2016 Ram 1500 5.7 Oil Capacity: HEMI Specs, MDS, P1524 & Filter Guide 2026
The 2016 Ram 1500 5.7 oil capacity is exactly 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with a filter change. The engine requires SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil certified to FCA MS-6395 — a non-negotiable specification because the 5.7L HEMI’s Multi-Displacement System (MDS) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT) use engine oil as a high-pressure hydraulic fluid.
Drop below the critical 42 PSI threshold and the PCM triggers a P1524 fault code, disabling VVT and cylinder deactivation entirely. Use the wrong filter and that’s exactly what happens, often within 20 miles of an oil change.
2016 Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI oil guide: engine lineup capacities, pressure thresholds, drivetrain fluid overview, and filter comparison
5.7 HEMI capacity
7.0 qt
6.6 liters w/ filter
Required viscosity
5W-20
MS-6395 certified
VVT min pressure
42 PSI
P1524 triggers below 31
Max towing (5.7L)
10,700 lb
3.92 axle ratio
Engine oil capacity comparison
2016 Ram 1500 engine lineup
Drivetrain fluid overview
2016 Ram 1500 full system capacities
Oil filter height comparison
MO-339 vs MO-899 vs premium aftermarket (mm)
2016 Ram 1500 5.7 Oil Capacity: Full Specifications
| Specification | Factory Requirement |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity (with filter change) | 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) |
| Oil capacity (without filter) | ~6.5 quarts |
| Required viscosity | SAE 5W-20 full synthetic |
| Oil certification | FCA MS-6395 |
| API / ILSAC standard | API SN, SN-Plus, or SP / ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6A |
| OEM oil filter | Mopar MO-339 (OEM #04892339AA / 04892339AB) |
| Drain plug thread | M14 x 1.50 |
| Drain plug torque | 25 ft-lbs (34 N·m) |
Fill procedure: Add 6.5 quarts first, start the engine for 30 seconds to prime the filter, shut down, wait 5 minutes for the oil to settle, then top up to the SAFE dipstick mark (~7.0 quarts total). Overfilling submerges crankshaft counterweights in the oil sump — at 2,000+ RPM they whip the fluid into foam, collapsing hydraulic pressure at the MDS lifters and VVT phaser. Underfilling starves the lifters, which sit at the very end of the HEMI’s long upstream oiling path.
Engine Oil Capacity Comparison: 2016 Ram 1500 Lineup
| Engine | Model Years | Oil Capacity (w/ filter) | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 2012–2018 | 5.9 quarts (5.6 L) | SAE 5W-20 |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 (EZH) | 2013–2021 | 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) | SAE 5W-20 |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 | 2014–2026 | 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) | SAE 0W-40 Synthetic |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (Gen 2) | 2014–2019 | 10.5 quarts (9.9 L) | SAE 5W-40 Synthetic |
Why 5W-20 Is Mandatory: MDS Hydraulic Architecture
The 5.7L HEMI’s MDS is not a simple on/off switch — it is a precision hydraulic system. When the PCM commands cylinder deactivation, four electric solenoids (mounted in the block valley beneath the intake manifold) route pressurized oil through microscopically calibrated galleys to the collapsible MDS lifters on cylinders 1, 4, 6, and 7.
The orifice geometry inside those lifters is specifically tuned to the kinematic viscosity of 5W-20 oil at operating temperature. A heavier oil (5W-30 or 10W-30) increases fluid resistance in these narrow passages, delaying the activation and — more critically — the deactivation cycle by vital milliseconds.
A delayed deactivation when the driver suddenly demands full throttle causes harsh V4-to-V8 transitions, P0300 random misfire codes, and premature wear on the MDS locking pins. The PCM will also log the MDS event as a hydraulic fault. The 5W-20 specification exists for the lifters, not for fuel economy standards. See our Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI engine diagram for the full oiling architecture map.
FCA MS-6395 certification: what it means
MS-6395 is an FCA (Stellantis) internal oil standard requiring a rigorous two-year fleet test in Chrysler/Dodge/Ram vehicles. It mandates specific additive chemistry for thermal stability, anti-wear protection on aggressive HEMI cam lobe profiles, and detergency strong enough to prevent sludge in the VVT solenoid screens. A standard API SP label alone is not sufficient.
| Brand / Product | Viscosity | MS-6395 Status |
|---|---|---|
| Pennzoil Ultra Platinum | 5W-20 | Certified — current factory-fill partner |
| Quaker State Advanced Durability | 5W-20 | Certified |
| Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic | 5W-20 | Certified |
| Castrol EDGE | 5W-20 | Certified |
| Royal Purple Premium | 5W-20 | Certified |
| Mobil 1 | 5W-20 | Not currently MS-6395 certified (lost certification after corporate shift to Pennzoil/SOPUS) |
Mobil 1 was the original factory-fill oil for Chrysler HEMI engines and was formerly MS-6395 certified — the branding even appeared on early HEMI oil filler caps.
After Fiat’s acquisition of Chrysler shifted the supply partnership to SOPUS (Pennzoil/Shell), Mobil 1 did not renew the costly two-year fleet testing process required to maintain the certification. Technically it remains a high-quality lubricant, but strict warranty compliance requires a currently certified oil.
Oil Filter: Mopar MO-339 vs. MO-899 for the 2016 Model
The factory filter for the 2016 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI is the Mopar MO-339. Chrysler switched from the larger MO-899 starting with the 2013 model year — not because of superior filtration, but because the new electric power steering (EPS) rack geometry physically blocked the longer filter body. The MO-899 is still a popular longevity upgrade on 2016 models for owners who verify they have clearance.
| Spec | Mopar MO-339 (factory) | Mopar MO-899 (oversize) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall height | 3.46–3.50 in (88 mm) | 3.74–3.75 in (95+ mm) |
| Outer diameter | 2.95–3.00 in (76 mm) | 3.63–3.70 in (94 mm) |
| Thread pitch | M22 x 1.5 | M22 x 1.5 |
| Anti-drainback valve | High-heat silicone | High-heat silicone |
| Application years | 2013–present | 2003–2012 |
Both filters share identical M22 x 1.5 thread pitch and gasket mating diameter — they are mechanically interchangeable. The MO-899’s larger media surface captures more contaminants before the bypass valve opens and presents lower flow restriction to the oil pump, which directly benefits the HEMI’s pressure-sensitive MDS and VVT systems. Find your filter with our 5.7 HEMI oil filter location guide and our general Ram 1500 oil filter location reference.
Certified aftermarket filter cross-reference
| Filter | Part Number | Media Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mopar MO-339 | 04892339AA | Blended cellulose | Standard factory service |
| WIX 57060XP | 57060XP | Synthetic (10,000-mile rated) | Extended drain intervals, severe duty |
| FRAM XG10060 | XG10060 | Dual-layer synthetic, wire-backed | 20,000-mile intervals, maximum filtration |
| Mobil 1 M1-113A | M1-113A | Synthetic blend | Extended performance, 20,000-mile rating |
| K&N HP-1017 | HP-1017 | Synthetic (1-inch hex nut) | Track/competition, quick removal |
Bypass valve caution: The 5.7L HEMI requires the bypass valve to open at 12–15 PSI differential pressure. Some aftermarket filters use stiffer generic springs rated to 22+ PSI. Paired with highly restrictive synthetic media, this can drop upper-galley oil pressure below the 42 PSI VVT activation threshold, immediately triggering P1524. When in doubt, run the OEM Mopar MO-339.
P1524 Diagnostic Code: Oil Pressure Out of Range
The P1524 code — “Oil Pressure Out Of Range — Camshaft Advance/Retard Disabled” — is the most frequent oil-related diagnostic trouble code on the 2016 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI, and it is overwhelmingly triggered by a restrictive aftermarket oil filter, not mechanical failure.
| Operating Condition | Expected Oil Pressure |
|---|---|
| Hot curb idle (~600 RPM) | 30–35 PSI (minimum 25 PSI healthy) |
| Cruising (2,000–3,000 RPM) | 40–65 PSI under load |
| VVT activation minimum | 42 PSI |
| MDS active operating minimum | 31 PSI (P1524 triggers below this) |
P1524 step-by-step diagnostic workflow
| Step | Action | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Verify 7.0 qt of MS-6395 5W-20 in crankcase | Resolves pressure drop from low level or wrong viscosity |
| 2 | Replace aftermarket filter with Mopar MO-339 or WIX 57060XP. Clear code. Drive 20 miles mixed. | Resolves ~85% of P1524 cases permanently |
| 3 | Check for P0520 (EOP sensor circuit). Replace sensor OEM #68334877AA if present. | Resolves false readings from failed sensor |
| 4 | Request PCM flash per TSB 18-089-23 / TSB 18-067-24 (overly sensitive pressure logic) | Eliminates false P1524 from calibration error |
| 5 | Mechanical gauge on oil galley port. If <30 PSI at 3,000 RPM, internal wear suspected. | Failing oil pump, clogged pickup tube, or worn main bearings → engine teardown |
The dashboard oil pressure needle is not a reliable diagnostic tool — it reads stable as long as any minimum threshold is met, masking actual pressure drops. Use the EVIC digital readout via the steering wheel “Vehicle Info” menu to see live PSI. True oil pressure should rise dynamically with RPMs; a flat reading at all RPMs points to a failing sensor or mechanical pump issue. For limp mode after P1524, see our Dodge Ram 1500 limp mode reset guide and our overview of Dodge Ram 1500 PCM problems.
The HEMI Tick: Three Distinct Causes
Ticking noises from the 2016 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI fall into three completely different mechanical categories. Misdiagnosing them wastes thousands of dollars on unnecessary repairs.
| Type | Sound Pattern | Temperature Behavior | Cause | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Lifter bleed-down | Rapid clatter, 2–3 seconds at startup only | Disappears within seconds | Oil drains from lifter plungers overnight — normal | Benign |
| 2. Exhaust manifold bolts | Loud tick at cold start | Fades completely once warm | Sheared factory manifold bolts — very common on HEMI | Non-urgent |
| 3. Roller lifter failure | Persistent rhythmic tick at engine RPM | Remains loud when fully warm | Seized needle bearings in MDS lifter roller wheel | Critical — stop driving |
Lifter roller failure is the fatal diagnosis. When oil starvation seizes the needle bearings inside the lifter’s roller wheel, the wheel stops turning and becomes a steel chisel dragging against the spinning camshaft lobe. The lobe grinds flat within hours of driving. The resulting metal debris circulates through the entire engine, damaging the oil pump, cylinder walls, and rod bearings.
A P0300 random misfire code appearing alongside a persistent warm tick is the definitive warning — shut the engine off immediately. Continued operation at that stage means a full engine rebuild, not just a lifter job. See our guides on 5.7 HEMI cam and lifter replacement cost and Ram 1500 ticking noise at idle for detailed diagnosis. For MDS delete options, see our 5.7 HEMI cam and lifter kit guide and the MDS delete camshaft kit review.
Towing Capacity & How Oil Condition Affects It
The 2016 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI produces 395 HP at 5,600 RPM and 410 lb-ft at 3,950 RPM. Maximum towing capacity scales heavily with axle ratio and cab configuration:
| Configuration | Axle Ratio | Max Towing | Max Payload |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Cab 4×4 + 8-speed | 3.92 | Up to 10,700 lb | ~1,890 lb |
| Crew Cab 4×4 + 8-speed | 3.21 | ~8,550 lb | ~1,800 lb |
| Regular Cab 4×2 + 6-speed | 3.92 | ~9,900 lb | ~1,850 lb |
Towing at or near maximum capacity puts the oil under extreme thermal stress — temperatures frequently exceed 220°F on steep grades. Under these conditions, degraded oil that has passed its chemical service life loses shear stability rapidly, dropping from 5W-20 to the effective viscosity of a 15W or lighter.
This directly reduces the hydraulic pressure available to the MDS and VVT systems mid-tow. The 5,000-mile severe duty change interval is not conservative — it’s the minimum needed to maintain shear-stable oil during heavy towing. See the full 2016-specific numbers at our 2016 Ram 1500 towing capacity chart.
Complete Drivetrain Fluid Specifications
| Component | Fluid | Total Capacity | Service Fill | Torque Spec |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI engine | 5W-20 MS-6395 synthetic | 7.0 quarts | 7.0 quarts (w/ filter) | Drain plug: 25 ft-lbs |
| 65RFE 6-speed auto (4WD) | ATF+4 | 12.0 quarts | 6.6 quarts (pan service) | Pan bolts: per factory spec |
| 65RFE 6-speed auto (RWD) | ATF+4 | 12.0 quarts | 5.5 quarts (pan service) | Pan bolts: per factory spec |
| BW 44-44 / BW 44-45 transfer case | Transfer case fluid | 3.0 pints (1.42 L) | Fill to plug edge | 15–22 ft-lbs (drain + fill plugs) |
Note: The 2016 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI was available with either the 65RFE 6-speed or the 8-speed TorqueFlite (8HP70) automatic transmission depending on configuration. Both use ATF+4 but have different total capacities. Verify your transmission code on the door jamb sticker before purchasing fluid.
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure
| Step | Action | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Warm engine 3 min, park level | Warm oil suspends contaminants and drains faster. Use 10-qt drain pan minimum. |
| 2 | Remove drain plug (13mm socket) | M14 x 1.50 thread. Inspect rubber seal — replace if flattened or cracked. |
| 3 | Reinstall drain plug | Torque to exactly 25 ft-lbs (34 N·m). Over-torquing strips the stamped steel pan bung permanently. |
| 4 | Remove old filter | Located passenger-side front of block. Confirm the old O-ring gasket exits with the filter — a double gasket causes immediate high-pressure blowout. |
| 5 | Install new filter | Lube O-ring with fresh oil. Hand-tighten to contact, then ¾–1 full turn only. Never wrench-tighten a spin-on filter. |
| 6 | Add oil and verify level | Pour 6.5 qt. Run engine 30 sec. Shut off, wait 5 min. Top to SAFE mark (~7.0 qt total). |
| 7 | Reset oil life monitor | Gas pedal method or EVIC menu (see below). |
Oil life monitor reset: two methods
Gas pedal method: Key to RUN (engine off, no foot on brake). Fully depress the accelerator pedal 3 times within 10 seconds. Key OFF. Start normally — oil life resets to 100%.
EVIC steering wheel method: Key to RUN. Use the DOWN arrow to scroll to “Vehicle Info.” Press RIGHT to reach the “Oil Life” screen. Hold RIGHT arrow for ~3 seconds until the reset prompt appears. Press DOWN to select “Yes,” then RIGHT to confirm. Oil life returns to 100%.
Oil Change Intervals: Normal vs. Severe Duty
| Condition | Factory OLM Range | Expert Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Normal (unloaded highway, long trips) | 7,500–10,000 miles or 12 months | 5,000–6,000 miles |
| Severe duty (towing, short trips, idling, extreme temps) | 3,500–5,000 miles | 4,000–5,000 miles max |
The HEMI’s backward oiling architecture — where lifters receive oil last, at the end of a long pressurized chain — makes degraded oil a direct lifter killer. Carbon varnish from old oil accumulates in the narrow MDS galley passages and VVT solenoid screens well before the EVIC monitor warns you.
Master HEMI mechanics universally cap intervals at 5,000 miles regardless of the dashboard reading, using MS-6395 full synthetic. For a broader look at the 5.7L HEMI’s oil requirements across model years, see our 5.7 HEMI oil type and capacity guide and our 2019 Ram 1500 oil capacity comparison. For oil pump diagnosis and replacement, see our Dodge Ram 1500 oil pump replacement guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many quarts of oil does a 2016 Ram 1500 5.7 take?
The 2016 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI takes 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with a filter change, or approximately 6.5 quarts without replacing the filter. Always verify with the dipstick after a brief cold run — never fill by count alone.
What oil does a 2016 Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI take?
SAE 5W-20 full synthetic certified to FCA MS-6395. Best options: Pennzoil Ultra Platinum, Quaker State Advanced Durability, Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic, or Castrol EDGE — all in 5W-20. Verify MS-6395 on the label, not just the API SP rating.
What triggers P1524 on a Ram 1500 and how do I fix it?
P1524 means oil pressure is too low to safely operate the VVT phaser (requires 42 PSI minimum). In approximately 85% of cases it’s caused by a restrictive aftermarket oil filter. Replace with Mopar MO-339 and verify 7.0 quarts of 5W-20 MS-6395 in the crankcase. Clear the code and drive 20 miles. If it returns, check for P0520 (failed oil pressure sensor, OEM #68334877AA) or request a PCM software flash per TSB 18-089-23.
Why does my 2016 Ram 1500 HEMI idle at only 32 PSI?
Hot idle oil pressure in the 30–35 PSI range is completely normal for the 5.7L HEMI. The PCM requires 31 PSI to maintain MDS, and cruising pressure should climb dynamically to 40–65 PSI as RPM rises. Consistent readings below 25 PSI at idle warrant an inspection of the oil pump and main bearing clearances.
Can I use 5W-30 to stop the HEMI tick?
No. A heavier oil delays MDS hydraulic actuation, causing fault codes and harsh cylinder transitions. More importantly, a tick caused by physically seized lifter needle bearings or a ground-down camshaft lobe cannot be cured by viscosity changes. The repair requires replacing all lifters, affected cam lobes, and often the camshaft itself. See our 5.7 HEMI cam and lifter replacement cost guide for full repair details.
Is the MO-899 filter safe on a 2016 Ram 1500?
Yes — both share M22 x 1.5 threads and identical gasket diameter. The MO-899 is longer (95+ mm vs 88 mm for MO-339), so physically verify it clears the EPS rack and front suspension wiring before installation. The larger media surface provides better flow characteristics for the MDS — a genuine longevity benefit.
