coolant Ram 1500 2020 Owner's Guide

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 509
NOTE:
• It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the proper levelof protection against freezing according to the tempera -
tures occurring in the area where the vehicle is operated.
• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop -
erly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to
severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to
be added to the system, please contact a local authorized
dealer.
• Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types is not recom -
mended and can result in cooling system damage. If
HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in an emergency, have
a authorized dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT
coolant (conforming to MS.90032) as soon as possible.
Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of engine
coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that engine coolant (anti -
freeze) will return to the radiator from the coolant expansion
bottle/recovery tank if so equipped.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accu-
mulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces. Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a regu-
lated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your
local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your
community. To prevent ingestion by animals or children, do
not store ethylene glycol-based coolant in open containers or
allow it to remain in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a
child or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean
up any ground spills immediately.WARNING!
• Do not open hot engine cooling system. Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is over -
heated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an over -
heated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in the
cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury, do not
remove the pressure cap while the system is hot or
under pressure.
• Do not use a pressure cap other than the one specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine damage may
result.
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510 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Checking Coolant Level — 3.6L Engine
The level of the coolant in the pressurized coolant bottle
should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” range on the
bottle when the engine is cold.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is no
need to remove the cap unless checking for coolant freeze
point or replacing engine coolant (antifreeze). Advise your
service attendant of this. As long as the engine operating
temperature is satisfactory, the coolant bottle need only be
checked once a month. When additional engine coolant
(antifreeze) is needed to maintain the proper level, it should
be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.Checking Coolant Level — 5.7L Engines
With the engine OFF and cold, the level of the engine coolant
should be between the ADD and SAFE range on the dipstick.
To check the coolant level:
1. Open the coolant reservoir.
Opening The Coolant Reservoir
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 511
2. Lift and remove the plastic dipstick from the reservoirneck.
Coolant Reservoir Dipstick
3. Check the coolant level on the dipstick.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is no
need to remove the radiator cap unless checking for engine
coolant (antifreeze) freeze point or replacing engine coolant
(antifreeze). Advise your service attendant of this. As long as
the engine operating temperature is satisfactory, the coolant
bottle need only be checked once a month. When additional engine coolant (antifreeze) is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant
bottle. Do not overfill.
Points To Remember
NOTE:
When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/kilometers of
operation, you may observe vapor coming from the front of
the engine compartment. This is normally a result of mois
-
ture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating on the
radiator and being vaporized when the thermostat opens,
allowing hot engine coolant (antifreeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be safely
driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
• Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
• Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (antifreeze)
needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing.
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512 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions arerequired, the cooling system should be pressure tested for
leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032)
and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of your
engine which contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter oper -
ation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the
correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsat -
isfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance, poor
gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer
to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper
maintenance intervals. Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under the hood service or immediately if
the brake system warning lamp indicates system failure.
If necessary, add fluid to bring level within the designated
marks on the side of the reservoir of the brake master
cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area
before removing cap.
With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid
level may be caused by a leak and a system check should be
conducted.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica
-
tions” for further information.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly
a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding on
the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking capacity
in an emergency.
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 553
FLUID CAPACITIES
USMetric
Fuel (Approximate)
1500 Regular Cab Shortbed/Crew Quad Cab Models 23 Gallons87 Liters
1500 Regular Cab Shortbed/Crew Quad Cab Models 26 Gallons98 Liters
1500 Regular Cab Longbed/Crew Quad Cab Models (Optional) 33 Gallons121 Liters
Engine Oil With Filter
3.6L Engine (We recommend you use SAE 0W-20, API Certified) 5 Quarts4.7 Liters
5.7L Engines (We recommend you use SAE 5W-20, API Certified) 7 Quarts6.6 Liters
Cooling System
3.6L Engine (We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/
150,000 Mile Formula that meets the requirements of FCA Material
Standard MS.90032.) 13.7 Quarts
13 Liters
3.6L Motor Generator Unit (We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/
Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula that meets the requirements of
FCA Material Standard MS.90032.) 1.8 Quarts
1.7 Liters
5.7L Engine – 1500 Models (We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/
Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula that meets the requirements of
FCA Material Standard MS.90032.) 18.3 Quarts
17.3 Liters
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554 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS
Engine
ComponentFluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Engine Coolant
We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/
150,000 Mile Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology).

Motor Generator Unit (If Equipped)
We recommend you use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/
150,000 Mile Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology).

Engine Oil – 3.6L Engine We recommend you use API Certified SAE 0W-20 Engine
Oil, meeting the requirements of FCA Material Standard
MS-6395 such as Mopar, Pennzoil, and Shell Helix. Refer to
your engine oil filler cap for correct SAE grade.
Engine Oil – 5.7L Engine We recommend you use API Certified SAE 5W-20 Engine
Oil, meeting the requirements of FCA Material Standard
MS-6395 such as Mopar, Pennzoil, and Shell Helix. Refer to
your engine oil filler cap for correct SAE grade.
Engine Oil Filter We recommend you use Mopar brand Engine Oil Filters.
Spark Plugs We recommend you use Mopar Spark Plugs.
Fuel Selection – 3.6L Engine 87 Octane (R+M)/2 Method, 0-15% Ethanol (Do not use
E-85).
Fuel Selection – 5.7L Engines 89 Octane Recommended - 87 Octane Acceptable (R+M)/
2 Me thod, 0-15% Ethanol (Do not use E-85).
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 555
(Continued)
CAUTION!
• Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than speci -
fied Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine
coolant (antifreeze), may result in engine damage and
may decrease corrosion protection. Organic Additive
Technology (OAT) engine coolant is different and
should not be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive
Technology (HOAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) or any
“globally compatible” coolant (antifreeze). If a
non-OAT engine coolant (antifreeze) is introduced into
the cooling system in an emergency, the cooling system
will need to be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh
OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032), by an autho -
rized dealer as soon as possible.
• Do not use water alone or alcohol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not use additional rust inhib -
itors or antirust products, as they may not be compat -
ible with the radiator engine coolant and may plug the
radiator.
• This vehicle has not been designed for use with propylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze).
Use of propylene glycol-based engine coolant (anti -
freeze) is not recommended. CAUTION!
(Continued)
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657
INDEX
A
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Cruise Control) ............. 340
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) ................................... 508
Adding Fuel ............................................................................. 403
Additives, Fuel ........................................................................ 550
Adjust Down....................................................................................... 46
Forward .................................................................................. 46
Rearward ................................................................................ 46
Up ............................................................................................ 46
Adjustable Pedals...................................................................... 58
Air Bag Air Bag Operation ............................................................... 249Air Bag Warning Light ............................................... 246, 250
Enhanced Accident Response ................................... 262, 481
Event Data Recorder (EDR) ............................................... 481
Front Air Bag ....................................................................... 250If Deployment Occurs ........................................................ 261
Knee Impact Bolsters .......................................................... 257Maintaining Your Air Bag System.................................... 263
Maintenance......................................................................... 263
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light .................................. 247
Transporting Pets ................................................................ 285
Air Bag Light ........................................................... 179, 246, 287 Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter).................494
Air Conditioner Maintenance ...............................................496
Air Conditioner Refrigerant ..........................................496, 497
Air Conditioner System..........................................................496
Air Conditioning ................................................................. 78, 90
Air Conditioning Filter .....................................................93, 497
Air Conditioning System .........................................................91
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips ..........................................92
Air Filter ...................................................................................494
Air Pressure Tires .......................................................................................526
Air Suspension ................................................................319, 325
Alarm Panic ........................................................................................20
Security Alarm ...............................................................33, 180
Alterations/Modifications Vehicle.....................................................................................15
Android Auto ..........................................................................647
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ..........................................507, 553 Disposal ................................................................................509
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) .............................................198
Anti-Lock Warning Light.......................................................187
Apple CarPlay .........................................................................648
Assist, Hill Start .......................................................................207
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658
Audio Systems (Radio) .......................................................... 557
Auto Down Power Windows .................................................. 95Auto Unlock, Doors ................................................................ 308
Automatic Door Locks ............................................................. 41
Automatic Headlights .............................................................. 70
Automatic High Beams ............................................................ 68
Automatic Tailgate Release ................................................... 107
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ................................ 91
Automatic Transmission ................................................ 304, 514 Adding Fluid ....................................................................... 514Fluid And Filter Change .................................................... 514
Fluid Change........................................................................ 514
Fluid Level Check ....................................................... 513, 514
Fluid Type .................................................................... 513, 556
Special Additives................................................................. 514
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode ...................... 308
Auxiliary Driving Systems .................................................... 211
Axle Fluid......................................................................... 515, 556
Axle Lubrication...................................................................... 515 B
Back-Up .................................................................................... 396
Back-Up Camera ..................................................................... 396
Battery............................................................................... 181, 491 Charging System Light....................................................... 181
Keyless Key Fob Replacement ............................................ 21
Battery Saver Feature ............................................................... 73 Belts, Seat ..................................................................................286
Blind Spot Monitoring ............................................................ 211
Body Builders Guide ................................................................14
Body Mechanism Lubrication ...............................................502
B-Pillar Location ......................................................................521
Brake Assist System ................................................................200
Brake Control System .............................................................199
Brake Fluid .......................................................................512, 556
Brake System....................................................................512, 546 Fluid Check ..........................................................................512
Master Cylinder ...................................................................512Parking ..................................................................................297
Warning Light......................................................................179
Brake/Transmission Interlock ..............................................304
Bulb Replacement ...................................................................436
Bulbs, Light ......................................................................289, 436 C
Camera...................................................................................... 396
Camera, Rear....................................................................396, 398
Camper .....................................................................................146
Capacities, Fuel........................................................................553
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine) ..................................................................487, 493
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...............................................509
Car Washes ..............................................................................540
Carbon Monoxide Warning ...........................................286, 552
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659
Cargo Light ................................................................................ 72
Cellular Phone ......................................................................... 626
Center High Mounted Stop Light......................................... 443
Center Seat Storage Compartment ....................................... 118
Chart, Tire Sizing .................................................................... 517
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light) ........... 196
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ........................................ 285
Checks, Safety .......................................................................... 285
Child Restraint ........................................................................ 265
Child Restraints Booster Seats ........................................................................ 269
Child Seat Installation ................................................ 278, 280
How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt ......................... 276Infant And Child Restraints .............................................. 266Locating The LATCH Anchorages ................................... 274
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children ..................... 270Older Children And Child Restraints .............................. 268
Seating Positions ................................................................. 270
Clean Air Gasoline .................................................................. 549
Cleaning Wheels................................................................................... 535
Climate Control ......................................................................... 78 Automatic ............................................................................... 82
Manual .................................................................................... 78
Cold Weather Operation........................................................ 296
Compact Spare Tire ................................................................ 533 Contract, Service......................................................................654
Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) ..................................509
Cooling System ........................................................................506
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) .............................................508
Coolant Level ...............................................................507, 510Cooling Capacity .................................................................553
Disposal Of Used Coolant..................................................509Drain, Flush, And Refill .....................................................507
Inspection ............................................................................. 510
Points To Remember ........................................................... 511Pressure Cap ........................................................................509Radiator Cap ........................................................................509Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) .....................507, 553, 554
Corrosion Protection ...............................................................539
Cruise Control (Speed Control) ............................................340
Cruise Light .....................................................................193, 194
Cupholders...............................................................................126
Customer Assistance ..............................................................652
Cybersecurity ...........................................................................558 D
Daytime Running Lights ..........................................................67
Dealer Service ..........................................................................492
Defroster, Rear Window ..........................................................78
Defroster, Windshield ......................................................78, 287
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers ....................................................76
Diagnostic System, Onboard .................................................195
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