2020 Ram 3500 service indicator

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE401
DEALER SERVICE
An authorized dealer has the qualified service
personnel, special tools, and equipment to
perform all service operations in an expert
manner. Service Manuals are available which
include detailed service information for your
vehicle. Refer to these Service Manuals before
attempting any procedure yourself.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems may void your warranty and could
result in civil penalties being assessed against
you.
ENGINE OIL
Change Engine Oil — Gas Engine
The oil change indicator system will remind you
that it is time to take your vehicle in for
scheduled maintenance. Refer to “Scheduled
Servicing” in this chapter for further
information.
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 8,000 miles (13,000 km),
12 months or 350 hours of engine run time,
whichever comes first. The 350 hours of engine
run or idle time is generally only a concern for
fleet customers.
Change Engine Oil — Diesel Engine
Refer to the “Scheduled Servicing” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
Engine Oil Selection — Gas Engine
For best performance and maximum protection
under all types of operating conditions, the
manufacturer only recommends engine oils
that are API Certified and meet the
requirements of FCA Material Standard
MS-12633. NOTE:
Hemi engine (6.4L) at times can tick right after
startup and then quiet down after approxi
-
mately 30 seconds. This is normal and will not
harm the engine. This characteristic can be
caused by short drive cycles. For example, if the
vehicle is started then shut off after driving a
short distance. Upon restarting, you may experi -
ence a ticking sound. Other causes could be if
the vehicle is unused for an extended period of
time, incorrect oil, extended oil changes or
extended idling. If the engine continues to tick
or if the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) comes
on, see the nearest authorized dealer.
Engine Oil Selection — Diesel Engine
For best performance and maximum protection
under all types of operating conditions, the
manufacturer only recommends engine oils
that are API CK-4 certified and meet the
requirements of FCA US LLC. Use Mopar or an
equivalent oil meeting FCA Material Standard
MS-10902. Products meeting Cummins CES
20081 may also be used. The identification of
these engine oils are typically located on the
back of the oil container.WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or
around a motor vehicle. Only do service work
for which you have the knowledge and the
proper equipment. If you have any doubt
about your ability to perform a service job,
take your vehicle to a competent mechanic.7

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE409
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small
cracks that run across ribbed surface of belt
from rib to rib, are considered normal. These
are not a reason to replace belt. However,
cracks running along a rib (not across) are not
normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib
must be replaced. Also have the belt replaced if
it has excessive wear, frayed cords or severe
glazing.

Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)

Conditions that would require replacement:
Rib chunking (one or more ribs has sepa -
rated from belt body)
Rib or belt wear
Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between
two ribs)
Belt slips
“Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain
correct position on pulley)
Belt broken (note: identify and correct
problem before new belt is installed)
Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or
rumble is heard or felt while drive belt is in
operation)
Some conditions can be caused by a faulty
component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys
should be carefully inspected for damage and
proper alignment.
Belt replacement on some models requires the
use of special tools, we recommend having your
vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.
DRAINING FUEL/WATER SEPARATOR
F
ILTER — DIESEL ENGINE
There are two fuel filter assemblies. One is
located on the driver's side of the engine. The
best access to this water drain valve is from
under the hood. The second one is on the under
body, located in front of the rear axle above the
drive shaft on pick-up models. The Chassis Cab models second filter location is on the frame
behind the front axle. The best access to this
water drain valve is from under the vehicle.
If water is detected in the water separator while
the engine is running, or while the ignition
switch is in the ON position, the “Water In Fuel
Indicator Light” will illuminate and an audible
chime will be heard five times. At this point you
should stop the engine and drain the water from
both of the filters.
CAUTION!
Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter
when the engine is running.
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appro-
priate container.
CAUTION!
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” remains
on, DO NOT START the engine before you
drain water from the fuel filters to avoid
engine damage.
7

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410SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
If the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” comes on
and a single chime is heard while you are
driving, or with the ignition switch in the ON
position, there may be a problem with your
water separator wiring or sensor. See an
authorized dealer for service.

Upon proper draining of the water from both fuel
filters, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” will
remain illuminated for approximately 10 seconds.
If the water was drained while the engine was
running, the “Water In Fuel Indicator Light” may
remain on for approximately three minutes.

NOTE:
Care should be taken in disposing of used fluids
from your vehicle. Used fluids, indiscriminately
discarded, can present a problem to the envi -
ronment. Contact an authorized dealer, service
station, or government agency for advice on
recycling programs and for where used fluids
and filters can be properly disposed of in your
area. Drain the fuel/water separator filters when the
“Water In Fuel Indicator Light” is ON. Within
10 minutes of vehicle shutdown, turn the
engine mounted filter drain valve (located on
the side of the filter assembly)
counterclockwise 1/4 turn, and turn the under
body mounted filter drain valve (located on the
bottom of the filter assembly) counterclockwise
wise 1 full turn. Then turn the ignition switch to
the ON position, and allow any accumulated
water to drain. Leave the drain valve open until
all water and contaminants have been
removed. When clean fuel is visible, close the
drain valve following these guidelines:

1. Rotate the drain clockwise to close until
you feel resistance from the internal seal.

2. Continue turning the drain 1/2 of a turn to properly compress the seal.
NOTE:
Over-compression of the seal due to over-tight -
ening of the drain will damage the seal, cause a
leak, and require the entire sensor to be
replaced.
3. Turn the ignition switch to OFF. The sensor drain should not be over-tightened
during normal service operations to avoid
internal damage and future fuel leaks. The
drain should be closed and secured without the
use of tools.
If more than a couple ounces/milliliters of fuel
have been drained, follow the directions for
“Priming If The Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel.”
ENGINE MOUNTED FUEL FILTER
R
EPLACEMENT — DIESEL ENGINE
NOTE:
Using a fuel filter that does not meet the
manufacturer's filtration and water sepa -
rating requirements can severely impact fuel
system life and reliability.
The engine mounted filter housing is
equipped with a No-Filter-No-Run (NFNR)
feature. Engine will not run if:
a. No filter is installed.
b. Inferior/Non-approved filter is used. Use of OEM filter is required to ensure vehicle
will run.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE439
(Continued)
Life Of Tire
The service life of a tire is dependent upon
varying factors including, but not limited to:
Driving style.
Tire pressure - Improper cold tire inflation
pressures can cause uneven wear patterns
to develop across the tire tread. These
abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread life,
resulting in the need for earlier tire replace -
ment.
Distance driven.
Performance tires, tires with a speed rating of
V or higher, and Summer tires typically have
a reduced tread life. Rotation of these tires
per the vehicle scheduled maintenance is
highly recommended. NOTE:
Wheel valve stem must be replaced as well
when installing new tires due to wear and tear
in existing tires.
Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with
as little exposure to light as possible. Protect
tires from contact with oil, grease, and gasoline.
Replacement Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance
of many characteristics. They should be
inspected regularly for wear and correct cold
tire inflation pressures. The manufacturer
strongly recommends that you use tires
equivalent to the originals in size, quality and
performance when replacement is needed.
Refer to the paragraph on “Tread Wear
Indicators” in this section. Refer to the Tire and
Loading Information placard or the Vehicle
Certification Label for the size designation of
your tire. The Load Index and Speed Symbol for
your tire will be found on the original equipment
tire sidewall.
See the Tire Sizing Chart example found in the
“Tire Safety Information” section of this manual
for more information relating to the Load Index
and Speed Symbol of a tire. It is recommended to replace the two front tires
or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire
can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling. If
you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the
wheel’s specifications match those of the
original wheels.
It is recommended you contact an authorized
tire dealer or original equipment dealer with any
questions you may have on tire specifications or
capability. Failure to use equivalent
replacement tires may adversely affect the
safety, handling, and ride of your vehicle.
WARNING!
Tires and the spare tire should be replaced
after six years, regardless of the remaining
tread. Failure to follow this warning can result
in sudden tire failure. You could lose control
and have a collision resulting in serious injury
or death.
WARNING!
Do not use a tire, wheel size, load rating, or
speed rating other than that specified for
your vehicle. Some combinations of unap
-
proved tires and wheels may change
suspension dimensions and performance
characteristics, resulting in changes to
steering, handling, and braking of your
vehicle. This can cause unpredictable
handling and stress to steering and
suspension components. You could lose
control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death. Use only the tire and
wheel sizes with load ratings approved for
your vehicle.
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454TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
FUEL REQUIREMENTS — GAS ENGINE
6.4L ENGINE
Do not use E-85 flex fuel or ethanol blends
greater than 15% in this engine.
This engine is designed to meet all
emissions regulations and provide
satisfactory fuel economy and
performance when using high quality
unleaded gasoline having a posted octane
number range of 87 to 89 as specified by the
(R+M)/2 method. The use of 89 octane “Plus”
gasoline is recommended for optimum
performance and fuel economy.
While operating on gasoline with an octane
number of 87, hearing a light knocking sound
from the engine is not a cause for concern.
However, if the engine is heard making a heavy
knocking sound, see dealer immediately. Use of
gasoline with an octane number lower than 87
can cause engine failure and may void or not be
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such
as hard starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you
experience these symptoms, try another brand
of gasoline before considering service for the
vehicle.
REFORMULATED GASOLINE
Many areas of the country require the use of
cleaner burning gasoline referred to as
“Reformulated Gasoline”. Reformulated
gasoline contains oxygenates and are
specifically blended to reduce vehicle
emissions and improve air quality.
The use of reformulated gasoline is
recommended. Properly blended reformulated
gasoline will provide improved performance
and durability of engine and fuel system
components.
MATERIALS ADDED TO FUEL
Besides using unleaded gasoline with the
proper octane rating, gasolines that contain
detergents, corrosion and stability additives are
recommended. Using gasolines that have these
additives will help improve fuel economy,
reduce emissions, and maintain vehicle
performance.
Designated TOP TIER Detergent
Gasoline contains a higher level of
detergents to further aide in
minimizing engine and fuel system
deposits. When available, the usage of TOP
TIER Detergent gasoline is recommended. Visit www.toptiergas.com for a list of TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline Retailers.
Indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning
agents should be avoided. Many of these
materials intended for gum and varnish
removal may contain active solvents or similar
ingredients. These can harm fuel system gasket
and diaphragm materials.
GASOLINE/OXYGENATE BLENDS
Some fuel suppliers blend unleaded gasoline
with oxygenates such as ethanol.
CAUTION!
DO NOT use E-85, gasoline containing
methanol, or gasoline containing more than
15% ethanol (E-15). Use of these blends may
result in starting and drivability problems,
damage critical fuel system components,
cause emissions to exceed the applicable
standard, and/or cause the Malfunction
Indicator Light to illuminate. Please observe
pump labels as they should clearly
communicate if a fuel contains greater than
15% ethanol (E-15).

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS455
Problems that result from using gasoline
containing more than 15% ethanol (E-15) or
gasoline containing methanol are not the
responsibility of the manufacturer and may void
or not be covered under New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
DO NOT USE E-85 IN NON-FLEX FUEL
V
EHICLES
Non-Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV) are compatible
with gasoline containing up to 15% ethanol
(E-15). Use of gasoline with higher ethanol
content may void the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
If a Non-FFV vehicle is inadvertently fueled with
E-85 fuel, the engine will have some or all of
these symptoms:
Operate in a lean mode.
OBD II Malfunction Indicator Light on.
Poor engine performance.
Poor cold start and cold drivability.
Increased risk for fuel system component
corrosion.
CNG AND LP FUEL SYSTEM
M
ODIFICATIONS
Modifications that allow the engine to run on
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquid
Propane (LP) may result in damage to the
engine, emissions, and fuel system
components. Problems that result from running
CNG or LP are not the responsibility of the
manufacturer and may void or not be covered
under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
MMT IN GASOLINE
Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl
(MMT) is a manganese-containing metallic
additive that is blended into some gasoline to
increase octane. Gasoline blended with MMT
provides no performance advantage beyond
gasoline of the same octane number without
MMT. Gasoline blended with MMT reduces
spark plug life and reduces emissions system
performance in some vehicles. The
manufacturer recommends that gasoline
without MMT be used in your vehicle. The MMT
content of gasoline may not be indicated on the
gasoline pump; therefore, you should ask your
gasoline retailer whether the gasoline contains
MMT. MMT is prohibited in Federal and
California reformulated gasoline.
FUEL SYSTEM CAUTIONS
CAUTION!
Follow these guidelines to maintain your
vehicle’s performance:
The use of leaded gasoline is prohibited by
Federal law. Using leaded gasoline can
impair engine performance and damage
the emissions control system.
An out-of-tune engine or certain fuel or igni -
tion malfunctions can cause the catalytic
converter to overheat. If you notice a
pungent burning odor or some light smoke,
your engine may be out of tune or malfunc -
tioning and may require immediate service.
Contact an authorized dealer for service
assistance.
The use of fuel additives, which are now
being sold as octane enhancers, is not
recommended. Most of these products
contain high concentrations of methanol.
Fuel system damage or vehicle perfor -
mance problems resulting from the use of
such fuels or additives is not the responsi -
bility of the manufacturer and may void or
not be covered under the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.8

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456TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with the emissions
control system can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNINGS
FUEL REQUIREMENTS – DIESEL ENGINE
Use good quality diesel fuel from a reputable
supplier in your vehicle. Federal law requires
that you must fuel this vehicle with Ultra Low
Sulfur Highway Diesel fuel (15 ppm Sulfur
maximum) and prohibits the use of Low Sulfur
Highway Diesel fuel (500 ppm Sulfur maximum)
to avoid damage to the emissions control
system.
For most year-round service, No. 2 diesel fuel
meeting ASTM (formerly known as the American
Society for Testing and Materials) specification
D-975 Grade S15 will provide good
performance. If the vehicle is exposed to
extreme cold (below 20°F or -7°C), or is
required to operate at colder-than-normal
conditions for prolonged periods, use climatized
No. 2 diesel fuel or dilute the No. 2 diesel fuel
with 50% No. 1 diesel fuel. This will provide
better protection from fuel gelling or
wax-plugging of the fuel filters. Diesel fuel is seldom completely free of water.
To prevent fuel system trouble, drain the
accumulated water from the fuel/water
separator using the fuel/water separator drain
provided on both fuel filters. If you buy good
quality fuel and follow the cold weather advice
above, fuel conditioners should not be required
in your vehicle. If available in your area, a high
cetane “premium” diesel fuel may offer
improved cold-starting and warm-up
performance.
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is
deadly. Follow the precautions below to
prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain
carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless
gas, which can kill. Never run the engine in
a closed area, such as a garage, and never
sit in a parked vehicle with the engine
running for an extended period. If the
vehicle is stopped in an open area with the
engine running for more than a short
period, adjust the ventilation system to
force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
Guard against carbon monoxide with
proper maintenance. Have the exhaust
system inspected every time the vehicle is
raised. Have any abnormal conditions
repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with
all side windows fully open.
WARNING!
Do not use alcohol or gasoline as a fuel
blending agent. They can be unstable under
certain conditions and hazardous or
explosive when mixed with diesel fuel.
CAUTION!
If the “Water in Fuel Indicator Light” remains
on, DO NOT START engine before you drain
the water from the fuel filter(s) to avoid
engine damage. Refer to “Draining Fuel/
Water Separator Filter” in “Servicing And
Maintenance” for further information.

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553
Belts, Seat
..................................................... 210Blind Spot Monitoring.................................... 153Body Builders Guide........................................ 12Body Mechanism Lubrication........................ 414B-Pillar Location............................................. 433Brake Assist System...................................... 145Brake Control System.................................... 145Brake Fluid.......................................... 421, 463Brake System...................................... 421, 452Fluid Check............................................... 421Master Cylinder......................................... 421Parking...................................................... 231Warning Light............................................ 131Brake/Transmission Interlock....................... 235Bulb Replacement......................................... 351Bulbs, Light.......................................... 212, 351
C
Cab Top Clearance Lights.............................. 357Camera.......................................................... 309Camera, AUX........................................ 311, 318Camera, Rear...................................... 309, 312Camper............................................................ 98Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)......... 460Capacities, Fluid.................................. 459, 460Caps, Filler Oil (Engine)...................................... 396, 402Radiator (Coolant Pressure)...................... 419Car Washes................................................... 448Carbon Monoxide Warning.................. 209, 456
Cargo Light....................................................... 52Cellular Phone.............................................. 540Center High Mounted Stop Light................... 356Center Seat Storage Compartment.................. 81Charge Air Cooler.......................................... 421Chart, Tire Sizing........................................... 430Check Engine Light (Malfunction
Indicator Light).............................................. 143Checking Your Vehicle For Safety................. 209Checks, Safety.............................................. 209Child Restraint.............................................. 191Child RestraintsBooster Seats........................................... 194Child Seat Installation..................... 202, 204How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt.... 201Infant And Child Restraints....................... 192Locating The LATCH Anchorages.............. 199Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children.. 195Older Children And Child Restraints......... 193Seating Positions...................................... 195Clean Air Gasoline......................................... 454CleaningWheels..................................................... 442Climate Control................................................ 57Automatic.................................................... 61Manual........................................................ 57Cold Weather Operation............................... 217Compact Spare Tire...................................... 441Contract, Service.......................................... 549Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............ 419
Cooling System............................................. 417Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)...................... 418Coolant Level................................... 418, 420Cooling Capacity.............................. 459, 460Disposal Of Used Coolant......................... 420Drain, Flush, And Refill............................. 418Inspection................................................. 420Points To Remember................................ 420Pressure Cap............................................ 419Radiator Cap............................................. 419Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze).... 418, 459, 461, 464Corrosion Protection..................................... 447Cruise Control (Speed Control)............. 280, 282Cruise Light................................................... 141Cupholders.......................................................86Customer Assistance.................................... 548Cybersecurity................................................ 467
D
Daytime Running Lights...................................49Dealer Service............................................... 401Defroster, Rear Window...................................57Defroster, Windshield............................ 57, 210Delay (Intermittent) Wipers..............................55Diagnostic System, Onboard......................... 142Diesel Exhaust Brake.................................... 232Diesel Fuel.................................................... 456Diesel Fuel Requirements............................. 456
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