Loading
  • 2 Ipswich St, Fyshwick ACT 2609
Free Quote
Home FAQ

What kind of oil does a Dodge Ram use?

In general, Dodge Ram trucks rely on synthetic engine oil, with the exact grade depending on the engine and model year. Gasoline engines typically call for low-viscosity synthetics like 0W-20 or 5W-20; EcoDiesel uses diesel-grade oil such as 5W-40; heavy‑duty Cummins diesels often require 15W-40 or 5W-40, depending on the year and climate. Always check the owner's manual or the oil filler cap for the precise specification for your truck.


Gasoline engines in RAM trucks


The gasoline-engine lineup in recent RAMs uses low-viscosity synthetic oils designed for efficiency and protection. The exact viscosity depends on the engine and climate.


Common oil grades by engine



  • 3.6L Pentastar V6: commonly recommended oil grades include 0W-20 or 5W-20 synthetic, depending on model year and climate.

  • 5.7L Hemi V8: typically 5W-20 synthetic for many current models; some configurations or climates may call for 5W-30.

  • Note: Mopar specs may require full synthetic oil; always confirm with the owner's manual and the engine oil cap.


Conclusion: Always follow the manufacturer’s specification for viscosity and oil type for your RAM’s gasoline engines.


Diesel engines: EcoDiesel and Cummins


Diesel RAMs use oils formulated for diesel engines, with different API and viscosity requirements than gasoline engines. The EcoDiesel and Cummins engines have distinct recommendations.


EcoDiesel (3.0L) oil requirements



  • Viscosity: Typically 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil is recommended for EcoDiesel engines.

  • Specifications: API CK-4 or newer, often with Mopar/Chrysler approvals; check the exact spec on the oil cap or owner’s manual.

  • Note: Some model years may specify 5W-30 in milder climates; always verify the current spec for your VIN.


Conclusion: Use a diesel oil that meets the listed API and viscosity spec for EcoDiesel and follow the schedule in the manual.


6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (HD) oil requirements



  • Viscosity: Commonly 15W-40 heavy-duty engine oil, with some newer variants allowing 5W-40 synthetic depending on climate and year.

  • Specifications: API CK-4 or CJ-4, with Mopar/ Cummins approvals where applicable; follow the exact spec in your owner’s manual.

  • Note: Oil change intervals for diesel engines differ from gasoline; use the recommended interval in the manual and consider fuel-quality and driving conditions.


Conclusion: For Cummins-powered RAMs, always match the oil grade to the year and engine specification and adhere to the maintenance schedule.


How to verify the correct oil for your Ram


To ensure you’re using the right oil, start with these steps: check the oil-fill cap on the engine, consult the owner’s manual, review the service/maintenance sticker on the vehicle or the RAM dealer portal, and use oil that meets the required API/ACEA/CJ-4/CK-4 specs and viscosity for your engine.


Maintenance tips and change intervals


Oil-change intervals vary by engine type, climate, and driving conditions. In general, modern RAM gas engines with synthetic oil are commonly serviced every 7,500 to 10,000 miles under normal conditions, while severe-service driving may require shorter intervals. Diesel engines often have different schedules, frequently around 7,500 to 10,000 miles or more, depending on the oil specification and usage. Always follow the schedule in the owner’s manual.


Summary


Ram trucks use synthetic engine oil selected by engine type and year. Gasoline engines typically call for low-viscosity synthetic oils such as 0W-20 or 5W-20; EcoDiesel uses diesel-grade oil such as 5W-40; heavy-duty Cummins diesels commonly require 15W-40 or 5W-40. The exact specification depends on model year, climate, and VIN, so always verify with the owner's manual, the oil cap, and Mopar’s official service information. Regular oil changes with the recommended grade protect engine performance and longevity.

What oil should I put in my Dodge RAM 1500?


The correct oil for a Ram 1500 depends on the engine: use SAE 0W-20 full synthetic for the 3.6L V6 or 6.2L V8, SAE 5W-20 full synthetic for the 5.7L V8 HEMI, and SAE 5W-40 full synthetic for the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6. Always check your owner's manual for the most accurate information for your specific model and engine.
 
Ram 1500 oil types by engine 

  • 3.6L Pentastar® V6: SAE 0W-20 full synthetic
  • 5.7L HEMI® V8: SAE 5W-20 full synthetic
  • 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: SAE 5W-40 full synthetic
  • 6.2L V8: SAE 0W-20 full synthetic 

Important considerations
  • Full synthetic is recommended: Full synthetic oils are often recommended for their superior performance and longevity, allowing for longer intervals between oil changes, notes Scott Evans Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. 
  • Check your owner's manual: The owner's manual is the most reliable source for the exact specifications for your truck, especially with different engine options available, according to Five Star Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Albany. 
  • Consult a professional: If you are unsure about your specific engine or have questions, the service department at a Ram dealership can help you find the correct oil, say Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Of Northwest Arkansas and AutoNation Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram North Phoenix. 



What oil does RAM use from the factory?


The correct oil for a Ram 1500 depends on its engine: use 0W-20 full synthetic for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 6.2L Hellcat engines, 5W-20 full synthetic for the 5.7L HEMI V8, and 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil for the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6. Always confirm the specific oil type by checking your vehicle's owner's manual.



Can I use 5W30 instead of 5W20 in my Dodge RAM 1500?


You should not substitute 5W-30 for the recommended 5W-20 in most modern Dodge Ram 1500 engines, as the thicker oil can cause issues with the engine's lifters, Multi-Displacement System (MDS), and variable valve timing. While some drivers report smoother operation or reduced valvetrain noise, using the manufacturer-specified 5W-20 is best to avoid potential engine problems, maintain fuel efficiency, and prevent issues with emissions or warranty claims. 
Risks of using 5W-30

  • Engine component issues: The thicker 5W-30 can disrupt the operation of components like lifters and the MDS in 5.7L HEMI engines, potentially leading to noise or hesitation. 
  • Reduced fuel efficiency: 5W-20 is a thinner oil, which results in less friction and can contribute to better fuel economy, a benefit you would lose by switching to 5W-30. 
  • Check engine light: Some modern engine control units (ECUs) are designed to monitor oil viscosity, and a thicker oil can trigger a check engine light. 
  • Voided warranty: Using a non-recommended oil viscosity could potentially lead to a warranty claim being denied if an engine issue arises. 

Why 5W-20 is recommended
  • Designed for specific tolerances: Engineers design engine components, such as variable valve timing systems, with a specific oil viscosity in mind. The thinner 5W-20 oil flows more freely and meets the lubrication needs of these specific engine clearances and systems. 
  • Cold start performance: 5W-20 provides better flow during cold starts, allowing oil to reach critical engine parts faster, which reduces wear during this high-stress period. 
  • Manufacturer specification: The manufacturer's recommendation for 5W-20 (or 0W-20 for some models) is there to ensure the engine operates as designed for longevity and efficiency. 



How many quarts of oil for RAM 1500?


A Ram 1500 requires 6 quarts for the 3.6L V6 engine and 7 quarts for the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. The 3.0L EcoDiesel takes about 10.5 quarts. 

Engine Type Oil Capacity
3.6L V6 Pentastar 6 quarts
5.7L HEMI V8 7 quarts
3.0L EcoDiesel 10.5 quarts
(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_h9wlaenzOKGN-d8Pyp7koQM_7';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
Note: This is the capacity after an oil change and filter replacement. Always check your owner's manual for the exact specifications for your specific model year.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.