2023 RAM 1500 warning

344SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE:Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is present
before replacing the engine air cleaner filter.

1. Install the engine air cleaner filter onto the engine
air cleaner filter assembly.

2. Install the engine air cleaner filter cover onto the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
3. Tighten the fasteners (four) on the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
4. Install the engine cover.
G/T AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE
Clean Engine Air Filter
The G/T air filter comes equipped with a unique filter
media which is washable. See the following cleaning
procedure to prolong the life of the air filter component.
For recommended cleaning/replacement intervals
Úpage 334.

1. Spray the air filter with the recommended Mopar® air filter cleaner or apply mild dishwashing detergent
and water and let sit for at least 10 minutes to
loosen dirt before rinsing.

NOTE:Never use strong detergents, high pressure, or gasoline on
the air filter.
2. Rinse the air filter with cool low-pressure water applied from the inside (clean side) out in order to
flush the dirt out of the filter. Continue to rinse the
filter until all traces of the cleaner have been
removed.
NOTE:It may be necessary to repeat steps 1 and 2 if the air filter
is not completely clean.
3. After rinsing the air filter, gently shake off the excess water and allow air filter to dry naturally.
NOTE:Do not use forced air pressure as it may damage the
filtering capabilities of the filter’s microfibers and also void
its warranty.
AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE
For best possible performance, your air conditioner should
be checked and serviced by an authorized dealer at the
start of each warm season. This service should include
cleaning of the condenser fins and a performance test.
Drive belt tension should also be checked at this time.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling —
R–1234yf
R–1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a
Hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the
Environmental Protection Agency and is an ozone-friendly
substance with a low global-warming potential. It is
recommended that air conditioning service be performed
by an authorized dealer using recovery and recycling
equipment.
NOTE:Use only the manufacturer approved A/C system PAG
compressor oil, and refrigerants.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 334.
WARNING!
Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants
approved by the manufacturer for your air condi -
tioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants are
flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other
unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause the
system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer to
Warranty Information Book, for further warranty
information.
 The air conditioning system contains refrigerant
under high pressure. To avoid risk of personal injury
or damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any
repair requiring lines to be disconnected should be
done by an experienced technician.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your air conditioning
system as the chemicals can damage your air
conditioning components. Such damage is not covered
by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
Do not remove the cabin air filter while the vehicle is
running, or while the ignition is in the ACC or ON/RUN
mode. With the cabin air filter removed and the blower
operating, the blower can contact hands and may
propel dirt and debris into your eyes, resulting in
personal injury.

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346SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
6. Remove the cabin air filter by pulling it straight out of
the housing.

Cabin Air Filter

7. Install the cabin air filter with the arrow on the filter pointing toward the floor. When installing the filter
cover, press on each end until you hear an audible
click. 8. Reinstall the glove compartment on the hinges.
9. Pull the tension tether outward and reinstall the glove
compartment past the travel stops by pushing in on
the glove compartment sides.
Glove Compartment

NOTE:
Ensure the glove compartment door hinges and glove
compartment travel stops are fully engaged.
10. Reattach the glove compartment tension tether by inserting the tether clip in the glove compartment and
sliding the clip away from the face of the glove
compartment door.
ACCESSORY DRIVE BELT INSPECTION
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small cracks that
run across the ribbed surface of the belt from rib to rib, are
considered normal. This is not a reason to replace the belt.
However, cracks running along a rib (not across) are not
normal. CAUTION!
The cabin air filter is identified with an arrow to indicate
airflow direction through the filter. Failure to properly
install the filter will result in the need to replace it more
often.
1 — Glove Compartment Travel Stop
2 — Glove Compartment Tension Tether
3 — Glove Compartment Door
WARNING!
Do not attempt to inspect an accessory drive belt
with vehicle running.
 When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon -
nect the fan motor lead. The fan is temperature
controlled and can start at any time regardless of
ignition mode. You could be injured by the moving
fan blades.
 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.

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348SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Wiper Blade Removal/Installation

1. Lift the wiper arm to raise the wiper blade off of the
glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

Wiper Blade With Release Tab In Locked Position

2. To disengage the wiper blade from the wiper arm, press the release tab on the wiper blade and while
holding the wiper arm with one hand, slide the wiper
blade down towards the base of the wiper arm.

Wiper Blade With Release Tab In Unlocked Position

3. With the wiper blade disengaged, remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm.
4. Gently lower the wiper arm onto the glass.
Installing The Front Wipers

1. Lift the wiper arm off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

2. Position the wiper blade near the hook on the tip of the wiper arm.
3. Slide the wiper blade up into the hook on the wiper arm, latch engagement will be accompanied by an
audible click.
4. Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into
the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust
system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system;
or if the exhaust fumes can be detected inside the vehicle;
or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged;
have an authorized technician inspect the complete
exhaust system and adjacent body areas for broken,
damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts. Open
seams or loose connections could permit exhaust fumes
to seep into the passenger compartment. In addition, have
the exhaust system inspected each time the vehicle is
raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.CAUTION!
Do not allow the wiper arm to spring back against the
glass without the wiper blade in place or the glass may
be damaged.
1 — Wiper Blade
2 — Wiper Arm
3 — Release Tab
1 — Wiper Blade
2 — Wiper Arm J Hook
3 — J Hook Retainer
WARNING!
 Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain Carbon
Monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless.
Breathing it can make you unconscious and can
eventually poison you. To avoid breathing CO see
Úpage 311.
 A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over
materials that can burn. Such materials might be
grass or leaves coming into contact with your
exhaust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle
in areas where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE349
Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic converter
will not require maintenance. However, it is important to
keep the engine properly tuned to assure proper catalyst
operation and prevent possible catalyst damage.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can
result in civil penalties being assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop the
vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool. Service,
including a tune-up to manufacturer's specifications,
should be obtained immediately. To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter damage:

Do not interrupt the ignition when the transmission is
in gear and the vehicle is in motion.
 Do not try to start the vehicle by pushing or towing the
vehicle.
 Do not idle the engine with any ignition components
disconnected or removed, such as when diagnostic
testing, or for prolonged periods during very rough idle
or malfunctioning operating conditions.
COOLING SYSTEM
Engine Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every
12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where
applicable). If the engine coolant is dirty or rusty in
appearance, the system should be drained, flushed and
refilled with fresh coolant. Check the front of the A/C
condenser (if equipped) or radiator for any accumulation
of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying water
from a garden hose vertically down the face of the A/C
condenser (if equipped) or the back of the radiator core.
Check the engine cooling system hoses for brittle rubber,
cracking, tears, cuts and tightness of the connection at
the coolant recovery bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire
system for leaks.
DO NOT REMOVE THE COOLANT PRESSURE CAP WHEN
THE COOLING SYSTEM IS HOT.
Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant
properly. Failure to fill these systems properly could
lead to severe internal engine damage. If any coolant
is needed to be added to the system please contact
an authorized dealer.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or contains visible
sediment, have an authorized dealer clean and flush with
OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032).
For the proper maintenance intervals
Úpage 334.
CAUTION!
The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded
fuel only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effective -
ness of the catalyst as an emissions control device
and may seriously reduce engine performance and
cause serious damage to the engine.
 Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your
vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In
the event of engine malfunction, particularly
involving engine misfire or other apparent loss of
performance, have your vehicle serviced promptly.
Continued operation of your vehicle with a severe
malfunction could cause the converter to overheat,
resulting in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot engine
coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator.
If you see or hear steam coming from under the
hood, do not open the hood until the radiator has had
time to cool. Never open a cooling system pressure
cap when the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
 Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry away from
the radiator cooling fan when the hood is raised. The
fan starts automatically and may start at any time,
whether the engine is running or not.
 When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon -
nect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition to the OFF
mode. The fan is temperature controlled and can
start at any time the ignition is in the ON mode.
8

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE351
Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a
regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with
your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for
your community. To prevent ingestion by animals or
children, do not store ethylene glycol-based coolant in
open containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the
ground, clean up any ground spills immediately.
If ingested, seek emergency assistance immediately.
Checking Coolant Level — 3.6L Engine
The level of the coolant in the pressurized coolant bottle
should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” range on the
bottle when the engine is cold.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is
no need to remove the cap unless checking for coolant
freeze point or replacing engine coolant (antifreeze).
Advise your service attendant of this. As long as the engine
operating temperature is satisfactory, the coolant bottle
need only be checked once a month. When additional
engine coolant is needed to maintain the proper level, it
should be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.
Checking Coolant Level — 5.7L Engines
With the engine off and cold, the level of the engine
coolant should be between the ADD and SAFE range on
the dipstick.
To check the coolant level:

1. Open the coolant reservoir.

2. Lift and remove the plastic dipstick from the
reservoir neck.

Coolant Reservoir Dipstick

3. Check the coolant level on the dipstick.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is
no need to remove the radiator cap unless checking for
engine coolant (antifreeze) freeze point or replacing
engine coolant. Advise your service attendant of this.
As long as the engine operating temperature is
satisfactory, the coolant bottle need only be checked
once a month.
When additional engine coolant is needed to maintain the
proper level, it should be added to the coolant bottle.
Do not overfill.
WARNING!
Do not open a hot engine cooling system. Never add
engine coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is over -
heated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an
overheated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up
in the cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury,
do not remove the pressure cap while the system is
hot or under pressure.
 Do not use a pressure cap other than the one speci -
fied for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine
damage may result.
8

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352SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
Cooling System Notes
NOTE:When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/kilometers
of operation, you may observe vapor coming from the front
of the engine compartment. This is normally a result of
moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating
on the radiator and being vaporized when the thermostat
opens, allowing hot engine coolant (antifreeze) to enter
the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be
safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
 Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in
the coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant needs
to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing.
 If frequent engine coolant additions are required, the
cooling system should be pressure tested for leaks.
 Maintain engine coolant concentration at a minimum
of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032) and
distilled water for proper corrosion protection of your
engine which contains aluminum components.
 Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow
hoses are not kinked or obstructed. 
Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is
equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
 Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory engine cooling performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically
Úpage 334.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the brake master cylinder should be
checked whenever the vehicle is serviced, or immediately
if the Brake System Warning Light is on. If necessary, add
fluid to bring level within the designated marks on the side
of the reservoir of the brake master cylinder. Be sure to
clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing
cap. With disc brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as
the brake pads wear. Brake fluid level should be checked
when pads are replaced. If the brake fluid is abnormally
low, check the system for leaks
Úpage 397.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly
a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding on the
brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking capacity
in an emergency.
WARNING!
Use only manufacturer's recommended brake fluid Úpage 397. Using the wrong type of brake fluid can
severely damage your brake system and/or impair its
performance. The proper type of brake fluid for your
vehicle is also identified on the original factory
installed hydraulic master cylinder reservoir.
 To avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has
been in a tightly closed container. Keep the master
cylinder reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake
fluid in an open container absorbs moisture from the
air resulting in a lower boiling point. This may cause
it to boil unexpectedly during hard or prolonged
braking, resulting in sudden brake failure. This could
result in a collision.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE353
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 397. 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.
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 397. 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.

Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in
spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts, causing the
brake fluid to catch fire. Brake fluid can also damage
painted and vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
 Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be
damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure.
This could result in a collision.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.
WARNING!
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
Úpage 397.
8

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354SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Drain And Refill
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 334.
Lubricant Selection
For further information Úpage 397.
NOTE:The presence of water in the gear lubricant will result in
corrosion and possible failure of differential 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
Úpage 397. 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 334.
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer recommended fluid Úpage 397.
FUSES
General Information
WARNING!
 When replacing a blown fuse, always use an appro -
priate 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 indicated 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 material. 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.

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