What kind of oil does a 1990 Dodge Ram take?
A 1990 Dodge Ram typically uses conventional motor oil with a viscosity around 10W-30 as the standard choice; 5W-30 can be used in very cold climates. Most engines of that era hold about 5 to 6 quarts of oil with a new filter. Always check the owner's manual or the under-hood tag for the exact specification for your specific engine and model.
Engine options and oil guidance
The Ram lineup from that year offered several powerplants, with the most common being V8s such as the 318 (5.2 L) and the 360 (5.9 L). While exact capacities vary by engine, the lubrication guidance remained centered on conventional motor oil. The following notes cover the typical approach used by owners and service shops during that era.
- Viscosity: 10W-30 is the standard viscosity for most 1990 Ram engines.
- Cold-weather option: 5W-30 is acceptable for very cold climates or winter driving, as it improves cold-start protection.
In practice, always verify the exact specification for your model and climate with the official manual or a trusted service guide, as recommendations can vary by engine variant and regional conditions.
Oil capacity and checking level
Oil capacity depends on the specific engine and whether a filter is replaced during an oil change. For planning purposes, most 1990 Ram V8s fall in the 5 to 6 quarts range when topped up with a new filter.
- Estimated capacity range: about 5 quarts for smaller V8 configurations to about 6 quarts for larger V8s, with a new filter factored in.
- Practical guidance: after an oil change, fill to the upper mark on the dipstick in the warm engine, then recheck once the oil settles to ensure you’re within the proper range.
Because exact capacity can vary by engine code and whether you’re using a different filter size, it’s safest to confirm with the service manual or the under-hood sticker for your specific Ram’s engine option.
Summary
In brief, a 1990 Dodge Ram generally takes conventional 10W-30 motor oil, with 5W-30 available for cold-weather use. Expect an oil capacity around 5–6 quarts depending on the engine and filter. Always verify the precise specification for your exact engine configuration in the owner's manual or on the under-hood label, and follow proper oil-change procedures to maintain engine health.
What kind of oil do I put in my Dodge RAM?
Use the SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil if your truck has the 5.7L V8 HEMI gasoline engine. The eTorque system will also need lubrication on the front axle and rear differentials with 5W-20 motor oil for best results as you drive to the job site or when hauling a trailer behind you.
What kind of oil does a 1990 5.7 take?
SAE 5W-30
5W-30 (All TEMPS) - SAE 5W-30 is preferred. Capacity: 5 quarts (with filter).
Can I use 5w30 instead of 5w20 in my Dodge?
You can run 5w-30 without issues. The owners manual used to "allow" it in older rams (2014 or so) and it was actually recommended in the 2500's when towing. If it's under warranty you may want to stick to what the cap says.
What kind of oil does a 1990 Dodge D150 take?
Mobil 1 – 10W-30 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quart (Part No. 14995)
