In brief, the oil you should use depends on which engine your RAM 1500 has. The 2017 model year offered three engines with distinct oil specifications: 0W-20 synthetic for the 3.6L V6, 5W-20 synthetic for the 5.7L Hemi V8, and 5W-40 synthetic for the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6, all paired with an appropriate OEM oil filter.
To ensure accuracy for your exact vehicle, verify the engine type via your VIN or the under-hood engine label and consult the owner's manual or a RAM dealer. The following guide summarizes the typical oil requirements for each engine option available in the 2017 RAM 1500.
Engine options and oil requirements
The following summarizes the recommended oil grade and approximate capacity for each engine option offered in the 2017 RAM 1500. Use this as a quick reference, but verify against your manual for your specific VIN and climate.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 (gasoline): 0W-20 synthetic motor oil; capacity about 5 quarts with filter.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 (gasoline): 5W-20 synthetic motor oil; capacity about 7 quarts with filter.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (diesel): 5W-40 synthetic motor oil; capacity about 8 quarts with filter.
These recommendations align with commonly published specs for 2017 RAM 1500 models, but oil grade and capacity can vary by exact vehicle configuration, climate, and service history. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or a RAM dealer if you’re unsure.
How to confirm your engine and exact oil spec
Identify your engine
Check the VIN or the engine code on the under-hood label to confirm which engine your truck uses. The RAM 1500's engine choice will determine the correct oil grade and capacity.
Consult the manual and under-hood labels
Refer to the owner's manual’s maintenance section and the label located on the underside of the hood or near the engine bay for the recommended oil viscosity and capacity.
When in doubt, ask a professional
If you’re unsure, contact a RAM dealer or a trusted mechanic. They can verify the engine code and pull up the exact oil specification for your VIN.
Summary
For a 2017 RAM 1500, oil type depends on the engine: 0W-20 synthetic for the 3.6L V6, 5W-20 synthetic for the 5.7L Hemi, and 5W-40 synthetic for the 3.0L EcoDiesel, with capacities around 5, 7, and 8 quarts respectively. Always verify with the owner’s manual or dealer to ensure you use the correct oil for your exact truck configuration.