Disclaimer: Not affiliated with or endorsed by RAM Motor Company. For informational purposes only. Full Disclaimer

2020 RAM 1500 Owners Manual - DEALER SERVICE



DEALER SERVICE

An authorized dealer has the qualified service personnel, special tools, and equipment to perform all service opera- tions in an expert manner. Service Manuals are available which include detailed service information for your vehicle. Refer to these Service Manuals before attempting any proce- dure yourself.

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with emissions control systems may void your warranty and could result in civil penalties being assessed against you.

The oil change indicator system will remind you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance. Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for further information.

NOTE:

Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km), 12 months or 350 hours of engine run time, whichever comes first. The 350 hours of engine run or idle time is generally only a concern for fleet customers.

For best performance and maximum protection under all types of operating conditions, the manufacturer only recom- mends engine oils that are API Certified and meet the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS-6395.

This symbol means that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). The manu- facturer only recommends API Certified engine oils.

This symbol certifies 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30 and 10W-30 engine oils.

Mopar SAE 0W-20 engine oil approved to FCA Material Standard MS-6395 is recommended for all operating temperatures. This engine oil improves low temperature starting and vehicle fuel economy.

The engine oil filler cap also shows the recommended engine oil viscosity for your engine. For information on engine oil filler cap location, refer to the “Engine Compartment” illus- tration in this section.

Lubricants which do not have both the engine oil certifica- tion mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade number should not be used.

Mopar SAE 5W-20 engine oil approved to FCA Material Standard MS-6395 such as Pennzoil, Shell Helix, or equiva- lent is recommended for all operating temperatures. This engine oil improves low temperature starting and vehicle fuel economy.

The engine oil filler cap also shows the recommended engine oil viscosity for your engine. For information on engine oil filler cap location, refer to the “Engine Compartment” illus- tration in this section.

7

Lubricants which do not have both the engine oil certifica- tion mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade number should not be used.

You may use synthetic engine oils provided the recom- mended oil quality requirements are met, and the recom- mended maintenance intervals for oil and filter changes are followed.

Synthetic engine oils which do not have both the engine oil certification mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade number should not be used.

The manufacturer strongly recommends against the addi- tion of any additives (other than leak detection dyes) to the engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product and its perfor- mance may be impaired by supplemental additives.

Care should be taken in disposing of used engine oil and oil filters from your vehicle. Used oil and oil filters, indiscrimi- nately discarded, can present a problem to the environment. Contact an authorized dealer, service station or govern- mental agency for advice on how and where used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in your area.

The engine oil filter should be replaced with a new filter at every engine oil change.

Engine Oil Filter Selection

This manufacturer's engines have a full-flow type disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type for replacement. The quality

of replacement filters varies considerably. Only high quality filters should be used to assure most efficient service. Mopar engine oil filters are high quality oil filters and are recom- mended.

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection

The quality of replacement engine air cleaner filters varies considerably. Only high quality filters should be used to assure most efficient service. Mopar engine air cleaner filters are a high quality filter and are recommended.

Inspect engine air cleaner filter for dirt and or debris, if you find evidence of either dirt or debris you should change your air cleaner filter.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Removal

    With suitable tool fully loosen (six) fasteners on air cleaner filter.

    Lift the air cleaner cover to access the air cleaner filter.

Open Air Cleaner Filter Assembly

    — Air Cleaner Cover 7
    — Air Cleaner Filter

    — Fasteners
    — Air Hose Clamp
    — Air Cleaner Cover

Air Cleaner Filter

    Remove the air cleaner filter element from the housing assembly.

Air Cleaner Filter

1 — Air Cleaner Cover 2 — Air Cleaner Filter

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation NOTE:

Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is present before replacing the air filter element.

    Install the air cleaner filter element into the housing assembly with the air cleaner filter inspection surface facing downward.
    Install the air cleaner cover onto the housing assembly.
    Tighten the fasteners (six) on the air cleaner filter assembly

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.

R–1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluo- roolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency and is an ozone-friendly substance with a low global-warming potential. The manufacturer recom- mends that air conditioning service be performed by an authorized dealer using recovery and recycling equipment.

NOTE:

Use only manufacturer approved A/C system PAG compressor oil, and refrigerants.

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper maintenance intervals. 7

The cabin air filter is located in the fresh air inlet behind the glove compartment. Perform the following procedure to replace the filter:

    Open the glove compartment and remove all contents.
    With the glove compartment door open, remove the glove compartment tension tether and tether clip by sliding the clip toward the face of the glove compartment door. Lift the clip out of glove compartment door and release into dash panel.

Right Side Of Glove Compartment

    — Glove Compartment Door
    — Glove Compartment Tension Tether

    There are glove compartment travel stops on both sides of the glove compartment door, push inward on both sides of the glove compartment to release the glove compart- ment travel stops.

Glove Compartment

    — Glove Compartment Travel Stop
    — Glove Compartment Tension Tether 3 — Glove Compartment Door
    Disengage the glove compartment door from its hinges by opening the glove compartment past the travel stop and pulling it toward you.

    Remove the filter cover by pushing in on the finger tabs on each end of the filter cover.

Filter Cover

1 — Finger Tabs

Filter Cover Removal

7

    Remove the cabin air filter by pulling it straight out of the housing.

Cabin Air Filter

    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.

    Reinstall the glove compartment on the hinges.
    Pull the tension tether outward and reinstall the glove compartment past the travel stops by pushing in on the glove compartment sides.

Glove Compartment

    — Glove Compartment Travel Stop
    — Glove Compartment Tension Tether 3 — Glove Compartment Door

NOTE:

Ensure the glove compartment door hinges and glove compartment travel stops are fully engaged.

    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 compart- ment door.

When inspecting accessory drive belts, small cracks that run across the ribbed surface of a belt from rib to rib, are consid- ered normal. These are not a reason to replace the belt. However, cracks running along a rib (not across) are not normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib must be replaced. Also have the belt replaced if it has excessive wear, frayed cords or severe glazing.

7

Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)

Conditions that would require replacement:

    Rib chunking (one or more ribs has separated from belt body)
    Rib or belt wear
    Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between two ribs)
    Belt slips
    “Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain correct position on pulley)
    Belt broken
    Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or rumble is heard or felt while drive belt is in operation)

NOTE:

Identify and correct problem before new belt is installed.

NOTE:

If your vehicle is equipped with Stop/Start belt must be replaced with an OEM grade Mopar belt.

Some conditions can be caused by a faulty component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys should be carefully inspected for damage and proper alignment.

Belt replacement on some models requires the use of special tools, we recommend having your vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.

Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as seat tracks, door hinge pivot points and rollers, liftgate, tailgate, decklid, sliding doors and hood hinges, should be lubricated periodically with a lithium based grease, such as Mopar Spray White Lube to assure quiet, easy operation and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the application of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be wiped clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating excess oil and grease should be removed. Particular attention should also be given to hood latching components to ensure proper function. When performing other underhood services, the hood latch release mechanism, and safety catch should be cleaned and lubricated.

The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a year, preferably in the Fall and Spring. Apply a small amount of a high quality lubricant, such as Mopar Lock Cylinder Lubri- cant directly into the lock cylinder.

Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the wind- shield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will remove accumulations of salt or road film.

Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry windshield.

Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from the windshield. Keep the blade rubber out of contact with petro- leum products such as engine oil, gasoline, etc.

NOTE:

Life expectancy of wiper blades varies depending on geographical area and frequency of use. Poor performance of blades may be present with chattering, marks, water lines or wet spots. If any of these conditions are present, clean the wiper blades or replace as necessary.

The wiper blades and wiper arms should be inspected peri- odically, not just when wiper performance problems are experienced. This inspection should include the following points:

    Wear or uneven edges
    Foreign material
    Hardening or cracking
    Deformation or fatigue

If a wiper blade or wiper arm is damaged, replace the affected wiper arm or blade with a new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper arm or blade that is damaged.

7

    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

1 — Wiper Blade 2 — Wiper Arm 3 — Release Tab

    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

    — Wiper Blade
    — Wiper Arm J Hook 3 — J Hook Retainer
    With the wiper blade disengaged, remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm.
    Gently lower the wiper arm onto the glass.

Installing The Front Wipers

    Lift the wiper arm off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.
    Position the wiper blade near the hook on the tip of the wiper arm.
    Slide the wiper blade up into the hook on the wiper arm, latch engagement will be accompanied by an audible click.
    Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.

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, dete- riorated, 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 lubrica- tion or oil change. Replace as required.

7

(Continued)

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.

(Continued)

Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every 12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where applicable). If the engine coolant (antifreeze) 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.

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 (antifreeze) (conforming to MS.90032).

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.

Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica- 7

tions” for further information.

NOTE:

    Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than specified Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (anti- freeze), may result in engine damage and may decrease corrosion protection. Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant is different and should not be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive Technology (HOAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) or any “globally compatible” coolant

(antifreeze). If a non-OAT engine coolant (antifreeze) is introduced into the cooling system in an emergency, the cooling system will need to be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032), by an authorized dealer as soon as possible.

    Do not use water alone or alcohol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not use additional rust inhibitors or antirust products, as they may not be compatible with the radiator engine coolant and may plug the radiator.
    This vehicle has not been designed for use with propylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze). Use of propylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) is not recom- mended.
    Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop- erly. 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.

Your vehicle has been built with an improved engine coolant (OAT coolant conforming to MS.90032) that allows extended maintenance intervals. This engine coolant (antifreeze) can be used up to 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) before replacement. To prevent reducing this extended mainte-

nance period, it is important that you use the same engine coolant (OAT coolant conforming to MS.90032) throughout the life of your vehicle.

Please review these recommendations for using Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032. When adding engine coolant (antifreeze):

    We recommend using Mopar® Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/ 150,000 Mile (240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology) that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032.
    Mix a minimum solution of 50% OAT engine coolant that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032 and distilled water. Use higher concentrations (not to exceed 70%) if temperatures below −34°F (−37°C) are anticipated. Please contact an authorized dealer for assistance.
    Use only high purity water such as distilled or deionized water when mixing the water/engine coolant (antifreeze) solution. The use of lower quality water will reduce the amount of corrosion protection in the engine cooling system.

NOTE:

    It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the proper level of protection against freezing according to the tempera- tures occurring in the area where the vehicle is operated.
    Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop- erly. 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 a local authorized dealer.
    Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types is not recom- mended and can result in cooling system damage. If HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in an emergency, have a authorized dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032) as soon as possible.

The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of engine coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that engine coolant (anti- freeze) will return to the radiator from the coolant expansion bottle/recovery tank if so equipped.

The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accu- mulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.

Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a regu- 7

lated 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. If ingested by a child or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean up any ground spills immediately.

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 (antifreeze) is needed to maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.

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:

    Open the coolant reservoir.

Opening The Coolant Reservoir

    Lift and remove the plastic dipstick from the reservoir neck.

Coolant Reservoir Dipstick

    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 (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 (antifreeze) is needed to maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.

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 mois- ture 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. 7

    Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
    Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (antifreeze) needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion bottle must also be protected against freezing.
    If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are required, the cooling system should be pressure tested for leaks.
    Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) 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 oper- ation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsat- isfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance, poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.

In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake system components should be inspected periodically. Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.

The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked when performing under the hood service or immediately if the brake system warning lamp indicates system failure.

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 the fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in fluid level may be caused by a leak and a system check should be conducted.

Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica- tions” for further information.

WARNING!

    Use only manufacturer's recommended brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Speci- fications” for further information. 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 mois- ture, 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 a open container absorbs moisture from the air resulting in a lower boiling point. This may cause it to boil unexpect- edly during hard or prolonged braking, resulting in sudden brake failure. This could result in a collision.
    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.

It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use only the manufacturer's specified transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”. It is important to maintain the transmission fluid at the correct

level using the recommended fluid. No chemical flushes 7

should be used in any transmission; only the approved lubri- cant should be used.

(Continued)

The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any special additives in the transmission. Automatic Transmis- sion Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and its perfor- mance may be impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives to the transmis- sion. Avoid using transmission sealers as they may adversely affect seals.

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 transmis- sion 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.

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.

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. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for further information. 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.

Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica- tion” for further information.

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. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specification” for further information. 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.

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper maintenance intervals.

Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for further information.

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.

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.


Download Manual