How Much Oil Does A Ram 1500 Take? Quick Facts
The RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine needs six quarts of oil. The 5.7L HEMI® engine, however, uses seven quarts. Knowing your Ram 1500 oil capacity helps keep the engine running well.
This guide covers the oil requirements for your Ram 1500, from how much oil is needed to the best types of oil for each engine.
We’ll explain the importance of the correct oil. Plus, we’ll show why not to overfill or underfill your engine. Our guide will teach you the basics of Ram 1500 oil care.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
- Understanding Your Ram 1500 Engine Specifications
- What Type of Oil Does a Ram 1500 Use?
- Steps to Change the Oil in a Ram 1500
- Recommended Oil Change Intervals
- Signs Your Ram 1500 Needs an Oil Change
- Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Oil Change
- Benefits of Using OEM Parts for Your Ram 1500
- Where to Get Professional Oil Change Services for Your Ram 1500
Whether you’re a DIY pro or new to car upkeep, let’s dive into Ram 1500 oil care. We’ll start with understanding your engine’s needs and the ideal oil type to use.
What’s Your Ram 1500 Engine Specifications?
Knowing your Ram 1500’s engine specs is key to good maintenance. Each engine offers distinct performance and has specific oil needs.
These differences affect the oil amount and the oil change specs.
The Importance of Engine Oil
Engine oil is crucial for reducing engine wear. Without the right oil, your engine might wear quickly or fail. It’s important to use the correct oil type and amount.
For example, the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine requires 6 quarts of oil.
Different Engines in The Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 has several engine options. The standard in the 2025 Ram 1500 is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. It gives 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
This engine can tow up to 8,100 pounds and carry a payload of 2,300 pounds. If you prefer more power, consider the 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-6 engine.
It produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. It also cuts emissions by up to 15% versus the older 5.7-liter HEMI V8.
For top performance, the 3.0-liter Hurricane High Output Straight-Six Turbo engine boasts 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque.
It has a towing capacity of 11,580 pounds and a payload capacity of 2,300 pounds.
Additionally, the Ram REV engine provides a greener option with a 229-kWh battery, delivering 350 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque.
| Engine Type | Horsepower (HP) | Torque (lb-ft) | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Payload Capacity (lbs) | Required Oil Amount (quarts) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar® V6 | 305 | 269 | 8,100 | 2,300 | 6 |
| 3.0L Hurricane Inline-6 | 420 | 460 | 11,560 | 1,910 | 7 |
| 3.0L Hurricane High Output Straight-Six Turbo | 540 | 521 | 11,580 | 2,300 | N/A |
What Type of Oil Does a Ram 1500 Use?
Picking the right oil for your Ram 1500 keeps your engine running well. The best oil choice can make your engine last longer and run better. We’ll talk about the top oils for different Ram 1500 engines next.
3.6L Pentastar® V6 Engine: Recommended Oil
The 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine works best with a synthetic blend oil. It should be SAE 0W-20. This oil keeps the engine working smoothly in all kinds of driving.
5.7L HEMI® Engine: Recommended Oil
For the 5.7L HEMI® engine, you should use a synthetic SAE 5W-20 oil. It boosts engine efficiency and guards against damage. This helps your engine last longer.
Preferred Oil Brands
There are many great oil brands for your Ram 1500. Look at Mobil 1, Pennzoil, and Royal Purple. Pick oils that meet Ram’s standards for the best engine health and performance.
How Much Oil Does a Ram 1500 Take?
The oil capacity of your Ram 1500 is vital for its performance. Knowing the right amounts for different engines helps keep your engine healthy.
Oil Capacity For The 3.6L Pentastar® V6 Engine
Your Ram 1500’s 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine needs 6 quarts of oil to run well. Using SAE 0W-20 synthetic blend oil is best for top protection and efficiency.
Oil Capacity For The 5.7L HEMI® Engine
The Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI® engine requires 7 quarts of oil. For this engine, using SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil will keep it running smoothly.
Why It’s Important Not to Overfill or Underfill?
Having the right oil volume in your Ram 1500 is key. Too much oil can create too much pressure, leading to leaks and damage.
Not enough oil means not enough lubrication, which causes more friction and wear. Always stick to the recommended oil refill amount to keep your engine safe.
Here’s a simple guide for your reference:
| Engine Type | Oil Capacity | Recommended Oil |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar® V6 | 6 quarts | SAE 0W-20 |
| 5.7L HEMI® | 7 quarts | SAE 5W-20 |
Always pick the right oil type and amount for your Ram 1500. This ensures it lasts long and performs at its best.
Steps to Change The Oil in a Ram 1500
Changing the oil in a Ram 1500 requires specific tools and following precise steps. These steps keep your engine running well, making it last longer and work better.
Necessary Tools and Materials
- New Engine Oil (Ensure it meets FCA Material Standards such as MS-6395 or MS-12991)
- Oil Filter (Replace with every oil change)
- Oil Filter Wrench
- Socket Set
- Oil Drain Pan (Minimum 10-quart capacity)
- Funnel
- Torque Wrench
Oil Drainage Procedure
- Warm up the engine. This makes the oil flow better.
- Park on a flat surface and apply the parking brakes.
- Put the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
- Use a socket wrench to take off the drain plug. Let the old oil flow out into the pan.
- After draining, put the drain plug back and tighten it to 14-21 lbs-ft of torque.
- Take off the old oil filter with the wrench. Get the new one ready by filling it with oil and putting oil on the rubber gasket.
- Put in the new oil filter. Tighten it by hand and then a bit more with the wrench.
How to Refill The Oil?
- Put the funnel in the oil filler hole.
- Gradually add the new oil to the engine. A 5.7L HEMI engine needs about 5.7 quarts. A 3.6L Pentastar engine requires around 6 quarts.
- Add oil bit by bit until it’s at the right level.
- Make sure the oil filler cap is on tight.
- Turn on the engine for about 30 seconds. This moves the new oil around.
- Shut off the engine and look for leaks near the drain plug and filter.
- Check the oil level again. Add more if needed.
- Reset the Oil Life monitoring system for accurate oil tracking.
Regular oil changes are vital for your Ram 1500’s engine to stay efficient and last a long time. By following these steps, you’ll be able to do this important upkeep without a hitch.
Recommended Oil Change Intervals For a Ram 1500
Keeping up with the ram 1500 oil change interval is key to your engine’s long life.
Most Ram 1500 trucks need an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles for regular driving. Sticking to this schedule helps your engine run well and stay reliable.
When you’re close to 7,500 miles, the Oil Change Indicator will remind you. It’s important to get the oil changed by 10,000 miles, especially the first time.
The usual services around 7,500 to 10,000 miles include:
- Engine oil and filter change
- Tire rotation
- Battery inspection
- Brake system inspection
- Engine cooling system inspection
- Exhaust system inspection
- Engine air filter inspection, particularly if driving in dusty or off-road conditions
As your Ram 1500 gets more miles, thorough maintenance is essential. Let’s look at what’s suggested for higher mileage:
| Mileage | Recommended Services |
|---|---|
| 20,000 miles | In addition to the previous services, inspect the front suspension and brake linings, and replace the cabin air filter. |
| 30,000 miles | Include front and rear axle inspections, axle fluid change if used in harsh conditions like police or off-road use, transfer case fluid inspection, and replace the engine air filter. |
| 60,000 miles | Re-inspect transfer case fluid, change the fluid for heavy-duty applications. |
| 100,000 miles and beyond | Replace spark plugs, engine coolant, inspect, and likely replace the PCV valve. |
If you often tow heavy loads or drive off-road, change your oil more often, every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This ensures your engine stays in top shape and avoids damage.
By keeping up with these oil change intervals and getting timely oil changes, you’ll keep your Ram 1500 running great and protect your investment.
Signs Your Ram 1500 Needs an Oil Change
Knowing when your Ram 1500 needs an oil change keeps it running well. Keeping an eye on these signs helps avoid major damage and keeps your truck in great shape.
Unusual Engine Noises
Unusual noises like knocking or rumbling could mean your truck needs new oil. Proper oil levels and cleanliness help your engine run quietly.
If ignored, your engine might wear out faster, and fixing it could get pricey.
Oil Change Indicator Light
A clear sign for an oil change is the oil light on your dashboard. This orange light means your oil has about 15% of its life left. It’s a helpful reminder to get an oil change soon to protect your engine.
Decreased Engine Performance
If your Ram 1500 starts to feel slow, it might need new oil. You might notice it accelerates slowly, uses more fuel, or doesn’t feel as powerful.
This happens when old oil can’t lubricate or cool the engine properly. Spotting these signs early can prevent bigger issues.
An unusual noise, the oil light, or feeling your truck run slowly are signs to act on. Taking care of them keeps your Ram 1500 at its best.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Oil Change
Following the correct ram 1500 oil change tips helps you prevent many engine problems. A typical error is choosing the wrong oil type.
It’s vital to select oils that match the API Certification CJ-4 or similar, to avoid wear and oxidation.
Also, be sure to use oils with the ACEA Certification E9 or similar for European diesel engines. Overfilling the oil tank is another mistake.
It can cause too much engine wear due to poor lubrication or overheating. Always check the oil level after letting the engine cool for 10-15 minutes.
This ensures the oil settles in the pan for an accurate reading. Make sure your vehicle is on a flat surface during an oil change.
Clean and correctly insert the dipstick each time you measure the oil. Wrong oil levels often result from not using the dipstick right or measuring on uneven ground.
Failing to change the oil on time can wear out your engine early. It also leads to less fuel efficiency and expensive fixes.
Stick to changing the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, depending on how much you drive. Don’t forget to replace the oil filter gasket with each oil change.
DIYers often miss this, but it’s crucial for preventing leaks and making your engine last longer. After adding oil, check the level a few times.
You might need to add a bit more oil after the initial fill. If you have a 2025 Ram 1500 with a 3.0-liter “Hurricane” engine, remember it doesn’t use a regular dipstick.
Instead, check the oil-level gauge on the dashboard. If the Oil Level Warning Light comes on, you need to add 1 quart of oil within the next 300 miles (500 km).
Lastly, don’t use oil with the wrong viscosity. Pick 0W-40 or 5W-40 for the Ram 1500 3.0L EcoDiesel engine.
Using the wrong viscosity oil can cause a lot of engine wear or even serious failure due to overheating or poor lubrication.
By heeding these ram 1500 oil change tips, you can boost your vehicle’s performance and longevity, avoiding high repair costs.
Benefits of Using OEM Parts For Your Ram 1500
Using OEM parts for your Ram 1500 can greatly improve its longevity, warranty, and performance.
Longevity of Your Vehicle
OEM parts are made by the original manufacturers, ensuring high durability. MOPAR creates these parts specially for the Ram 1500, guaranteeing perfect compatibility.
This results in a longer lifespan for your vehicle, avoiding the need for frequent replacements.
Studies have shown that OEM parts last significantly longer than aftermarket parts under normal conditions.
Maintaining Warranty Conditions
Using OEM parts is key to keeping your vehicle’s warranty valid. They comply with warranty requirements, protecting your coverage.
Additionally, OEM parts often include extra warranty periods. This extends your vehicle’s protection, unlike with non-OEM parts.
Optimal Engine Performance
OEM parts are designed to meet the specific needs of the Ram 1500, ensuring top engine performance. Genuine Dodge parts fit precisely, nearly eliminating fitment issues.
They help maintain nearly factory-level performance. Using OEM parts also cuts repair costs, as they’re less likely to fail or be incompatible.
Where to Get Professional Oil Change Services For Your Ram 1500?
If you own a Ram 1500, you should go to authorized dealerships for oil changes. They use the right oils and tools. Their technicians also get special training on Ram vehicles.
Mopar® Express Lane is a top choice, with over 1,000 locations in the U.S. They offer fast, quality oil changes for many vehicle brands, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, and FIAT®.
At Mopar® Express Lane, you get a free vehicle check with every oil change. They use Pennzoil Motor Oil, which is best for your Ram 1500’s performance and life.
For those who prefer original parts, Mopar® Express Lane has them. They use O.E.-backed bproauto® parts that are high quality and fit perfectly. These parts are also backed by a warranty.
Go to authorized dealerships or Mopar® Express Lane for your Ram 1500’s oil change. They ensure your vehicle gets expert care without cutting corners.
Conclusion
To keep your Ram 1500 running well, regular maintenance is key. This includes timely oil changes.
Knowing the specific requirements of your engine ensures you use the right oil. For example, the 5.7L HEMI and 3.6L Pentastar engines need SAE 5W-20 oil.
Meanwhile, the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine requires SAE 5W-40 synthetic diesel oil. Following these guidelines prevents problems like overfilling or underfilling your oil.
For most engines, including the Ram 1500’s, it’s best to change the oil every 10,000 miles or every 12 months. This depends on how and where you drive.
It’s wise to check your oil levels before long journeys or when carrying heavy stuff. That way, you keep the oil at the right level and avoid trouble on the road.
Remember, taking care of your Ram 1500 involves more than just oil changes. You should also replace air and fuel filters every 15,000 to 30,000 miles and 20,000 to 30,000 miles respectively.
Using synthetic oil can help your Ram 1500 run better, especially in tough conditions. It’s important to watch for signs that it’s time to change the oil.
These signs include dashboard warnings, louder engine noise, and dirty oil. By keeping up with maintenance, you improve your truck’s performance and lifespan.
Proper care means a dependable and efficient vehicle for many years.
FAQs
How much oil does a Ram 1500 take?
The 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine needs six quarts of oil. The 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine requires seven quarts.
What type of oil is recommended for the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine in a Ram 1500?
For the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine, use synthetic blend oil. It should be SAE 0W-20 weight.
Which oil type is optimal for the 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine in a Ram 1500?
The best choice for the 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine is synthetic oil. Choose SAE 5W-20 weight.
Why is it important to use the correct oil type for my Ram 1500?
Using the right oil type keeps the engine running smoothly. It reduces wear, saves fuel, and avoids engine problems.
How often should I change the oil in my Ram 1500?
Change the oil as the maker suggests for your engine type. Regular changes keep the engine in top form.
What are the signs that my Ram 1500 needs an oil change?
Signs include weird engine sounds and the oil change light on. You might notice weaker engine performance too.
Don’t ignore these warnings. They can help prevent major engine damage.
What are the necessary tools and materials for changing the oil in a Ram 1500?
You need the right oil and filter, a drain pan, a wrench, and a funnel. Having the correct tools is key to changing the oil properly.
How should I properly drain the old oil from my Ram 1500?
First, make sure your truck is on flat ground. Remove the oil drain plug to let the old oil out. Always put the plug back firmly when done.
Why should I consider using OEM parts for my Ram 1500?
Using OEM parts keeps your truck running well. It also keeps your warranty valid. These parts are made just for your Ram 1500 model.
