engine RAM 1500 2022 Owners Manual

408SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE-FREE BATTERY
Your vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-free
battery. You will never have to add water, and
periodic maintenance is not required.
PRESSURE WASHING
Cleaning the engine compartment with a high
pressure washer is not recommended.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
An authorized dealer has the qualified service
personnel, special tools, and equipment to
perform all service operations in an expert
manner. Service Manuals are available which
include detailed service information for your
vehicle. Refer to these Service Manuals before
attempting any procedure yourself.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems may void your warranty and could result in
civil penalties being assessed against you.
WARNING!
Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and
can burn or even blind you. Do not allow
battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin, or
clothing. Do not lean over a battery when
attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes or
on skin, flush the area immediately with large
amounts of water Úpage 384.
Battery gas is flammable and explosive. Keep
flame or sparks away from the battery. Do not
use a booster battery or any other booster
source with an output greater than 12 Volts.
Do not allow cable clamps to touch each
other.
Battery posts, terminals, and related accesso -
ries contain lead and lead compounds. Wash
hands after handling.
CAUTION!
It is essential when replacing the cables on
the battery that the positive cable is attached
to the positive post and the negative cable is
attached to the negative post. Battery posts
are marked positive (+) and negative (-) and
are identified on the battery case. Cable
clamps should be tight on the terminal posts
and free of corrosion.
If a “fast charger” is used while the battery is
in the vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery
cables before connecting the charger to the
battery. Do not use a “fast charger” to provide
starting voltage.
CAUTION!
Precautions have been taken to safeguard all
parts and connections however, the pressures
generated by these machines is such that
complete protection against water ingress
cannot be guaranteed.
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Only do service work for which
you have the knowledge and the proper
equipment. If you have any doubt about your
ability to perform a service job, take your vehicle
to a competent mechanic.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 408

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE409
ENGINE OIL — GAS ENGINE
Engine Oil Selection — Gasoline Engine
Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluids
Úpage 473.
NOTE:Hemi engines (5.7L) at times can tick right after
startup and then quiet down after approximately
30 seconds. This is normal and will not harm the
engine. This characteristic can be caused by short
drive cycles. For example, if the vehicle is started
then shut off after driving a short distance. Upon
restarting, you may experience a ticking sound.
Other causes could be if the vehicle is unused for
an extended period of time, incorrect oil, extended
oil changes or extended idling. If the engine
continues to tick or if the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) comes on, see the nearest authorized
dealer.
Engine Oil Selection — Diesel Engine
Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluids
Úpage 473.
American Petroleum Institute (API)
Approved Engine Oil
These symbols mean that the oil has been certified
by the API. The manufacturer only recommends API
trademark oils.
The API Starburst trademark certifies
0W-20, 0W-30 and 5W-30 engine oils.
The API Donut trademark certifies 0W-40
and 5W-40 engine oil.
Synthetic Engine Oils
Your engine was designed for synthetic engine oils,
only use synthetic API approved engine oils.
Synthetic engine oils which do not have both the
correct API trademark and the correct SAE viscosity
grade numbers 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
A full-flow type disposable oil filter should be used
for replacement. The quality of replacement filters
varies considerably. Only high quality Mopar®
certified filters should be used.
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.
8

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 409

410SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 394.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement filters varies
considerably. Only high quality Mopar® certified
filters should be used.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Inspection And
Replacement — Except G/T Model
Inspect engine air cleaner filter for dirt and or
debris, if you find evidence of either dirt or debris
you should change your engine air cleaner filter. Engine Air Cleaner Filter Removal

1. With suitable tool fully loosen (six) fasteners
on the engine air cleaner filter cover.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter

2. Lift the engine air cleaner filter cover to access the engine air cleaner filter.
3. Remove the engine air cleaner filter from the housing assembly.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE:Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is
present before replacing the engine air cleaner
filter.

1. Install the engine air cleaner filter into the housing assembly with the engine air cleaner
filter inspection surface facing downward.

2. Install the engine air cleaner filter cover onto the housing assembly.
3. Tighten the fasteners (six) on the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
WARNING!
The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) can provide a measure of protection in the
case of engine backfire. Do not remove the air
induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) unless
such removal is necessary for repair or
maintenance. Make sure that no one is near the
engine compartment before starting the vehicle
with the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) removed. Failure to do so can result in
serious personal injury.
1 — Fasteners
2 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter Cover
1 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter Cover
2 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 410

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE411
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Inspection And
Replacement — G/T Model
Inspect engine air cleaner filter for dirt and or
debris, if you find evidence of either dirt or debris
you should clean your engine air cleaner filter per
the recommended procedure or replace it.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Removal

1. Release and remove the engine cover from
ball studs by lifting up on each side edge of
the engine cover.

Engine Cover
2. With suitable tool fully loosen (four) fasteners
on the engine air cleaner filter cover.
3. Remove the engine air cleaner filter cover from the engine air cleaner filter assembly.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Assembly

4. Remove the engine air cleaner filter from the vehicle.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE:Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is
present before replacing the engine air cleaner
filter.

1. Install the engine air cleaner filter onto the engine air cleaner filter assembly.

2. Install the engine air cleaner filter cover onto the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
3. Tighten the fasteners (four) on the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
4. Install the engine cover.
1 — Engine Cover Ball Stud Location
2 — Engine Cover1 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter Fasteners
2 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter Cover
1 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter
8

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 411

412SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
G/T AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE
Clean Engine Air Filter
The scheduled air filter cleaning interval is 30,
000 miles (48,280 km), or if in a dusty
environment the engine air filter should be
checked periodically to ensure optimal air flow.

1. Spray the air filter with the recommended
Mopar® air filter cleaner or apply mild
dishwashing detergent and water and let sit
for at least 10 minutes to loosen dir before
rinsing.

NOTE:Never use strong detergents, high pressure, or
gasoline on the air filter.
2. Rinse the air filter with cool low-pressure water applied from the inside (clean side) out in
order to flush the dirt out of the filter. Continue
to rinse the filter until all traces of the cleaner
have been removed.
NOTE:It may be necessary to repeat steps 1 and 2 if the
air filter is not completely clean.
3. After rinsing the air filter, gently shake off the excess water and allow air filter to dry
naturally.
NOTE:Do not use forced air pressure as it may damage
the filtering capabilities of the filter’s microfibers
and also void its warranty.
DRAINING FUEL/WATER SEPARATOR
F
ILTER — DIESEL ENGINE
The fuel/water separator filter housing is located
inside the frame rail, behind the left front wheel.
The best access to this water drain valve is from
under the vehicle.
If water is detected in the water separator while the
engine is running, or while the ignition switch is in
the ON/RUN position, the Water In Fuel Indicator
Light will illuminate and an audible chime will be
heard. At this point, you should stop the engine
and drain the water from the filter housing.
Fuel Filter Assembly

If the Water In Fuel Indicator Light comes on and a
single chime is heard while you are driving, or with
the ignition in the ON position, there may be a
problem with your water separator wiring or
sensor. See an authorized dealer for service.
CAUTION!
Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter
when the engine is running.
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appropriate
container.
1 — Water In Fuel Drain Valve
CAUTION!
If the Water In Fuel Indicator Light remains on,
DO NOT START the engine before you drain water
from the fuel filter to avoid engine damage.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 412

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE413
Upon proper draining of the water from the fuel
filter, the Water In Fuel Indicator Light will remain
illuminated for approximately 10 seconds. If the
water was drained while the engine was running,
the Water In Fuel Indicator Light may remain on for
approximately three minutes.
NOTE:Care should be taken in disposing of used fluids
from your vehicle. Used fluids, indiscriminately
discarded, can present a problem to the envi -
ronment. Contact an authorized dealer, service
station, or government agency for advice on recy -
cling programs and for where used fluids and
filters can be properly disposed of in your area.
Drain the fuel/water separator filter when the
Water In Fuel Indicator Light is ON. Within
10 minutes of vehicle shutdown, turn the filter
drain valve (located on the bottom of the filter
housing) counterclockwise to drain fuel/water,
then turn the ignition switch to the ON position,
and allow any accumulated water to drain. Leave
the drain valve open until all water and
contaminants have been removed. When clean
fuel is visible, close the drain valve by turning it
clockwise, and turn the ignition switch to OFF.
If more than two ounces or 60 milliliters of fuel
have been drained Ú page 414.
UNDERBODY MOUNTED FUEL FILTER
R
EPLACEMENT — DIESEL ENGINE
NOTE:Using a fuel filter that does not meet the manufac -
turer’s filtration and water separating require -
ments can severely impact fuel system life and reli -
ability. Under normal conditions the diesel fuel
filter should be replaced every 20,000 miles (every
other oil change). If the vehicle is being used in
severe operating conditions, or In certain
geographical areas of the country (Pennsylvania,
New York, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia, Arkansas,
Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska)
due to fuel cleanliness issues, it’s recommended
to replace the fuel filter every 10,000 miles.
Fuel Filter Assembly

1. Turn engine off.

2. Place a drain pan under the fuel filter assembly.
3. Open the water drain valve, and let any accumulated water drain.
4. Close the water drain valve.
5. Remove bottom cover using a strap wrench. Rotate counterclockwise for removal. Remove
the used o-ring and discard it.
CAUTION!
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appropriate
container.
Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a
new fuel filter. There is a possibility debris
could be introduced into the fuel filter during
this action. It is best to install the filter dry and
allow the in-tank lift pump to prime the fuel
system.
1 — Water In Fuel Drain Valve
2 — Fuel Filter Access
8

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 413

414SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
6. Remove the used filter cartridge from the housing and dispose of it according to your
local regulations.
7. Wipe the sealing surfaces of the lid and housing clean.
8. Install a new o-ring into the ring groove on the filter housing and lubricate with clean engine
oil.
PRIMING IF THE ENGINE HAS RUN OUT
O
F FUEL — DIESEL ENGINE

1. Add a substantial amount of fuel to the tank,
approximately 2 to 5 gal (8 L to 19 L).

2. Press ignition switch twice without your foot on brake to put vehicle in ON/RUN position. This
will activate the in tank fuel pump for approxi -
mately 30 seconds. Repeat this process twice. 3. Start the engine using the “Normal Starting”
procedure Ú page 144.
NOTE:The engine may run rough until the air is forced
from all the fuel lines.
NOTE:
Use of biodiesel mixture in excess of 20% can
negatively impact the fuel filter's ability to sepa -
rate water from the fuel, resulting in high pres -
sure fuel system corrosion or damage.
In addition, commercially available fuel addi -
tives are not necessary for the proper operation
of your diesel engine.
For extreme cold conditions, "Mopar® Premium
Diesel Fuel Treatment" is recommended to
assist with cold starting.
INTERVENTION REGENERATION
S
TRATEGY — MESSAGE PROCESS FLOW
(D
IESEL ENGINE)
This engine meets all required diesel engine
emissions standards. To achieve these emissions
standards, your vehicle is equipped with a
state-of-the-art engine and exhaust system. These
systems are seamlessly integrated into your
vehicle and managed by the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM). The PCM manages engine
combustion to allow the exhaust system’s catalyst
to trap and burn Particulate Matter (PM)
pollutants, with no input or interaction on your part.
Additionally, your vehicle has the ability to alert you
to additional maintenance required on your vehicle
or engine Ú page 114.
WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system with
the engine running. Engine operation causes
high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel spray can
cause serious injury or death.
CAUTION!
The starter motor will engage for approximately
30 seconds at a time. Allow two minutes
between cranking intervals.
WARNING!
Do not use alcohol or gasoline as a fuel blending
agent. They can be unstable under certain
conditions and be hazardous or explosive when
mixed with diesel fuel.
CAUTION!
Due to lack of lubricants in alcohol or gasoline,
the use of these fuels can cause damage to the
fuel system.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 414

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE415
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 Engine Fluids And Lubricants Úpage 473
for further information.
AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE
For best possible performance, your air conditioner
should be checked and serviced by an authorized
dealer at the start of each warm season. This
service should include cleaning of the condenser
fins and a performance test. Drive belt tension
should also be checked at this time.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling —
R–1234yf
R–1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a
Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the
Environmental Protection Agency and is an
ozone-friendly substance with a low
global-warming potential. It is recommended that
air conditioning service be performed by an
authorized dealer using recovery and recycling
equipment.
NOTE:Use only the manufacturer approved A/C system
PAG compressor oil, and refrigerants.
WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park
over materials that can burn, such as grass or
leaves, and those items that come 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.
WARNING!
Use only refrigerants and compressor lubri -
cants approved by the manufacturer for your
air conditioning system. Some unapproved
refrigerants are flammable and can explode,
injuring you. Other unapproved refrigerants or
lubricants can cause the system to fail,
requiring costly repairs. Refer to Warranty
Information Book, for further warranty infor -
mation.
The air conditioning system contains refrig -
erant under high pressure. To avoid risk of
personal injury or damage to the system,
adding refrigerant or any repair requiring lines
to be disconnected should be done by an
experienced technician.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your air
conditioning system as the chemicals can
damage your air conditioning components. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
8

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 415

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE419
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.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice
from the windshield. Keep the blade rubber out of
contact with petroleum products such as engine
oil, gasoline, etc.
NOTE:Life expectancy of wiper blades varies depending
on geographical area and frequency of use. If chat -
tering, marks, water lines or wet spots are present,
clean the wiper blades or replace as necessary. The wiper blades and wiper arms should be
inspected periodically, not just when wiper
performance problems are experienced. This
inspection should include the following points:
Wear or uneven edges
Foreign material
Hardening or cracking
Deformation or fatigue
If a wiper blade or wiper arm is damaged, replace
the affected wiper arm or blade with a new unit. Do
not attempt to repair a wiper arm or blade that is
damaged.
Wiper Blade Removal/Installation

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

Wiper Blade With Release Tab In Locked Position

CAUTION!
Do not allow the wiper arm to spring back
against the glass without the wiper blade in
place or the glass may be damaged.
1 — Wiper Blade
2 — Wiper Arm
3 — Release Tab
8

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 419

420SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
2. To disengage the wiper blade from the wiper
arm, press the release tab on the wiper blade
and while holding the wiper arm with one
hand, slide the wiper blade down towards the
base of the wiper arm.

Wiper Blade With Release Tab In Unlocked Position

3. With the wiper blade disengaged, remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm.
4. 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 near the hook on the tip of the wiper arm.
3. Slide the wiper blade up into the hook on the wiper arm, latch engagement will be
accompanied by an audible click.
4. 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 Blade
2 — Wiper Arm J Hook
3 — J Hook Retainer
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain
Carbon Monoxide (CO), which is colorless and
odorless. Breathing it can make you uncon
-
scious and can eventually poison you. To
avoid breathing CO see Ú page 368.
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such mate -
rials 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.
CAUTION!
The catalytic converter requires the use of
unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will
destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as an
emissions control device and may seriously
reduce engine performance and cause
serious damage to the engine.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 420