2023 RAM 1500 check transmission fluid

6
SAFETY
SAFETY FEATURES........................................................... 262
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ................................. 262Rear Seat Reminder Alert (RSRA) ............................ 263
Electronic Brake Control (EBC) System .................. 263
AUXILIARY DRIVING SYSTEMS ...................................... 269 Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) —
If Equipped ............................................................... 269
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) With
Mitigation — If Equipped ........................................... 274
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ............... 277
OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEMS ................................ 282 Occupant Restraint Systems Features ................... 282Important Safety Precautions .................................. 282Seat Belt Systems .................................................... 282
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) .................. 288Child Restraints ........................................................ 298
SAFETY TIPS .................................................................... 311 Transporting Passengers .......................................... 311
Transporting Pets ..................................................... 311
Connected Vehicles .................................................. 311
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside
The Vehicle ............................................................... 311
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make
Outside The Vehicle .................................................. 312
Exhaust Gas ............................................................. 313Carbon Monoxide Warnings .................................... 313
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS .................................... 314
ASSIST AND SOS SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED ................. 314
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING .................................... 317 Preparations For Jacking.......................................... 317Jack Location ............................................................ 318
Removal Of Jack And Tools ...................................... 318
Removing The Spare Tire ......................................... 319
Jacking Instructions.................................................. 321To Stow The Flat Or Spare ....................................... 323
Reinstalling The Jack And Tools .............................. 324
JUMP STARTING ............................................................. 325 Preparations For Jump Start .................................... 325Jump Starting Procedure.......................................... 325
REFUELING IN EMERGENCY........................................... 326
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS ....................................... 327
MANUAL PARK RELEASE ............................................... 328
FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE .......................................... 329
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ..................................... 330 Two-Wheel Drive Models .......................................... 331Four-Wheel Drive Models ......................................... 331
Emergency Tow Hooks — If Equipped ..................... 332
ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM
(EARS) .............................................................................. 332
EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ..................................... 332
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING ................................................. 333 Maintenance Plan ..................................................... 334
ENGINE COMPARTMENT ................................................337 3.6L Engine With Stop/Start ................................... 337
5.7L Engine Without Stop/Start ............................... 3385.7L Engine With Stop/Start .................................... 339
Checking Oil Level ..................................................... 340Adding Washer Fluid ................................................ 340
Maintenance-Free Battery ....................................... 340Pressure Washing ..................................................... 341
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE ................................................. 341 Engine Oil .................................................................. 341
Engine Oil Filter ........................................................ 342
Engine Air Cleaner Filter .......................................... 342
Air Conditioner Maintenance ................................... 344
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection ............................... 346Body Lubrication ....................................................... 347
Windshield Wiper Blades ......................................... 347
Exhaust System ........................................................ 348
Cooling System ......................................................... 349
Brake System ........................................................... 352
Automatic Transmission .......................................... 353
Rear Axle And 4x4 Front Driving Axle
Fluid Level ................................................................. 353
Transfer Case ........................................................... 354
Fuses .......................................................................... 354Bulb Replacement .................................................... 365

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 6

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL111
Electric Park Brake Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the
Electric Park Brake is not functioning properly
and service is required. Contact an authorized
dealer.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will indicate when the ESC
system is Active. The ESC Indicator Light in the
instrument cluster will come on when the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN position, and when ESC is activated. It should go out
with the engine running. If the ESC Indicator Light comes
on continuously with the engine running, a malfunction
has been detected in the ESC system. If this warning light
remains on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle
has been driven 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 Indicator 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 Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level is less than a quarter 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.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
windshield washer fluid is low.
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 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.
3

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 111

STARTING AND OPERATING185
BEFORE PLOWING
Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper fluid
level.
 Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper tight -
ness.
 Check the runners and cutting edge for excessive 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 one.

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.
NOTE:Lane Departure Warning / Lane Keep Assist is not
available when a snow plow is attached.
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 over -
heating.
 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.
4

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 185

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

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 353

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.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 354

403
INDEX
AAccessory Drive Belt Inspection .................................. 346
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
(Cruise Control) ................................................... 143
, 145
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) ............................ 350
Adding Fuel................................................................... 171
Additives, Fuel .............................................................. 393
Adjust Down...........................................................................32
Forward ...................................................................... 32
Rearward ....................................................................32
Up................................................................................ 32
Adjustable Pedals ...........................................................38
Advance Phone Connectivity ....................................... 235
Air Bag Air Bag Operation.................................................... 290
Air Bag Warning Light .................................... 288
, 291
Enhanced Accident Response ...................... 297, 332
Event Data Recorder (EDR).................................... 332 Front Air Bag ........................................................... 291
If Deployment Occurs ............................................. 297
Knee Impact Bolsters ............................................. 294
Maintaining Your Air Bag System .......................... 298
Maintenance ........................................................... 298
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light ......................... 289
Transporting Pets.................................................... 311
Air Bag Light ...............................................108
, 288, 311
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ........... 342
Air Conditioner Maintenance ...................................... 344
Air Conditioner Refrigerant .......................................... 344
Air Conditioner System ................................................ 344 Air Conditioning........................................................ 54
, 56
Air Conditioning Filter ............................................59, 344
Air Conditioning System ................................................. 59
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips .................................... 59
Air Filter ............................................................... 342
, 344
Air Pressure Tires.......................................................................... 377
Air Suspension .................................................... 134
, 137
Alarm Panic........................................................................... 17
Security Alarm...................................................23
, 110
Alterations/Modifications Vehicle........................................................................ 11
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ............................... 350
, 395
Disposal ...................................................................351
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ..................................... 262
Anti-Lock Warning Light................................................ 110
Assist, Hill Start ............................................................. 266
Audio Settings ............................................................... 224
Audio Systems (Radio) ................................................. 191
Auto Down Power Windows............................................ 70
Automatic Door Locks .................................................... 27 Automatic Headlights ..................................................... 48Automatic High Beams ................................................... 47
Automatic Tailgate Release ........................................... 75
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) .......................... 59
Automatic Transmission ..................................... 125
, 353
Adding Fluid ............................................................. 353
Fluid And Filter Change ...........................................353
Fluid Change ............................................................353 Fluid Level Check ....................................................353 Fluid Type .......................................................353
, 397
Special Additives ..................................................... 353
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode ............... 128
AutoPark ....................................................................... 119
AUX Camera .................................................................. 168
Auxiliary Driving Systems ............................................. 269
Axle Fluid.............................................................. 353
, 397
Axle Locker System ...................................................... 140
Axle Lubrication ............................................................ 353
BBack-Up Camera........................................................... 163
Battery..................................................................108, 340
Charging System Light ............................................ 108
Keyless Key Fob Replacement................................. 17
Battery Saver Feature .................................................... 50
Bed Divider ..................................................................... 84 Bed Extender .................................................................. 84
Bed Step ......................................................................... 78
Bedliner......................................................................... 389
Belts, Seat..................................................................... 311
Blind Spot Monitoring .................................................. 269
Bluetooth Connecting To A Particular Mobile Phone Or Audio Device After Pairing ................................. 231
Body Builders Guide..........................................................9
Body Mechanism Lubrication ...................................... 347
Bodywork ...................................................................... 388
B-Pillar Location ........................................................... 374
Brake Assist System..................................................... 263
Brake Control System .................................................. 263
11

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404
Brake Fluid .......................................................... 352, 397
Brake System ...................................................... 352, 392
Fluid Check.............................................................. 352
Master Cylinder ....................................................... 352
Parking .................................................................... 122
Warning Light .......................................................... 108
Brake/Transmission Interlock..................................... 125
Bulb Replacement ....................................................... 365
Bulbs, Light.......................................................... 313
, 365
CCamera ......................................................................... 163
Camera, AUX................................................................. 168
Camera, Rear ............................................................... 163
Camera, Surround View ............................................... 165
Camera, Trailer 360..................................................... 168
Capacities, Fuel............................................................ 395
Caps, Filler Oil (Engine) .............................................................. 337
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)................................... 350
Car Washes .................................................................. 388
Carbon Monoxide Warning .......................................... 313
Care And Maintenance ................................................ 388
Cargo Light ...................................................................... 49
CD.................................................................................. 226
Cellular Phone .............................................................. 252
Center High Mounted Stop Light................................. 369
Center Seat Storage Compartment ...............................60
Chart, Tire Sizing .......................................................... 371
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light) ...... 117
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ............................... 311
Checks, Safety.............................................................. 311
Child Restraint.............................................................. 298 Child Restraints
Booster Seats .......................................................... 301
Child Seat Installation ................................... 306
, 308
How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt .................305 Infant And Child Restraints ..................................... 300
Locating The LATCH Anchorages............................ 304
Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children............... 302
Older Children And Child Restraints....................... 300
Seating Positions ..................................................... 301
Clean Air Gasoline ........................................................ 393
Cleaning Wheels .....................................................................383
Climate Control ............................................................... 54 Automatic ................................................................... 54
Manual ....................................................................... 56
Compact Spare Tire ...................................................... 381
Connected Services ................ 236
, 237, 238, 239, 248
Contract, Service .......................................................... 400
Controls ......................................................................... 218
Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) ..........................350
Cooling System ............................................................. 349 Adding Coolant (Antifreeze) ....................................350
Coolant Level ................................................. 349
, 351
Cooling Capacity ...................................................... 395
Disposal Of Used Coolant ....................................... 351 Drain, Flush, And Refill............................................349
Inspection ................................................................ 351
Points To Remember............................................... 352
Pressure Cap ...........................................................350
Radiator Cap ............................................................350Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) ........ 350
, 395, 396
Corrosion Protection ..................................................... 388
Cruise Control Accel/Decel.............................................................. 144 Cancel ...................................................................... 145
Resume.................................................................... 144
Cruise Control (Speed Control) ........................... 143
, 145
Cruise Light ..........................................................115, 116
Customer Assistance ................................................... 398
Cybersecurity ................................................................ 191
DDaytime Running Lights ................................................. 47 Dealer Service .............................................................. 341
Defroster, Windshield .................................... 54
, 56, 311
Deleting A Phone .......................................................... 231
Diagnostic System, Onboard ....................................... 116
Differential, Limited Slip .............................................. 140
Dimmer Control Switch .................................................. 51
Disable Vehicle Towing ................................................ 330
Disc Drive ...................................................................... 226
Disconnecting ............................................................... 231
Disposal Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) .................................... 351
Disturb........................................................................... 234
Door Ajar .............................................................. 108
, 110
Door Ajar Light ..................................................... 108, 110
Door Locks Automatic .................................................................. 27
Doors ............................................................................... 24
Driver Memory Presets ................................................ 224
Driver’s Seat Back Tilt .................................................... 30
Driving Through Flowing, Rising, Or Shallow Standing Water .................................................. 189
Driving Tips ................................................................... 189
Dual Rear Wheels......................................................... 392

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