What kind of oil does a 2017 Dodge Ram take?
The 2017 Dodge Ram takes 5W-20 engine oil. This is the recommended oil type and viscosity for the majority of Dodge Ram models from that year.
Detailed Explanation
The 2017 Dodge Ram is a full-size pickup truck that was part of the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram lineup. Dodge recommends using a 5W-20 engine oil for most 2017 Dodge Ram models, though some specific configurations may call for a different oil type or viscosity.
The 5W-20 oil specification means the oil has a viscosity of 5 when the engine is cold (the "W" stands for "winter") and 20 when the engine is at normal operating temperature. This type of oil is designed to flow easily when the engine is cold, aiding in startup and reducing wear, while also maintaining sufficient thickness to lubricate engine components when hot.
Why 5W-20 Oil?
- 5W-20 oil helps improve fuel economy compared to heavier 5W-30 or 10W-30 oils.
- The 5W-20 viscosity provides good cold-weather performance and engine protection during warm-up.
- Dodge engineers have determined that 5W-20 oil provides the optimal balance of fuel efficiency, engine protection, and performance for the 2017 Dodge Ram's powertrain.
It's important to always check your owner's manual for the specific oil recommendation for your 2017 Dodge Ram model, as there may be slight variations depending on the engine, transmission, and other factors. Using the wrong oil type or viscosity can potentially cause damage to the engine over time.
