2023 Ram 2500 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

Quick Answer

The 2023 Ram 2500 takes either 7 quarts (6.6 liters) of 5W-30 synthetic oil for the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine or 13 quarts (12.3 liters) of 15W-40 diesel engine oil for the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.

• 6.4L HEMI V8:

  • Oil Capacity: 7 quarts (6.6 liters)
  • Recommended Oil Weight: 5W-30 Full Synthetic
  • Oil Spec: FCA US LLC Material Standard MS-6395, API SP/ILSAC GF-6A certified
  • Oil Filter OEM Part Number: Mopar 04892339AA
  • Aftermarket Cross-Reference:
    • Fram PH11665
    • Wix 57899
    • Mobil 1 M1-210A

• 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

  • Oil Capacity: 13 quarts (12.3 liters)
  • Recommended Oil Weight: 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil (refer to owner's manual for specific temperature recommendations)
  • Oil Spec: API CJ-4 or API CK-4 (consult owner's manual for the most current recommendation and specific certifications)
  • Oil Filter OEM Part Number: Mopar 68522036AA
  • Aftermarket Cross-Reference:
    • Fram CH11833
    • Wix 57620
    • Mobil 1 M1-DC252

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

6.4L HEMI V8:

• Normal Duty: 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Severe duty conditions include frequent towing, heavy loads, extensive idling, dusty conditions, or extreme temperatures.

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

• Normal Duty: 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Severe duty conditions for diesel engines often include sustained heavy towing, off-road use, or extensive low-speed operation.

Always monitor your vehicle's oil life monitor system if equipped, and consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and personalized maintenance schedule.

Drain Plug Torque

• 6.4L HEMI V8 Drain Plug Torque: 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm). Always use a new crush washer to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer for the 6.4L HEMI is typically a Mopar equivalent to part number 6505929AA.
• 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel Drain Plug Torque: 37 ft-lbs (50 Nm). A new drain plug gasket (often a copper crush washer or a bonded rubber washer) is highly recommended with every oil change. Consult the dealer for the exact OEM gasket part number.

How to Change the Oil

1. Warm Up Engine: Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, ensuring it drains more easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and safely lift the front of the truck using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Locate and Drain: Place a drain pan capable of holding the full oil capacity under the drain plug. Remove the drain plug with the appropriate wrench (typically 13mm or 15mm for the HEMI, larger for the Cummins) and allow the oil to drain completely.
4. Replace Filter: Once the oil flow slows to a trickle, remove the old oil filter. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before threading it on. Hand-tighten the new filter until snug, then turn an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn (or as specified by filter manufacturer).
5. Reinstall Drain Plug: Install the new crush washer or gasket on the drain plug and thread it back into the oil pan. Torque to the specified value.
6. Add New Oil: Lower the vehicle and remove the oil filler cap. Carefully add the recommended amount and type of new oil. For the Cummins, it's advisable to pre-fill the new oil filter if accessible to reduce dry-start time, but only do so if the filter orientation allows without spillage.
7. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil. Shut off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, and then check the oil level on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to reach the "FULL" mark.
8. Inspect for Leaks: Visually inspect around the drain plug and oil filter for any leaks.

Common Issues / Tips

• 6.4L HEMI Variable Valve Timing (VVT): Using the correct synthetic oil with the specified MS-6395 and API SP/ILSAC GF-6A rating is crucial for the proper operation and longevity of the VVT system. Incorrect oil can lead to VVT solenoids sticking or sludge buildup, resulting in rough idle or engine performance issues.
• 6.7L Cummins Oil Selection: Diesel engine oils are formulated differently than gasoline engine oils. Always use an oil that meets the API CJ-4 or CK-4 specification (and any other requirements in your owner's manual) to protect the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and other emissions components while ensuring proper lubrication for the high-pressure fuel system and turbocharger.
• Oil Filter Housing (6.4L HEMI): Be mindful when removing and installing the oil filter as the housing can sometimes be tight. Ensure the old filter gasket comes off with the old filter to prevent double-gasketing and a major oil leak.
• DEF System (6.7L Cummins): While not directly related to oil capacity, maintaining your Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system is critical for the proper operation of the Cummins engine. Using high-quality DEF and ensuring the system is functioning correctly indirectly contributes to overall engine health by preventing DPF issues that can impact performance. Ensure you are not mistaking the DEF reservoir for the oil filler.
• Aftermarket Sensors (6.7L Cummins): Some owners install aftermarket oil pressure or temperature sensors. Ensure any modifications do not compromise the integrity of the oil system or void warranties.

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