Oil change Ram 3500 2020 Owner's Guide

402SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine
Oil Identification Symbol — Gas Engine
This symbol means that the oil has
been certified by the American
Petroleum Institute (API). The
manufacturer only recommends API
Certified engine oils.
This symbol certifies 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30,
5W-30 and 10W-30 engine oils.
American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine
Oil Identification Symbol — Diesel Engine
This symbol means that the oil has
been certified by the American
Petroleum Institute (API). The
manufacturer only recommends API
Certified engine oils.
Oils with a high ash content may produce
damaging deposits on cylinder head valves
and/or aftertreatment system damage. A maximum sulfated ash content of 1.00 mass %
is recommended for all oil used in the engine.
The same oil change interval is to be followed
for synthetic oil as for petroleum based oil. Also,
synthetic oil must meet the same performance
specifications as petroleum oil.
Engine Oil Viscosity — Gas Engine
Use Mopar SAE 0W-40 engine oil approved to
FCA Material Standard MS-12633 such as
Pennzoil Ultra equivalent is recommended for
all operating temperatures.
The engine oil filler cap also shows the
recommended engine oil viscosity for your
engine. For information on engine oil filler cap
location, refer to the “Engine Compartment”
illustration in this section.
Lubricants which do not have both the engine
oil certification mark and the correct SAE
viscosity grade number should not be used.
Engine Oil Viscosity — Diesel Engine

In ambient temperatures above 0°F (-18°C), we
recommend you use SAE 10W-30 engine oil such
as Mopar, Shell Rotella and Shell Rimula that
meets FCA Material Standard MS-10902 and the
API CK-4 engine oil category is required. Products
meeting Cummins CES 20081 may also be used.
The identification of these engine oils is typically
located on the back of the oil container.
In ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C), we
recommend you use SAE 5W-40
synthetic engine
oil such as Mopar, Shell Rotella and Shell Rimula
that meets FCA Material Standard MS-10902
and the API CK-4 engine oil category is required.

CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your engine oil
as the chemicals can damage your engine.
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your engine oil
as the chemicals can damage your engine.
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
Failure to use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil
in ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C)
could result in severe engine damage.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE403
Engine oil not designated by the FCA or
Cummins Material Standards and API CK-4
should not be used, as engine and exhaust
system durability may be compromised. The
engine oil filler cap also shows the
recommended engine oil viscosity for your
engine. For information on engine oil filler cap
location, refer to “Engine Compartment” in
“Servicing And Maintenance” for further
information.
Synthetic Engine Oils
You may use synthetic engine oils provided the
recommended oil quality requirements are met,
and the recommended maintenance intervals
for oil and filter changes are followed. Synthetic engine oils which do not have both the
engine oil certification mark and the correct SAE
viscosity grade number should not be used.
Materials Added To Engine Oil
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against the addition of any additives (other than
leak detection dyes) to the engine oil. Engine oil
is an engineered product and its performance
may be impaired by supplemental additives.
Disposing Of Used Engine Oil And Oil
Filters
Care should be taken in disposing of used
engine oil and oil filters from your vehicle. Used
oil and oil filters, indiscriminately discarded, can
present a problem to the environment. Contact
an authorized dealer, service station or
governmental agency for advice on how and
where used oil and oil filters can be safely
discarded in your area.
ENGINE OIL FILTER
The engine oil filter should be replaced with a
new filter at every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
This manufacturer's engines have a full-flow
type disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type
for replacement. The quality of replacement
filters varies considerably. Only high quality
filters should be used to ensure most efficient
service. Mopar engine oil filters are high quality
oil filters and are recommended.
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section
for the proper maintenance intervals.
NOTE:
Be sure to follow the “Severe Duty Conditions”
maintenance interval if applicable.
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414SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
the Diesel Particulate Filter, the engine idle
speed will return to normal when the brake
pedal is applied. A small change in engine tone
or a slight change in engine performance while
accelerating may also be noticeable at speeds
below 20 mph (32 km/h). This operating mode
may last for up to an hour of idle time, or around
20 minutes of driving time.
Additionally, your vehicle has the ability to alert
you to additional maintenance required on your
truck or engine.
Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in
“Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) sometimes known
simply by the name of its active component,
UREA—is a key component of selective catalytic
reduction (SCR) systems, which help diesel
vehicles meet stringent emission regulations.
DEF is a liquid reducing agent that reacts with
engine exhaust in the presence of a catalyst to
convert smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx)
into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specification” for further information.
You can receive assistance in locating DEF in
the United States by calling 866-RAM-INFO
(866-726-4636). In Canada call
1–800–465–2001 (English) or
1–800–387–9983 (French)
You can receive assistance in locating DEF by
contacting an authorized dealer.
BODY LUBRICATION
Locks and all body pivot points, including such
items as seat tracks, door hinge pivot points
and rollers, liftgate, tailgate, decklid, sliding
doors and hood hinges, should be lubricated
periodically with a lithium based grease, such as Mopar Spray White Lube to ensure quiet,
easy operation and to protect against rust and
wear. Prior to the application of any lubricant,
the parts concerned should be wiped clean to
remove dust and grit; after lubricating, excess
oil and grease should be removed. Particular
attention should also be given to hood latching
components to ensure proper function. When
performing other underhood services, the hood
latch, release mechanism and safety catch
should be cleaned and lubricated.
The external lock cylinders should be lubricated
twice a year, preferably in the Autumn and
Spring. Apply a small amount of a high quality
lubricant, such as Mopar Lock Cylinder
Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder.
WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and
the windshield periodically with a sponge or soft
cloth and a mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will
remove accumulations of salt or road film.
Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long
periods may cause deterioration of the wiper
blades. Always use washer fluid when using the
wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry
windshield.
WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do not
park or operate your vehicle in areas where
your exhaust system can contact anything
that can burn.

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416SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
blade down toward the base of the wiper
arm and away from the J hook in the end of
the wiper arm).

Removing Wiper From Wiper Arm

6. Gently lower the wiper arm onto the glass.
Installing The Front Wipers

1. Lift the wiper arm off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

2. Position the wiper blade under the hook on the tip of the wiper arm with the wiper
locking tab open. 3. Insert the receiver bracket on the wiper
assembly into the hook on the tip of the arm
through the opening in the wiper blade
under the locking tab.
4. Slide the wiper blade up into the hook on the wiper arm until it is latched
(engagement will be accompanied by an
audible click). Fold down the latch release
tab and snap it into its locked position.
5. Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The best protection against carbon monoxide
entry into the vehicle body is a properly
maintained engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the
exhaust system; or if the exhaust fumes can be
detected inside the vehicle; or when the
underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged;
have an authorized technician inspect the
complete exhaust system and adjacent body
areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or
mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose connections could permit exhaust fumes to
seep into the passenger compartment. In
addition, have the exhaust system inspected
each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or
oil change. Replace as required.1 — Wiper
2 — Locking Tab
3 — Wiper Arm J Hook
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can
make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you. To avoid breathing CO, refer to
“Safety Tips” in “Safety” for further informa
-
tion.
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do
not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE423
Fluid Level Check — Six-Speed
Transmission
It is best to check the fluid level when the
transmission is at normal operating
temperature (158-176°F / 70-80°C). This
normally occurs after at least 15 miles (25 km)
of driving. At normal operating temperature the
fluid cannot be held comfortably between the
fingertips. You can read the transmission sump
temperature in the instrument cluster screen
refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting
To Know Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
Use the following procedure to check the
transmission fluid level properly:

1. Monitor the transmission temperature using the instrument cluster display, and
operate the vehicle as required to reach
the normal operating temperature. If the transmission is not functioning properly, or
the vehicle cannot be driven, see the NOTE
and CAUTION below about checking the
fluid level at colder temperatures.

2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Run the engine at normal idle speed for at least 60 seconds, and leave the engine
running for the rest of this procedure.
4. Fully apply the parking brake, and press the brake pedal.
5. Place the gear selector momentarily into each gear position (allowing time for the
transmission to fully engage in each
position), ending with the transmission in
PARK.
6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until seated.
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on both sides. The fluid level
reading is only valid if there is a solid
coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be full
of fluid if the actual level is at or above the
hole. The fluid level should be between the
“HOT” (upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operating temperature. If
the fluid level is low, add fluid through the
dipstick tube to bring it to the proper level.
Do not overfill.
Use ONLY the specified fluid
refer to "Fluids And Lubricants" in
“Technical Specifications” for fluid specifi -
cations. After adding any quantity of oil
through the dipstick tube, wait a minimum
of two minutes for the oil to fully drain into
the transmission before rechecking the
fluid level.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two “COLD” (lower)
holes on the dipstick with the fluid at 60-70°F /
16-21°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
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424SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
8. Reinsert the dipstick. Check for leaks.
Release the parking brake.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two COLD (lower) holes
on the dipstick with the fluid at 68-86°F /
20-30°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not
required. However, change the fluid and filter if
the fluid becomes contaminated (with water,
etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Six Speed
Transmission
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the
fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.),
or if the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
REAR AXLE AND 4X4 FRONT DRIVING
A
XLE FLUID LEVEL
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks
are not required. When the vehicle is serviced
for other reasons the exterior surfaces of the
axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil
leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information. This
inspection should be made with the vehicle in a
level position.
For all 2500/3500 Model axles, the fluid level
should be 1/4 in ± 1/4 in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm)
below the fill hole on the 9.25 in front, 11.5 in
rear axle, and 12.0 in rear axle.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differ -
ential components. Operation of the vehicle in
water, as may be encountered in some
off-highway types of service, will require
draining and refilling the axle to avoid damage.
Limited-Slip Differentials DO REQUIRE limited
slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE439
(Continued)
Life Of Tire
The service life of a tire is dependent upon
varying factors including, but not limited to:
Driving style.
Tire pressure - Improper cold tire inflation
pressures can cause uneven wear patterns
to develop across the tire tread. These
abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread life,
resulting in the need for earlier tire replace -
ment.
Distance driven.
Performance tires, tires with a speed rating of
V or higher, and Summer tires typically have
a reduced tread life. Rotation of these tires
per the vehicle scheduled maintenance is
highly recommended. NOTE:
Wheel valve stem must be replaced as well
when installing new tires due to wear and tear
in existing tires.
Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with
as little exposure to light as possible. Protect
tires from contact with oil, grease, and gasoline.
Replacement Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance
of many characteristics. They should be
inspected regularly for wear and correct cold
tire inflation pressures. The manufacturer
strongly recommends that you use tires
equivalent to the originals in size, quality and
performance when replacement is needed.
Refer to the paragraph on “Tread Wear
Indicators” in this section. Refer to the Tire and
Loading Information placard or the Vehicle
Certification Label for the size designation of
your tire. The Load Index and Speed Symbol for
your tire will be found on the original equipment
tire sidewall.
See the Tire Sizing Chart example found in the
“Tire Safety Information” section of this manual
for more information relating to the Load Index
and Speed Symbol of a tire. It is recommended to replace the two front tires
or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire
can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling. If
you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the
wheel’s specifications match those of the
original wheels.
It is recommended you contact an authorized
tire dealer or original equipment dealer with any
questions you may have on tire specifications or
capability. Failure to use equivalent
replacement tires may adversely affect the
safety, handling, and ride of your vehicle.
WARNING!
Tires and the spare tire should be replaced
after six years, regardless of the remaining
tread. Failure to follow this warning can result
in sudden tire failure. You could lose control
and have a collision resulting in serious injury
or death.
WARNING!
Do not use a tire, wheel size, load rating, or
speed rating other than that specified for
your vehicle. Some combinations of unap
-
proved tires and wheels may change
suspension dimensions and performance
characteristics, resulting in changes to
steering, handling, and braking of your
vehicle. This can cause unpredictable
handling and stress to steering and
suspension components. You could lose
control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death. Use only the tire and
wheel sizes with load ratings approved for
your vehicle.
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS457
FUEL SPECIFICATIONS
The Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine has been
developed to take advantage of the high energy
content and generally lower cost No. 2 Ultra Low
Sulfur diesel fuel or No. 2 Ultra Low Sulfur
climatized diesel fuels. Experience has shown
that it also operates on No. 1 Ultra Low Sulfur
diesel fuels or other fuels within specification.
NOTE:
If you accidentally fill the fuel tank with gaso -
line on your diesel vehicle, do not start the
vehicle. If you restart your vehicle you risk
damaging the engine and fuel system. Please
call an authorized dealer for service.
A maximum blend of 5% biodiesel meeting
ASTM specification D-975 may be used with
your Cummins diesel engine. (Chassis Cab
models not configured with B20 capability.)
A maximum blend of 20% biodiesel meeting
ASTM specification D-7467 may be used with
your Cummins diesel engine. (Pickup models
and Chassis Cab models configured with B20
Capability.)
In addition, commercially available fuel addi -
tives are not necessary for the proper opera -
tion of your Cummins diesel engine.
However, if seasonably adjusted fuel is not
available and you are operating below 20°F
(-6°C), Mopar Premium Diesel Fuel Treat -
ment (or equivalent) may be beneficial to
avoid fuel gelling.
No. 1 Ultra Low Sulfur diesel fuel should only
be used where extended arctic conditions
(0°F or -18°C) exist.
BIODIESEL FUEL REQUIREMENTS
Pickup Models And Chassis Cab Models
Ordered With B20 Option
Your vehicle has been validated and approved
for the use of biodiesel in blends up to 20%
(B20) provided that you comply with the
requirements outlined below. It is important
that you understand and comply with these
requirements. Failure to comply with Oil Change
requirements for vehicles operating on
biodiesel blends up to B20 will result in
premature engine wear. Such wear is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Biodiesel is a fuel produced from renewable
resources typically derived from animal fat,
rapeseed oil (Rapeseed Methyl Ester (RME)
base), or soybean oil (Soy Methyl Ester (SME or
SOME) base). Biodiesel fuel has inherent
limitations which require that you understand
and adhere to the following requirements if you
use blends of biodiesel greater then 5% but not
greater than 20% (B6-B20). There are no
unique restrictions for the use of B5. Use of
blends greater than 20% is not approved. Use of
blends greater than 20% can result in engine
damage. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Fuel Quality — Must Comply With ASTM
Standards
The quality of biodiesel fuel may vary widely.
Only fuel produced by a BQ9000 supplier to the
following specifications may be blended to
meet biodiesel blend (B6–B20) fuel meeting
ASTM specification D-7467:
Pertrodiesel fuel meeting ASTM specification
D-975 and biodiesel fuel (B100) meeting
ASTM specification D-6751.
8

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458TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Fuel Oxidation Stability — Must Use Fuel
Within Six Months Of Manufacture
Biodiesel fuel has poor oxidation stability which
can result in long term storage problems. Fuel
produced to approved ASTM standards, if
stored properly, provides for protection against
fuel oxidation for up to six months.
Fuel Water Separation — Must Use Mopar/
Cummins Approved Fuel Filter Elements
You must use Mopar/Cummins approved fuel
filter elements in both your engine mounted
filter and frame mounted filter.
Biodiesel fuel has a natural affinity to water and
water accelerates microbial growth. Your
Mopar/Cummins filtration system is designed
to provide adequate fuel water separation
capabilities.
Bio-Diesel Fuel Properties — Low Ambient
Temperatures
Biodiesel fuel may gel or solidify at low ambient
temperatures, which may pose problems for
both storage and operation. Precautions can be
necessary at low ambient temperatures, such
as storing the fuel in a heated building or a
heated storage tank, or using cold temperature
additives.
Fuel In Oil Dilution — Must Adhere To
Required Oil Change Interval
Fuel dilution of lubricating oil has been
observed with the use of biodiesel fuel. Fuel in
oil must not exceed 5%. To ensure this limit is
met your oil change interval must be
maintained to the following schedule:
Ram PickUp 2500/3500 Only — 15,000 Miles*
(*unless otherwise notified with a oil service
message)
CAUTION!

Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 15,000 miles (24 000 km)
pickup or 12,500 miles (20 000 km) chassis
cab if operation occurs with greater than 5%
biodiesel blends. Oil change intervals should
not exceed 6 months in either case. Failure
to comply with these Oil Change require -
ments for vehicles operating on biodiesel
blends up to B20 may result in premature
engine wear. Such wear is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

B20 Biodiesel capable: The engine may
suffer severe damage if operated with
concentrations of Biodiesel higher than
20%.

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557
Manual Park Release
............................................. 378Service...................................................... 551Media Hub..................................................... 538Memory Seat................................................... 31Memory Settings............................................. 31Methanol....................................................... 454Mirrors............................................................. 42Electric Powered......................................... 44Heated........................................................ 46Memory....................................................... 31Outside........................................................ 44Rearview..................................... 42, 43, 346Trailer Towing.............................................. 46Modifications/AlterationsVehicle........................................................ 12Monitor, Tire Pressure System....................... 163Mopar Parts................................................... 550MP3 Control.................................................. 538Multi-Function Control Lever............................ 48
N
Navigation System (Uconnect GPS)............... 309New Vehicle Break-In Period.......................... 230Noise ControlMaintenance............................................. 425Tampering Prohibited................................ 426Noise Emission Warranty..................... 425, 426
O
Occupant Restraints..................................... 172Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel)..................... 454Off-Pavement Driving (Off-Road).......... 261, 344Off-Road Driving (Off-Pavement).......... 261, 344Oil Change Indicator..................................... 390Oil Filter, Change.......................................... 403Oil Filter, Selection........................................ 403Oil Pressure Light.......................................... 132Oil Reset....................................................... 115Oil, Engine................................... 401, 461, 464Capacity........................................... 459, 460Change Interval........................................ 401Dipstick.................................................... 399Disposal................................................... 403Filter....................................... 403, 461, 464Filter Disposal........................................... 403Identification Logo.................................... 402Materials Added To.................................. 403Pressure Warning Light............................ 132Recommendation............................ 401, 459Synthetic.................................................. 403Viscosity.......................................... 402, 459Onboard Diagnostic System.......................... 142Operating Precautions.................................. 142Operator ManualOwner's Manual..................................12, 551Outside Rearview Mirrors................................ 44
Overdrive....................................................... 244Overdrive OFF Switch.................................... 244Overheating, Engine...................................... 379
P
Paint Care..................................................... 447Panic Alarm......................................................15Parking Brake............................................... 231ParkSense System, Rear...................... 296, 301Passive Entry....................................................28Pedals, Adjustable...........................................42Perform Service Indicator, Reset.................. 390Pets............................................................... 209Pickup Box................................................90, 92Pinch Protection...............................................73Placard, Tire And Loading Information.......... 433PowerDistribution Center (Fuses)....................... 358Door Locks...................................................27Mirrors.........................................................44Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical Outlet)..........86, 88Seats...........................................................35Side Steps...................................................27Sliding Rear Window....................................71Steering.......................................................44Sunroof........................................................72Windows......................................................7011

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