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Dodge Ram 2009-Present: General Information and Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Whether your Dodge Ram is new or used, you can extend the life and potentially reduce the risk of costly repairs by keeping up with the recommended maintenance. From tires to spark plugs, oil changes, and more, you can keep your truck running strong over the years. Here's a look at the suggested maintenance schedule for the Ram.

By Kate Halse - July 15, 2015
Contributors: Duso02

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (2009-present).

While regular oil changes are a good place to start, there's more to proper vehicle maintenance than simply changing the oil. Depending on certain factors, including the age of your vehicle and how frequently you drive, specific maintenance requirements may vary a bit from factory recommendations. For example, if you often use your Ram for towing, you might need to inspect your tires for wear and tear at shorter intervals. Whether your Ram has 10,000 or 100,000 miles on the odometer, here are some basic maintenance tips to keep the vehicle running strong.

Maintenance Overview

Oil Changes

Most newer Dodge Ram vehicles are equipped with an on-board oil life indicator that lets you know when it's time for an oil change. Some Ram owners prefer to use this method, which relies on data such as the total miles driven since the last oil change and how hard the miles were driven. Other owners opt for a certain interval each time, such as 5k or 7k. Dodge recommends limiting the 1500 to a maximum of 10,000 miles or 12 months between oil changes, with an interval of 8,000 miles or 12 months for the 2500-3500 models.

Figure 1. Change oil at least every 10k miles.

Pro Tip

Ram trucks with a Multiple Displacement System (MDS) must use SAE 5W-20 oil to keep the engine functioning properly.

Tire Rotation

It is best to rotate the tires at every oil change interval. However, the tires should be rotated sooner if they show signs of irregular wear.

Figure 2. Rotate tires at each oil change interval.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are designed to last a long time on modern Ram trucks. They should be replaced at the 100,000 mile mark, regardless of the engine type. Unlike other maintenance items, the yearly intervals do not apply for spark plug changes.

Figure 3. Spark plugs should be changed at 100,000 miles.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

It's also a good idea to check the automatic transmission fluid if your truck has a dipstick. The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be changed at 60,000 miles or six years if you have a fleet vehicle or you use it for frequent trailer towing. Those who use their truck for more routine purposes can wait until the 120,000 mile or eight year mark. Both of these intervals apply only to the six-speed automatic Ram.

Figure 4. The automatic transmission fluid should be changed at 60,000 or 120,000 miles.

Scheduled Maintenance

There are many other steps you can take to keep your Ram running smoothly, even as the miles add up. At every oil change interval, you should inspect the battery, cleaning and/or tightening the terminals if needed. You will also want to inspect the brake and cooling systems for signs of leaks or wear and tear. If you're driving in dusty or off-road conditions, be sure to check the engine air cleaner at every oil change.

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