The RAM 1500 typically requires a full-synthetic motor oil that meets Chrysler/Jeep specifications, with 0W-20 or 5W-20 recommended for most gasoline engines and 5W-40 for EcoDiesel models. Always confirm the exact grade and spec for your year and engine in the owner’s manual or with a Ram dealer.
Engines and oil recommendations by engine
Below is a general guide to the main RAM 1500 powertrains and their typical oil requirements. Exact viscosity and specifications can vary by model year, climate, and towing needs, so verify with the official manual for your truck.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 (gasoline) — Synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20 oils are commonly recommended, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) specifications. Confirm the precise grade for your year and region in the manual.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 (gasoline) — Typically uses synthetic 5W-20 oil that meets MS-6395 and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer). As with the 3.6L, check the exact grade for your vehicle's production year.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 — Diesel engines usually require a synthetic 5W-40 oil that meets API CK-4 or FA-4, and often ACEA C3. Verify the year-specific specification in the owner’s manual.
In practice, this means you should confirm the exact viscosity and oil spec for your RAM 1500 using the manual or Ram’s official specification resources, since oil requirements can shift with model-year updates and regional climates.
How to verify the right oil for your RAM 1500
To ensure you’re using the correct oil, follow these steps to confirm the grade, spec, and suitability for your year and engine.
- Check the owner’s manual for the official oil specification (viscosity grade and spec such as MS-6395 for gasoline engines or CK-4/FA-4 for diesels).
- Look under the hood or on the engine bay sticker for the recommended oil viscosity and spec if the manual isn’t readily accessible.
- Match the oil to your exact engine: 3.6L V6 or 5.7L V8 gasoline engines typically require synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20 meeting MS-6395 and ILSAC GF-6; EcoDiesel 5W-40 synthetic with CK-4/FA-4 or ACEA C3, depending on year.
- When in doubt, contact a Ram dealer or a qualified mechanic to verify the correct grade and spec for your specific model year and regional conditions.
Following these steps helps ensure you use the oil that best protects your engine, preserves warranty coverage, and maintains performance.
Oil change intervals and practical tips
Oil change intervals depend on oil type, driving conditions, and the vehicle’s oil life monitor. Synthetic oils typically allow longer intervals than conventional oils, but towing, extreme heat or cold, and frequent short trips can shorten the interval.
Many RAM 1500 models can handle 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) between changes when using synthetic oil that meets the required specification, with the Oil Life Monitor serving as the final guide. Generally 7,500 to 15,000 miles (12,000 to 24,000 km) under favorable conditions, but towing or severe duty often brings intervals closer to 7,500 miles; follow the monitor and the year-specific recommendations for CK-4/FA-4 oil. If you’re using conventional oil, expect shorter intervals—typically around 3,000 to 5,000 miles—depending on driving conditions and the manual’s guidance.
Always rely on the vehicle’s oil life monitor as your primary indicator and reset it after each oil change. Severe driving conditions, frequent towing, or extreme temperatures may warrant shorter intervals even when synthetic oil is used.
Summary
For RAM 1500 models, oil choice hinges on engine type and year. Gasoline engines (3.6L and 5.7L) typically use synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20 oils that meet Chrysler MS-6395, while EcoDiesel engines generally require synthetic 5W-40 oils that meet CK-4/FA-4. Always verify the exact grade and spec in your owner’s manual or via a Ram dealer, and use the oil-life monitor to guide replacement intervals. Using the correct oil protects the engine, supports efficiency, and helps maintain warranty coverage.
What kind of oil goes in a RAM 1500 5.7 HEMI?
SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil
The RAM 1500 with the 5.7L V8 HEMI engine requires SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil. Using synthetic oil means you can schedule oil changes for every 10,000 miles.
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Does the RAM 1500 need synthetic oil?
RAM 1500 Oil Type Recommended by the Manufacturer
If you own a RAM 1500 with a gasoline engine, the manufacturer recommends SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil for the 3.6L V6 gasoline engine. Use the SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil if your truck has the 5.7L V8 HEMI gasoline engine.
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Is the RAM 1500 0w20 or 5W20?
2019-newer Ram 1500 trucks with the 5.7L HEMI require 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specifications, while 2009-2018 models typically use 5W-20.
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Which oil is best for a RAM 1500?
The 5.7L HEMI engine in RAM 1500 trucks (model years 2011-2024, and 2026) requires 7 quarts of oil with the filter. For 2022 and newer HEMI-equipped trucks, RAM specifies 0W-20 full synthetic oil; 2013-2021 models use 5W-20 full synthetic.
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