Vehicle Questions and Answers
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A Dodge Ram 1500 truck with a 5.7L V8 Hemi engine can run on either 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic motor oil, but it is recommended to use the OEM Mopar oil for optimal performance. The oil capacity for this truck is 7 US quarts including the filter. It is advised to change the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. If you decide to do the oil change yourself, expect to spend around $40 to $65 on fluid.
5w30 is effective with no MDS issues. A friend tried out 15w40 and experienced the same positive results, with 170,000 miles on it and no issues. Ignore any negative talk and trust your own experience.
The regular choice is 5w-20 full synthetic oil. The thinner consistency is necessary during cold starts to ensure the oil reaches the upper components quickly, protecting the camshaft and lifters from wear and tear.
The Ram 1500 is designed to run on fully synthetic oil. The 3.0L V6 engine requires SAE 5W-40 oil with a 10-quart capacity. The 3.6L V6 engine prefers SAE 5W-20 oil and holds 5.9 quarts. The mighty 5.7L V8 engine also uses SAE 5W-20 oil and needs 7 quarts for optimal performance.
5W-20 is an engine oil viscosity rating that indicates the oil's flow characteristics at cold temperatures and high temperatures.
Use 5w-20 synthetic or conventional oil in your vehicle, but you can switch to full synthetic oil once and continue using it thereafter.
I purchased my Ram 1500 from the dealer with just 2200 miles on it. They advised me to stick with using 5W20 conventional oil, which I have been doing, and it has been working well for me.