The RAM 1500’s 3.6 L V6 normally uses SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil, with 5W-20 allowed as an alternate in some cases. Always confirm the exact requirement in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or with a dealer.
Oil viscosity and specifications for the 3.6L Pentastar
The 3.6 L V6 (Pentastar) engine in RAM 1500 pickups is designed to run on low-viscosity synthetic oils to optimize fuel efficiency and protection. The standard specification is Chrysler MS-6395, and the common viscosity is 0W-20. In situations where 0W-20 is unavailable or not recommended for a particular region, 5W-20 may be acceptable according to the manual, so always verify for your exact year and market.
Approved oil options
Below are the typical choices you’ll encounter in official documentation and by technicians. Use the option that matches your manual and local availability.
- 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification
- 5W-20 full synthetic motor oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification (acceptable if 0W-20 is not available, per your manual)
Note: For best compatibility, choose an oil that explicitly lists MS-6395 and API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (or newer) ratings. Exact requirements can vary by year and market; verify with your dealer or the owner’s manual.
Maintenance intervals and practical tips
Oil change intervals depend on oil type, climate, and driving conditions. With synthetic 0W-20, many RAM 1500 owners follow the vehicle’s oil life monitor, which commonly indicates changes every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or longer. If using a conventional oil or a synthetic blend, the interval may be shorter. Always follow the oil life monitor and your manual for precise timing.
- Respect the oil life monitor and the manual’s suggested interval for changing oil and replacing the filter.
- Use a compatible oil filter matched to the engine and oil type.
- Dispose of used oil responsibly at an authorized facility.
These practices help protect the 3.6 L V6 and support long-term engine reliability and warranty compliance where applicable.
Yearly/regions caveats
Model-year updates can adjust viscosity recommendations slightly. In most modern RAM 1500 3.6 L V6 vehicles, 0W-20 full synthetic meeting MS-6395 is the standard; 5W-20 may be permitted in certain regions or circumstances as specified in the owner’s manual. Always confirm the exact specification for your year and climate with the manual or a dealer.
Bottom line
For the RAM 1500 3.6 L V6, the recommended oil is 0W-20 full synthetic that meets Chrysler MS-6395; 5W-20 is a possible alternative in some cases per the manual. Check your specific year and region to be sure, and follow the vehicle’s oil-life monitoring guidance for change intervals.
Summary: The RAM 1500’s 3.6 L V6 typically takes 0W-20 full synthetic oil (MS-6395), with 5W-20 as a potential alternative depending on year and region. Always refer to the owner’s manual or your dealer for the exact specification and maintenance intervals.