2021 Ram 3500 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2021 Ram 3500 takes either 7 quarts (6.6 liters) of 5W-20 oil for the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine or 12 quarts (11.36 liters) of 15W-40 oil for the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.

Quick Answer

Here's a quick reference for your 2021 Ram 3500:

• 6.4L HEMI V8 (Gasoline):

  • Oil Capacity: 7 quarts (6.6 liters)
  • Recommended Weight: 5W-20
  • Oil Specification: MOPAR MS-6395 (API SN Plus or later)
  • Oil Filter (OEM): MOPAR 68228930AA
  • Oil Filter (Aftermarket Cross-Reference):
    • Fram PH2
    • Wix 57899
    • Mobil 1 M1-210A

• 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

  • Oil Capacity: 12 quarts (11.36 liters)
  • Recommended Weight: 15W-40. Some owners may opt for 5W-40 synthetic in colder climates for easier cold starts, but always refer to your owner's manual for specific temperature-based recommendations.
  • Oil Specification: Cummins CES 20086, API CK-4
  • Oil Filter (OEM): MOPAR 68507598AA
  • Oil Filter (Aftermarket Cross-Reference):
    • Fram CH12638
    • Wix WL10010
    • Mobil 1 M1C-153A

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

Maintaining proper oil change intervals is crucial for the longevity of your 2021 Ram 3500.

• Normal Duty: For most driving conditions, Ram recommends an oil change every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, for gasoline engines. For diesel engines, the interval is typically 15,000 miles or 12 months, or 500 operating hours, whichever comes first. Always monitor the oil life monitor (if equipped).
• Severe Duty: If your driving involves frequent short trips, extensive idling, towing heavy loads, off-road driving, or dusty conditions, you should consider more frequent oil changes. For gasoline engines, this might mean every 5,000 miles or 6 months. For diesel engines, severe duty use could reduce the interval to 7,500 miles or 6 months, or 250 operating hours. Consult your owner's manual for specific severe duty recommendations.

Drain Plug Torque

Properly torquing the drain plug is essential to prevent leaks or damage to the oil pan.

• 6.4L HEMI V8:

  • Drain Plug Torque: 20 ft-lbs (27 Nm)
  • Crush Washer: It is highly recommended to replace the crush washer with a new one every oil change to ensure a proper seal.

• 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

  • Drain Plug Torque: 44 ft-lbs (59 Nm)
  • Crush Washer: Always use a new crush washer or gasket with each oil change.

How to Change the Oil

Changing your own oil can save money and give you peace of mind. Here's a general guide:

1. Gather Supplies: New oil, new oil filter, drain pan, wrench for the drain plug, oil filter wrench, funnel, rags, jack and jack stands (if needed), and a new crush washer.
2. Warm Up Engine (Slightly): Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, allowing it to drain more easily. Do not let it get too hot.
3. Lift and Secure (If Necessary): If needed, use a jack to lift the front of the truck and secure it with jack stands.
4. Locate Drain Plug: Place your drain pan beneath the drain plug.
5. Remove Drain Plug: Using the correct wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for oil to flow out quickly. Allow all the old oil to drain completely.
6. Replace Drain Plug: Once drained, clean the drain plug, install a new crush washer, and reinstall the drain plug, torquing it to the manufacturer's specification.
7. Remove Old Oil Filter: Place the drain pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. Some oil will spill.
8. Prepare New Oil Filter: Apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
9. Install New Oil Filter: Hand-tighten the new filter until the gasket makes contact, then tighten an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn. Do not overtighten.
10. Add New Oil: Using a funnel, pour the recommended amount and type of new oil into the engine's oil fill port.
11. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then shut it off. Check for any leaks around the drain plug or oil filter.
12. Check Oil Level: After letting the truck sit for a few minutes, check the oil level with the dipstick and top off if necessary.

Common Issues / Tips for This Generation

Owners of 2021 Ram 3500s often share common observations and tips:

• 6.4L HEMI: These engines are generally robust, but regular oil changes with the correct MOPAR MS-6395 spec oil are crucial to prevent lifter and camshaft wear issues that can affect these Hemi engines as they age.
• 6.7L Cummins Diesel: The Cummins engine is known for its durability. Using API CK-4 spec oil is critical for emissions system longevity and overall engine health. Some owners opt for a Fumoto drain valve for easier, cleaner oil changes, especially given the large oil capacity.
• Fuel Dilution (Diesel): For diesel owners, an oil analysis can be beneficial, especially if a lot of short trips or idling occurs. Diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration cycles can sometimes lead to fuel dilution in the oil, which can degrade its lubricating properties.

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