2012–2018 Ram 1500 Fluid Types and Capacities

Which Ram 1500 model years does this cover?

These fluids specifications apply to every Ram 1500 built from 2012 through 2018 — the DS (4th generation; sold 2019–2024 as Ram 1500 Classic), full-size half-ton pickup (regular, quad, crew cab). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.

What changed during the 2012–2018 Ram 1500

• 2012Carryover powertrains: 3.7L V6 (4-spd), 4.7L V8 (6-spd), 5.7L HEMI; hydraulic steering; HOAT coolant
• 2013Major refresh: 3.6L Pentastar + ZF 8-speed arrive, electric power steering, optional air suspension, RamBox and 8.4-in Uconnect expand; coolant switches to 10-year OAT
• 20143.0L EcoDiesel V6 added (first half-ton diesel of the modern era); 4.7L V8 dropped after 2013
• 2015Off-road-focused Rebel trim debuts mid-year with a factory-tuned suspension, off-road tires, and unique styling; interior/trim options broaden
• 2015–2018Rebel added (2015, 285/70R17 tires); Limited becomes flagship; mechanical specs otherwise carry over
• 2016Essentially unchanged: redesigned center console standard across the lineup; Rebel (introduced mid-2015) gains new interior color choices including Radar Red
• 2018DS production continued after 2018 as the 'Ram 1500 Classic' (2019–2024, Tradesman/Express/Warlock/Big Horn trims) sold alongside the new DT. This generation's data applies to those Classic trucks; the DT generation below covers same-year 'new body' trucks

What transmission fluid does a 2012–2018 Ram 1500 take?

8-speed 845RE/8HP70 (2013+, V6/HEMI): Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF (68218925AB), sealed unit, level checked at temperature, no dipstick. 65RFE/66RFE 6-speed (2012–2018 HEMI/4.7): Mopar ATF+4. 42RLE 4-speed (2012 3.7L): ATF+4.. Transmission fluid specifications are not interchangeable. Friction modifiers differ between them, and the wrong fluid causes shudder long before it causes failure.

What coolant does a 2012–2018 Ram 1500 use?

2013+: Mopar OAT coolant (purple, MS.90032, 10-yr/150k first change). 2012: HOAT (MS-9769, 5-yr/100k). Do not mix the two..

What brake fluid does a 2012–2018 Ram 1500 take?

DOT 3 brake fluid.

What differential fluid does a 2012–2018 Ram 1500 take?

Front axle 75W-90 GL-5; rear axle synthetic 75W-90 GL-5 (75W-140 recommended when towing heavily). Check axle tag.