2022 Ram 3500 Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (6.4L HEMI)	SAE 0W-20, Mopar MS-6395 / API SP	7 quarts
Engine Oil (6.7L Cummins Diesel)	SAE 15W-40 (above -6°C/20°F) or SAE 5W-40 (below -6°C/20°F), API CK-4 / Cummins CES 20086	12 quarts
Engine Coolant	Mopar OAT Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink (MS-90032)	16 quarts (approx)
Transmission Fluid (8HP75 - 6.4L)	Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF (MS-9602)	7-9 quarts (fill to level)
Transmission Fluid (Aisin AS69RC - 6.7L)	Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602)	12.5-13.5 quarts (fill to level)
Transfer Case (BW 44-46/44-47/44-48)	Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602)	1.6-2.0 quarts (verify in owner's manual)
Front Differential (11.5 AAM front)	SAE 75W-85 API GL-5	2.5-3.0 quarts
Rear Differential (12.0 AAM rear)	SAE 75W-85 API GL-5	4.0-4.5 quarts
Rear Differential (12.0 AAM rear with LSD)	SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 + Friction Modifier	4.0-4.5 quarts
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	Fill to level
Power Steering Fluid	Mopar MS-5931	Fill to level
Washer Fluid	Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate/Fluid	1 Gallon
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241 / API AUS 32	5.5 gallons

Engine Oil

For the 2022 Ram 3500, engine oil specifications vary significantly depending on whether you have the 6.4L HEMI gasoline engine or the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.

6.4L HEMI (Gasoline):

The 6.4L HEMI engine requires SAE 0W-20 engine oil that meets Chrysler material standard MS-6395 and API SP classification. It is crucial to use oil that explicitly states compliance with MS-6395 to ensure proper lubrication and engine longevity. The capacity for an oil change with filter is approximately 7 quarts. Always verify the exact capacity in your owner's manual.

• Interval: Generally, the oil change interval for the 6.4L HEMI is between 7,500 and 10,000 miles or 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. However, the Ram's Oil Change Indicator System will provide an optimal service interval based on your driving conditions. Always follow the indicator. Do not exceed 10,000 miles or 12 months between oil changes.
• Common Pitfalls: Using an incorrect oil weight or an oil that does not meet MS-6395 can lead to increased engine wear and potentially void your warranty. While API SP is a widely recognized standard, the MS-6395 specification is paramount for this engine.

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

For the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, the oil requirements depend on ambient temperature. Above -6°C (20°F), SAE 15W-40 is recommended. Below -6°C (20°F), SAE 5W-40 is required for proper cold starting and lubrication. In both cases, the oil must meet API CK-4 classification and Cummins CES 20086 material standard. The oil capacity for an oil change with filter is substantial at approximately 12 quarts.

• Interval: The oil change interval for the 6.7L Cummins diesel can vary greatly based on duty cycle, typically ranging from 7,500 to 15,000 miles or 6 to 12 months. The Ram's Oil Change Indicator System should be followed for optimal intervals. Heavy towing or frequent idling may necessitate more frequent changes. Refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate information.
• Common Pitfalls: Using non-CK-4 oil can damage the advanced emissions systems (DPF, SCR) and affect engine performance. Also, ensure the chosen oil meets the Cummins CES 20086 standard. Never use gasoline engine oils in a diesel engine.

Engine Coolant

The 2022 Ram 3500, regardless of engine, uses Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant. The specified coolant color is typically Pink/Purple, and it must meet Chrysler material standard MS-90032. The system capacity is approximately 16 quarts. It is crucial to use genuine Mopar OAT coolant or an aftermarket equivalent that explicitly states compliance with MS-90032.

• Interval: The factory fill coolant is designed for extended life, often up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. Always check your owner's manual for the exact recommended replacement interval, as it can vary slightly.
• Common Pitfalls: Never mix OAT coolant with other coolant types, such as HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or traditional green IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) coolants. Mixing different coolant chemistries can lead to gelling, corrosion, and severe damage to the cooling system and engine. Always perform a thorough flush if switching coolant types (not recommended) or if contamination is suspected. Using distilled water for dilution (if required) is preferred over tap water to prevent mineral deposits.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid specifications depend on the specific transmission installed in your 2022 Ram 3500.

8HP75 Automatic Transmission (Paired with 6.4L HEMI):

This 8-speed automatic transmission requires Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF, which meets the Chrysler material standard MS-9602. The capacity for a pan drop and filter change is typically between 7 and 9 quarts, but always fill to the correct level according to the factory service procedure using the dipstick (if equipped) or level plug. This is a highly specialized fluid, and using anything else can cause severe transmission damage.

• Interval: Under normal driving conditions, the fluid is often considered "fill for life" by ZF, but for heavy-duty truck applications like the Ram 3500, many recommend inspecting and potentially servicing around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, especially with heavy towing. Consult your owner's manual or a qualified technician for severe duty cycles.
• Common Pitfalls: Using generic "multi-vehicle" ATF can lead to incorrect shift performance and premature wear. Only use fluid specifically approved for ZF 8-speed transmissions and meeting MS-9602. These transmissions are sensitive to fluid type and level.

Aisin AS69RC Automatic Transmission (Paired with 6.7L Cummins Diesel):

This heavy-duty Aisin transmission requires Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4), which meets Chrysler material standard MS-9602. The capacity for a pan drop and filter change is approximately 12.5 to 13.5 quarts. As with any automatic transmission, always check the fluid level using the correct procedure outlined in your owner's manual.

• Interval: For severe duty, which many Ram 3500 diesel trucks experience, service intervals as frequent as every 30,000 to 60,000 miles are common. For less strenuous use, intervals may extend up to 90,000 to 120,000 miles. Always refer to your owner's manual for the recommended maintenance schedule based on your driving conditions.
• Common Pitfalls: Never use Dexron, Mercon, or universal ATFs in an AS69RC transmission. Only ATF+4 is approved. Using an incorrect fluid will lead to transmission damage and poor shift quality. Ensure the fluid meets the MS-9602 specification.

Transfer Case Fluid

For 4WD and AWD 2022 Ram 3500 models, the transfer case (e.g., BW 44-46, 44-47, 44-48) typically uses Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602). The capacity generally ranges from 1.6 to 2.0 quarts. Always verify the exact capacity and fluid type for your specific transfer case in your owner's manual.

• Interval: Transfer case fluid should typically be inspected and possibly changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles under normal conditions. Heavy off-road use or towing may necessitate more frequent changes. Consult your owner's manual.
• Common Pitfalls: As with the Aisin transmission, only ATF+4 (MS-9602) should be used. Using other ATFs can cause premature wear or damage to the transfer case components.

Differential Fluid

The 2022 Ram 3500 typically features American Axle Manufacturing (AAM) differentials. Both front and rear differentials generally specify SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 gear oil.

Front Differential (e.g., AAM 11.5 inch front):

Requires SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 gear oil. Capacity is approximately 2.5 to 3.0 quarts.

Rear Differential (e.g., AAM 12.0 inch rear):

Requires SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 gear oil. Capacity is approximately 4.0 to 4.5 quarts.

• Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD): If your Ram 3500 is equipped with a limited-slip differential, a friction modifier additive must be included with or added to the SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 gear oil. Some synthetic GL-5 oils are "LS" (Limited Slip) rated and already contain the necessary additives. Always verify if the oil is suitable for LSDs or if a separate additive is needed.
• Interval: Differential fluid should generally be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, especially if the vehicle is regularly used for heavy towing, hauling, or off-road conditions. For less strenuous use, intervals may extend up to 90,000 miles. Consult your owner's manual.
• Common Pitfalls: Using a gear oil with an incorrect API GL rating (e.g., GL-4 instead of GL-5) can damage hypoid gears. Always ensure the correct friction modifier is used for LSDs to prevent chatter and ensure proper operation.

Brake Fluid

The 2022 Ram 3500 requires either DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 has a higher wet and dry boiling point than DOT 3, offering a margin of safety, especially under heavy use. Both are hygroscopic (absorb moisture), which lowers their boiling point over time. Never use silicone-based DOT 5 fluid.

• Interval: Brake fluid is hydroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which reduces its boiling point and can lead to corrosion in the braking system. It is generally recommended to flush and replace brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles, regardless of mileage, to maintain optimal braking performance and longevity of brake components.
• Common Pitfalls: Never mix DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 with DOT 5 fluid. DOT 5 is silicone-based and incompatible with the other glycol-based fluids. Mixing can cause severe damage to the brake system seals. Always use fresh fluid from a sealed container, as brake fluid begins to absorb moisture as soon as it's exposed to air.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2022 Ram 3500 power steering system typically specifies Mopar Power Steering Fluid +4 or equivalent, meeting Chrysler material standard MS-5931.

• Interval: Power steering fluid is generally a "lifetime" fill, but inspecting the fluid level and condition (color and odor) during routine maintenance is good practice. If the fluid appears dark or has a burnt smell, it may be time for a flush and refill. Check your owner's manual for any specific intervals for severe duty.
• Common Pitfalls: Using generic power steering fluid or automatic transmission fluid (ATF) not specifically approved to MS-5931 can cause damage to the power steering pump and other components.

Washer Fluid

Any commercially available windshield washer fluid is acceptable for the 2022 Ram 3500. It is recommended to use a Mopar concentrate or pre-mixed fluid designed for automotive use. For cold climates, ensure the fluid has a low freezing point.

• Interval: Replenish as needed.
• Common Pitfalls: Do not use plain water, especially in freezing temperatures, as it can freeze and damage the washer system components. Avoid household glass cleaners, as they may contain ammonia that can damage paint or trim.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For 2022 Ram 3500 models equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is essential for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. DEF must meet ISO 22241 standards and API AUS 32 specifications. The DEF tank capacity is approximately 5.5 gallons.

• Interval: The DEF consumption rate varies based on driving conditions, load, and engine operation. The vehicle's gauge and warning messages will indicate when a refill is needed. Always pay attention to these warnings as the vehicle's performance will be derated or even prevent starting if the DEF level is too low.
• Common Pitfalls: Only use DEF that meets ISO 22241 and API AUS 32 standards. Never put DEF in the diesel fuel tank, and never put diesel fuel in the DEF tank; this will cause catastrophic damage to the emissions system and fuel system, respectively. Store DEF in a cool, dry place and avoid contamination. DEF has a shelf life, typically around 1-2 years, so check the expiration date. Do not use expired or contaminated DEF.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.