What is the 100,000 maintenance schedule for a Dodge Ram 1500?
A typical 100,000-mile service for a Ram 1500 is a major maintenance cycle that includes an engine oil and filter change, spark plug replacement, air and cabin filter changes, transmission fluid service, coolant flush, differential and transfer case fluids, brake fluid maintenance, belt/hoses inspection, tire rotation, and a thorough system inspection. Exact items vary by model year, engine, and drivetrain, so always consult your owner’s manual or a Ram-certified technician for your specific configuration.
Core 100,000-mile maintenance tasks
The following items are commonly recommended around the 100,000-mile mark for most Ram 1500 configurations. This list covers what to inspect and replace, but not every item applies to every model year.
- Engine oil and oil filter replacement
- Air filter replacement
- Cabin air filter replacement
- Spark plug replacement (for engines with long-life plugs, typically 100,000 miles)
- Automatic transmission fluid change or service
- Coolant system service (flush and refill with the correct specification)
- Transfer case fluid replacement (for 4x4 or AWD models)
- Differential fluid replacement (front and/or rear, depending on drivetrain)
- Brake fluid check and replacement if needed
- Serpentine/drive belt inspection and replacement if cracking or worn
- Tire rotation and alignment check
- Battery and charging system inspection
- Comprehensive system diagnostics and safety inspection (brakes, steering, suspension, lights, exhaust, emissions, etc.)
Note: Some items may not require replacement at 100,000 miles on all engines, such as certain fuel system components, depending on the exact engine family. Always verify with the official schedule in your manual or with a dealer.
Model-year and drivetrain nuances
Ram 1500 engines are designed with long-life components, such as timing chains and spark plugs rated for extended intervals. However, diesel variants (EcoDiesel) have emissions-system requirements (DEF/DPF-related checks) that can affect the service plan. Transmission fluid intervals and differential/transfer case maintenance can also vary by year and transmission type (for example, older models with a 5-speed auto vs. newer 8-speed setups). Always follow the exact maintenance schedule for your year, engine, and drivetrain as provided by Ram.
Where to find the official schedule and how to follow it: Refer to the Ram 1500 owner’s manual and the manufacturer’s maintenance portal. Your dealer or a Ram-certified technician can tailor the plan to your vehicle’s VIN, usage, and warranty requirements.
Practical considerations for planning the 100,000-mile service
Plan ahead for a major service by budgeting time for a longer shop visit, bringing a complete maintenance history, and confirming the specific tasks for your engine/transmission combination. Regular, on-time maintenance helps protect reliability, resale value, and performance as the truck ages.
Summary: At 100,000 miles, the Dodge Ram 1500 typically requires a comprehensive service that includes an oil change, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, transmission and coolant services, differential and transfer case fluids, brake fluid maintenance, belt/hoses inspection, tire rotation, and a full safety inspection. Always verify exact items and intervals with the official manual or your Ram service advisor.
