What is the best oil viscosity for a 5.7 hemi?

The best starting point for most 5.7 Hemi engines is 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, with 5W-30 acceptable in hot climates or when the vehicle is regularly subjected to heavy loads. Always check the exact recommendation in your model year’s owner’s manual and on the under-hood oil label.

Manufacturer guidance

Official guidance from Chrysler/Dodge for the 5.7 Hemi over recent years centers on a lightweight viscosity that delivers good fuel economy while providing adequate protection. Use the following as a general reference, then verify for your specific year and configuration:

• Preferred viscosity: 5W-20 synthetic motor oil for most temperatures and driving conditions.


• Alternative viscosity: 5W-30 can be used in hot climates, during heavy towing, or when the manual explicitly allows it.


• Oil type: Synthetic or synthetic-blend oils are commonly recommended; ensure the oil meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer.


• Oil capacity: Typically around 7 quarts (about 6.9–7.4 qt, depending on variant); confirm from the manual or fill chart for your exact model.

Note: Exact specifications can vary by model year and regional market, so always verify with your owner’s manual and the under-hood oil specification sticker.

Choosing by climate and use

Cold climates

In colder environments, a lighter viscosity helps oil flow quickly on startup and protects engine parts during warm-up. Many owners opt for 5W-20 as a reliable default for cold weather operation.

Hot climates and towing

When operating in hot weather or when regularly towing heavy loads, a slightly thicker oil such as 5W-30 can help maintain oil film strength and engine protection at elevated temperatures. Always confirm that your manual allows this viscosity for your specific year and configuration.

Oil type and maintenance considerations

Beyond viscosity, synthetic oils offer improved resistance to breakdown and better protection under high-stress driving. Regardless of the viscosity you choose, use oil that meets the appropriate API and ILSAC standards for modern engines, and follow the maintenance schedule in your manual for oil-change intervals.

How to verify the right viscosity for your year

Your best source for certainty is your vehicle’s documentation. If you’re unsure after reviewing the manual, contact a dealer or a trusted technician who can confirm the correct viscosity for your specific year, body style, and climate.

Summary

Bottom line: For the 5.7 Hemi, 5W-20 synthetic is the usual recommended starting point, with 5W-30 acceptable in hot climates or when towing, provided your manual allows it. Always rely on the exact guidance for your model year and driving conditions, use oils that meet API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer, and adhere to the approved oil-change intervals. Choosing the right viscosity helps balance fuel economy, protection, and engine longevity.

How to avoid hemi tick?

To avoid "Hemi tick," change the oil and filter regularly (around every 5,000 miles) using high-quality synthetic oil, and minimize prolonged idling. For extra prevention, you can consider a high-flow oil pump or using a high-quality oil filter with a good anti-drain back valve. 
Maintenance and driving habits

• Perform regular oil changes: Adhere to a 5,000-mile interval and use high-quality synthetic oil to ensure proper lubrication. 
• Use a high-quality oil filter: Choose filters with good anti-drain back valves to help maintain oil pressure at startup. 
• Limit excessive idling: Avoid long periods of idling, as the oil pump may not provide sufficient lubrication at low RPMs. 
• Check oil level: Ensure the oil is filled to the top of the max line for better lubrication. 

Potential upgrades

• Install a high-flow oil pump: An upgraded oil pump, such as one from a Hellcat or 6.4L engine, can provide better oil pressure. 
• Upgrade to non-MDS lifters: Replacing the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters with non-MDS versions, like Hellcat lifters, can also prevent ticking. 
• Upgrade exhaust headers: Some ticks are caused by exhaust leaks from the manifold. Upgrading to aftermarket headers can be a solution for this specific issue. 

What oil viscosity is best for my RAM 1500?

RAM 1500 Oil Type Recommended by the Manufacturer
If you own a RAM 1500 with a gasoline engine, the manufacturer recommends SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil for the 3.6L V6 gasoline engine. Use the SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil if your truck has the 5.7L V8 HEMI gasoline engine.

What is the best oil to use in a 5.7 Hemi?

The best oil for a 5.7L Hemi is typically SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil, as recommended by the manufacturer for the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) to function correctly. While many full-synthetic options like Mobil 1, Castrol, and Pennzoil Ultra Platinum are popular, the most crucial factor is to use the correct weight and change it regularly to prevent common issues like lifter tick. 
Oil type and weight

• Use SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil: This is the most important specification, especially for engines with the Multi-Displacement System (MDS). 
• Full synthetic is recommended: It offers superior lubrication and protection, especially at high temperatures. 
• Consider brands: Popular choices include Mobil 1, Pennzoil Ultra Platinum, and Castrol EDGE. Some owners also report positive results with Red Line 5W-30, though 5W-20 is the recommended weight. 

Important considerations

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation: Always check your owner's manual for the specific oil weight and any required certifications, such as Chrysler MS-6395. 
• Change it regularly: Frequent oil changes are more important than the specific brand. Many owners recommend changing the oil every 5,000 miles to prevent wear and the famous "Hemi tick". 
• Use a quality filter: A good oil filter, such as a Mopar or Wix filter, is also important to protect your engine. 

Example oil change routine

• Oil: Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 5W-20 Full Synthetic
• Filter: Mopar or Wix filter
• Change interval: Every 5,000 miles 

Can you run 5W30 in a 5.7 Hemi?

You should check your owner's manual and the oil fill cap, as many modern 5.7L Hemi engines, especially those with Multi-Displacement Systems (MDS), require a specific oil viscosity like 0W-20 or 5W-20. While some drivers use 5W-30, particularly for older engines or in hot climates, using the wrong oil can potentially cause engine issues like noise, hesitation, or lifter problems. 
Considerations for using 5W-30

• Engine health: Heavier oil like 5W-30 can provide better protection in high-temperature conditions and may help reduce "Hemi tick" noise in some engines, but this is often a symptom of existing wear. 
• MDS and lifters: Modern engines with MDS are designed for specific oil viscosities to ensure the lifters operate correctly. Using a thicker oil can interfere with the system's operation, leading to hesitation or other problems. 
• Warranty: If your engine is under warranty, it is critical to use the oil recommended by the manufacturer to avoid voiding the warranty. 
• Older engines: Older 5.7L Hemi engines may have been designed for 5W-30, and some owners report good results with it, particularly in hot weather. However, always verify your specific year and model's requirements. 

What to do

• Check the manual and cap: The most reliable source of information is your vehicle's owner's manual and the oil fill cap, which specify the required viscosity and API service category (like MS-6395).
• Prioritize manufacturer recommendations: For newer engines and for vehicles under warranty, it is best to stick to the recommended oil viscosity to ensure proper operation of all engine components.
• Consult a professional: If you are experiencing engine noise or other issues and are considering a switch, consult with a qualified mechanic who can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate solution.