How many fuel filters does a Dodge Ram have?

The number varies by engine and model year: gasoline Ram trucks generally use one fuel filter, while diesel Ram trucks with Cummins typically have two filters.

Engine-by-engine overview

The following sections outline typical fuel-filter configurations for common Ram powertrains. Variations can occur by year, market, and specific trim, so always verify with the owner’s manual or a dealership service bulletin for your exact vehicle.

Gasoline Ram engines

Gasoline-powered Rams (such as those with the 5.7L Hemi, 6.2L variants, or the 3.6L Pentastar in various models) generally use a single fuel filter in the low-pressure side of the fuel system.

These engines typically employ one fuel filter, located along the fuel line either near the engine bay or along the frame rail, depending on the model year and configuration.



• One fuel filter in the low-pressure fuel system

In most gasoline Ram applications, this single-filter setup is standard, though some regional or year-specific designs may differ slightly. Always confirm with service documentation for your exact year/model.

Diesel Ram engines (Cummins)

Diesel Ram trucks using Cummins engines (notably the 6.7L in 2500/3500 models) typically have two fuel filters in the filtration system: a primary fuel filter that also acts as a water separator, and a secondary fuel filter in the filter housing.

Diesel configurations commonly feature two filters to protect fuel injectors and the high-pressure fuel system from contaminants and water.



• Primary fuel filter with water separator


• Secondary fuel filter

Some model years or specific trims may have variations, but two-filter configurations are the standard expectation for most Cummins-powered Rams.

Ram EcoDiesel specifics

The 3.0L EcoDiesel used in various Ram 1500 configurations has a dedicated filtration setup that can differ by year. Many implementations use a primary fuel filter with water separator, and some variants have a secondary filter in the same housing or a separate stage. Check your exact year/model to be certain.

Maintenance considerations

Replacement intervals and service procedures depend on engine type, driving conditions, and the specific filtration system installed by the manufacturer. Diesel filters (especially those with water separators) generally require more attentive maintenance due to potential water accumulation and injector protection needs. Gasoline-fueled Rams typically require filter changes at manufacturer-recommended intervals, which are often less frequent than diesel equivalents.

Bottom line

- Gasoline Ram trucks: usually one fuel filter.

- Diesel Ram trucks with Cummins: typically two fuel filters (primary water-separator and secondary filter).

- EcoDiesel variants: filtration configurations can vary; consult the owner’s manual for the exact setup on your year/model.

Summary

The Dodge Ram’s fuel-filter count is not universal but depends on the drivetrain. For most gasoline Ram trucks, plan on one filter. For Ram trucks with Cummins diesel engines, expect two filters. EcoDiesel configurations vary by year, so confirm with the specific vehicle documentation. Always refer to the service manual or dealer for exact specifications relevant to your Ram’s year and model.

Where is the fuel filter on a Dodge Ram 1500?

The Ram 1500 fuel filter location varies by model year and engine. For many gasoline models, the filter is integrated into the fuel pump assembly inside the fuel tank, requiring removal of the fuel tank or bed to access. For EcoDiesel models, the external filter is located on the frame rail underneath the truck, near the center or just behind the driver's side, between the fuel tank and the rear axle.
 
This video shows the fuel filter location on an EcoDiesel model: 45sWheels and Saddle GarageYouTube · Oct 3, 2023
Gasoline models (e.g., 5.7L, 2020 and later) 

• Location: The filter is part of the fuel pump sender assembly inside the fuel tank. 
• Access: It is not a serviceable, external component. The entire fuel sender assembly will need to be replaced to service the filter. 
• Procedure: Accessing the fuel tank typically requires removing the truck bed. 

EcoDiesel models

• Location: Underneath the truck on the frame rail, often above the driveshaft, between the fuel tank and the rear axle.
• Access: This is an external, serviceable filter, usually housed in a black canister.
• Procedure: You will need to get under the truck and locate the canister. You will likely need a special tool to remove the cap, according to this YouTube video. 

You can watch this video to see how to replace the fuel filter on a gasoline model: 1mDownsizing Makes CentsYouTube · Dec 23, 2024

Where is the second fuel filter located?

The secondary fuel filter is typically located in the engine bay, close to the fuel injectors, to ensure the fuel is as clean as possible before entering the high-pressure system. In some vehicles, its position is near the engine oil filter. 
This video shows the location of the secondary fuel filter in the engine bay: 59sA Long Long Way to GOYouTube · Feb 10, 2024

• Location: The secondary filter is almost always inside the engine compartment. 
• Function: It's placed after the primary filter to catch finer particles, as it's the last line of defense before the fuel injectors. 
• Specific placement examples:
  • It may be found under the hood next to the engine oil filter. 
  • In some models, it is located on top of the engine, as seen in this YouTube video. 

Does my truck have two fuel filters?

There are two types of fuel filter in a diesel engine: primary filter (pre-filter) and secondary filter. These two filters are at different locations in the fuel system, and they serve different layers of protection. The primary filter is usually located between the fuel tank and the fuel pump.

Does the Ram 2500 have two fuel filters?

Now if you have a I forget where the break point is if it was 2022. Or where but My style on my 2024. Is a cartridge that goes inside of the canister.