P0944 on 2022-2024 Ram 3500: Understanding Loss of Hydraulic Pump Prime

What's Unique About the 2022-2024 Ram 3500

On this generation of Ram heavy-duty trucks, P0944 is frequently addressed by manufacturer Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). These bulletins are critical because they often point to specific, known failure points. For example, TSB #9100202 explicitly warns technicians *not* to replace the torque converter or other major internal components if P0944 appears with code P0868, indicating a more specific known issue with the pump assembly. Other TSBs for 2024 models, like 21-012-25 REV. E, point to a cracking rear selective thrust bearing as the cause for a cluster of codes including P0944, requiring complete transmission replacement for vehicles within a specific build date range.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or Check Engine Light is on
• Hard shifting into gear
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode'
• Transmission slipping
• Delayed or no engagement into Drive or Reverse
• Whining sound from the transmission area, which is the sound of the pump cavitating (sucking air)
• Transmission fluid level does not drop after starting the engine, indicating the pump is not circulating fluid

Most Likely Causes

1. Low Transmission Fluid Level 🔴 High Probability Low fluid is a universal cause for loss of hydraulic pressure in any automatic transmission. If the fluid level is below the filter pickup, the pump will suck air.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level according to the manufacturer's procedure. For the 68RFE, this involves a dipstick and must be done at operating temperature with the engine running in neutral. The Aisin AS69RC has a similar check procedure.
   Typical fix: Top off the fluid with the correct type (Mopar ATF+4 for the 68RFE, Mopar ASRC for the Aisin AS69RC) and inspect for leaks. A recall for 2020-2023 models notes that excess heat and pressure can cause fluid to be expelled from the dipstick tube, creating a fire risk.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100
2. Cracked or Improperly Installed Transmission Filter/Seal 🟡 Medium Probability If the main sump filter or its seal is not seated correctly in the valve body, it can suck in air instead of fluid, causing a loss of prime. This is a known issue on 68RFE transmissions and can happen after a transmission service if not done carefully. In some cases, the filter can fall completely into the pan.
   How to confirm: The transmission pan must be removed to visually inspect the filter and its seal for proper installation, cracks, or damage. Check if the filter is loose, cracked, or has fallen into the pan.
   Typical fix: Replace the transmission filter(s) and pan gasket, ensuring the filter seal is correctly seated. Some owners and shops fabricate a small bracket to prevent the filter from ever backing out. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step 68RFE fluid and filter service walkthrough.
   Est. part cost: $50-$150
3. Faulty Transmission Oil Pump Assembly 🟡 Medium Probability TSB #9100202 specifically mentions the 'PUMP ASSY AND REACTION SHAFT' as a point of interest when P0944 and P0868 are present. Aftermarket companies note that the factory cast aluminum pump can warp over time, causing hydraulic cross-leaks 🎬 See why these transmissions fail and how to prevent it. and pressure loss.
   How to confirm: This requires advanced diagnostics, including line pressure tests with a scan tool and removing the transmission to inspect the pump. If fluid and filter are good, the pump is the next suspect.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the transmission oil pump assembly. The OEM Mopar part for 2019+ 68RFE transmissions is 52109082AB.
   Est. part cost: $300-$700
4. Cracked Rear Selective Thrust Bearing (2024 Models) ⚪ Low Probability TSB #21-012-25 REV. E specifically identifies a cracking rear selective thrust bearing as the cause for P0944 and other codes on some 2024 Ram 2500/3500 trucks with the 68RFE transmission built between June 14, 2024 and September 04, 2024.
   How to confirm: This is diagnosed by a dealer technician by confirming the vehicle's VIN and build date fall within the range specified in the TSB and that the specific cluster of DTCs listed in the bulletin are present.
   Typical fix: The TSB instructs dealers to replace the entire transmission assembly.
   Est. part cost: $5000-$9000

Rare But Worth Checking

• Stuck Main Regulator Valve: The main pressure regulator valve within the valve body can stick, causing pressure control problems. This is less common than fluid or filter issues but is a known possibility that can lead to low pressure conditions.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for any applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle's VIN. This is the most critical first step for this specific code and vehicle.
2. Using a compatible scan tool, confirm P0944 is present and check for other codes, especially P0868.
🎬 Watch: A pro's guide to diagnosing common 68RFE issues.
3. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. With the engine running and transmission warm, check the level. The fluid should be red and not smell burnt. A key test is to check the fluid level with the engine off, then start the engine and check again. If the level does not drop, the pump is not priming.
4. If the fluid level is low, top it off with Mopar ATF+4 (for 68RFE) or Mopar ASRC (for Aisin) and check for leaks.
5. If the fluid level is correct, the next step is to drop the transmission pan to inspect the filter(s) and seal. Check if the filter is clogged, cracked, has fallen off, or has a damaged or improperly seated seal.
6. If TSB #9100202 applies (P0944 and P0868 are present), follow the specific diagnostic path outlined in SOL Publication S2321000007, which likely involves inspecting the pump assembly and reaction shaft.
7. If TSB #21-012-25 REV. E applies (2024 model with specific build date and DTCs), the dealer will replace the transmission.
8. If no obvious issues are found with the fluid or filter, perform a line pressure test using a scan tool to verify if the actual pump pressure matches the desired pressure. A large discrepancy points to a pump or internal leak issue.
9. If pressure is low and the filter is good, the issue likely lies with the transmission pump itself or an internal leak, requiring transmission removal for inspection.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• 68RFE Transmission Filter Kit (OEM #5013470AE (Sump Filter), 5179267AD (Spin-on Filter)) — A clogged, cracked, or improperly installed filter is a common cause for loss of prime. A kit typically includes the sump filter, spin-on filter, and a new pan gasket.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Wix, ATP
  OEM price range: $80-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$70
• Transmission Oil Pump Assembly (68RFE) (OEM #52109082AB (for 2019+ models)) — If the filter and fluid level are good, the pump itself may have failed or warped, as noted in TSBs and by aftermarket specialists.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, ATS Diesel Performance
  OEM price range: $400-$700
  Aftermarket price range: $300-$1000+
• Mopar ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid (OEM #68218057AB (Quart), 68218058AB (Gallon)) — The correct fluid for the 68RFE transmission is required when refilling after a filter change or if the level is found to be low. A drain and fill requires 7-8 quarts.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $10-$15 per quart
• Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid (OEM #05189966AE) — For trucks equipped with the Aisin AS69RC transmission, this specific fluid is required. Using ATF+4 in an Aisin will cause damage.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $20-$30 per quart

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0868 — Transmission Fluid Pressure Low. This code is a direct consequence of P0944. If the pump loses prime (P0944), the overall line pressure will be low (P0868). TSBs S2321000007 and 21-012-25 REV. E list them together.
• P0871 — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'C' Circuit Range/Performance. This and other pressure switch codes can be set when the pump loses prime, as the sensors detect the resulting lack of pressure. [Bulletin #21-012-25 REV. E]
• P0876 — Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit Range/Performance. Similar to P0871, this code can be triggered by the loss of hydraulic pressure from the pump. [Bulletin #21-012-25 REV. E]

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-012-25 REV. E: For 2024 Ram 2500/3500 with 68RFE built between 06/14/2024 and 09/04/2024. Lists P0944-00 among a cluster of codes caused by a cracking rear selective thrust bearing. The mandated repair is a complete transmission replacement.
• 9100202 / S2321000007: For 2023 models, if P0944 and P0868 are present, instructs technicians NOT to replace the torque converter or internal components and instead refer to a specific diagnostic procedure related to the pump assembly and reaction shaft.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB #9100202 warns against replacing the torque converter or internal transmission components when P0944 and P0868 are present on 2023 models, pointing to a different root cause related to the pump assembly.
• TSB #21-012-25 REV. E identifies a cracking rear selective thrust bearing as the cause for P0944 on some 2024 models with the 68RFE transmission (built June-Sept 2024), with the prescribed fix being a full transmission replacement.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Line Pressure vs. Desired Line Pressure at Idle — expected: Actual pressure should match desired pressure, typically around 60-70 PSI when warm.. Failure: Actual pressure is more than 5 PSI lower than desired pressure.
• Line Pressure Duty Cycle % at Idle — expected: 22% to 24% on a healthy, stock transmission.. Failure: A duty cycle consistently at 5% indicates the computer is maxing out its command to raise pressure, and a value under 10% is a sign of a problem.
• Clutch Volume Index (CVI) values — expected: Varies by clutch pack (e.g., Underdrive, Overdrive, Reverse, etc.). Lower numbers indicate a tighter clutch pack with less wear.. Failure: High or out-of-spec CVI numbers indicate a worn or degraded clutch pack, which can be a result of prolonged low-pressure operation.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• P0868 (contextual definition): On some diesel models, a generic scan tool may display P0868 as 'Trans Fluid Pressure Low,' suggesting a hydraulic issue. However, the OEM definition can be 'Governor Pressure Sensor Volts Too High,' which is a circuit fault. This can misdirect diagnosis towards a hydraulic problem when it is actually an electrical one. (see via Occurs when a generic scan tool provides a non-specific code definition. Verifying the code definition with OEM service information for the specific powertrain is critical.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH or equivalent professional scan tool: Quick Learn Procedure — This procedure must be performed after replacing the transmission assembly to allow the TCM to learn the new components' hydraulic characteristics.
• wiTECH or equivalent professional scan tool: Program Torque Converter Solenoid PI Curve — On 2019 and newer models, this routine must be run when the TCC solenoid, valve body, or entire transmission is replaced to update the unique Pressure/Inductance data in the PCM.
• wiTECH or equivalent professional scan tool: Shift Lever Position Test — Used as a pre-diagnostic step to ensure the TCM is correctly reading the driver's gear selection before diagnosing internal hydraulic faults.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• ASSEMBLY-TRANSMISSION SOLENOID/TRS (RFE) — This is the main electrical connector for the transmission, located on the left (driver's) side of the transmission case.. Corrosion or debris in this connector, specifically at the line pressure sensor pins, is a known issue that can cause pressure-related codes and severe damage if not corrected.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• EdzGarage YouTube Channel (3rd Gen Dodge Ram 2500 with 68RFE (demonstrates a common failure applicable to the 2022-2024 range)) — Torque converter locking up while cold, which got significantly worse after a recent service.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initially replacing just the spin-on filter with a quality Mopar part did not resolve the underlying issue.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The sump filter, which had been replaced during a recent service, had split open along its plastic seam, likely due to extremely cold temperatures. This created a massive air leak, causing the loss of prime. The final fix was replacing the faulty transmission pump and the split filter.
• Choate Performance / Transmission Repair YouTube Channels (Dodge Ram with 68RFE (common failure pattern)) — Sudden loss of line pressure, whining noise, P0944.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Simply replacing the filter without addressing the root cause.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The sump filter had fallen into the transmission pan because the plastic screw-in plug worked itself loose. The permanent fix involves either replacing the plug with a more secure steel version or fabricating a metal bracket that bolts to the valve body and physically prevents the filter from backing out or falling off.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 4736675AA, 5013470AC, 5013470AD → 5013470AE — Part has been revised and updated by the manufacturer over time.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2019-2024: On these later models, increasing line pressure must be done via TCM tuning. Using an inline electronic pressure module can cause issues due to factory TCM programming flaws. Also, replacing the valve body or transmission requires a scan tool function to program the new torque converter solenoid's unique PI curve into the computer.
• 2022-2024: These models require a complete Mopar ECM (Engine Control Module) swap to enable any custom tuning, including transmission tuning. The factory ECM is locked.
• 2020-2023: A safety recall was issued for some trucks with the 68RFE transmission due to a risk of fluid being expelled from the dipstick tube under certain high-heat conditions, creating a fire hazard.