68RFE vs. Aisin AS69RC Transmissions: How Do They Compare? – Jalopnik

When comparing the Mopar 68RFE automatic transmission to the Aisin AS69RC, we should start with some similarities. Both transmissions are six-speed variants used primarily in heavy-duty Dodge/Ram pickup trucks equipped with 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engines. While the 2025 Ram heavy-duty trucks kept the Hemi and improved on the Cummins Diesel, they ultimately opted for an all-new TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic.

Dodge introduced the 68RFE behind the all-new 6.7-liter Cummins in mid-2007 as a powertrain upgrade for heavy-duty Ram pickup models. Until then, Dodge used a 48RE four-speed in the HD Ram. The change was in response to competing heavy-duty trucks from Ford and GM, which came out with five-speed TorqShift and six-speed Allison automatic transmissions in 2003 and 2006, respectively.

A new Aisin Seiki transmission, the six-speed AS68RC, made the same debut in mid-2007 behind the 6.7-liter Cummins. However, with its unreliable pump and valve body, its presence was short-lived. In 2013 the Aisin AS69RC replaced this and became an option for some Ram 3500 pickups.

As with many equations in life, the answer to which transmission is better depends on the use case. While Aisin has made some virtually indestructible transmissions, the 68RFE can be just as reliable and offers more aftermarket options for upgrades.

Ram trucks used the Aisin AS69RC transmissions in the most powerful 3500 pickups because they are better suited to high-torque applications. They are designed with strong internal components to handle heavy workloads in consumer and commercial trucks. However, that power comes at a price; compared to the 68RFE, the AS69RC is heavier, has fewer aftermarket tuning options, and is more expensive if it requires maintenance. The K2 hub and valve body are especially problematic, as they experience accelerated wear and inconsistent clutch applications.

The 68RFE is also prone to valve body problems, along with clutch packs that are not strong enough to handle heavy loads. It’s still suitable for lighter towing, though, and it’s unlikely to suffer as many failures unless you push its limits.

The easiest way to determine whether your heavy-duty 6.7-liter Cummins-powered Ram has the 68RFE or an Aisin transmission is to note the location of the dipstick used to check the transmission fluid level. On the 68RFE it is located on the passenger side of the engine compartment, while the Aisin Seiki transmissions have it on the driver’s side.

The year, model and equipment of your heavy-duty Ram truck can also provide the answer without having to pop the hood. If you have a 2007.5 to 2024 Ram 2500 equipped with the 6.7-liter Cummins, it almost certainly has the 68RFE transmission. Ram 3500 pickups from 2007.5 to 2012 with that engine all came with the 68RFE as well. Later 3500 models – from 2013 to 2018 – used the Aisin AS69RC in their high power package, while the standard power models were paired with the 68RFE. Finally, most Cummins-powered Ram 4500 and 5500 models built between 2013 and 2024 came with the Aisin AS69RC transmission.

Further verification can be found by viewing the build sheet for your truck online. Simply enter your truck’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Mopar’s online VIN lookup tool. Entering the VIN will reveal the year, make, and model of your truck, along with powertrain information, including engine and transmission type.