2022 RAM 1500 check transmission fluid

8
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE .......................... 390 Two-Wheel Drive Models............................... 391
Four-Wheel Drive Models.............................. 392Emergency Tow Hooks — If Equipped .......... 392
ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM
(EARS) .................................................................. 392
EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ......................... 392
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING — GASOLINE
ENGINE ................................................................. 393
Maintenance Plan ......................................... 394
SCHEDULED SERVICING — DIESEL
ENGINE ................................................................. 398
Maintenance Plan — Diesel Fuel Up To B5
Biodiesel ....................................................... 399
Additional Maintenance — B6 To B20
Biodiesel ........................................................ 402
ENGINE COMPARTMENT .................................... 403
3.6L Engine With Stop/Start ........................ 403
5.7L Engine Without Stop/Start ................... 404
5.7L Engine With Stop/Start ........................ 405
3.0L Diesel Engine ........................................ 406
Checking Oil Level ......................................... 407
Adding Washer Fluid ..................................... 407
Maintenance-Free Battery ............................ 408
Pressure Washing ......................................... 408 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE..................................... 408
Engine Oil — Gas Engine .............................. 409Engine Oil Filter ............................................ 409
Engine Air Cleaner Filter ............................... 410
Draining Fuel/Water Separator
Filter — Diesel Engine ................................... 412Underbody Mounted Fuel Filter
Replacement — Diesel Engine...................... 413Priming If The Engine Has Run Out
Of Fuel — Diesel Engine ................................ 414Intervention Regeneration Strategy —
Message Process Flow (Diesel Engine) ....... 414
Diesel Exhaust Fluid...................................... 415
Air Conditioner Maintenance........................ 415
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection ................... 418Body Lubrication ........................................... 418Windshield Wiper Blades.............................. 419Exhaust System ............................................ 420
Cooling System ............................................. 421Charge Air Cooler — Inter-Cooler
(Diesel Engine) .............................................. 424
Brake System ............................................... 425
Automatic Transmission .............................. 426Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle
Fluid Level...................................................... 427
Transfer Case ................................................ 427Fuses.............................................................. 427
Bulb Replacement......................................... 438 TIRES ..................................................................... 444
Tire Safety Information ................................. 444
Tires — General Information ......................... 451
Tire Types....................................................... 455Spare Tires — If Equipped............................. 455Wheel And Wheel Trim Care......................... 457
Snow Traction Devices ................................. 458
Tire Rotation Recommendations ................ 460
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADES .................... 460
Treadwear...................................................... 460
Traction Grades ............................................. 461Temperature Grades..................................... 461
STORING THE VEHICLE ....................................... 461
BODYWORK .......................................................... 461
Protection From Atmospheric Agents .......... 461
Body And Underbody Maintenance ............. 462
Preserving The Bodywork ............................. 462
INTERIORS ........................................................... 464
Seats And Fabric Parts ................................. 464
Plastic And Coated Parts .............................. 465
Leather Surfaces........................................... 465
Glass Surfaces ............................................. 465

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 8

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL129
NOTE:The light may flash momentarily during sharp
cornering maneuvers, which change fluid level
conditions. The vehicle should have service
performed, and the brake fluid level checked.
If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is
necessary.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System
(ABS) are also equipped with Electronic Brake
Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of an EBD
failure, the Brake Warning Light will turn on along
with the ABS Light. Immediate repair to the ABS
system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be
checked by turning the ignition switch from the OFF
position to the ON/RUN position. The light should
illuminate for approximately two seconds. The light
should then turn off unless the parking brake is
applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does
not illuminate, have the light inspected by an
authorized dealer. The light also will turn on when the parking brake
is applied with the ignition switch in the ON/RUN
position.
NOTE:This light shows only that the parking brake is
applied. It does not show the degree of brake appli
-
cation.
Battery Charge Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
battery is not charging properly. If it stays
on while the engine is running, there may
be a malfunction with the charging
system. Contact an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the
electrical system or a related component.
Door Open Warning Light
This indicator will illuminate when a
door is ajar/open and not fully closed.
NOTE:If the vehicle is moving there will also be a single
chime.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate a problem with the ETC system.
If a problem is detected while the vehicle
is running, the light will either stay on or
flash depending on the nature of the problem.
Cycle the ignition when the vehicle is safely and
completely stopped and the transmission is placed
in the PARK position. The light should turn off. If
the light remains on with the vehicle running, your
vehicle will usually be drivable; however, see an
authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.
NOTE:This light may turn on if the accelerator and brake
pedals are pressed at the same time.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is
running, immediate service is required and you
may experience reduced performance, an
elevated/rough idle, or engine stall and your
vehicle may require towing. The light will come on
when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/
ON/RUN position and remain on briefly as a bulb
check. If the light does not come on during starting,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is
dangerous. Part of the brake system may have
failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You
could have a collision. Have the vehicle checked
immediately.
3

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 129

132GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
several miles (kilometers) at speeds greater than
30 mph (48 km/h), see an authorized dealer as
soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed
and corrected.
The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indi -
cator Light come on momentarily each time the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN position.
The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking
sounds when it is active. This is normal; the
sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive.
This light will come on when the vehicle is in an
ESC event.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light indicates
the ESC is off.
Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or ACC/
ON/RUN, the ESC system will be on, even if it was
turned off previously.
Service LaneSense Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
LaneSense system is not operating and
requires service. Please contact an
authorized dealer.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
windshield washer fluid is low.
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level is less than a ¼ tank,
and the Distance to Empty is less than
50 miles, this light will turn on and
remain on until fuel is added.
A single warning chime will sound with Low Fuel
Warning.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Warning Light (MIL)
The MIL is a part of an Onboard
Diagnostic System called OBD II that
monitors engine and automatic
transmission control systems. This
warning light will illuminate when the ignition is in
the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the
bulb does not come on when turning the ignition
switch from OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition
checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas
cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light
after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through several typical driving
styles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive
normally and will not require towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to
alert serious conditions that could lead to
immediate loss of power or severe catalytic
converter damage. The vehicle should be serviced
by an authorized dealer as soon as possible if this
occurs.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as
referenced above, can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating
conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive
slowly or park over flammable substances such
as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc. This could
result in death or serious injury to the driver,
occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the
vehicle control system. It also could affect fuel
economy and driveability. If the MIL is flashing,
severe catalytic converter damage and power
loss will soon occur. Immediate service is
required.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 132

226STARTING AND OPERATING
BEFORE PLOWING
Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper
fluid level.
Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper
tightness.
Check the runners and cutting edge for exces -
sive wear. The cutting edge should be ¼ to
½ inches (6 cm to 1.2 cm) above ground in
snow plowing position.
Check that snowplow lighting is connected and
functioning properly.
SNOWPLOW PREP PACKAGE MODEL
A
VAILABILITY
For Information about snowplow applications visit
www.ramtrucks.com or refer to the current Body
Builder’s Guide.

1. The maximum number of occupants in the
truck should not exceed two.

2. The total GVWR, Front GAWR or the Rear GAWR should never be exceeded.
3. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of options or passengers, etc.
The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow
system, all aftermarket accessories, driver,
passengers, options, and cargo, must not exceed
either the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight (GAWR) ratings. These weights
are specified on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label on the driver's side door
opening.
NOTE:Detach the snowplow when transporting
passengers.
Vehicle front end wheel alignment was set to
specifications at the factory without consideration
for the weight of the plow. Front end toe-in should
be checked and reset if necessary at the beginning
and end of the snowplow season. This will help
prevent uneven tire wear.
The blade should be lowered whenever the vehicle
is parked.
Maintain and operate your vehicle and snowplow
equipment following the recommendations
provided by the specific snowplow manufacturer.
OVER THE ROAD OPERATION WITH
S
NOWPLOW ATTACHED
The blade restricts air flow to the radiator and
causes the engine to operate at higher than
normal temperatures. Therefore, when
transporting the plow, angle the blade completely
and position it as low as road or surface conditions
permit. Do not exceed 40 mph (64 km/h). The
operator should always maintain a safe stopping
distance and allow adequate passing clearance.
OPERATING TIPS
Under ideal snow plowing conditions, 20 mph
(32 km/h) should be maximum operating speed.
The operator should be familiar with the area and
surface to be cleaned. Reduce speed and use
extreme caution when plowing unfamiliar areas or
under poor visibility.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Snowplows should be maintained in accordance
with the plow manufacturer's instructions.
Keep all snowplow electrical connections and
battery terminals clean and free of corrosion.
When plowing snow, to avoid transmission and
drivetrain damage, the following precautions
should be observed:
Operate with transfer case in 4WD LOW when
plowing small or congested areas where speeds
are not likely to exceed 15 mph (24 km/h).
At higher speeds operate in 4WD HIGH.
Vehicles with automatic transmissions should
use 4WD LOW when plowing deep or heavy
snow for extended periods of time to avoid
transmission overheating.
Do not shift the transmission unless the engine
has returned to idle and wheels have stopped.
Make a practice of stepping on the brake pedal
while shifting the transmission.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 226

STARTING AND OPERATING231
(Continued)
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to
ensure safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
Flowing/Rising Water
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
shallow standing water, consider the following
Cautions and Warnings before doing so.
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm
run-off). Flowing water can wear away the road
or path's surface and cause your vehicle to sink
into deeper water. Furthermore, flowing and/or
rising water can carry your vehicle away swiftly.
Failure to follow this warning may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
WARNING!
Driving through standing water limits your
vehicle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed
5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through
standing water.
Driving through standing water limits your
vehicle’s braking capabilities, which increases
stopping distances. Therefore, after driving
through standing water, drive slowly and
lightly press on the brake pedal several times
to dry the brakes.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
CAUTION!
Always check the depth of the standing water
before driving through it. Never drive through
standing water that is deeper than the bottom
of the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
Determine the condition of the road or the
path that is under water and if there are any
obstacles in the way before driving through
the standing water.
Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through standing water. This will minimize
wave effects.
Driving through standing water may cause
damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain compo -
nents. Always inspect your vehicle’s fluids
(i.e., engine oil, transmission, axle, etc.) for
signs of contamination (i.e., fluid that is milky
or foamy in appearance) after driving through
standing water. Do not continue to operate
the vehicle if any fluid appears contaminated,
as this may result in further damage. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause
serious internal damage to the engine. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
4

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 231

426SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against
using any special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an
engineered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do
not add any fluid additives to the transmission.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not
require adjustment under normal operating
conditions. Routine fluid level checks are not
required, therefore the transmission has no
dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service tools.
If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Fluid And Filter Changes
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.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid
to ensure optimum transmission performance and
life. Use only the manufacturer recommended
transmission fluid Úpage 476. It is important to
maintain the transmission fluid at the correct level
using the recommended fluid. No chemical flushes
should be used in any transmission; only the
approved lubricant should be used.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.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.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
torque converter shudder Ú page 476.

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 426

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE427
REAR AXLE AND 4X4 FRONT DRIVING
A
XLE 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 Úpage 476. This
inspection should be made with the vehicle in a
level position.
The fluid level should be even with the bottom of
the fill hole (within 1/4 in (6.4 mm) of edge of hole)
for the front axle and rear axle.
Drain And Refill
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 394.
Lubricant Selection
For further information Ú page 476.
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
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
Rear axles equipped with a Limited Slip Differential
require that 5 oz. (148 ml) Mopar® Limited Slip
Additive be added to the gear lubricant
Ú
page 476. The Mopar® Limited Slip Additive
should be added to the gear lubricant whenever a
fluid change is made to an axle equipped with a
Limited Slip Differential.
NOTE:When refilling a limited slip differential axle which
requires a friction modification additive, the
additive should be added before the gear lubricant
to ensure proper additive fill.
TRANSFER CASE
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 (or within 1/8 inch of the
bottom) with the vehicle in a level position.
Drain And Refill
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 394.
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer recommended fluid
Úpage 476.
FUSES
General Information
WARNING!
When replacing a blown fuse, always use an
appropriate replacement fuse with the same
amp rating as the original fuse. Never replace
a fuse with another fuse of higher amp rating.
The use of a fuse with a rating other than indi -
cated may result in a dangerous electrical
system overload. If a properly rated fuse
continues to blow, it indicates a problem in the
circuit that must be corrected. Never replace a
blown fuse with metal wires or any other mate -
rial. Do not place a fuse inside a circuit
breaker cavity or vice versa. Failure to use
proper fuses may result in serious personal
injury, fire and/or property damage.
Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the
ignition is off and that all the other services
are switched off and/or disengaged.
If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an
authorized dealer.
If a general protection fuse for safety systems
(air bag system, braking system), power unit
systems (engine system, transmission
system) or steering system blows, contact an
authorized dealer.
8

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 427

481
INDEX
A
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection..................... 418Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
(Cruise Control).........131, 136, 137, 176, 178Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)............... 422Adding Fuel.......................................... 207, 208Additives, Fuel............................................... 468AdjustDown........................................................... 38Forward....................................................... 38Rearward..................................................... 38Up................................................................ 38Adjustable Pedals............................................ 44Advance Phone Connectivity......................... 280Air BagAir Bag Operation...................................... 344Air Bag Warning Light...................... 342, 344Enhanced Accident Response......... 352, 392Event Data Recorder (EDR)....................... 392Front Air Bag............................................. 344If Deployment Occurs................................ 351Knee Impact Bolsters................................ 349Maintaining Your Air Bag System.............. 353Maintenance............................................. 353Redundant Air Bag Warning Light.............342Transporting Pets...................................... 368
Air Bag Light................................ 128, 342, 368Air Cleaner, Engine
(Engine Air Cleaner Filter)............................. 410Air Conditioner Maintenance........................ 415Air Conditioner Refrigerant........................... 415Air Conditioner System................................. 415Air Conditioning......................................... 62, 65Air Conditioning Filter..............................68, 416Air Conditioning System................................... 67Air Conditioning, Operating Tips....................... 68Air Filter............................................... 410, 412Air PressureTires......................................................... 452Air Suspension......... 131, 134, 135, 165, 169AlarmSecurity Alarm....................................27, 131Alterations/ModificationsVehicle......................................................... 13Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................. 422, 472Disposal................................................... 423Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)...................... 312Anti-Lock Warning Light................................ 131Assist, Hill Start............................................. 318Audio Settings............................................... 268Audio Systems (Radio).................................. 233Auto Down Power Windows............................. 80
Automatic Door Locks......................................32Automatic Headlights.......................................56Automatic High Beams.....................................55Automatic Tailgate Release.............................86Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)..............67Automatic Transmission....................... 154, 426Adding Fluid.............................................. 426Fluid And Filter Change............................. 426Fluid Change............................................. 426Fluid Level Check...................................... 426Fluid Type........................................ 426, 476Special Additives...................................... 426Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode... 158AutoPark....................................................... 142AUX Camera.................................................. 203Auxiliary Driving Systems.............................. 319Axle Fluid.............................................. 427, 476Axle Locker System....................................... 172Axle Lubrication............................................ 427
B
Back-Up Camera........................................... 199Battery................................................. 129, 408Charging System Light.............................. 129Keyless Key Fob Replacement....................21Battery Saver Feature......................................59
11

22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 481