To preserve the powerful performance of your RAM, it’s vital to change the oil when needed. However, the recommended RAM oil change schedule can vary depending on several factors, such as whether you have a diesel or gasoline engine. Your local dealership will be able to carry out any oil changes as well as provide a personalized schedule for your RAM.
RAM Oil Change Schedule: Diesel vs. Gasoline Engines
Gasoline Engines
How often you change your oil in a gasoline engine depends largely on your driving habits. For regular use, an oil change will only be required after 7500–10,000 miles, or 12 months if sooner. However, if you tow regularly, spend a lot of time with your engine idling, frequently traverse mountainous terrain, or if the climate conditions are particularly hot or cold, oil changes may be required from 3000 to 7500 miles, or every six months if sooner. The more frequently your RAM is exposed to challenging conditions, the more often you will need an oil change. Vehicles that are in particularly hot or cold climates or that tow regularly are likely to be closer to the lower end of the scale.
Diesel Engines
Engines that use diesel can typically last longer between oil changes than their gasoline counterparts. Under regular driving conditions, you might be able to drive up to 15,000 miles or 12 months before the oil needs to be changed. However, similar to gasoline engines, if you idle regularly, drive in extreme temperatures, or tow regularly you might need to change the oil more frequently. This could mean that oil changes are required every 5000 to 7000 miles, or every six months if sooner.
Key Differences Between Gasoline and Diesel Engines
Although oil performs a similar role in both gasoline and diesel engines, there are some key differences in how the engines operate. Diesel engines typically operate with lower RPMs but higher pressure, which in turn produces more soot. This contaminates the oil, which is why diesel oil usually contains more detergents to keep the oil clean. In contrast, gasoline engines typically run at higher temperatures and higher RPMs. This raises the temperature of the oil, causing it to degrade more quickly. Although engine oil needs to be changed more frequently in a gasoline engine, the filters don’t normally need to be changed as often as in a diesel engine.
RAM Oil Change Indicator
Many RAM trucks have an oil change indicator which tracks the quality of the oil. When oil levels are low or dirty, a service light will flash up to warn the driver. Although this system is useful, it shouldn’t be relied upon entirely. Oil should always be checked manually at periodic intervals and taken for regular maintenance services. If you have any questions about changing the oil in your gasoline or diesel engine, we can help. Get in touch with our friendly team here at Ed Martin Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Anderson, IN, today for advice you can trust.
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