2019 Ram 3500 Maintenance Schedule
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2019 Ram 3500 Maintenance Schedule: Your Guide to a Long-Lasting Workhorse
The 2019 Ram 3500 is a formidable heavy-duty truck, renowned for its immense towing and hauling capabilities. Whether you're pulling a gooseneck trailer, a fifth-wheel, or carrying heavy loads in the bed, proper maintenance is paramount to ensuring your Ram 3500 continues to perform reliably for years to come. This comprehensive guide, written by an ASE-certified master technician, will detail the factory-recommended service intervals, common issues, severe-duty adjustments, typical service costs, and recall awareness specific to the 2019 Ram 3500.
Factory Service Intervals
Ram provides a robust maintenance schedule designed to keep your 3500 operating at peak efficiency. While the exact intervals can vary slightly based on the engine (6.4L HEMI V8 or 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel), the general philosophy focuses on consistent preventative care. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as it is the definitive source for your specific vehicle configuration.
Engine Oil and Filter
6.4L HEMI V8: For gasoline engines, the recommended oil change interval is typically every 8,000 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using API Certified SAE 5W-20 engine oil. However, your truck's Oil Change Indicator System will often dictate the need for an oil change sooner based on driving conditions.
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Diesel engines require more frequent oil changes due to the strenuous nature of diesel combustion and the presence of soot. The recommended interval for the Cummins is generally every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, or when indicated by the oil change indicator system. Use API Certified CK-4 or CJ-4 motor oil of the recommended viscosity (typically SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 depending on temperature).
Air Filters
- Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles and replace every 30,000 miles or more frequently in dusty conditions. A clogged air filter can significantly reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- Cabin Air Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months. This filter keeps the air inside your Ram 3500 clean and free of dust, pollen, and other allergens.
Fuel Filters (Diesel Only)
The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine utilizes both a main fuel filter and a fuel water separator filter. These are critical for protecting the sophisticated high-pressure fuel injection system from contaminants and water. Replace these filters every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or sooner if operating in conditions with questionable fuel quality.
Transmission Fluid and Filter
- Automatic Transmission (6.4L HEMI V8): Under normal driving conditions, the transmission fluid and filter typically don't require replacement until 60,000 to 120,000 miles. However, severe duty (towing frequently, heavy hauling, off-road use) will necessitate changes around 60,000 miles. Always use MOPAR ATF+4 fluid.
- Automatic Transmission (6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel): Similar to the gas engine, severe duty typically calls for fluid and filter changes around 60,000 miles. Normal duty can extend this to 120,000 miles. Always use the specified MOPAR AS69RC, ASIN SEISIN F6, or other appropriate fluid for your specific transmission.
Transfer Case Fluid
If your Ram 3500 is equipped with four-wheel drive, the transfer case fluid should be inspected every 30,000 miles and replaced every 60,000 miles. Use MOPAR transfer case fluid.
Axle Fluids
Front and rear axle fluids should be inspected every 30,000 miles. Under normal driving conditions, they generally don't require replacement until 60,000 to 120,000 miles. Severe duty will shorten this interval significantly, often to 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Use the specified MOPAR gear lubricant for both axles.
Spark Plugs (6.4L HEMI V8 Only)
For the 6.4L HEMI V8, spark plugs are typically long-life iridium plugs and are recommended for replacement every 30,000 miles. Adhering to this schedule ensures optimal ignition and fuel efficiency.
Coolant
Coolant (antifreeze) should be inspected regularly. The initial coolant flush and fill is typically recommended around 100,000 miles, with subsequent changes every 50,000 miles. Always use the specified MOPAR OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant.
Brakes
Inspect brake pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid level every 15,000 miles or annually. Brake fluid itself should be flushed and replaced every 2-3 years, or 30,000 miles, as it is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness.
Timing System
- 6.4L HEMI V8: This engine uses a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine and typically does not require scheduled replacement.
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: This engine also uses a timing gear drive system, which is incredibly robust and does not have a scheduled replacement interval.
General Maintenance Schedule Table
| Service Item | 6.4L HEMI V8 Interval (Normal Duty) | 6.7L Cummins Diesel Interval (Normal Duty) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil & Filter | 8,000-10,000 miles or 12 months | 15,000 miles or 12 months | Or when indicator system dictates; use specified oil |
| Engine Air Filter | Inspect 15K, Replace 30K | Inspect 15K, Replace 30K | More often in dusty conditions |
| Cabin Air Filter | Replace 15K or 12 months | Replace 15K or 12 months | |
| Fuel Filters (Diesel Only) | N/A | Replace 15K or 12 months | Critical for diesel fuel system protection |
| Automatic Transmission Fluid & Filter | 60,000-120,000 miles | 60,000-120,000 miles | Severe duty cut in half; use MOPAR ATF+4 (Gas), specific diesel fluid (Diesel) |
| Transfer Case Fluid | Inspect 30K, Replace 60K | Inspect 30K, Replace 60K | For 4WD models |
| Axle Fluids | Inspect 30K, Replace 60K-120K | Inspect 30K, Replace 60K-120K | Severe duty cut in half |
| Spark Plugs (Gas Only) | Replace 30,000 miles | N/A | |
| Engine Coolant | Initial 100K, then every 50K | Initial 100K, then every 50K | Use MOPAR OAT coolant |
| Brake System Inspection | Every 15,000 miles or annually | Every 15,000 miles or annually | Check pads, rotors, calipers, fluid |
| Brake Fluid Flush | Every 2-3 years or 30K miles | Every 2-3 years or 30K miles |
Known Issues and Common Problems for the 2019 Ram 3500 (4th Generation D2 Chassis)
The 2019 Ram 3500 falls within the latter part of the fourth generation (DS/D2 chassis for Heavy Duty trucks). While generally robust, a few areas have seen common discussions or issues:
- CP4 Fuel Pump Failure (6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel): While less prevalent in later years of the 4th generation compared to earlier models, the Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump used in some 6.7L Cummins engines has been a known failure point. When it fails, it can contaminate the entire fuel system with metal shavings, leading to extremely expensive repairs. Aftermarket solutions exist to mitigate this risk, such as bypass kits or replacing the CP4 with a more robust CP3 pump (though this requires tuning).
- DEF System Issues (6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel): Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) systems can be finicky. Sensors, heaters, and lines in the DEF system can fail, leading to dashboard warnings, limp mode, and costly repairs. Regular maintenance and using high-quality DEF fluid can help, but these issues can still arise.
- Steering Wander/Death Wobble: While often associated with earlier Ram trucks, some 4th-generation 3500 owners have reported vague steering, excessive play, or the dreaded