2017 Ram 2500 Fluid Type Specifications

As an ASE-Certified Master Technician, I've prepared this comprehensive guide to the factory-spec fluids for your 2017 Ram 2500. Using the correct fluids is paramount for maintaining your truck's performance, longevity, and adhering to warranty requirements. Always verify these specifications against your owner's manual or an authorized Ram service manual, as fluid specifications can sometimes vary based on specific powertrains, market, or build date.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (Gas)	SAE 5W-20, API SN/SP or later, Mopar MS-6395	7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter
Engine Oil (Diesel)	SAE 5W-40, API CJ-4/CK-4 for diesel, Mopar MS-10902	12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter
Engine Coolant	OAT (Organic Additive Technology), Mopar MS-90032 (Purple)	Approximately 17.0 quarts (16.1 liters) for 6.4L HEMI; Approximately 24.5 quarts (23.2 liters) for 6.7L Cummins
Automatic Transmission (6.4L HEMI)	Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4)	Approximately 17.5 quarts (16.6 liters) total fill
Automatic Transmission (6.7L Cummins)	Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4)	Approximately 17.5 quarts (16.6 liters) total fill
Transfer Case (BW 44-46/44-47)	Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4)	1.7 quarts (1.6 liters)
Transfer Case (Aisin AS69RC)	Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4)	Verify in owner's manual / OEM service info
Front Differential (148MM/215MM AAA)	SAE 75W-90, API GL-5	2.3-2.4 quarts (2.2-2.3 liters)
Front Differential (235MM AAA)	SAE 75W-90, API GL-5	2.8 quarts (2.7 liters)
Rear Differential (10.5", 11.5", 12")	SAE 75W-140, API GL-5 (with friction modifier for LSD)	3.5-4.0 quarts (3.3-3.8 liters)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	As required
Power Steering Fluid	Mopar MS-9602 (ATF+4)	As required
Washer Fluid	Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate or equivalent	As required (approx. 1 gallon)
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241 (API CK-4 for diesel)	5.0 gallons (18.9 liters)

Engine Oil

6.4L HEMI (Gasoline): The 6.4L HEMI engine requires SAE 5W-20 engine oil that meets Chrysler material standard MS-6395. Look for oils that are API SN/SP or later rated. Capacity: 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.

6.7L Cummins (Diesel): For the legendary 6.7L Cummins diesel, SAE 5W-40 engine oil meeting Chrysler material standard MS-10902 and rated API CJ-4 or CK-4 for diesel engines is specified. Capacity: 12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Engine oil and filter should typically be changed every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or sooner under severe duty conditions as outlined in your owner's manual. For diesel engines, fuel dilution and soot loading can necessitate more frequent changes. Always use a high-quality OEM or equivalent oil filter. Never mix gasoline and diesel engine oils as their additive packages are vastly different and optimized for their respective engine types.

Engine Coolant

Your 2017 Ram 2500 utilized an Organic Additive Technology (OAT) coolant, specifically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile (Purple in color) which meets Chrysler Material Standard MS-90032. This is typically a 50/50 mix of coolant concentrate and distilled water. Capacity: Varies by engine: approximately 17.0 quarts (16.1 liters) for the 6.4L HEMI and approximately 24.5 quarts (23.2 liters) for the 6.7L Cummins.

Intervals and Pitfalls: The OAT coolant is designed for extended service intervals, typically 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The most critical pitfall with coolant is mixing different types. Mixing OAT coolant with older HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) coolants can lead to chemical reactions, gel formation, corrosion, and severe damage to your cooling system components. Always perform a complete flush when switching coolant types or if contamination is suspected. Always use distilled water for mixing if you are using concentrated coolant.

Transmission Fluid

Both the 6.4L HEMI and the 6.7L Cummins (if equipped with the automatic) specify Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4). This is a highly stable, shear-resistant synthetic blend fluid specifically formulated for Chrysler/Dodge/Ram transmissions. Capacity: Approximately 17.5 quarts (16.6 liters) total fill.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Transmission fluid and filter changes are crucial for longevity. Refer to your owner's manual for specific intervals, which can range from 60,000 to 120,000 miles depending on usage. Never use "universal" or generic ATF. Only use Mopar ATF+4 or a licensed equivalent explicitly stating compliance with the ATF+4 specification. Using incorrect fluid can lead to harsh shifts, premature wear, and catastrophic transmission failure.

Transfer Case

For the BorgWarner (BW) 44-46 and 44-47 transfer cases, the factory specification is Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4). Capacity: 1.7 quarts (1.6 liters). If your truck is equipped with an Aisin AS69RC transmission, verify the transfer case fluid specification in your owner's manual as some configurations may differ.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Transfer case fluid should typically be inspected and potentially changed every 30,000 miles or more frequently if frequently used in 4WD/heavy towing. Similar to the transmission, using the incorrect fluid can cause accelerated wear and damage to the internal components.

Differential Fluid

Front Differentials (148MM/215MM AAA and 235MM AAA): The front differentials generally require SAE 75W-90, API GL-5 gear oil. Capacity: 2.3-2.4 quarts (2.2-2.3 liters) for 148MM/215MM, 2.8 quarts (2.7 liters) for 235MM.

Rear Differentials (10.5", 11.5", 12"): The rear differentials typically specify SAE 75W-140, API GL-5 gear oil. If your Ram 2500 is equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD), a friction modifier additive must be included with or added to the gear oil to prevent chatter and ensure proper operation. Some synthetic gear oils come with the friction modifier already blended in.

Capacity: 3.5-4.0 quarts (3.3-3.8 liters) depending on axle size.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Differential fluid intervals can vary, often around 20,000 to 40,000 miles for severe duty (towing/off-roading) and up to 60,000-80,000 miles for normal use. Always check for the correct weight and API GL-5 rating. Failing to use the friction modifier in an LSD can lead to noisy operation and premature wear of the clutch packs.

Brake Fluid

Your 2017 Ram 2500 requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 offers a higher boiling point and is generally preferred for its performance, especially under heavy use or towing. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid, as it is incompatible with your brake system components.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to internal corrosion in the brake system. It's generally recommended to flush and replace brake fluid every 2-3 years, or as specified in your owner's manual. Always use fresh fluid from a sealed container.

Power Steering Fluid

For the power steering system, your 2017 Ram 2500 specifies Mopar MS-9602, which is ATF+4 fluid. This is critical for the proper functioning and longevity of your power steering pump and gear.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Power steering fluid generally has a long service life but should be checked for color and contamination periodically. If it appears dark or has a burnt smell, it's time for a flush. As with transmission fluid, only use ATF+4 to avoid damage.

Washer Fluid

Any quality windshield washer fluid concentrate or pre-mixed solution designed for automotive use is acceptable. Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate is recommended.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Keep the reservoir topped off, especially in winter when de-icing properties are crucial. Do not use plain water, as it can freeze in colder temperatures and lacks cleaning agents.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) - For 6.7L Cummins Diesel

For 6.7L Cummins-equipped trucks, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is required for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. The DEF must meet the ISO 22241 standard. You may also see it referenced with the API CK-4 standard for diesel engines.

Capacity: 5.0 gallons (18.9 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: DEF consumption is directly related to fuel consumption and driving conditions. The DEF tank typically has enough capacity for several thousand miles. Never put anything other than ISO 22241 certified DEF into the DEF tank. Contaminating the DEF system with fuel, oil, or any other fluid will cause severe and costly damage to the SCR system. Store DEF properly in a cool, dry place and be mindful of its shelf life – typically around one year. Do not allow the DEF tank to run completely empty frequently, as it can trigger limp-mode operation.

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