What coolant to use in a Dodge Ram?
Choosing the right coolant for your Dodge Ram is crucial for maintaining optimal engine performance and preventing overheating. With various types of coolants available on the market, it can be confusing to determine which one is best suited for your vehicle. In this article, we will explore the recommended coolant types for Dodge Ram trucks and provide tips on how to properly maintain your cooling system.
Types of Coolant for Dodge Ram
Dodge Ram vehicles typically require a specific type of coolant to ensure proper engine function. Here are the main types of coolant you should consider:
- Ethylene Glycol-Based Coolant: This is the most common type of coolant used in Dodge Ram trucks. It provides excellent protection against freezing and boiling, making it suitable for various climates.
- HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Coolant: Many newer Dodge Ram models require HOAT coolant, which combines the benefits of both organic and inorganic additives. This type of coolant offers superior protection against corrosion and is often dyed orange or yellow.
- OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Coolant: Some models may also use OAT coolant, which is typically dyed red or purple. OAT coolants are designed for extended service intervals and provide excellent protection against rust and scale.
Choosing the Right Coolant
To determine the best coolant for your specific Dodge Ram model, consult your owner's manual or check with a trusted mechanic. Here are some tips to help you choose:
- Check the color of the existing coolant in your vehicle. This can give you a clue about the type currently in use.
- Always use a coolant that meets the specifications outlined by the manufacturer. Using the wrong type can lead to engine damage.
- If you're unsure, consider using a pre-mixed coolant that is compatible with multiple types, ensuring it meets the necessary standards for your vehicle.
Maintaining Your Cooling System
Proper maintenance of your cooling system is essential for the longevity of your Dodge Ram. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Regularly check coolant levels and top off as needed to prevent overheating.
- Flush the cooling system every 30,000 miles or as recommended in your owner's manual to remove any buildup of contaminants.
- Inspect hoses and connections for leaks or wear, and replace them if necessary.
By selecting the right coolant and maintaining your cooling system, you can ensure that your Dodge Ram runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter what coolant you put in your truck?
What Coolant Does Your Car Need? Different vehicles require different coolants. There are varieties for every type of vehicle, from diesel engines to American, Asian and European vehicles. Each one is specifically formulated to keep its designated engine type running in extreme temperatures.
What happens if you put the wrong coolant in your truck?
Putting the Wrong Engine Coolant in Your Car
Degraded cylinder heads. Head gasket breakage. Marred hoses. Reduction in vehicle performance.
What color is Dodge Ram coolant?
What color coolant does Ram use? It's vital to understand that color doesn't matter. While most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants are ordinarily orange, yellow, red or purple, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow. So evidently, there's quite a bit of overlap.
Can I use Prestone coolant in my Dodge Ram 1500?
Prestone® MAX antifreeze + coolant uses Advanced Original Equipment Technology to provide MAXIMUM ENGINE PROTECTION in all Jeep, Ram, Dodge & Chrysler vehicles from 2000 & newer, guaranteed.
What color is Mopar antifreeze?
Green-colored coolant formulated as an ethylene glycol-based product for long-lasting protection. Provides corrosion and rust protection for aluminum and all other cooling system components.
What coolant does a Dodge Ram use?
90032 OAT coolant type is the preferred premixed formula specification.
Do all dodges use the same coolant?
Every vehicle manufacturer, including Dodge has developed its own coolant or requires a apparent coolant that is unique to individual years and models.
Can I drive with low coolant?
What happens if I drive my car with no coolant? If you ignore these signs and continue to drive your car without coolant, your engine parts will get badly damaged – maybe even permanently – due to overheating. That is why it is very dangerous to drive your car when you are low on coolant.
Does Dodge use orange coolant?
Prime Orange antifreeze+coolant is designed to work with these specific vehicles: All GM ® vehicles 1995 & newer/GM approved (GMC, Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, Saturn, Oldsmobile, Hummer), most Ford ® vehicles 2011 – 2018 (Ford, Lincoln, Mercury) and most Chrysler ® vehicles 2013 & newer (Ram, Dodge, Jeep, ...
What happens if you mix coolant colors?
If you do mix coolant, and the two types of coolant you mix are not compatible, it could create sludge that can block the system, it can also increase corrosion in your engine and cooling system. To rectify this, you'll need to flush the system.
