Dodge Ram Transmission Display & Shifting System Failure

Recently dealt with nearly identical symptoms on my 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. The instrument panel failure combined with transmission issues pointed to a failed transmission control module. The automotive electronics system showed multiple fault codes during diagnosis. The gear shift indicator blackout was the first warning sign, followed by the erratic transmission behavior. The main control unit that manages both the gear selector and transmission communication had completely failed. The repair involved: Full replacement of the transmission control module, Recalibration of the car dashboard systems, Reprogramming of the new control unit, Testing all gear positions to ensure proper engagement This was a serious electrical issue that required specialized diagnostic equipment. The grinding noise during shifts typically happens when the transmission doesnt receive proper electronic signals from the control unit. These symptoms should not be ignored as they can lead to transmission damage if driven too long in this condition. The repair resolved all issues, restored proper gear position display in the instrument panel and normalized transmission operation. No transmission replacement was needed since the core issue was electrical, not mechanical.

Thanks for the detailed explanation. This sounds exactly like what I am experiencing with my Dodge. The gear indicator on the digital display went dark first, then the transmission started acting weird. Good to hear you got it fixed without needing a full transmission replacement. Would you mind sharing how much the control module replacement and reprogramming cost? Also, has everything been working properly since the repair? I am particularly concerned about the gear selector behavior since mine feels quite loose.

Glad to confirm my repair has been completely successful. The gear indicator and transmission are working flawlessly since getting it fixed last month. The electronic display in the instrument panel now clearly shows gear positions, and the gear selector feels firm and precise again. The total repair came to 1000€ for the new control unit, programming, and labor. The automotive electronics specialist confirmed the original diagnosis, a defective control module was causing both the display failure and transmission issues. The repair shop first verified all gear indicator functions through their diagnostic system, then completed full testing of the transmission in all positions. The loose gear selector you mentioned was also resolved once the new control unit was installed and properly calibrated. This is typical when the main control module fails, as it affects both the electronic signals and mechanical feedback in the gear selector mechanism. If your symptoms match what I experienced, getting it checked soon would be smart to avoid potential transmission damage. Once the control unit was replaced, all systems returned to normal operation with no lingering issues.

Just got back from the repair shop and wanted to update. Took it to a certified transmission specialist who diagnosed the exact same problem, failed control module affecting the gear shift system and digital display. The repair cost was slightly higher at 1200€ but included a 2-year warranty on the parts and labor. The sensor problem was actually worse than initially thought, with multiple faulty connections in the automotive electronics system. Happy to report all symptoms are now fixed. The gear selector feels solid again, transmission shifts smoothly, and the electronic display is working perfectly. No more grinding noises or erratic behavior. Really appreciate the advice about getting it checked quickly. The mechanic mentioned waiting longer could have caused serious transmission damage. The whole repair took about 6 hours, but definitely worth it to have everything working properly again.