2020 Ram 3500 Fluid Type Specifications

As an ASE-certified master technician, I understand the critical importance of using correct fluids for vehicle longevity and performance. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all factory-specified fluids for the 2020 Ram 3500, ensuring your truck operates as intended.

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (Gas - 6.4L HEMI)	SAE 0W-40, Mopar MS-12633	7 Quarts (6.6 Liters)
Engine Oil (Diesel - 6.7L Cummins)	SAE 15W-40 (API CK-4/CJ-4) or SAE 5W-40 (API CK-4/CJ-4), Mopar MS-10902	12 Quarts (11.3 Liters) with filter
Engine Coolant	Mopar OE approved OAT (Organic Additive Technology)	Approximately 15-18 Quarts (14.2-17.0 Liters)
Automatic Transmission Fluid (Gas - 8HP75)	ZF LifeguardFluid 8 or equivalent, Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF	Approximately 7.5-9 Quarts (7.1-8.5 Liters)
Automatic Transmission Fluid (Diesel - Aisin AS69RC)	Aisin Warner ATF+, Mopar AS69RC ATF	Approximately 14-16 Quarts (13.2-15.1 Liters)
Transfer Case (BW 44-46/44-48)	Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602)	Approximately 1.6-2.0 Quarts (1.5-1.9 Liters)
Front Differential (11.5 AAM)	SAE 75W-90, API GL-5, Mopar MS-9763	Approximately 2.4-2.8 Quarts (2.2-2.6 Liters)
Rear Differential (12.0 AAM / Dana M275)	SAE 75W-90 (non-Limited Slip), SAE 75W-140 (Limited Slip), API GL-5, Mopar MS-9763/MS-90202	Approximately 4.0-5.0 Quarts (3.8-4.7 Liters)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	Mopar MS-5931	Approximately 1.0-1.5 Quarts (0.9-1.4 Liters)
Washer Fluid	Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate	Varies (typically 1 Gallon)
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241 (API 인증)	Approximately 5.5-8.0 Gallons (20.8-30.3 Liters)

Note: Capacities are approximate and may vary based on specific configuration and service procedures. Always verify in your owner's manual or OEM service information.

Engine Oil

6.4L HEMI V8 (Gasoline):

The 6.4L HEMI engine requires SAE 0W-40 engine oil meeting the Mopar MS-12633 spec. This specific oil formulation is crucial for optimal engine protection, especially during start-up and under heavy load conditions characteristic of a heavy-duty truck. Using an oil that does not meet this specification can lead to premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential issues with the variable valve timing system. The typical oil capacity is 7 quarts (6.6 Liters) with a filter change. Ram recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. However, for severe duty use (towing, extreme temperatures, prolonged idling), more frequent changes are advised.

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

For the robust 6.7L Cummins engine, two oil viscosities are recommended based on temperature: SAE 15W-40 or SAE 5W-40. Both must meet API CK-4 or CJ-4 specifications. Mopar also specifies MS-10902. The CK-4 designation is critical for modern diesel engines equipped with exhaust aftertreatment systems to prevent damage to the diesel particulate filter (DPF). The capacity for the 6.7L Cummins is a substantial 12 quarts (11.3 Liters) with a filter. Oil change intervals can vary significantly based on duty cycle and oil analysis, but typically range from 7,500 to 15,000 miles or 6 to 12 months. Always consult your owner's manual and consider using an oil analysis program for extended drain intervals, especially if you tow frequently.

Engine Coolant

The 2020 Ram 3500 uses a Mopar OE approved OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant. This is typically dyed a purple/pink color. The crucial point here is never to mix OAT coolant with HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or traditional green IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) coolants. Mixing different coolant chemistries can lead to severe corrosion, gel formation, and cooling system blockages, causing costly damage. Always use the specified OAT coolant and perform flushes every 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, or as recommended for severe service to maintain cooling system integrity.

Transmission Fluid

Gasoline (6.4L HEMI) - ZF 8HP75 Automatic Transmission:

This sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission requires specific fluid to operate correctly. The official fluid is ZF LifeguardFluid 8, or equivalent, and Mopar specifies Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF. This is not a universal ATF. Using incorrect fluid will lead to poor shift quality, premature wear, and potential transmission failure. The capacity is approximately 7.5-9 quarts (7.1-8.5 Liters) for a pan drop and filter change. Fluid changes are generally recommended at 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions, or sooner for heavy towing.

Diesel (6.7L Cummins) - Aisin AS69RC Automatic Transmission:

Known for its durability, the Aisin AS69RC transmission requires Aisin Warner ATF+ or Mopar AS69RC ATF. Do not use generic multi-vehicle ATFs. The total fill capacity is larger than the gas transmission, roughly 14-16 quarts (13.2-15.1 Liters). Similar to the ZF, fluid and filter changes are typically recommended between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, with more frequent changes advisable for severe duty applications like heavy towing.

Transfer Case

The 2020 Ram 3500 typically uses a BorgWarner transfer case (e.g., BW 44-46 or 44-48). These units require Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) transmission fluid, which is a highly specific synthetic fluid. Despite being an automatic transmission fluid, it is designed for use in these transfer cases for proper lubrication and clutch pack function. Never substitute with other types of ATF. The capacity is approximately 1.6-2.0 quarts (1.5-1.9 Liters). Transfer case fluid should be changed every 60,000 miles or sooner if the truck is regularly used for 4WD operation or heavy towing.

Differential Fluids

Front Differential (11.5 AAM):

The front differential requires SAE 75W-90, API GL-5 rated gear oil, meeting Mopar MS-9763. The capacity is around 2.4-2.8 quarts (2.2-2.6 Liters). It