2016 Ram 2500 Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2016 Ram 2500 coolant system capacity is typically between 14.2 to 16.5 quarts (13.4 to 15.6 liters) depending on the engine. For your 2016 Ram 2500, it's crucial to use the correct coolant type and maintain it properly to ensure the longevity of your engine and cooling system.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 14.2 - 16.5 quarts (13.4 - 15.6 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology) in Purple. Meets Chrysler Material Standard MS-12106.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 prediluted, or 50/50 mix of concentrate with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

The cooling system capacities for the 2016 Ram 2500 vary slightly based on the engine:

• 5.7L Hemi V8: Approximately 14.2 quarts (13.4 liters)
• 6.4L Hemi V8: Approximately 16.0 quarts (15.1 liters)
• 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Approximately 16.5 quarts (15.6 liters)

Always consult your owner's manual for the most precise capacity for your specific engine configuration.

Flush Interval

Maintaining your coolant is vital. Here are the recommended flush intervals:

• Normal Duty: Replace coolant every 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty (e.g., heavy towing, off-road use, extreme temperatures): Consider more frequent inspections and potentially earlier replacement, around 5 years or 75,000 miles.

Regularly check your coolant level and condition. If the coolant appears discolored or murky, it's a good indication that a flush and fill may be needed sooner than the recommended interval.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding your 2016 Ram 2500's cooling system properly is essential to prevent air pockets that can lead to overheating. Always perform these steps on a cool engine.

1. Drain: Open the petcock on the bottom of the radiator (and engine block drain plugs if accessible, especially for the diesel) and remove the radiator cap to allow the old coolant to drain completely. Capture all old coolant in a suitable container for proper disposal.
2. Flush (Optional but Recommended): For a thorough flush, close the petcock, fill with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on until operating temperature is reached, then drain again. Repeat until the drained water runs clear. You can also use a reputable cooling system flush product if desired, following its instructions carefully.
3. Refill: Close the petcock and refill the system slowly with the correct Mopar OAT coolant (50/50 mix). Fill the radiator, then the coolant reservoir to the "COLD FILL" mark.
4. Bleed Air:
   • Leave the radiator cap off (or loosely on some systems) and start the engine.
   • Turn the heater to its highest setting (full hot, high fan speed) to open the heater core valve.
   • Allow the engine to run and reach operating temperature. As the engine warms, the thermostat will open, and coolant will begin to circulate. You may see air bubbles escape from the radiator fill neck.
   • Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge air pockets.
   • For diesel models, there may be specific bleed procedures or air bleeder valves to open. Consult your owner's manual or a service manual for the exact location and procedure for the 6.7L Cummins.
   • Continue to top off the radiator as the level drops. Once no more bubbles appear, install the radiator cap.
5. Final Check: Drive the vehicle, then allow it to cool down completely. Check the coolant level in the reservoir and top off if necessary. Monitor the temperature gauge closely during subsequent drives.

Common Cooling System Issues (2010-2018 Ram 2500/3500 Generation)

Owners of the 2010-2018 Ram 2500/3500 generation, covering your 2016 model, have reported a few common cooling system issues:

• Water Pump Failure: This is a relatively common wear item on many vehicles, and the Ram trucks are no exception. Symptoms include leaks from the weep hole, bearing noise, or overheating.
• Thermostat Issues: A failing thermostat can cause the engine to run too hot or too cold, or fluctuate erratically. This can lead to decreased efficiency or overheating.
• Radiator Leaks: Over time, radiators can develop leaks due to corrosion, stone chips, or stress cracks. Plastic end tanks are particularly susceptible.
• EGR Cooler Leaks (6.7L Cummins Diesel): The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler on the 6.7L Cummins can develop internal leaks, allowing coolant to enter the exhaust system. Symptoms can include coolant loss without external leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, or an odor of coolant.
• Coolant Reservoir Leaks/Cracks: The plastic coolant overflow reservoir can become brittle over time and develop cracks, leading to slow coolant leaks.

Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your engine. Regular inspection of hoses, clamps, and fluid levels can help catch problems early.

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