coolant reservoir Ram 1500 2013 Get to Know Guide 

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE – GASOLINE ENGINE
Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic oil change indicator system. The oil change
indicator system will remind you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled
maintenance.
Based on engine operation conditions, the oil change indicator message will
illuminate. This means that service is required for your vehicle. Operating conditions
such as frequent short-trips, trailer tow, extremely hot or cold ambient temperatures,
and E85 fuel usage will influence when the “Oil Change Required” message is
displayed. Severe Operating Conditions can cause the change oil message to
illuminate as early as 3,500 miles (5,600 km) since last reset. Have your vehicle
serviced as soon as possible, within the next 500 miles (805 km).
Your authorized dealer will reset the oil change indicator message after completing
the scheduled oil change. If a scheduled oil change is performed by someone other
than your authorized dealer, the message can be reset by referring to the steps
described under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)/Oil Change Re-
quired” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
or twelve months, whichever comes first.
Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:
• Check engine oil level
• Check windshield washer fluid level
• Check the tire inflation pressures and look for unusual wear or damage
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, powersteering (2500/3500 Models Only) and automatic transmission (six-speed only) as
needed
• Check function of all interior and exterior lights
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MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE – DIESEL ENGINE
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance items may result in damage to the
vehicle.
At Each Stop For Fuel
• Check the engine oil level at least 30 minutes after a fully warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the
accuracy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when the level is at or below the ADD
or MIN mark.
Once A Month
• Inspect the batteries, and clean and tighten the terminals as required.
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, and automatic transmission (if equipped), and add as needed.
At Each Oil Change
• Change the engine oil filter.
• Inspect the exhaust system.
• Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
• Lubricate outer tie rod ends.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed
or suspected. Retain all receipts.
Oil Change Indicator System
Your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil change indicator system. This system will
alert you when it is time to change your engine oil by displaying the words “Oil
Change Due” on your Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC). The oil change
reminder will remind the owner to change the engine oil every 15,000 miles or 500
hours, whichever comes first, except for the Chassis Cab models that are using B20
biodiesel, which are 12,500 miles or 400 hours, whichever comes first. Failure to
change the engine oil per the maintenance schedule can result in internal engine
damage.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
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