What type of oil does a 2013 RAM 1500 take?
The 2013 RAM 1500 generally uses SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395, regardless of whether the truck has the 3.6L Pentastar V6 or the 5.7L Hemi V8.
In practice, your exact engine and local climate can affect the recommended specification, so always check the owner's manual or with a dealer for your specific build. The following outlines the standard oil requirements and where to find the details for your model year.
Engine options and oil requirements
Two common engines in the 2013 Ram 1500
The 2013 Ram 1500 was offered with either a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 or a 5.7-liter Hemi V8. For both engines, Mopar recommends 5W-20 synthetic motor oil that meets the Chrysler MS-6395 specification (API SN or newer).
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, MS-6395/API SN or newer.
- 5.7L Hemi V8: SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, MS-6395/API SN or newer.
Always confirm the exact grade and capacity for your vehicle's engine and climate in the owner's manual or via a dealership service advisor, as there can be regional variations or updates to recommended specs.
Oil capacity and change guidance
What to expect by engine
Oil capacity varies by engine: roughly 5–6 quarts for the 3.6L V6 (including a filter change) and about 7 quarts for the 5.7L Hemi (including a filter). Use synthetic 5W-20 and follow the maintenance schedule in the manual, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles for normal driving, with more frequent changes under severe conditions.
How to perform a basic oil change (quick guide)
Before listing steps, note that if you’re not comfortable working under your truck, have a professional perform oil changes to avoid leaks or under-filled oil. The following is a concise, general guide for those who do it themselves.
- Prepare: Park on a level surface, gather 5W-20 synthetic oil, a new filter, and an oil drain pan.
- Drain old oil: Lift the vehicle safely, place pan under the drain plug, and remove the plug to drain the oil.
- Replace filter: Remove the old oil filter, apply a light coat of new oil to the gasket, and install the new filter hand-tight plus a quarter-turn.
- Refill: Replace the drain plug, refill with the recommended 5W-20 oil to the capacity specified for your engine, and run the engine to check for leaks.
- Check and reset: Check oil level with dipstick and top off as needed, reset maintenance reminders if applicable.
Conclusion: Following the recommended oil grade and capacity helps protect the engine, maintain performance, and preserve warranty requirements. If you’re unsure about your exact model or climate, consult the owner’s manual or a RAM dealer for precise specifications.
Summary
For the 2013 RAM 1500, the standard oil is SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395, applicable to both the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L Hemi V8. Verify your specific engine and climate in the owner's manual, and follow the correct oil capacity and change intervals to keep the truck running smoothly.
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.
What kind of oil does a 2013 Dodge use?
STP High Mileage Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-20 1 Quart
Notes: Full synthetic high mileage. 5W-20. 1 quart.
What kind of oil does a 2013 RAM 1500 5.7 take?
The recommended oil for a 2013 Ram 1500 with a 5.7L Hemi engine is SAE 5W-20 full synthetic or synthetic blend motor oil, and the capacity is 7 quarts with a filter change. The oil should also meet the Chrysler MS-6395 oil quality specification.
- Viscosity: SAE 5W-20
- Capacity: 7 quarts with a new filter
- Specification: Chrysler MS-6395
- Type: Full synthetic or synthetic blend
What kind of oil does a RAM 1500 5.7 take?
For a Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI engine, the correct oil is SAE 5W-20 full synthetic for most models, but SAE 0W-20 is recommended for 2022 and newer models. Always check the oil fill cap for the most accurate specification for your specific year. The engine requires about 7 quarts of oil with a filter change, and it must meet the MS-6395 specification.
Oil type and specifications
- Viscosity: For most models, use SAE 5W-20. For 2022 and newer models, use SAE 0W-20.
- Type: Use full synthetic oil.
- Specification: Ensure the oil meets the manufacturer's Material Standard MS-6395.
- Quantity: The engine holds approximately 7 quarts of oil with a filter change.
Important considerations
- Check the oil fill cap: The most reliable way to determine the correct oil is to look at the oil fill cap on your engine, which will have the correct viscosity printed on it.
- Avoid alternatives: Using a different viscosity, such as 5W-30, is not recommended as it can lead to reduced fuel economy and may impede engine flow. Stick with the manufacturer's recommendation for the best engine performance.
