2016 Ram 1500 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2016 Ram 1500 requires 6 quarts of 5W-20 engine oil for the 3.6L V6 engine and 7 quarts of 5W-20 for the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine.

Quick Answer: 2016 Ram 1500 Oil Capacity & Specs

• Oil Capacity (3.6L V6): 6.0 quarts / 5.6 liters with filter change
• Oil Capacity (5.7L HEMI V8): 7.0 quarts / 6.6 liters with filter change
• Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 (All Engines)
• Recommended Oil Specification: API Certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification
• Oil Filter (3.6L V6 - Cartridge):
  • Mopar OEM: 68191349AC (replaces 68191349AB, 68191349AA)
  • Fram: CH11665
  • Wix: WL10010
  • Mobil 1: M1C-456A
• Oil Filter (5.7L HEMI V8 - Spin-On):
  • Mopar OEM: 04892339AB
  • Fram: PH2
  • Wix: 57060
  • Mobil 1: M1-113A

Capacity by Engine Option

Note: The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 has significantly different requirements and is not covered in this guide.

Oil Change Interval

The 2016 Ram 1500 is equipped with an oil life monitoring system that will display a message in the instrument cluster when an oil change is due. However, do not exceed one year or 10,000 miles between oil changes.

• Normal Service: Follow the oil life monitor, but not to exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or one year.
• Severe Duty: Ram considers driving in dusty conditions, short trips in cold weather, and towing/hauling as severe service. Under these conditions, the oil life monitor will recommend shorter intervals, typically between 3,500 and 7,500 miles. It is wise to change the oil more frequently if your truck is used primarily for work.

Drain Plug Torque & Crush Washer

• Drain Plug Torque (3.6L V6 & 5.7L HEMI): 20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
• Crush Washer: The factory drain plug uses a built-in rubber gasket. It is highly recommended to replace the drain plug assembly (like Mopar #6506100AA) every few oil changes or if the gasket shows any signs of damage or leakage.

How to Change the Oil (Simplified)

1. Warm up the engine for a few minutes to circulate the oil.
2. Remove the oil fill cap.
3. Safely raise the vehicle and locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan.
4. Place a drain pan underneath and remove the drain plug. Allow the old oil to drain completely.
5. Inspect the drain plug gasket, clean the plug, and reinstall it. Torque to 20 ft-lbs.
6. Locate the oil filter. For the 3.6L V6, the filter housing is on top of the engine; a 24mm socket is needed to remove the cap. For the 5.7L V8, the spin-on filter is on the side of the engine.
7. Remove the old filter. Ensure the old gasket comes off with it. For the V6, replace the O-rings on the filter cap.
8. Lightly lubricate the new filter gasket with fresh oil and install the new filter. Do not overtighten.
9. Carefully refill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil.
10. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds, then shut it off. Wait 5-10 minutes and re-check the oil level, topping off as needed.
11. Reset the oil life monitor through the instrument cluster menu.

Common Issues & Tips for This Generation

• 3.6L V6 Oil Filter Housing: The plastic oil filter housing on the 3.6L Pentastar engine is a known weak point. It can become brittle and crack, especially if over-torqued, leading to significant oil leaks. Be careful during oil changes and consider replacing the entire housing with an improved Dorman or OEM unit if you notice any leaks from the top of the engine.
• 5.7L HEMI "Tick": Some HEMI engines can develop a characteristic "tick," often caused by lifter and camshaft issues. While regular oil changes with high-quality MS-6395 spec oil can help, it's a known potential issue to be aware of. Using the correct 5W-20 viscosity is critical; do not substitute heavier-weight oils.
• Correct Filter for 3.6L V6: Ensure you use the correct cartridge filter for the Pentastar V6. A poor-fitting or low-quality filter can lead to improper oil pressure and potential engine damage.

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