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What type of transmission fluid does a Ram 2500 take?

The Ram 2500 commonly uses Mopar ATF+4 transmission fluid, but the exact specification depends on your truck’s year, engine, and transmission model. Always confirm with the owner's manual or the transmission label found under the hood or on the dipstick.

Understanding the Ram 2500 transmission fluid requirement

Ram has equipped the 2500 with several automatic transmissions over the years. Because each transmission type has its own fluid specification, the safest approach is to use the fluid that meets the OEM’s ATF+4 standard or the exact specification listed for your vehicle. Using the wrong fluid can lead to shifts that are rough, slipping, or long-term damage, so verification is essential.

To help you identify the correct fluid for your specific truck, consider these steps and guidelines. The following information is structured to help you verify the right specification without guessing:

Consult the owner’s manual for the exact transmission fluid type and specification code (for example, ATF+4 or another Chrysler-recommended specification).

Inspect the transmission fill cap or any service label on the vehicle for a specification code you can cross-check with Ram’s official guidance.

Use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to pull the vehicle’s build sheet or service information from Ram/Fiat Professional resources or your dealer, which will list the correct fluid spec for your transmission.

If you’re unsure or the vehicle has had non-standard fluid changes, contact a Ram dealer or a trusted shop to confirm before topping off or draining the transmission.

Conclusion: Knowing and sticking to the correct specification helps protect the transmission's longevity. When in doubt, opt for a fluid that explicitly meets ATF+4 specifications or the OEM-recommended fluid for your exact model.

Common fluid options and how they apply to the Ram 2500

ATF+4 (Mopar) — the standard for many Ram transmissions

ATF+4 is a synthetic-based automatic transmission fluid developed for Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge transmissions. It is designed to meet the standards of many Ram transmissions and is widely specified for most 2500 models. Using ATF+4 or an approved aftermarket fluid that meets ATF+4 standards helps ensure proper shifting, lubrication, and heat control across a broad range of operating conditions.

Other specifications you might encounter

Some older or specialized builds may reference a different specification due to factory changes or replacement of the original transmission. In those cases, the fluid may be specified to a code that differs from ATF+4. Always verify the exact requirement for your particular vehicle year and transmission family because the Ram 2500 has used multiple transmissions over time, each with its own spec. Deviation from the recommended fluid can cause shifting issues or damage.

Troubleshooting and maintenance tips

Signs you may need to verify or change fluid

If you experience delayed engagement, harsh or slipping shifts, or unusual transmission temperatures, it could indicate the wrong fluid or degraded fluid. In such cases, do not top off with an alternative unless the specification is confirmed. A proper drain-and-fill or full transmission service with the OEM-recommended ATF+4 fluid is often the correct course of action.

Maintenance best practices

Regularly check the transmission fluid level and color. Fresh ATF+4 is typically red or pink and clear; if it smells burnt or appears very dark, it may warrant a fluid change. When changing fluid, use a reputable method and a fluid that meets ATF+4 specifications. Avoid mixing fluids from different specifications, and follow the service intervals recommended by Ram for your model year.

Summary

For most Ram 2500 trucks, the recommended transmission fluid is Mopar ATF+4 or a fluid that meets the ATF+4 specification. However, because Ram has used multiple transmissions across generations, the exact requirement can vary by year, engine, and transmission type. Always verify with the owner's manual, the transmission tag, or your Ram dealer using your VIN. Using the correct fluid helps preserve transmission performance and longevity.

What transmission fluid does a Ram 2500 take?

FRAM – Dexron III / Mercon Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid: 5 Gallon (Part No. F420-5)

What kind of transmission fluid does a 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 take?

The 2019 Ram 2500 transmission fluid type depends on the specific transmission. Models with the 68RFE or 66RFE 6-speed automatic use Mopar ATF+4 (specification MS-9602), while those with the 8-speed automatic require a specific fluid like Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF (part number 68218925AA or equivalent).
6-speed automatic transmission (68RFE or 66RFE)

Fluid: Mopar ATF+4 or an equivalent that meets MS-9602 specification

8-speed automatic transmission

Fluid: Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF or a fluid specifically designed for ZF 8-speed transmissions (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid8)
Part Numbers: Look for Mopar part numbers like 68218925AA, 68218925AB, 68339073AA, or equivalent

Important: Always consult your owner's manual to confirm the exact fluid type and capacity for your specific vehicle and transmission.

Is all ATF +4 full synthetic?

Yes, ATF+4 is a synthetic automatic transmission fluid that is licensed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) to meet specific performance standards for Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. It is engineered to provide better thermal stability, reduced wear, and consistent shifting compared to conventional fluids.

Composition: ATF+4 is a full-synthetic fluid designed to protect automatic transmissions in FCA (now Stellantis) vehicles.
Licensing: The "ATF+4" designation is a registered trademark licensed by FCA, ensuring that products from different brands meet the same quality standards.
Benefits: The synthetic formula offers superior performance over conventional fluids, including better protection against heat, oxidation, and wear, which extends transmission life.
Usage: It is backward-serviceable, meaning it can be used in older transmissions that require ATF+, ATF+2, or ATF+3 fluids, and it is the standard for many newer models as well.

What kind of transmission fluid does a 6.7 Cummins take?

The 6.7 Cummins transmission fluid type depends on the transmission installed: for the common 68RFE 6-speed automatic, use ATF+4 fluid. For the less common Aisin AS69RC 6-speed automatic, the correct fluid is the MOPAR ASRC fluid or a fluid that meets the Aisin T-IV / JWS 3309 specification.
For the 68RFE transmission

Fluid Type: ATF+4.
Specifications: This is the factory-recommended fluid for all 68RFE and 66RFE transmissions in the 6.7L Cummins.
Examples: Valvoline ATF+4, Mobil ATF+4, or other brands that meet the ATF+4 specification.

For the Aisin AS69RC transmission

Fluid Type: MOPAR ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid or a fluid that meets the Aisin T-IV / JWS 3309 specification.
Examples: Eurol ATF 1100 or other fluids specifically designed for Aisin transmissions that require the T-IV specification.

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.