545RFE Master Rebuild Kit 1999-05, new and ready to install. Fits the 545RFE. Ships fast from the USA.
This master rebuild kit is aimed at the first generation of Chrysler RFE transmissions, the 1999-2005 units found in Grand Cherokee, Ram 1500, Dakota and Durango models. If your early RFE has a slip into the higher gears, harsh engagement, leaks from several seals or a pan full of clutch material, this is the overhaul kit to order. The product photo shows friction and steel packs, what appear to be bonded rubber pistons, a complete gasket set, lip seals, O-rings and a strip of sealing rings. Line it up with your teardown before you start.
The 45RFE arrived in 1999 behind the 4.7L in the Grand Cherokee. The five-speed 545RFE followed in 2001 in the same Jeep and spread through the lineup from 2003. So although the listing reads 545RFE 1999-05, a 545RFE built before 2001 does not exist; on a 1999 or 2000 vehicle this kit is going into a 45RFE, which uses the same clutch packs, pistons and seals. Every unit in this range has the original seven check ball valve body and a shifter with manual 2 and L positions.
Inside, these transmissions use six multi-disc clutches and no bands. Pistons apply each pack, and on the early units several of them are bonded designs where the rubber seal is molded to the piston. Once that rubber hardens after years of heat, the only fix is a new piston, which is why a master kit with pistons is the right choice for a 15 to 25 year old transmission.
On a transmission this old, check whether the problem is mechanical or hydraulic. Pull the pan, check fluid condition and read stored codes. Our RFE problems and fixes guide covers the switch valve, overdrive clutch and pump failures in order, and the 45RFE shift solenoid guide helps rule out an electrical fault that a rebuild will not cure.
Listed for the 545RFE across 1999-2005, which in practice means the early 45RFE and 545RFE family through 2005. Filter style and some pan and seal details changed during that span and between 2WD and 4WD applications, so compare the photo with your old parts or send us your year and VIN to check. For 2005-specific and later kits, see the 45RFE and 545RFE collection.
Cost planning for the rest of the job is covered in our 45RFE rebuild cost guide.
| Fits | 545RFE 1999-05 |
| Part type | Master Rebuild Kit |
| Condition | New |
| Brand | OEM |
| Ships | From the USA |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
Yes, as a 45RFE. The 545RFE was introduced in 2001, so a 1999 or 2000 Jeep has the four-speed 45RFE, which shares the clutch packs, pistons and seals in this kit.
Several RFE pistons have rubber seals molded onto them. After years of heat the rubber hardens and leaks, and the seal cannot be replaced separately, so the piston is replaced.
Check the pump, input clutch assembly and solenoid pack, replace both filters, and have the converter serviced or replaced. On a high-mileage early unit, the solenoid switch valve bore in the valve body often needs repair too.
Both listings cover 2005. Match the pan, filter and seals in each photo to your teardown, or send us your year and VIN and we will confirm which fits.
Mopar ATF+4 only. Do a full overhaul fill, then set the level hot on the dipstick and recheck after the quick learn drive.
