2023 Ram 2500 Fluid Type Specs

Maintaining your 2023 Ram 2500 with the correct fluids is paramount for its longevity, performance, and to uphold your warranty. Using the wrong fluid type can lead to premature wear, reduced efficiency, and costly repairs. This comprehensive guide details every factory-spec fluid required for your 2023 Ram 2500, ensuring you have all the information needed to keep your truck running flawlessly.

Quick reference

Engine Oil

The 2023 Ram 2500 is offered with two robust engine options, each requiring specific engine oil to ensure proper lubrication and performance.

For the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, the factory recommendation is SAE 0W-20 engine oil that meets Chrysler material standard MS-6395. Always look for the API certification mark on the oil container. Using the correct viscosity and specification is crucial for optimal fuel economy and engine protection, especially in varying temperatures. The typical oil capacity for the 6.4L HEMI is around 7 quarts (6.6 liters) with a filter change.

For the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, a heavy-duty engine oil meeting API CK-4 or CJ-4 is specified, with a recommended viscosity of SAE 0W-40. While 15W-40 is a common diesel engine oil, the 0W-40 provides better cold start protection and can contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Always verify the specific viscosity recommendation in your owner's manual, as it can vary based on ambient temperatures. The Cummins engine has a substantial oil capacity, typically around 12 quarts (11.3 liters) with a filter change.

Common Pitfalls: Never use gasoline engine oils (API SP, SN, SM, etc.) in a diesel engine, and vice-versa. Mixing oil types can lead to detrimental effects on engine components and emission systems. Refer to your owner's manual for specific oil change intervals, typically every 8,000-10,000 miles or 6 months for the HEMI, and similar intervals for the Cummins under normal duty, with shorter intervals for severe duty.

Engine Coolant

The 2023 Ram 2500 utilizes a specific Organic Additive Technology (OAT) coolant. The factory fill is a purple-colored coolant that meets Mopar MS-12106 specification. This is a long-life coolant designed for extended service intervals, typically up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. Always use a 50/50 mix of concentrated coolant and distilled water, or a pre-mixed 50/50 solution.

Common Pitfalls: Never mix OAT coolant with other coolant types like HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or traditional IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) coolants. Mixing different coolant technologies can lead to chemical reactions, gel formation, and corrosion, severely damaging the cooling system. Always drain and flush the system thoroughly before refilling if switching coolant types, though it's always best to stick with the Mopar MS-12106 coolant.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Both the 6.4L HEMI and 6.7L Cummins models of the 2023 Ram 2500 are equipped with automatic transmissions that require Mopar ATF+4 transmission fluid, which meets Chrysler material standard MS-9602. This is a highly specialized fluid designed for Chrysler Group transmissions.

Common Pitfalls: Never use