On most Ram 1500 pickups, the oil filter is mounted on the engine block on the passenger side, near the front of the engine. The exact spot depends on the engine option and model year, so checking your owner's manual for your exact configuration is the best practice.
Engine options and typical locations
The Ram 1500 uses a few different powertrains, and oil-filter placement can vary by engine. Here are the common locations you’re likely to encounter.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: The filter is typically mounted on the passenger side of the engine block near the front, oriented vertically, and accessible from underneath once any undercar shields are removed.
- 5.7L Hemi V8: The filter is generally on the passenger side of the engine, toward the front, and can be reached from beneath the vehicle. It may be partially obscured by exhaust components, which can require removing a shield or components for access.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel: The filter is usually located on the underside of the engine on the passenger side, accessible from underneath after removing the undertray or skid plate.
In practice, the exact spot can differ by model year and whether the vehicle has additional shielding or a cartridge-style filter housing. Always consult the owner's manual or a service manual for your specific truck and engine code.
How to locate it on your Ram 1500
If you’re not sure exactly where yours is, use these steps to locate the filter safely and accurately. This guidance helps you identify the filter type (spin-on vs. cartridge) and the correct replacement part.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and let the engine cool before touching anything.
- Open the hood and visually inspect the sides of the engine block on the passenger side for a cylindrical canister (spin-on) or a cartridge inside a housing (cartridge-style).
- If you don’t see it on the side, check beneath the engine. In many configurations, the filter is mounted low and may require removing splash shields or the skid plate for access.
- Use a flashlight and, if needed, a mirror to view hard-to-reach areas near the oil pan and front of the engine.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a service manual for your exact year and engine code to confirm the location and the correct filter type. If in doubt, have a professional perform the oil change.
Knowing your engine code (for example, 3.6L, 5.7L, or 3.0L EcoDiesel) will help you pinpoint the exact location and filter style for your Ram 1500.
Notes on maintenance and safety
Always use the correct oil grade and filter size specified for your Ram 1500. Dispose of used oil and filters at a proper recycling facility. If you’re unsure about the location or the procedure, consider having a qualified technician perform the oil change to avoid spills or damage.
Summary
The oil-filter location on a Ram 1500 varies by engine, but it is typically found on the passenger side of the engine block near the front or underside of the engine, sometimes accessed from beneath with shields removed. Verify the exact position for your year and engine code in the owner's manual or service documentation, and follow standard safety and disposal practices when performing an oil change.