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What oil is recommended for a Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi?

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi generally calls for SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil (or a synthetic blend) as the baseline. In some climates or driving conditions, 5W-30 may be allowed if your owner’s manual specifies it. Always confirm the exact requirement for your year and engine variant.

Recommended oil viscosity and formulation

To choose the right oil, consider the vehicle’s year, climate, and how you use the truck. The following guidelines apply to most 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500s, but always double‑check your manual for your specific model.

Default option: SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil or a synthetic blend. This viscosity provides good cold‑start protection and fuel economy for most driving conditions.

Alternatives: SAE 5W-30 can be used in some climates or situations if your manual allows it. Ensure the oil meets current API service standards and any OEM specifications.

Special cases: Some earlier or special trim engines may have different requirements; always refer to your exact owner’s manual to confirm the correct viscosity.

Bottom line: use the viscosity and oil type specified for your year and engine in the owner’s manual. When in doubt, 5W-20 synthetic is a safe default for many Ram 1500 Hemi applications.

Brand options and certifications to look for

Choose an oil that not only matches the viscosity but also meets current industry certifications and OEM expectations. The Ram 1500 Hemi benefits from oils that are approved for modern gasoline engines and compatible with emission controls.

Full‑synthetic 5W‑20 oils from reputable brands (for example Mobil 1, Pennzoil Ultra Platinum, Castrol EDGE) that meet API service standards and ILSAC certifications.

Synthetic‑blend 5W‑20 oils if a full synthetic option isn’t available, still meeting the same API/ILSAC requirements.

In climates or usage where your manual allows 5W‑30, choose a high‑quality 5W‑30 synthetic oil that meets the same API/ILSAC standards.

Using a well‑regarded brand and a certified formulation helps maintain engine protection, performance, and warranty compliance.

Oil capacity and maintenance intervals

Knowing how much oil your engine holds and when to replace it is essential for proper maintenance. The following outlines typical figures and intervals for a 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500, though exact numbers can vary by year and configuration.

Oil capacity: approximately 7 quarts (about 6.6 liters) with a filter change.

Change interval: with conventional oil, roughly every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km); with synthetic oil, many drivers extend to about 7,500–10,000 miles (12,000–16,000 km) or per the vehicle’s oil life monitor.

After a change, reset the Oil Life Monitor if your truck is equipped with it, and install a new oil filter to ensure optimal filtration and flow.

Practical tips for Ram 1500 Hemi owners

To keep your Hemi running smoothly, couple the correct oil choice with attentive maintenance. Use the recommended viscosity, choose a reputable brand, and adhere to the vehicle’s suggested change interval. If you tow heavy loads, drive in extreme heat, or frequently operate in dusty environments, you may benefit from more frequent oil changes even with synthetic oils.

Summary

For most Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi models, 5W-20 synthetic oil (or synthetic blend) is the standard recommendation, with 5W-30 as an acceptable alternative in certain climates or as specified by the owner’s manual. Always verify the exact grade for your year and engine, choose a high‑quality oil that meets current API/ILSAC standards, and perform changes on the interval advised by your vehicle’s oil life monitor or manual. Keeping to these guidelines helps protect the V8 Hemi’s performance and longevity.

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.

Does the RAM 1500 require synthetic oil?

Yes, the RAM 1500 uses synthetic oil, but the specific type (e.g., 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20, 5W−205 cap W minus 205𝑊−20, 5W−405 cap W minus 405𝑊−40) depends on the engine. For the most part, the RAM 1500 requires full synthetic oil to protect the engine, with manufacturers recommending different weights for different engine options, notes this article from I.G. Burton and AutoNation.

Engine	Recommended Oil
3.6L Pentastar V6	SAE 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 full synthetic
5.7L HEMI V8	SAE 5W−205 cap W minus 205𝑊−20 full synthetic
3.0L EcoDiesel V6	SAE 5W−405 cap W minus 405𝑊−40 full synthetic
6.2L (TRX)	SAE 0W−400 cap W minus 400𝑊−40 full synthetic

What is the best oil for RAM 1500 5.7 hemi?

The best oil for a Ram 1500 with a 5.7L Hemi is an SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil that meets the manufacturer's MS-6395 specification. Brands like Mopar, Pennzoil, and Shell are recommended, but many other brands of full synthetic 5W-20 oil will work, such as Castrol, Quaker State, or Valvoline. You will need seven quarts of oil and an oil filter for the oil change.

What to look for

Viscosity: SAE 5W-20
Type: Full synthetic oil
Specification: Must meet the manufacturer's Material Standard MS-6395

Recommended brands
Mopar, Pennzoil (Platinum or Ultra), Shell, Castrol, Quaker State, Valvoline, Amsoil, and Mobil 1.
What to do

Always confirm the exact oil grade and type by checking your owner's manual or the oil filler cap on your engine.
Use seven quarts of oil when performing a full oil and filter change.

How much oil does a RAM 1500 5.7 Hemi take?

A Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI engine requires 7 quarts of SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil. You will need to replace the oil filter during the oil change.

Capacity: 7 quarts
Oil type: SAE 5W-20 full synthetic
Additional info: It is recommended to replace the oil filter at the same time as the oil change.

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.