How to Reset the Oil Life Indicator on a 2012–2018 Ram 1500

Which Ram 1500 model years does this cover?

These oil life reset 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

How do you reset the oil life on a 2012–2018 Ram 1500?

4 steps, using only the controls in the car, the full sequence is above.

Do you need a scan tool to reset the oil light on a 2012–2018 Ram 1500?

No. The procedure above uses the vehicle's own controls. A scan tool is only necessary if the reset does not take, which usually points at a different fault.

Why won't the oil light reset on a 2012–2018 Ram 1500?

Almost always a timing problem in the sequence, a step held too briefly, or the ignition in the wrong position. Repeat it exactly, with the engine off and the key in accessory rather than run, unless the steps say otherwise. Same accelerator-pedal procedure across DS and Classic trucks (and most other Ram models).