What is the best transmission fluid for a Dodge Ram 2500?
In practice, the best transmission fluid is the one specified by your vehicle’s manual. For most Ram 2500 trucks with the widely used 68RFE automatic, Dexron VI is the recommended specification. For late-model Ram 2500s that use the ZF 8HP transmission, the fluid must meet ZF Lifeguard 8 specifications. Always verify the exact spec for your year and transmission from the manual or your dealer.
The Ram 2500 lineup has evolved across generations, mixing different transmissions in different markets and model years. Understanding which transmission is in your truck is essential to choosing the right fluid. The guidance below covers the two most common configurations seen in North American Ram 2500 pickups through 2025.
Fluid recommendations by transmission type
Note: The guidance below focuses on the two most common Ram 2500 transmissions in recent years. Always confirm with your owner's manual or Ram customer service before purchasing.
- 68RFE automatic (most Ram 2500s from roughly 2007 to 2019): Use a Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid, or an approved Dexron VI-equivalent that meets Chrysler's specification. Synthetic Dexron VI fluids from major brands are widely used and provide good performance and longevity.
- ZF 8HP automatic (late-model Ram 2500s, roughly 2019 and later): Use ZF Lifeguard 8 fluid (or other fluid explicitly labeled as meeting ZF Lifeguard 8 specification). These fluids are formulated for the 8-speed ZF transmission and are not interchangeable with Dexron VI.
Concluding: If you are unsure which transmission you have, consult your owner's manual, the VIN-based documentation from the Ram dealer, or a certified service center. Using the wrong fluid can affect shifting quality and transmission life.
Summary
The best transmission fluid for a Dodge Ram 2500 depends on the installed transmission. For most older Ram 2500s with the 68RFE, Dexron VI is the standard recommendation. For newer Ram 2500s with the ZF 8HP, use ZF Lifeguard 8. Always verify the exact specification in the owner's manual or with a dealer, and avoid mixing fluids that do not meet the required specification.
What kind of transmission fluid does a Dodge Ram 2500 take?
The transmission fluid for a Dodge Ram 2500 depends on the model year and transmission type, but it's often ATF+4 for older models and those with the 68RFE, or a specific fluid like Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid for the Aisin AS69RC transmission. For 8-speed transmissions, a fluid that meets the ZF 8 and 9-speed ATF specification is required. Always check your owner's manual for the exact specification, as using the wrong fluid can cause shifting issues or damage.
| Year Range | Transmission | Fluid Type |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-2007.5 (e.g., 2007) | 48RE | Mopar ATF+4 |
| 2007.5 - 2023 | 68RFE | ATF+4 or an equivalent meeting MS-9602 specification |
| 2019 - Present | 8-Speed (e.g., 8HP75) | Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF or equivalent |
| 2019 - Present (with 6.7 Diesel) | AS69RC | Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid |
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What kind of transmission fluid does a Dodge Ram 2500 68RFE take?
8 liters of Eurol fully synthetic ATF 1100 developed and engineered for the Ram 2500 68RFE and 66RFE 6-speed transmission. Meets or exceeds the recommended MS-9602 ATF+4 transmission fluid type specification.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 6.7 Cummins take?
The 6.7 Cummins transmission fluid type depends on the transmission installed: for the common 68RFE 6-speed automatic, use ATF+4 fluid. For the less common Aisin AS69RC 6-speed automatic, the correct fluid is the MOPAR ASRC fluid or a fluid that meets the Aisin T-IV / JWS 3309 specification.
For the 68RFE transmission
- Fluid Type: ATF+4.
- Specifications: This is the factory-recommended fluid for all 68RFE and 66RFE transmissions in the 6.7L Cummins.
- Examples: Valvoline ATF+4, Mobil ATF+4, or other brands that meet the ATF+4 specification.
For the Aisin AS69RC transmission
- Fluid Type: MOPAR ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid or a fluid that meets the Aisin T-IV / JWS 3309 specification.
- Examples: Eurol ATF 1100 or other fluids specifically designed for Aisin transmissions that require the T-IV specification.
How often should I change the transmission fluid on my Ram 2500?
You should change the transmission fluid in a Ram 2500 every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for standard driving conditions, but this interval can be as low as 30,000 miles for severe use like towing or heavy hauling. It is crucial to check your owner's manual for the exact recommendation for your specific model and year, as driving conditions and transmission type (e.g., 68RFE) affect the required frequency.
Factors to consider
- Driving conditions: If you frequently tow, haul heavy loads, or drive in stop-and-go traffic, you should change the fluid more often, closer to the 30,000-mile mark.
- Transmission type: The recommendation can vary depending on your specific transmission. For example, the 68RFE transmission may have a different service interval than other models.
- Manufacturer's recommendation: Your owner's manual is the most reliable source. It provides the manufacturer's official service schedule for your vehicle, which is tailored to its specific components and design.
Signs your transmission fluid needs changing
Delayed gear shifting or slipping, Strange smells, Odd noises or grinding when shifting, and The transmission warning light is on.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid in a Ram 2500 68RFE transmission: 1mAdventure EndeavorYouTube · Apr 4, 2023
