check oil Ram 1500 2020 Owner's Manual

5
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT
PANEL
BASE / MIDLINE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER .............. 161
Base / Midline Instrument Cluster Descriptions.... 162
 PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ........................... 164
Premium Instrument Cluster Descriptions ............. 164
 INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY ............................. 166
Instrument Cluster Display Controls ....................... 166
Oil Life Reset ................................................................ 168
Display Menu Items .................................................... 169
Battery Saver On/Battery Saver Mode Message —
Electrical Load Reduction Actions — If
Equipped....................................................................... 176
 WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES ........................ 178
Red Warning Lights .................................................... 179
Yellow Warning Lights............................................... 183
Yellow Indicator Lights .............................................. 188
Green Indicator Lights ................................................ 192
White Indicator Lights ................................................ 193
Blue Indicator Lights ................................................... 194
 ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II ........... 195
Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II)
Cybersecurity ............................................................... 195
 EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS....................................................................... 196
SAFETY
SAFETY FEATURES .........................................................198
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ................................. 198
Electronic Brake Control System ..............................199
 AUXILIARY DRIVING SYSTEMS ..................................211
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) — If Equipped ........211
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) With Mitigation —
If Equipped ...................................................................222
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ............... 227
 OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEMS ...........................234
Occupant Restraint Systems Features ......................234
Important Safety Precautions.....................................235
Seat Belt Systems .........................................................236
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS).....................245
Child Restraints............................................................ 265
Transporting Pets.........................................................285
 SAFETY TIPS......................................................................285
Transporting Passengers ............................................285
Exhaust Gas .................................................................286
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ..........................................................................286
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle ...................................................................289
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FUSES.................................................................................. 444
External Power Distribution Center ........................ 445
Internal Power Distribution Center ......................... 449
 JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING .............................. 454
Jack Location ................................................................ 454
Removal Of Jack And Tools ....................................... 455
Removing The Spare Tire ........................................... 458
Preparations For Jacking ............................................ 462
Jacking Instructions ..................................................... 463
To Stow The Flat Or Spare ........................................ 468
Reinstalling The Jack And Tools ............................... 470
 JUMP STARTING ............................................................ 472
Preparations For Jump Start ...................................... 472
Jump Starting Procedure ............................................ 473
 IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS .................................. 475
 MANUAL PARK RELEASE ............................................ 476
 FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE ...................................... 477
 TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ................................ 478
Two-Wheel Drive Models .......................................... 480
Four-Wheel Drive Models.......................................... 480
Emergency Tow Hooks — If Equipped ................... 481
 ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM
(EARS) ................................................................................ 481
 EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ................................ 481
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING .............................................482
Maintenance Plan ........................................................483
Heavy Duty Use Of The Vehicle ...............................486
 ENGINE COMPARTMENT ............................................487
3.6L Engine With Stop/Start .....................................487
5.7L Engine Without Stop/Start ................................488
5.7L Engine With Stop/Start ......................................489
Checking Oil Level ......................................................490
Adding Washer Fluid..................................................490
Maintenance-Free Battery .......................................... 491
Pressure Washing ........................................................491
 DEALER SERVICE ........................................................... 492
Engine Oil — Gas Engine .......................................... 492
Engine Oil Filter ........................................................... 494
Engine Air Cleaner Filter ............................................494
Air Conditioner Maintenance ....................................496
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection ................................501
Body Lubrication .........................................................502
Windshield Wiper Blades ...........................................503
Exhaust System ........................................................... 505
Cooling System ........................................................... 506
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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 181
— Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
This warning light warns of an overheated engine condition.
If the engine coolant temperature is too high, this indicator
will illuminate and a single chime will sound. If the tempera -
ture reaches the upper limit, a continuous chime will sound
for four minutes or until the engine is able to cool: whichever
comes first.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over and stop
the vehicle. If the A/C system is on, turn it off. Also, shift the
transmission into NEUTRAL (N) and idle the vehicle. If the
temperature reading does not return to normal, turn the
engine off immediately and call for service.
Refer to “If Your Engine Overheats” in “In Case Of Emer -
gency” for further information.
— Battery Charge Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the battery is not
charging properly. If it stays on while the engine is running,
there may be a malfunction with the charging system.
Contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the electrical system
or a related component. — Oil Pressure Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate low engine oil
pressure. If the light turns on while driving, stop the vehicle,
shut off the engine as soon as possible, and contact an autho -
rized dealer. A chime will sound when this light turns on.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected. This
light does not indicate how much oil is in the engine. The
engine oil level must be checked under the hood.
— Oil Temperature Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the engine oil
temperature is high. If the light turns on while driving, stop
the vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible. Wait
for oil temperature to return to normal levels.
— Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to indicate a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. If a problem is
detected while the vehicle is running, the light will either stay on
or flash depending on the nature of the problem. Cycle the igni -
tion when the vehicle is safely and completely stopped and the
transmission is placed in the PARK position. The light should
turn off. If the light remains on with the vehicle running, your
vehicle will usually be drivable; however, see an authorized
dealer for service as soon as possible.

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182 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
NOTE:
This light may turn on if the accelerator and brake pedals are
pressed at the same time.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is running,
immediate service is required and you may experience
reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle, or engine
stall and your vehicle may require towing. The light will
come on when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN position and remain on briefly as a bulb
check. If the light does not come on during starting, have the
system checked by an authorized dealer. — Electric Power Steering Fault Warning Light

This warning light will turn on when there's a fault with the
Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Refer to “Power Steering”
in “Starting And Operating” for further information.
— Tailgate Open Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the tailgate is open.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a single chime.
— Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the Trailer Brake has
been disconnected.
— Transmission Temperature Warning Light — If
Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to warn of a high transmis -
sion fluid temperature. This may occur with strenuous usage
such as trailer towing. If this light turns on, stop the vehicle
and run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the trans -
mission in PARK or NEUTRAL, until the light turns off.
Once the light turns off, you may continue to drive normally.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a
safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.
WARNING!
If you continue operating the vehicle when the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light is illuminated
you could cause the fluid to boil over, come in contact
with hot engine or exhaust components and cause a fire.
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286 SAFETY
Exhaust Gas
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into the
vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust
system.Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the exhaust
system, when exhaust fumes can be detected inside the
vehicle, or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is
damaged, have a competent mechanic 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, inspect the exhaust
system each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil
change. Replace as required.
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle
Seat Belts
Inspect the seat belt system periodically, checking for cuts,
frays, and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced
immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system.
Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision.
Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision if
they have been damaged (i.e., bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.). If there is any question regarding seat belt or retractor
condition, replace the seat belt.
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), follow
these safety tips:
• Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in confined areas any longer than needed to move your vehicle in or
out of the area.
• If you are required to drive with the trunk/liftgate/rear doors open, make sure that all windows are closed and
the climate control BLOWER switch is set at high
speed. DO NOT use the recirculation mode.
• If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the engine running, adjust your heating or cooling controls
to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower at
high speed.
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Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle
Tires
Examine tires for excessive tread wear and uneven wear
patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objects
lodged in the tread or sidewall. Inspect the tread for cuts and
cracks. Inspect sidewalls for cuts, cracks, and bulges. Check
the wheel bolts for tightness. Check the tires (including
spare) for proper cold inflation pressure.
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of brake lights and
exterior lights while you work the controls. Check turn
signal and high beam indicator lights on the instrument
panel.Door Latches
Check for proper closing, latching, and locking.
Fluid Leaks
Check area under the vehicle after overnight parking for
fuel, coolant, oil, or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline fumes
are detected or if fuel, or brake fluid leaks are suspected, the
cause should be located and corrected immediately.
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SAFETY 289

STARTING AND OPERATING 297
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS
A long break-in period is not required for the engine and
drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km). After
the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or
90 km/h) are desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within the
limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good break-in.
Wide-open throttle acceleration in low gear can be detri-
mental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high-quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil changes
should be consistent with anticipated climate conditions
under which vehicle operations will occur. For the recom -
mended viscosity and quality grades, refer to “Fluids And
Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”. NOTE:
A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This should be
considered a normal part of the break-in and not interpreted
as a problem. Please check your oil level with the engine oil
indicator often during the break in period. Add oil as
required.
PARKING BRAKE
Electric Park Brake (EPB)
Your vehicle is equipped with an Electric Park Brake System
(EPB) that offers simple operation, and some additional
features that make the parking brake more convenient and
useful.
The parking brake is primarily intended to prevent the
vehicle from rolling while parked. Before leaving the vehicle,
make sure that the park brake is applied. Also, be certain to
leave the transmission in PARK.
You can engage the park brake in two ways:
• Manually, by applying the park brake switch.
• Automatically, by enabling the Auto Park Brake feature in
the customer programmable features section of the Ucon -
nect settings.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral Oil in
the engine or damage may result.5
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STARTING AND OPERATING 429
Off-Road Driving Tips
Care should be taken when attempting to climb steep hills or
driving diagonally across a hill or slope. If natural obstacles
force you to travel diagonally up or down a hill, choose a
mild angle and keep as little side tilt as possible. Keep the
vehicle moving and make turns slowly and cautiously.
If you must back down a hill, back straight down using
REVERSE gear. Never back down in NEUTRAL or diago-
nally across the hill. When driving over sand, mud, and other soft terrain, shift to
low gear and drive steadily. Apply the accelerator slowly to
avoid spinning the wheels.
Do not reduce the tire pressures for this type of driving.
After Driving Off-Road
Off-road operation puts more stress on your vehicle than
does most on-road driving. After going off-road, it is always
a good idea to check for damage. That way you can get any
problems taken care of right away and have your vehicle
ready when you need it.
• Completely inspect the underbody of your vehicle. Check
tires, body structure, steering, suspension, and exhaust
system for damage.
• Inspect the radiator for mud and debris and clean as required.
• Check threaded fasteners for looseness, particularly on the chassis, drivetrain components, steering, and suspension.
Retighten them, if required, and torque to the values spec -
ified in the Service Manual.
• Check for accumulations of plants or brush. These things could be a fire hazard. They might hide damage to fuel
lines, brake hoses, axle pinion seals, and propeller shafts.
• Driving through standing water may cause damage to
your vehicle’s drivetrain components. Always inspect
your vehicle’s fluids (i.e., engine oil, transmission, axle,
etc.) for signs of contamination (i.e., fluid that is milky
or foamy in appearance) after driving through standing
water. Do not continue to operate the vehicle if any
fluid appears contaminated, as this may result in
further damage. Such damage is not covered by the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
• Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause serious internal
damage to the engine. Such damage is not covered by
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. CAUTION!
(Continued)
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 483
Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip:
• Check engine oil level.
• Check windshield washer fluid level.
• Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or damage.Rotate tires at the first sign of irregular wear, even if it
occurs before the oil indicator system turns on.
• Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, and fill as needed.
• Check function of all interior and exterior lights.Maintenance Plan
Required Maintenance
Refer to the Maintenance Plan on the following pages for
required maintenance.
NOTE:
Using white lithium grease, lubricate the door hinge roller pivot joints twice a year to prevent premature wear. At Every Oil Change Interval As Indicated By Oil Change Indicator System:
• Change the oil and filter.
• Rotate the tires. Rotate at the first sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator system turns on.
• Inspect the battery and clean and tighten terminals as required.
• Inspect the CV/Universal joints.
• Inspect the brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, and hoses.
• Inspect the engine cooling system protection and hoses.
• Inspect the exhaust system.
• Inspect the engine air cleaner if using in dusty or off-road conditions.
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484 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Mileage or time passed
(whichever comes first)
20,000
30,000
40,00050,00060,00070,000
80,00090,000
100,000
110,000120,000130,000140,000150,000
Or Years: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers:
32,000 48,000
64,00080,00096,000
112,000
128,000144,000160,000
176,000192,000208,000224,000240,000
Additional Inspections
Inspect the CV/Universal joints. X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Inspect front suspension, tie rod
ends, and replace if necessary. X X X
XX XX
Inspect the front and rear axle
surfaces. If gear oil leakage is
suspected, check the fluid level.
If using your vehicle for police,
taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent
trailer towing, change axle fluid. X
X XXX
Inspect the brake linings,
replace as necessary. X X X
XX XX
Inspect transfer case fluid. X
Additional Maintenance
Replace cabin air filter. X X X XX XX
Replace engine air filter. XX XXX
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