How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2005 Dodge Ram hold?
The transmission in a 2005 Dodge Ram typically holds between 12 and 15 quarts of fluid, depending on the exact transmission model and drivetrain. Four-speed automatics generally fall around 12 quarts, while the more common five-speed automatics are in the 14–15 quart range.
Common automatic transmissions in the 2005 Ram and their capacities
Below are the two most common automatic transmissions found in the 2005 Ram lineup and their typical capacity ranges. Exact capacity can vary by engine, drivetrain, and production year within the 2005 model year, so always verify with the service manual or dipstick.
- 4-speed automatic (42RE/41TE family) — total system capacity is typically about 12 quarts. A drain-and-fill procedure usually requires roughly 6–9 quarts, depending on how thorough the drain is performed.
- 5-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE family) — total system capacity is typically about 14–15 quarts. A drain-and-fill procedure generally takes around 9–11 quarts.
Note: Some heavy-duty Ram models, such as certain Ram 2500/3500 configurations, may use different transmissions with larger capacities. For those variants, the exact capacity should be confirmed in the owner’s manual or service manual specific to the vehicle.
Maintenance considerations and practical tips
When planning a transmission fluid change, use the fluid type recommended for your specific transmission (often Dexron/Mercon blends or Mopar ATF, per your manual). Check the level with the dipstick when the transmission is at operating temperature and the vehicle is level. If you plan a full flush, be aware that some shops use more fluid than a simple drain-and-fill, which will affect total quarts needed.
In practice, if you’re refreshing a 2005 Ram’s automatic transmission, budget roughly 12–15 quarts for a complete fill depending on the model, with drain-and-fill volumes typically in the 6–11 quart range depending on the method used. Always confirm the exact capacity for your specific truck model and transmission type.
Summary: For a 2005 Dodge Ram, the automatic transmission capacity generally falls between 12 and 15 quarts, with 12 quarts common for four-speed units and 14–15 quarts common for five-speed units. Verify your exact figure in the manual or service literature for your particular drivetrain.
How much transmission fluid does a Dodge Ram 1500 hold?
6 liters of synthetic automatic transmission fluid (ATF) specifically developed and engineered for 8-speed transmissions used in the Ram 1500.
How much transmission fluid does a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 take?
The transmission fluid capacity for a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 depends on the transmission: the 545RFE 5-speed automatic has an initial fill of 6.6 quarts and a total capacity of 16.9 quarts for a 4WD model, while the 48RE 4-speed automatic has an initial fill of 4 quarts. Manual transmissions like the G56 have a capacity of 4.70 liters, while the manual transmission with the 4.7L engine (238 6-Speed) holds 2.20 liters. Always confirm your specific transmission type before adding fluid.
This video demonstrates how to check transmission fluid levels on a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500: 32sHaynes ManualsYouTube · Oct 10, 2017
Automatic transmission capacities
- 545RFE (5-speed):
- Initial fill: 6.6 quarts
- Total fill: 16.9 quarts (for 4WD models)
- 48RE (4-speed):
- Initial fill: 4 quarts
- Total fill: 16.9 quarts
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid and filters on a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500: 1mthomas brianYouTube · Jun 28, 2018
Manual transmission capacities
- G56 (6-speed) with 5.7L V8: 4.70 liters
- GETRAG 238 (6-speed) with 4.7L: 2.20 liters
How many quarts of transmission fluid for a drain and fill?
For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid.
How to determine the right amount
- Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling.
- Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process.
- Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid.
- Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high.
- Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading.
Important considerations
- A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter.
- You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage.
- Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 use?
ATF + 4 Automatic Transmission Fluid
ATF + 4 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). It is recommended to check your vehicle owner's manual to be sure Pentosin ATF 44 is right for your vehicle. 1.32 Gallons (5 L).
