2022 Ram 1500 Fluid Type Specifications

Maintaining your 2022 Ram 1500 with the correct fluids is crucial for its longevity and performance. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of every factory-specified fluid, along with important notes on intervals and potential pitfalls.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (5.7L HEMI)	SAE 5W-20, Mopar MS-6395, API SN/SP or later	7.0 quarts (6.6 liters)
Engine Oil (3.6L Pentastar)	SAE 5W-20, Mopar MS-6395, API SN/SP or later	6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
Engine Coolant	Mopar MS-90032 (OAT, Purple)	~14-16 quarts (depending on configuration)
Transmission Fluid (8HP75)	ZF LifeguardFluid 8, Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF, or equivalent	~5.0 liters (pan drop), ~9.0 liters (dry fill)
Transfer Case (BW 48-11)	Mopar MP 201/202, or equivalent	~1.6 liters
Front Differential	SAE 75W-85 GL-5, Mopar MS-9922	~1.0-1.2 liters (verify in owner's manual)
Rear Differential (most)	SAE 75W-90 GL-5, Mopar MS-9922 (LSD may require additive)	~2.3-2.5 liters (verify in owner's manual)
Rear Differential (Heavy Duty)	SAE 75W-140 GL-5, Mopar MS-9922 (LSD may require additive)	~2.3-2.5 liters (verify in owner's manual)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	Electro-hydraulic (no user-serviceable fluid)	N/A
Washer Fluid	Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate / General Purpose	~3.8 liters
DEF (Diesel only)	ISO 22241 (API DEF certified)	~8.0-10.0 Gallons (verify in owner's manual)

Engine Oil

The 2022 Ram 1500 primarily uses SAE 5W-20 engine oil. Both the 5.7L HEMI V8 and the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engines specify this viscosity. It's crucial to use oil that meets Chrysler material standard MS-6395. Additionally, look for API service classifications SN or SP (or later) to ensure the oil meets the latest performance and protection standards.

• Capacity:

  • 5.7L HEMI V8: 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters)
  • 3.6L Pentastar V6: 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)

• Intervals: The oil change interval for your Ram 1500 can vary significantly based on driving conditions. For normal use, the manufacturer often recommends up to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, severe duty (e.g., heavy towing, extreme temperatures, dusty conditions, frequent short trips) may necessitate more frequent changes, often around 5,000 miles or 6 months. Always refer to your owner's manual and the vehicle's oil life monitoring system.

• Common Pitfalls: Never use an oil with a different viscosity or a lower API service classification than specified, as this can lead to accelerated engine wear and potential damage. Ensure the oil explicitly states compliance with MS-6395.

Engine Coolant

Ram 1500 models from 2013 onwards use a specific Organic Additive Technology (OAT) coolant. For your 2022 model, this is Mopar branded OAT coolant (MS-90032), which is typically purple in color. This coolant is designed for a 10-year or 150,000-mile service life under normal conditions.

• Capacity: Approximately 14-16 quarts, depending on engine and cab configuration. Always ensure the system is properly bled after draining and refilling to avoid air pockets.

• Intervals: Typically, factory fill OAT coolant is considered "lifetime fill" for 10 years or 150,000 miles. However, regular inspection of the coolant level and condition is recommended.

• Common Pitfalls: NEVER mix OAT coolant (purple/pink) with older Hybrid Organic Additive Technology (HOAT) coolants (often orange/red/yellow). Mixing these different chemistries can lead to gel formation, which can clog the cooling system, causing overheating and severe engine damage. Always use Mopar MS-90032 or an equivalent OAT coolant that explicitly states compliance with this standard. Also, avoid universal coolants that claim compatibility with all types, as they may not meet the specific MS-90032 requirements.

Transmission Fluid

Most 2022 Ram 1500 models, especially those with the 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission, use a highly specialized fluid. The manufacturer specifies ZF LifeguardFluid 8 or the corresponding Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF. This is a synthetic fluid. Do not use generic multi-vehicle ATFs unless they explicitly state compliance with the specific ZF or Mopar specification.

• Capacity: A pan drop and filter change typically requires around 5.0 liters. A full dry fill can be closer to 9.0 liters. Due to the complexity of the fill procedure (requiring specific temperature ranges), professional service is often recommended.

• Intervals: The transmission fluid is generally considered "fill for life" under normal driving conditions. However, under severe duty (e.g., heavy towing, frequent off-roading, commercial use), service at around 60,000-80,000 miles may be beneficial. Always consult your owner's manual.

• Common Pitfalls: Using the wrong transmission fluid can cause severe transmission damage, leading to costly repairs. Never use a "universal" ATF unless it explicitly meets the ZF LifeguardFluid 8 or Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF specification. The fluid level is also critically important and requires specific procedures to check and fill correctly.

Transfer Case Fluid (4WD/AWD models)

For 4WD and AWD models, the transfer case requires a specific fluid. The BorgWarner 48-11 transfer case commonly found in the 2022 Ram 1500 typically uses Mopar MP 201/202 transfer case fluid or an equivalent. This is a specialized gear lubricant, not a typical ATF or engine oil.

• Capacity: Approximately 1.6 liters.

• Intervals: Typically, transfer case fluid should be inspected and potentially changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, especially if operating in severe conditions (e.g., towing, off-road driving).

• Common Pitfalls: Using automatic transmission fluid or standard gear oil instead of the specific transfer case fluid can lead to premature wear and failure of the transfer case components.

Differential Fluid (Front & Rear)

Both the front and rear differentials require specialized gear oil. The primary specification for the 2022 Ram 1500 is SAE 75W-85 GL-5 for the front differential and often SAE 75W-90 GL-5 for the rear. For heavy-duty rear axles, SAE 75W-140 GL-5 may be specified. Always ensure the gear oil meets Mopar material standard MS-9922.

• Capacities:

  • Front Differential: Approximately 1.0-1.2 liters.
  • Rear Differential (most): Approximately 2.3-2.5 liters. (Heavy Duty rear axles may have slightly different capacities).
  • Always verify exact capacities in your owner's manual or OEM service information for your specific axle configuration, as designs can vary.

• Intervals: Differential fluid should generally be replaced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, with more frequent changes recommended for severe service conditions like heavy towing, off-roading, or consistent stop-and-go driving.

• Common Pitfalls: Many Ram 1500s are equipped with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) in the rear axle. If your vehicle has an LSD, you must use a gear oil that either already contains friction modifier/LSD additive or add the specified Mopar friction modifier separately. Failing to do so can result in chatter, noise, and premature wear of the LSD clutch packs. Ensure the gear oil meets GL-5 specification for hypoid gears.

Brake Fluid

The 2022 Ram 1500 uses DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 offers a higher boiling point than DOT 3, providing better performance under heavy braking or demanding conditions. You can generally upgrade from DOT 3 to DOT 4, but never mix DOT 3 or DOT 4 with DOT 5 fluid (which is silicone-based and not compatible).

• Intervals: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to corrosion in the braking system. It is generally recommended to flush and replace brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles, regardless of mileage, for optimal safety and component longevity.

• Common Pitfalls: Never use DOT 5 brake fluid in a system designed for DOT 3 or DOT 4. Always use fresh fluid from a sealed container, as brake fluid exposed to air can absorb moisture. Keep the master cylinder cap on tightly.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2022 Ram 1500 utilizes an electro-hydraulic power steering system. This system does not have a user-serviceable power steering fluid reservoir or fluid to check/fill. Any issues with the power steering system would require professional diagnosis and repair.

Washer Fluid

For the windshield washer system, any quality general-purpose windshield washer concentrate or pre-mixed fluid is suitable. Mopar offers its own branded concentrates. In colder climates, ensure the fluid has adequate freeze protection.

• Capacity: Approximately 3.8 liters (1 gallon).

• Intervals: As needed.

• Common Pitfalls: Avoid using just plain water, especially in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the reservoir or lines. Some inexpensive fluids may not clean effectively or can leave streaks.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) (Diesel models only)

If your 2022 Ram 1500 is equipped with the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine, it will require Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). DEF is a non-toxic solution of urea and deionized water. It must meet the international standard ISO 22241 and often carries the API DEF certified mark.

• Capacity: The DEF tank typically holds around 8.0-10.0 gallons, but this can vary. Verify the exact capacity in your owner's manual.

• Intervals: DEF consumption depends on driving conditions, engine load, and environmental factors. The vehicle's DEF gauge will alert you when a refill is needed. Generally, a tank of DEF can last several thousand miles.

• Common Pitfalls: Never put DEF into the diesel fuel tank, and never put diesel fuel (or any other fluid) into the DEF tank. This will cause severe damage to the engine and/or the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. Always use a dedicated DEF dispensing nozzle. Only use DEF that is API certified and meets ISO 22241. Store DEF in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as it can degrade over time and in extreme temperatures.

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