What to Do When Your Ram ProMaster Won’t Shift

AvatarByCarl Frisch

The Ram ProMaster is a light commercial van manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. It is available in a variety of configurations, including cargo van, passenger wagon, and chassis cab. However, some owners may experience an issue where the van won’t shift out of park. This can be caused by a few different factors, including a faulty shifter assembly or a bad neutral safety switch. Other possible causes could include low transmission fluid, a broken shift cable, or an electrical issue. To diagnose the problem and get the vehicle shifting again, it is best to have it checked by a qualified mechanic who can pinpoint the exact cause and take the appropriate steps to fix it.

Automobile: Ram ProMaster Won’t Shift

If your Ram ProMaster is having difficulty engaging the gear, stalling out, or shifting erratically, it may be due to a variety of causes. From mechanical issues to electrical issues, understanding the common causes and learning how to diagnose them can help you get your vehicle back up and running.

Common Causes of a Ram ProMaster Not Shifting

When it comes to diagnosing why a Ram ProMaster won’t shift, mechanical and electrical issues are the two most common root causes. Mechanical problems are typically related to the clutch or transmission solenoid, while electrical issues often involve damaged wiring harnesses or connectors, or failed computer modules.

Mechanical Issues

A faulty transmission solenoid is one of the most common mechanical issues that can cause your Ram ProMaster not to shift properly. The solenoid is responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid in order to engage and disengage gears. If it’s faulty or worn out, it can lead to difficulty shifting gears or even stalling out completely.

Clutch problems can also be responsible for Ram ProMasters not shifting properly. The clutch is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission – if it’s failing, it can cause difficulty engaging gears or even prevent you from being able to shift at all.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues are another common cause of gear shifting problems with Ram ProMasters. Damaged wiring harnesses and connectors can create electrical interference that prevents the computer from being able to properly control the transmission fluid flow needed for gear shifting. Additionally, failed computer modules can prevent proper communication between sensors and other components that are necessary for proper gear shifting.

DIY Tips for Diagnosing a Ram ProMaster That Won’t Shift

If you find yourself with a Ram ProMaster that won’t shift, there are several DIY tips you can use to diagnose and repair the issue yourself. The first step should be checking the clutch pedal and linkage – if they’re not working properly they could be preventing proper gear engagement. Additionally, inspecting the transmission fluid levels and quality is important as low fluid levels or degraded fluid can create difficulties in engaging gears as well as erratic shifts during driving. Finally, checking electrical components such as wiring harnesses and connectors should also be done in order to rule out any potential electrical failures that could be preventing proper gear engagement.

By taking these steps and keeping an eye on your vehicle’s performance regularly, you should be able to diagnose any potential gear-shifting problems with your Ram ProMaster quickly and easily so you can get back on the road safely!

Examining the Ram ProMaster

The Ram ProMaster is a full-sized van manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles for commercial and recreational use. It is known for its versatility, power, and reliability. However, when the Ram ProMaster won’t shift gears, it can be a frustrating problem that requires a bit of investigation and troubleshooting.

Check the Transmission Fluid Level

One of the first things to check when your Ram ProMaster won’t shift gears is the transmission fluid level. The fluid should be at the correct level according to your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations. If it is low, you should add more until it reaches the proper level. Additionally, if you find that the fluid looks dark or has an unusual odor, then it may need to be changed completely.

Inspect the Transmission Filter

Another important step in figuring out why your Ram ProMaster won’t shift is to inspect the transmission filter. The filter traps dirt and debris which can prevent proper transmission operation if not regularly changed or cleaned. If you find that it is clogged or damaged in any way, then it needs to be replaced with a new one as soon as possible.

Examine the Battery Voltage and Charging System

When your Ram ProMaster won’t shift gears, you should also check its battery voltage and charging system. A weak battery or faulty charging system can cause shifting issues as well as other electrical problems. You should make sure that both are working properly before moving on with other troubleshooting steps.

What to Do When Your Ram ProMaster Won’t Shift Gears?

If all of these steps have been completed without success in getting your Ram ProMaster to shift gears properly again, then it is best to pull over and turn off the engine immediately. Have a professional mechanic look at it as soon as possible so they can determine what might be wrong with it and how best to fix it.

How to Fix a Ram ProMaster That Won’t Shift?

Once a mechanic has diagnosed what might be causing your shifting problems with your Ram ProMaster, they will likely recommend some repairs or replacements that need to be done in order for it to function properly again. This could include repairing or replacing any damaged wiring harnesses or connectors; replacing faulty transmission solenoids or computer modules; cleaning or replacing dirty filters; adjusting linkages; checking fluid levels; replacing leaking gaskets; and more depending on what was found during diagnosis of your vehicle’s issue(s).

Is DIY Repair of a Ram ProMaster Possible?

It is possible for experienced do-it-yourselfers (DIYers) to repair their own vehicle if they have access to adequate repair manuals and all necessary tools and supplies for doing so safely and correctly without risking further damage being done by inexperienced hands. However, if you are not comfortable with attempting repairs on your own, then we recommend having them done professionally by an experienced technician who knows exactly what they are doing when working on this type of vehicle.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What are the symptoms of a Ram ProMaster not shifting properly?
A: The most common symptoms of a Ram ProMaster not shifting properly include stalling out, erratic shifting, and difficulty engaging the gear.

Q: What are the common causes of a Ram ProMaster not shifting?
A: Common causes of a Ram ProMaster not shifting include mechanical issues such as a faulty transmission solenoid or clutch problem, as well as electrical issues such as damaged wiring harnesses or connectors and failed computer modules.

Q: What should I do if my Ram ProMaster won’t shift gears?
A: If your Ram ProMaster won’t shift gears, you should pull over and turn off the engine immediately and have a professional mechanic look at it as soon as possible.

Q: How can I fix a Ram ProMaster that won’t shift?
A: To fix a Ram ProMaster that won’t shift, you may need to repair or replace any damaged wiring harnesses or connectors, replace any faulty transmission solenoids or computer modules, and check the clutch pedal and linkage.

Q: Is DIY repair of a Ram ProMaster possible?
A: Yes, DIY repair of a Ram ProMaster is possible if you have some basic knowledge of auto mechanics. However, it is recommended to consult with an experienced professional before attempting any repairs on your own.

In conclusion, the Ram ProMaster won’t shift issue can be a tricky one to figure out. There are a number of possible causes for this issue, ranging from transmission problems to electrical malfunctions. If you’re having trouble with your ProMaster not shifting, it’s best to take it to a certified mechanic and have them diagnose and repair the problem. Taking care of the problem right away can help you avoid more costly repairs in the future.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

Similar Posts