve body separator plate and reprograms the powertrain control module. The recall repair is free, including parts and labor. If you already paid out of pocket for a transmission repair tied to this issue, Ram's reimbursement process asks for the original receipt or other adequate proof of payment so the expense can be confirmed. Keep that paperwork ready when you contact customer service or the service desk.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| January 24, 2020 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| March 2, 2020 | Owner notification mailed |
| March 14, 2020 | Dealer notification began |
| March 14, 2020 | Dealer notification ended |
| March 14, 2020 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| March 14, 2020 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 20V043?
Recall 20V043 covers 87,431 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with six-speed automatic 68RFE transmissions. Pressure and heat inside the transmission can force fluid out of the dipstick tube. Ram dealers replace the transmission valve body separator plate and reprogram the powertrain control module for free.
What should I do if my 2019-2020 Ram 2500 or 3500 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific pickup is included in recall 20V043. If it is, contact a franchised Ram dealer to schedule the transmission valve body separator plate replacement and powertrain control module reprogramming. Reference recall number 20V043 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair safety defects at no cost. A franchised Ram dealer will replace the transmission valve body separator plate and reprogram the powertrain control module free of charge.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is fire. Leaking transmission fluid can contact the turbocharger or another ignition source inside the engine compartment. If your VIN is included, schedule the free dealer repair and ask the service desk about any driving guidance for your truck.
What if I bought my Ram 2500 or 3500 used?
The free recall repair still applies. Recall coverage follows the vehicle, not the first owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific 2019-2020 Ram 2500 or 3500 is included, then call a franchised Ram dealer with recall number 20V043.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/20V043000 |
|---|---|
| Ram customer service | 1-800-853-1403 |
| NHTSA recall # | 20V043 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 20V043000 |
Source documents
-
Download Owner Notice (PDF) - Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 24, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →