The oil filter on a 2017 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI is located on the engine block’s passenger side, toward the front, inside a cylindrical housing. It is typically accessed from underneath the vehicle and may require removing a splash shield or underbody panel. The filter is usually cartridge-style inside the housing, meaning you replace the element and O-ring rather than a traditional spin-on canister.
Understanding the exact location helps with planning a DIY oil change. While the general region remains consistent across 2017 Ram 5.7 HEMI models, the appearance of the housing and any shielding can vary by trim and production date. Always consult the owner's manual or a factory service document for your exact VIN if you want to confirm the precise setup.
Where the filter sits in the engine bay
Identifying the filter’s general region makes it easier to locate during maintenance. The filter housing is typically on the passenger side of the engine, near the front, and may be obscured by plastic trim or an underbody shield.
- Location: front-right (passenger side) area of the engine block near the oil pan
- Housing: usually a cylindrical canister-style assembly
- Access: may require removing a splash shield or underbody panel for clearance
- Filter style: most 5.7 HEMI setups use a cartridge inside the housing, not a visible spin-on canister
When you locate the housing, you’ll typically see a cap or end cover on the housing that you loosen to access the filter element and seal with a new O-ring during reassembly.
How to access and replace the oil filter
If you’re planning a DIY filter change, follow these practical steps to access and swap the filter safely.
- Safety first: Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the battery if you’re near electrical components. Raise and support the front of the vehicle if needed.
- Prepare for access: Remove the front splash shield or underbody panel to gain clearance to the filter housing.
- Identify the filter housing: Look for the cylindrical housing on the passenger side of the engine block, near the oil pan.
- Remove the housing cap: Use the correct tool to loosen and remove the cap or end cover, exposing the filter element or cartridge.
- Replace the filter element or cartridge: Swap in a new filter element or cartridge as appropriate for your setup, and replace the seal or O-ring on the cap.
- Reassemble and refill: Reinstall the housing cap, torque to spec, refill with the correct oil amount and type, and reinstall any shielding you removed.
- Check for leaks and test: Start the engine and inspect for leaks around the filter housing; verify normal oil pressure.
Dispose of used oil and the old filter properly and reset any service indicators as needed.
Filter type variations
Across 2017 Ram 5.7 HEMI units, some engines use cartridge-style filters inside a housing, while others may use a spin-on style depending on production date and market. The mechanics’ approach remains consistent: locate the housing, replace the filter element or cartridge, and replace the O-ring. If you’re unsure which type your VIN uses, consult the owner’s manual or a factory service bulletin for your exact truck.
Bottom line and quick tips
In short: the oil filter on a 2017 Ram 5.7 HEMI sits on the engine block’s passenger side near the front, inside a cylindrical housing. Access often requires removing shielding to gain clearance, and you’ll swap either the cartridge element inside the housing or the entire unit if it’s spin-on. Use the correct filter for your VIN and replace the O-ring to prevent leaks. When in doubt, seek professional service.
Summary: The oil filter is located in the front-right region of the engine on the 2017 Ram 5.7 HEMI, inside a canister-style housing. Remove the cap to replace the filter element or cartridge, replace the O-ring, and reassemble carefully. This location is standard for most 2017 Ram 5.7 HEMI trucks, though shielding and exact appearance may vary by trim.
Where is the cabin air filter located on a 2017 Dodge Ram?
Side door open up your glove. Box look for this soft open string on the right side of the glove. Box. Slide it up.
What oil is recommended for a 2017 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. Use seven quarts to refill after draining the old oil and replacing the filter.
Where is the oil filter on a 2016 Ram 1500?
Using a rag, clean any excess oil from around the drain plug area. Find the Ram 1500 oil filter's location on the lower right passenger side of the engine above the rack and pinion steering unit. Using an oil filter wrench, begin loosening the oil filter in a counterclockwise direction until it can be loosened by hand.
What is the best brand of oil for my Ram 1500?
Mopar
RAM recommends its Mopar brand of oil, called MaxPro, for your RAM 1500. Mopar meets RAM's high standards for quality to keep your engine in top condition for as long as you own your truck.