How Many Quarts Does A Dodge Ram 1500 Take – Full Guide!

Keeping your Dodge Ram 1500 running smoothly starts with one simple thing — using the right amount and type of engine oil.

A Dodge Ram 1500 typically takes between 6 and 7 quarts of oil, depending on the engine type. Most 5.7 L HEMI engines require about 7 quarts including the filter for best performance.

Getting this number right matters. Too little oil means insufficient lubrication, increased engine wear, and overheating. Too much oil risks foaming, pressure issues, or leaks. In this article, you’ll find:

A quick reference table for common engines
Detailed oil capacities by engine and year
Recommended oil types
Best practices for checking and changing oil
Common mistakes & FAQs

Use this as your go-to guide, and always double-check your owner’s manual for your specific truck.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer – Average Oil Capacity for Ram 1500

Here’s a simplified chart showing oil capacities (with filter) for common Ram 1500 engines in modern models:

Engine	Oil Capacity (Quarts, with filter)
3.6 L Pentastar V6	~ 5.0 quarts
5.7 L HEMI V8	~ 7.0 quarts
6.2 L V8 (supercharged, TRX)	~ 7.5 quarts
3.0 L EcoDiesel / Diesel variants	~ 8.5 quarts

Note: These figures are guidelines for recent model years. Older engines (e.g., 4.7 L V8, older V6s) often have different capacities (e.g. 5–6 quarts). Always check the dipstick after filling.

Oil Capacity by Engine and Model Year

Below is a more detailed breakdown of oil capacities and considerations for different engine types in Ram 1500 trucks. Use the section corresponding to your engine.

1 — 3.6 L Pentastar V6

Many recent Ram 1500s with a 3.6 L V6 require about 5.0 quarts (with filter) of oil.
Some older references (or intermediate fill levels) state ~6 quarts, but that may be an overfill when filter is included.
Use SAE 0W-20 full synthetic (or as per OEM specification)

2 — 5.7 L HEMI V8

This is perhaps the most common engine in Ram 1500s. The usual oil capacity is ~ 7.0 quarts (including filter).
Some sources list 6.6 liters (~7 quarts) for many model years.
Recommended oil type is often SAE 5W-20 full synthetic, unless OEM says otherwise.

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3 — 6.2 L V8 (Supercharged / TRX)

The performance / TRX variant uses more oil. Its capacity is ~ 7.5 quarts.
Uses SAE 0W-40 full synthetic in many cases.
This is relevant for high-end/demanding applications, so double-check with the model spec.

4 — 3.0 L EcoDiesel (Turbo Diesel)

Diesel or EcoDiesel versions require more oil because of heavier internal components and additional lubrication needs.
The 2022 Diesel variant is often listed as requiring ~ 8.5 quarts (with filter).
The recommended oil type is generally SAE 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil.

5 — Older Models (Pre-2010, Magnum / PowerTech Engines)

3.7 L V6 (older) — ~ 5.0 quarts
4.7 L V8 (older) — ~ 6.0 quarts
Some 5.2 L or 5.9 L engines in older fleets may have capacities like 4–5 quarts, depending on design.

Recommended Oil Types for Dodge Ram 1500

Using the correct oil grade and spec is as important as getting the quantity right. Below is a reference for common engine → recommended oil types.

Engine	Recommended Oil Type / Viscosity
3.6 L V6	SAE 0W-20 full synthetic (or OEM spec)
5.7 L HEMI V8	SAE 5W-20 full synthetic (or OEM spec)
6.2 L V8 (TRX)	SAE 0W-40 full synthetic
3.0 L Diesel / EcoDiesel	SAE 5W-40 full synthetic (diesel grade)

Tips:

Always prefer synthetic oils that meet or exceed OEM specifications (e.g. API, ACEA, or Mopar standards).
Using a lower or non-specified viscosity can affect fuel economy and engine protection.
In extreme temperature environments, check if a different viscosity is recommended by the manufacturer.

How to Check Oil Level Properly

Here’s a step-by-step method to ensure you get an accurate reading:

Park on a level surface. Don’t incline or slope.
Warm up the engine briefly, then shut off. Let it sit for ~5–10 minutes so oil drains into the pan.
Pull out the dipstick. Wipe it clean with a lint-free rag or paper towel.
Reinsert it fully, then pull out again to check the level.
The oil level should fall between the “Min” and “Max” marks. Don’t go past the upper line.
If low, add oil in small increments (e.g. 0.25 quarts), wait a minute, recheck, and stop when it’s near the top mark.
After running the engine for a minute, recheck again and top up if necessary.

Pro Tip: Overfilling can cause foaming, crankcase pressure issues, and leaks. Always err on the side of slightly under rather than over, then top up carefully.

How Often Should You Change the Oil?

Changing oil at the right interval helps maintain engine health. Here’s a general guide:

OEM standard: ~ 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (for normal driving).
Under severe conditions (towing, hot climates, frequent short trips), reduce to every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 3–4 months.
Many modern Rams have an Oil Life Monitor (OLM) that alerts you when an oil change is due.
Don’t exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months without an oil change, even if not triggered, in many cases.

Also remember to replace the oil filter with every oil change and reset the oil life indicator (if applicable).

Common Oil-Change Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling or underfilling. Both can damage your engine.
Using the wrong viscosity or non-OEM oils. Always use a compatible oil that meets manufacturer specs.
Neglecting to replace the filter or gasket. A clogged or incorrect filter can hamper oil flow.
Not letting oil settle before checking. Checking immediately after shutting off leads to inaccurate readings.
Failing to reset the oil life monitor. Your truck may not prompt reminders otherwise.
Ignoring leaks or low oil pressure. If you see oil drops or low pressure warnings, address immediately.

Ram 1500 5.7 Oil Capacity

The Ram 1500 with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine usually takes about 7 quarts of oil, including the filter. Always check your owner’s manual or dipstick before filling to make sure you don’t underfill or overfill your engine.

How Many Quarts Does a Dodge Ram 1500 Take 2022

A 2022 Dodge Ram 1500 needs between 5 and 8.5 quarts of oil, depending on the engine. The 5.7 L HEMI uses about 7 quarts, while the 3.6 L V6 takes around 5 quarts. Always verify your specific engine.

How Many Quarts Does a Dodge Ram 1500 Take 2021

The 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 holds 5 to 8.5 quarts of oil, depending on the engine. The 5.7 L HEMI needs around 7 quarts, and the 3.0 L EcoDiesel requires about 8.5 quarts. Check your manual before refilling.

Ram 1500 5.7 Oil Type

The Ram 1500 5.7 L HEMI V8 runs best with SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil. This oil type keeps your engine smooth, protects against wear, and works well in both hot and cold driving conditions. Always use quality synthetic oil.

Ram 1500 3.6 Oil Capacity

The Ram 1500 with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine holds about 5 quarts of oil, including the filter. Make sure to check the oil level after refilling to avoid overfilling or running the engine with too little oil.

Ram 1500 3.6 Oil Type

For the 3.6 L V6 engine, use SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil. This oil type improves fuel efficiency, flows easily in cold weather, and protects engine parts from heat. Always follow your owner’s manual for oil brand and specs.

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Dodge Ram 1500 Oil Type

Most Dodge Ram 1500 trucks use full synthetic oil, with viscosity depending on the engine. The 3.6 L V6 uses 0W-20, and the 5.7 L HEMI V8 uses 5W-20. Diesel versions usually need 5W-40. Always confirm your specific engine’s requirement.

Ram 1500 Oil Filter

Every oil change on a Ram 1500 should include a new oil filter. The right filter depends on the engine model, but Mopar or high-quality aftermarket filters work best. Replacing it ensures clean oil and longer engine life every time.

FAQs

How much oil does a Dodge RAM 1500 5.7 take?

The Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI engine needs about 7 quarts of oil including the filter. Always check your owner’s manual before refilling.

What oil does a RAM 1500 take?

Most Ram 1500 trucks use full-synthetic oil. The 3.6 V6 needs 0W-20, while the 5.7 HEMI V8 uses 5W-20 synthetic oil.

How many quarts of oil are in a 2018 RAM 1500?

A 2018 Ram 1500 uses between 5 and 7 quarts of oil, depending on the engine. The 5.7 HEMI needs around 7 quarts with filter.

How many quarts of oil does a 5.7 L V8 take?

A 5.7-liter V8 HEMI engine holds about 7 quarts of oil including the filter. Always check the dipstick after refilling to confirm level.

What happens if I overfill my RAM 1500 with oil?

Overfilling your Ram 1500 can cause foaming, pressure build-up, and leaks. Too much oil can damage engine seals and reduce lubrication efficiency.

What oil filter for 2015 RAM 1500 5.7 HEMI?

The 2015 Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI uses a Mopar MO-339 or equivalent filter. Always use a quality oil filter for best engine protection.

How often should I change my RAM 1500’s oil?

Change your Ram 1500’s oil every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Change earlier if you tow or drive in hot conditions.

How many quarts of oil?

Most Ram 1500 engines take 5 to 8.5 quarts of oil, depending on engine size and year. Check your manual for the exact amount.

How much is synthetic oil for a quart?

One quart of synthetic oil usually costs $6 to $12 USD, depending on the brand and quality. High-performance brands cost slightly more.

How to reset RAM 1500 oil life?

Turn on the ignition, use the steering-wheel controls to find “Oil Life,” then hold “OK” until it resets to 100 percent.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your Dodge Ram 1500 running smoothly starts with using the right oil type and amount for your engine. Most Ram 1500s need between 5 and 8.5 quarts, depending on the model and engine type. Regular oil changes, quality filters, and checking levels often will help maintain engine health, boost performance, and extend your truck’s lifespan. Always confirm details in your owner’s manual before refilling.