Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2005 Dodge Magnum powertrain problems
moderate 97 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
97
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 97 powertrain complaints filed for the 2005 Dodge Magnum, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 4 model years of Dodge Magnum we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 97.
Owners have filed 97 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Engine Stall Immediately Following Fuel Tank Fill-Up (X53 Lifetime Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves replacing the fuel tank with a revised part. Some customers may experience an engine stall condition just after filling the fuel tank. The integral mulit-functional control valve may allow liquid fuel to enter the evaporative emissions system causing a rich fuel condition when the purge system is initiated..
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of the 2005 Dodge Magnum describe a pattern of serious powertrain failures. The most frequent complaint is the shift interlock lever—a plastic part known as the "pink thingy"—breaking and locking the shifter in Park. Tow operators report seeing multiple cases per day, and dealers acknowledge it as a known problem, yet Chrysler's Customer Satisfaction Notification K39 covers only select VINs. Repair shops and NAPA sell aftermarket parts for this failure because it's so widespread; costs run $287 to $450 for shifter replacement at a dealer.
Transmission failures are equally prevalent. Owners report sudden drops to first gear at highway speeds, loss of all transmission power, hard and jerky shifts, and torque converters failing with metal spread throughout the trans. Some owners have had the Transmission Control Module replaced multiple times without permanent fix. Engine stalls occur suddenly at various speeds, often shortly after filling the fuel tank due to a failed fuel-tank check valve.
A separate issue involves the BAS (Brake Assist System) light illuminating unpredictably, forcing the transmission into Neutral and stranding the vehicle until restart. One owner's wiring harness burned and melted, with Chrysler refusing to investigate. Vehicles also roll away from Park despite brake pedal pressure. Repair costs are steep—one transmission replacement ran $3,800 at 63,000 miles—and warranty coverage is selective, leaving many owners to pay out of pocket for problems Chrysler has acknowledged through service bulletins.
Same Dodge Magnum powertrain reports on nearby years: 2006 · 2007
Failure modes owners describe
Shift Interlock Lever Breakage (Park Lock)
Plastic shift interlock return spring hook breaks, trapping the shifter in Park. Owners report the part is commonly called the 'pink thingy.' Replacement requires full shifter assembly replacement. The issue is widespread and well-known in the repair industry; dealers and tow operators report seeing multiple cases per day. Chrysler issued Customer Satisfaction Notification K39 but applied it only to specific VINs, leaving most affected vehicles uncovered.
When: Typically 50,000–200,000 miles; some failures occur early (18,000–77,000 miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Unable to shift out of Park even with brake pedal depressed; Manual override switch does not function; Vehicle becomes immobilized and requires towing
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers charge $287–$450 for shifter assembly replacement. NAPA and online retailers sell aftermarket parts. Some owners bypass the problem by driving in Neutral with emergency brake.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler Customer Satisfaction Notification K39 (not a recall); applied selectively by VIN. Dealers inform owners their VIN is not covered despite identical symptoms. Chrysler offers $100 co-pay assistance in some cases.
Transmission Control Module Failure / Torque Converter Failure
Transmission either drops into first gear suddenly at highway speeds, fails to upshift, or loses all power transmission. Check Engine light accompanies the failures. Some cases involve torque converter failure with metal spread throughout the transmission; other cases involve repeated TCM replacements that do not resolve the issue.
When: 10,000–186,000 miles; can occur repeatedly within days or weeks of repair
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle drops to first gear or loses gears during highway driving (50–70 mph); Check Engine light and airbag light illuminate; Vehicle becomes sluggish and will not shift; Transmission goes into neutral unexpectedly; Hard or delayed shifts into gears
Codes mentioned: Check Engine codes (specific codes not documented in narratives)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers replace Transmission Control Module multiple times without permanent fix. Throttle body replacement has been attempted. One owner reports $3,800 transmission replacement at 63,000 miles. Torque converter failure typically requires full transmission replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls found in narratives. One owner mentions a Service Bulletin addressing moisture buildup in transmission solenoid.
Fuel Tank Pressure / Check Valve Failure
Vehicle stalls shortly after filling fuel tank, especially during turns or when fuel sloshes. Gas cap hisses and spits. One narrative describes a failed check valve in the fuel tank causing emission system to flood and confusing the computer, resulting in stalling. Engine loses all power and restarts after several minutes. Problem recurs every fill-up.
When: Occurs consistently after refueling; some owner driven vehicles since new without incident, then problem develops
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls 1–2 miles after filling tank; Loss of power steering, brakes, and engine power; Car will not restart immediately; Vehicle hesitates, jerks, and stutters after fuel fill; Hissing/spitting from gas cap; Problem triggered by fuel sloshing (turns, stops)
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel tank replacement estimated at minimum $1,000. One owner reports over $1,000 spent on miscellaneous parts (throttle body, fuel pump, sending unit, EGR, PCV, sensors, plugs, injectors, intake seals) without resolution until fuel tank issue identified.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls mentioned. No manufacturer assistance documented.
BAS Light / Transmission Neutral Engagement
BAS (Brake Assist System) light illuminates while driving or parked, causing engine to drop to 800 RPM idle and transmission to shift into Neutral. Vehicle becomes inoperable and must be stopped, placed in Park, ignition shut off and restarted to resume driving. Failure recurs unpredictably.
When: Can occur 1 minute or 1 week apart; happens during highway driving and while parked
Symptoms owners cite: BAS light comes on dashboard; Engine idles at 800 RPM; Transmission shifts to Neutral without driver input; Vehicle coasts without power and cannot be driven; Airbag light also reported on in one case
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented in narratives. One owner reports dealer unwilling to address airbag light.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented.
Engine Stall at Various Speeds
Engine stalls unexpectedly during normal driving at highway speeds or after acceleration. Check Engine light may or may not illuminate. One early case involved transmission dropping to first gear; others describe total engine loss of power. Causes vary but include moisture in transmission solenoid and failed crankshaft sensor or cam sensor.
When: One case at 18,000 miles (check engine light at 10,000); others at unspecified mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls during traffic or highway driving (35–70 mph); Check Engine light may illuminate; Airbag light may illuminate; Vehicle becomes immobile and requires restart; Vehicle dies shortly after starting, no codes present
Repairs/costs cited: Parts replaced without resolving issue: throttle body, fuel pump, sending unit, EGR, PCV, crankshaft sensor, plugs, injectors, intake seals, air intake temperature sensor, solenoid (per service bulletin). Total spent over $1,000 in one case with no resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service Bulletin issued (mentioned in one narrative) regarding solenoid moisture buildup.
Transmission Wiring Harness Melt / Burn
Transmission wiring harness burns and melts, preventing computer diagnosis. No cause for the harness failure could be determined by dealer. Owner expresses concern about potential fire hazard.
When: 76,000 miles; vehicle put into service late spring 2004
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle whines as if in wrong gear; Engine/transmission light comes on intermittently; Engine sounds like it is still in high gear when accelerating after stop; Wiring harness visibly burned and melted
Repairs/costs cited: Harness too damaged to retrieve error codes. Chrysler refused to explore cause or pay for repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler refused repair coverage and would not investigate cause.
Vehicle Rolling Away from Park
Vehicle rolls backward or forward while parked and in Park gear, even with brake pedal depressed. Emergency brake required to stop the vehicle. In one case, vehicle rolled away while parked and turned off.
When: Early in vehicle life (500–600 miles) and at higher mileage (unspecified)
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls away while in Park; Brake pedal does not prevent rolling; Emergency brake required to stop vehicle
Repairs/costs cited: Not repaired in documented cases. One vehicle included in NHTSA Campaign 05V460000 but dealer stated too many vehicles to service and repeatedly postponed appointment.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 05V460000 exists but dealer unable/unwilling to complete repairs.
Rear Drive Shaft Bolt Failure
Rear drive shaft bolts fail, causing drive shaft failure and uncontrollable shaking. Transmission pan cracks and plastic undercarriage shield falls off. Vehicle loses all transmission fluid.
When: 25,123 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud noise from rear and uncontrollable shaking at 55 mph; Drive shaft visibly failed; All transmission fluid lost
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer to replace drive shaft, bolts, transfer case pan, yoke, transmission pan, and transmission filter. As of report date, vehicle had not been repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented.
Transmission Shift Solenoid Failure
Transmission solenoid fails, preventing vehicle from reliably exiting Park. Issue may be moisture-related per service bulletin. Repair involves solenoid replacement.
When: Unspecified mileage; one case referenced 50,000+ mile duration of problem
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle difficult or unable to shift out of Park initially; Requires multiple brake pedal pumps or repeated ignition cycles; Stranding at security checkpoints reported
Repairs/costs cited: Solenoid replacement; one case charged $350.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service Bulletin issued addressing moisture in solenoid.
Park Pawl Anchor Shaft Fracture
Park pawl anchor shaft in transmission fractures, preventing the vehicle from remaining in Park or shifting out of Park.
When: 41,403 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle fails to shift out of Park
Repairs/costs cited: Park pawl anchor shaft replaced by independent mechanic.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified but offered no assistance; vehicle not included in NHTSA Campaign 05V460000.
AWD Transfer Case Shudder
2005 Dodge Magnum AWD models exhibit harsh shudder during low-speed parking lot maneuvers. Cause is debris and mineral clogging of friction disk setup in transfer case. Issue listed as Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) rather than recall despite affecting nearly all 2005 AWD models.
When: Unspecified; described as ongoing issue affecting 2005 AWD models
Symptoms owners cite: Horrible shudder at low speeds during parking lot maneuvers
Repairs/costs cited: Chrysler covers under powertrain warranty but requires customer to pay service charge. Fix involves clutch pack removal and fluid change.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) issued but treated as warranty repair requiring customer service charge rather than recall.
Transmission Hard Shift / Shudder
Transmission exhibits hard, jerky shifts into gears and shuddering during acceleration or overdrive engagement. One owner reports 50,000 miles of in-and-out shop visits without root cause identified; finally diagnosed as transmission rebuild requirement with unknown cause.
When: Unspecified; one case over 50,000 miles of problem duration
Symptoms owners cite: Hard shift into gears (feels like rear-end collision); Transmission shudder when overdrive engaged; Vehicle bucks and jerks upon acceleration; Lack of power at certain speeds and RPM ranges
Repairs/costs cited: Torque converter clutch and/or PCM programming suspected. Transmission flushes do not resolve issue. One case resulted in transmission rebuild recommendation.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer attributed one case to worn spark plugs ($237 charge); later check engine light returned. TSB application status unclear.
Synthesized from 97 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Tl* - the contact stated that had transmission failure. The vehicle had 18,000 mileson it. The check engine light first turned on at 10,000 miles. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer, and the check engine light was reset. In june 2006 the contact was driving in heavy traffic 70 MPH with clear and dry road conditions and the vehicle dropped to first gear. The contact was able…
After starting my car, I attempted (without success) to shift out of park. The transmission shift interlock lever (as Chrysler calls it) had broken and locked the shifter in park. I fortunately had tools in the back and was able to disassemble the center console and get the car moving again. I was told by friends that Chrysler had issued a recall for this problem, and was forwarded a copy of…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2005 Dodge Magnum?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2005 Dodge Magnum?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 97 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 81 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 50,000 and 108,029 miles, with the median around 72,518. A quarter of owners report trouble before 50,000; a quarter make it past 108,029. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2005/Dodge/Magnum.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.