The 1999 Dodge Durango with the 5.9-liter Magnum V8 uses a 46RE four-speed automatic transmission with electronic control and overdrive.
In the 1999 Durango lineup, the 5.9 L Magnum V8 was paired with a four-speed automatic that was common among Mopar SUVs and trucks of the era. This configuration emphasizes ease of use and towing capability, with the automatic transmission handling gear changes while the engine delivers the pulling power. Manual transmissions were not offered with the 5.9 V8 in this model year, making the 46RE the standard drivetrain pairing for most Durangos equipped with the 5.9 engine.
Key transmission characteristics
Here are the main attributes of the transmission found in the 1999 Durango 5.9, highlighting what owners and prospective buyers should know.
- Transmission model: 46RE (a four-speed automatic with overdrive)
- Control system: Electronically controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM)
- Drive configuration: Designed to work with both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions
- Overdrive and torque converter: Includes overdrive for fuel efficiency and a lock-up torque converter for better highway performance
- Common concerns: Known issues with aging units can include valve body wear or solenoid failures; regular fluid changes help longevity
These characteristics depict the arrangement used in the Durango’s drivetrain and help explain performance and maintenance considerations for the model year.
Summary
The 1999 Dodge Durango with the 5.9-liter Magnum V8 is equipped with a 46RE four-speed automatic transmission, electronically controlled, with overdrive and a lock-up torque converter. This setup was standard for that year and aligns with Mopar’s design language for late-1990s SUVs.
For those verifying a particular vehicle, check the VIN, build sheet, or transmission tag to confirm the exact calibration, but the 1999 Durango 5.9’s transmission is consistently the 46RE family.