2020 Ram 2500 oil level

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE417
checked. Operating the vehicle with an
improper fluid level can cause severe transmis -
sion damage.
Fluid Level Check — Six-Speed Transmission
It is best to check the fluid level when the trans -
mission is at normal operating temperature
(158-176°F / 70-80°C). This normally occurs
after at least 15 miles (25 km) of driving. At normal operating temperature the fluid cannot
be held comfortably between the fingertips. You
can read the transmission sump temperature in
the instrument cluster screen refer to “Instru -
ment Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your
Instrument Panel” for further information.
Use the following procedure to check the trans -
mission fluid level properly:

1. Monitor the transmission temperature using the instrument cluster display, and
operate the vehicle as required to reach the normal operating temperature. If the
transmission is not functioning properly, or
the vehicle cannot be driven, see the NOTE
and CAUTION below about checking the
fluid level at colder temperatures.

2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Run the engine at normal idle speed for at least 60 seconds, and leave the engine
running for the rest of this procedure.
4. Fully apply the parking brake, and press the brake pedal.
5. Place the gear selector momentarily into each gear position (allowing time for the
transmission to fully engage in each posi -
tion), ending with the transmission in PARK.
6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and rein -
sert it until seated.
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on both sides. The fluid level
reading is only valid if there is a solid
coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be full
of fluid if the actual level is at or above the
hole. The fluid level should be between the
“HOT” (upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operating temperature. If
the fluid level is low, add fluid through the
dipstick tube to bring it to the proper level.
Do not overfill.
Use ONLY the specified fluid
refer to "Fluids And Lubricants" in “Tech -
nical Specifications” for fluid specifications.
After adding any quantity of oil through the
dipstick tube, wait a minimum of two
minutes for the oil to fully drain into the
transmission before rechecking the fluid
level.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two “COLD” (lower)
holes on the dipstick with the fluid at 60-70°F /
16-21°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
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418SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
8. Reinsert the dipstick. Check for leaks.
Release the parking brake.
NOTE:
If it is necessary to check the transmission
below the operating temperature, the fluid level
should be between the two COLD (lower) holes
on the dipstick with the fluid at 68-86°F /
20-30°C. Only use the COLD region of the
dipstick as a rough reference when setting the
fluid level after a transmission service or fluid
change. Re-check the fluid level, and adjust as
required, once the transmission reaches
normal operating temperature.Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not
required. However, change the fluid and filter if
the fluid becomes contaminated (with water,
etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for
any reason.
Fluid And Filter Changes — Six Speed
Transmission
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filters if the
fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.),
or if the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle Fluid
Level
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks
are not required. When the vehicle is serviced
for other reasons the exterior surfaces of the
axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil
leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information. This
inspection should be made with the vehicle in a
level position.
For all 2500/3500 Model axles, the fluid level
should be 1/4 in ± 1/4 in (6.4 mm ± 6.4 mm)
below the fill hole on the 9.25 in front, 11.5 in
rear axle, and 12.0 in rear axle.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Lubricant Selection
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
NOTE:
The presence of water in the gear lubricant will
result in corrosion and possible failure of differ -
ential components. Operation of the vehicle in
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.
CAUTION!
If the fluid temperature is below 50°F (10°C)
it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add
fluid until the temperature is elevated enough
to produce an accurate reading. Run the
engine at idle, in PARK, to warm the fluid.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE419
water, as may be encountered in some
off-highway types of service, will require
draining and refilling the axle to avoid damage.
Limited-Slip Differentials DO REQUIRE limited
slip oil additive (friction modifiers).
NOTE:
Slight noise and mild shuddering may be
evident while turning a vehicle with limited slip
differential on concrete or dry pavement. These
conditions should be considered normal opera -
tion of the limited slip differential.
Transfer Case
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer's recommended
fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Tech -
nical Specifications” for further information.
Fluid Level Check
This fluid level can be checked by removing the
filler plug. The fluid level should be to the
bottom edge of the filler plug hole with the
vehicle in a level position.
Drain And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section
for the proper maintenance intervals.
Noise Control System Required
Maintenance & Warranty
All vehicles built over 10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and manufactured
for sale and use in the United States are
required to comply with the Federal Govern -
ment's Exterior Noise Regulations. These vehi -
cles can be identified by the Noise Emission
Control Label located in the operator's compart -
ment.
Required Maintenance For Noise Control
Systems
The following maintenance services must be
performed every six months or 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) whichever comes first, to ensure
proper operation of the noise control systems.
In addition, inspection and service should be
performed anytime a malfunction is observed or
suspected. Proper maintenance of the entire
vehicle will help the effectiveness of the noise
control systems.
Exhaust System
Inspect the entire exhaust system for leaks and
damaged parts. Devices such as hangers,
clamps, and U-bolts should be tight and in good
condition. Damaged components, burned or
blown out mufflers, burned or rusted out
exhaust pipes should be replaced according to
the procedures and specifications outlined in
the appropriate service manual.
Air Cleaner Assembly
Inspect air cleaner housing for proper assembly
and fit. Make certain that the air cleaner is prop -
erly positioned and that the cover is tight. Check
all hoses leading to the air cleaner for tightness.
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541
Belts, Seat
..................................................... 209
Blind Spot Monitoring.................................... 153
Body Builders Guide........................................ 12
Body Mechanism Lubrication........................ 408
B-Pillar Location............................................. 426
Brake Assist System...................................... 145
Brake Control System.................................... 145Brake Fluid.......................................... 415, 454
Brake System...................................... 415, 444
Fluid Check............................................... 415Master Cylinder......................................... 415
Parking...................................................... 229
Warning Light............................................ 130
Brake/Transmission Interlock....................... 232
Bulb Replacement......................................... 372Bulbs, Light.......................................... 210, 372
C
Cab Top Clearance Lights
.............................. 378
Camera.......................................................... 302
Camera, AUX........................................ 304, 311
Camera, Rear...................................... 302, 305
Camper.......................................................... 100
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)......... 451Capacities, Fluid............................................ 451
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine)
...................................... 391, 397
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...................... 413
Car Washes................................................... 440
Carbon Monoxide Warning.................. 208, 448
Cargo Light....................................................... 52
Cellular Phone.............................................. 527
Center High Mounted Stop Light................... 377
Center Seat Storage Compartment.................. 82
Charge Air Cooler.......................................... 415
Chart, Tire Sizing........................................... 423
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator
Light)............................................................. 142
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety................. 208
Checks, Safety.............................................. 208Child Restraint.............................................. 190
Child RestraintsBooster Seats
........................................... 193
Child Seat Installation..................... 201, 202
How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt.... 200Infant And Child Restraints....................... 192
Locating The LATCH Anchorages.............. 198
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children.. 195
Older Children And Child Restraints......... 193Seating Positions...................................... 194
Clean Air Gasoline......................................... 446
CleaningWheels
..................................................... 434
Climate Control................................................ 57
Automatic.................................................... 61
Manual........................................................ 57
Cold Weather Operation............................... 215
Compact Spare Tire...................................... 433
Contract, Service.......................................... 537
Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............ 413
Cooling System............................................. 411
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)...................... 413
Coolant Level................................... 412, 414
Cooling Capacity....................................... 451
Disposal Of Used Coolant......................... 414
Drain, Flush, And Refill............................. 412
Inspection................................................. 414Points To Remember................................ 414
Pressure Cap............................................ 413
Radiator Cap............................................. 413Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze)
............... 412, 451, 452, 454
Corrosion Protection..................................... 439
Cruise Control (Speed Control)............. 273, 275
Cruise Light................................................... 141Cupholders.......................................................87
Customer Assistance.................................... 536
Cybersecurity................................................ 458
D
Daytime Running Lights
...................................49
Dealer Service............................................... 396
Defroster, Rear Window...................................57
Defroster, Windshield............................ 57, 209Delay (Intermittent) Wipers..............................55
Diagnostic System, Onboard......................... 141
Diesel Exhaust Brake.................................... 230
Diesel Fuel.................................................... 448
Diesel Fuel Requirements............................. 448
Diesel Fuel System, Re-Priming.................... 407
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542
Differential, Limited Slip
................................ 264
Disabled Vehicle Towing................................ 369
Disposal Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)
....................... 414
Do Not Disturb............................................... 532
Door Ajar........................................................ 133
Door Ajar Light............................................... 133Door LocksAutomatic
.................................................... 31
Doors............................................................... 27Draining Fuel/Water Separator Filter............ 403
Driver’s Seat Back Tilt..................................... 32
DrivingOff-Pavement
............................................ 255
Off-Road.................................................... 255Through Flowing, Rising, Or Shallow Standing Water
..................................... 335
Dual Rear Wheels................................ 437, 444
E
Electric Brake Control System
....................... 145
Anti-Lock Brake System............................. 144
Electronic Roll Mitigation................. 149, 153
Electrical Power Outlets................................... 88Electronic Range Select (ERS)............. 236, 241
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)...................146
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light...... 132
Electronically Shifted Transfer Case.............. 244
Emergency Braking........................................ 229
Emergency, In Case OfFreeing Vehicle When Stuck
..................... 367
Hazard Warning Flasher........................... 338
Jump Starting........................................... 362
Emission Control System Maintenance........ 142
Engine......................................... 391, 392, 393
Air Cleaner................................................ 398Block Heater.................................... 218, 227
Break-In Recommendations..................... 228
Compartment.................................. 392, 393Compartment Identification...................... 391
Coolant (Antifreeze)......................... 452, 454
Exhaust Gas Caution....................... 208, 448
Fails To Start............................................ 214
Flooded, Starting...................................... 214Fuel Requirements.......................... 446, 451
Identifcation.................................... 392, 393
Idling........................................................ 224
Jump Starting........................................... 362Oil..................................396, 451, 452, 454
Oil Filler Cap.................................... 391, 397
Oil Filter.................................................... 398
Oil Reset................................................... 119
Oil Selection.................................... 396, 451
Oil Synthetic............................................. 398
Overheating.............................................. 367
Runaway................................................... 312
Starting..................................................... 212
Engine Oil Viscosity....................................... 397
Enhanced Accident Response
Feature
................................................ 189, 371
Entry System, Illuminated................................55
Ethanol.......................................................... 446
Exhaust Brake............................................... 230
Exhaust Gas Cautions.......................... 208, 448
Exhaust System..........................208, 410, 419Exterior Lighting...............................................49
Exterior Lights........................................ 49, 210
F
FiltersAir Cleaner
................................................ 398
Air Conditioning................................. 70, 401
Engine Fuel............................................... 403
Engine Oil...............................398, 452, 454
Engine Oil Disposal................................... 398
FlashersTurn Signals
.............................. 52, 140, 210
Flash-To-Pass...................................................51
Flat Tire Stowage.......................................... 350
Fluid Capacities............................................ 451
Fluid Leaks.................................................... 210
Fluid Level ChecksBrake........................................................ 415
Fluid, Brake................................................... 454
Fluids And Lubricants........................... 452, 454
Fog Lights.............................................. 52, 376
Fold Flat Load Floor.........................................86
Fold-Flat Seats.................................................32

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