2020 Ram 1500 Oil Capacity & Type: Complete Engine Guide [2026]

📌 Quick Summary

The 2020 Ram 1500 oil capacity depends entirely on your engine: the 5.7L Hemi V8 requires 7 quarts, the 3.6L V6 takes 5 quarts, and the 3.0L EcoDiesel needs 8.5 quarts. Using the correct viscosity and MS-6395 certification is vital for maintaining your powertrain warranty.

🎯 Key Takeaways

The 5.7L Hemi V8 requires exactly 7.0 quarts of 5W-20 oil.
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 takes 5.0 quarts of 0W-20 oil.

3.0L EcoDiesel models require 8.5 quarts of 5W-40 synthetic oil.
Gas engines must meet the Chrysler MS-6395 material specification standard.
Always replace the oil filter and crush washer during every service.

Knowing your 2020 Ram 1500’s oil capacity is the most critical part of your routine maintenance. Depending on your specific engine, you will need anywhere from 5 to 8.5 quarts of oil to reach the “Full” mark on your dipstick. Using the exact amount ensures your engine’s internal components stay lubricated and cooled without risking high-pressure leaks or oil aeration from overfilling.

This guide breaks down the precise volume for the three available engines in the 2020 lineup. Whether you are running the workhorse Pentastar V6, the legendary 5.7L HEMI, or the high-torque EcoDiesel, having the right amount of oil on hand before you pull the drain plug will save you a mid-project trip to the auto parts store. Getting these numbers right is the easiest way to maintain your truck’s longevity and warranty standing.

2020 Ram 1500 Oil Capacity by Engine Type

The 2020 Ram 1500 offers three distinct engine platforms, and each one has a unique oil pan design and internal volume requirement. It is vital to identify your engine before purchasing your oil, as the difference between the smallest and largest capacities is a full 3.5 quarts. You can verify your engine type by checking the emissions sticker under your hood or by looking at your VIN.

5.7L HEMI V8 (eTorque and Non-eTorque)

The 5.7L HEMI V8 remains the most popular engine for the 2020 model year. Regardless of whether your truck is equipped with the eTorque mild-hybrid system or the standard internal combustion setup, the oil capacity remains the same. You will need 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) of oil for a full exchange. When refilling, always account for the oil held within the filter. Most owners find that adding 6.5 quarts and then checking the dipstick before adding the final half-quart prevents overfilling.

3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque

The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is the standard engine for many 2020 Ram 1500 trims and features a significantly smaller oil sump than the V8. This engine requires 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) of oil. Because this engine uses a cartridge-style filter located on top of the engine, the oil drains more completely into the pan than in older designs. This means you will almost always use the full 5-quart jug during a standard oil change.

3.0L EcoDiesel V6

If you are driving the 3.0L EcoDiesel, you must be prepared for a much larger oil volume. This engine is designed for heavy-duty cycles and requires a massive 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) of oil. The higher capacity helps manage the heat generated by the turbocharger and the soot levels inherent in diesel combustion. Always ensure you have a large enough drain pan before starting, as standard 5-quart pans will overflow quickly.

5.7L HEMI V8: 7 Quarts
3.6L Pentastar V6: 5 Quarts
3.0L EcoDiesel V6: 8.5 Quarts

The Ultimate 2020 Ram 1500 Oil Change Walkthrough

Maintaining the heart of your truck is essential for longevity and performance, and for the 2020 Ram 1500, knowing the exact oil capacity and procedure is the first step toward professional-grade maintenance. Whether you are driving the fuel-efficient 3.6L Pentastar V6, the legendary 5.7L HEMI V8, or the torque-heavy 3.0L EcoDiesel, using the correct volume and viscosity of oil ensures internal components remain lubricated and cooled. This guide covers everything from identifying your specific engine requirements to the final reset of your dashboard oil life monitor, helping you save money and gain the satisfaction of doing the job right.

Step 1: Identify Your Engine and Gather Supplies

What you need: Owner’s manual, VIN number (if unsure), and the correct oil and filter. Specifically, for the 2020 Ram 1500, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 requires 5.0 quarts of 0W-20; the 5.7L HEMI V8 requires 7.0 quarts of 5W-20; and the 3.0L EcoDiesel requires 8.5 quarts of 5W-40 synthetic oil.

Instructions: Before you even touch a wrench, you must confirm which engine is under your hood. Open your hood and look at the engine shroud or the emissions sticker. Once identified, purchase a high-quality oil filter, such as a Mopar or equivalent premium brand. For the HEMI, you will need a spin-on filter (often MO-339), while the Pentastar and EcoDiesel use cartridge-style filters. Ensure you have a 13mm or 16mm socket for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench, a funnel, and a drain pan capable of holding at least 10 quarts to avoid overflows. Having everything ready prevents mid-job trips to the auto parts store.

Pro Tip: Always check your oil caps; they often have the recommended oil weight (e.g., 5W-20) printed directly on them to prevent errors during the refill process.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle and Safety Gear

What you need: Car ramps or a floor jack with jack stands, wheel chocks, safety glasses, and nitrile gloves.

Instructions: Drive your truck for about five to ten minutes to bring the oil up to operating temperature. Warm oil flows much better and carries more contaminants out of the engine than cold oil. Park the truck on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use ramps or a jack to lift the front end. If using a jack, never work under the vehicle without sturdy jack stands in place. Place wheel chocks behind the rear tires to prevent any accidental rolling. Put on your safety glasses and gloves, as hot oil can cause skin irritation and serious eye injury if it splashes during the draining phase.

Pro Tip: If your Ram 1500 has the Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension, ensure you put the vehicle into “Jack Mode” via the touchscreen settings to prevent the system from trying to auto-level while you are underneath it.

Step 3: Drain the Old Engine Oil

What you need: 13mm or 16mm socket wrench, oil drain pan, and shop rags.

Instructions: Position your drain pan directly under the oil pan drain plug. On the 2020 Ram 1500, the plug is usually located at the rear or side of the oil pan. Using your socket wrench, loosen the plug by turning it counter-clockwise. Once it is loose enough to turn by hand, continue unscrewing it slowly while applying slight inward pressure to keep oil from leaking out prematurely. When you reach the last thread, quickly pull the plug away. Allow the oil to drain completely until it slows to a very thin, occasional drip. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Inspect the drain plug gasket for any tears or compression damage; replace it if it looks flattened or cracked.

Pro Tip: Remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine while the oil is draining. This breaks the vacuum within the engine and allows the oil to flow out of the bottom much faster and more smoothly.

Step 4: Remove the Old Oil Filter

What you need: Oil filter wrench (for HEMI) or a 24mm/27mm socket (for Pentastar/EcoDiesel cartridge filters) and a catch pan.

Instructions: If you have the 5.7L HEMI, the filter is a spin-on type located near the front of the engine. It can be messy, so place your pan underneath it. Use the filter wrench to loosen it, then spin it off by hand. If you have the 3.6L Pentastar, the filter is a cartridge located on top of the engine near the intake manifold. Use a socket to unscrew the plastic cap. Slowly lift the cap and the attached filter out, allowing the oil to drip back into the housing for a few seconds. For either engine type, ensure the old rubber O-ring or gasket came off with the filter. If the old gasket sticks to the engine block, the new filter will not seal, leading to a massive leak.

Pro Tip: For HEMI owners, the oil filter is positioned in a way that oil often runs down the frame. Use a piece of cardboard or a flexible funnel tool to create a “slide” to direct the oil straight into your pan.

Step 5: Install the New Oil Filter

What you need: New oil filter, fresh engine oil, and a clean rag.

Instructions: For spin-on filters (5.7L HEMI), take a small amount of fresh oil on your finger and lubricate the rubber gasket on the top of the new filter. Screw the filter onto the threaded stud by hand until it makes contact with the base, then tighten it an additional 3/4 to one full turn. Do not over-tighten with a wrench. For cartridge filters (3.6L and 3.0L), remove the old O-ring from the plastic cap and replace it with the new one provided in the box. Snap the new filter element into the cap or the housing (depending on the specific design), then screw the cap back on. Use your wrench to snug it down to the torque spec usually printed on the cap, which is typically 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs).

Pro Tip: Never “dry start” a HEMI if you can avoid it. Some professionals like to pre-fill the spin-on filter with a little bit of fresh oil before installing it to ensure faster oil pressure buildup upon startup.

Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Plug and Refill Oil

What you need: Socket wrench, funnel, and the specific amount of fresh oil (5, 7, or 8.5 quarts).

Instructions: Wipe the area around the drain hole clean with a rag. Reinstall the drain plug by hand to ensure you don’t cross-thread it, then tighten it with your wrench. The standard torque for the drain plug is approximately 20-25 ft-lbs. Next, place a funnel into the oil fill neck on top of the engine. Slowly pour in the required amount of oil. For the 2020 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI, pour in exactly 7 quarts. For the 3.6L V6, use 5 quarts. For the 3.0L EcoDiesel, use 8.5 quarts. Pouring too quickly can cause an air bubble and splashback, so take your time. Once finished, replace the oil fill cap securely.

Pro Tip: Buy your oil in 5-quart jugs rather than individual quarts. It is significantly cheaper, and the jugs usually have a clear strip on the side to help you measure out the remaining 2 quarts needed for a HEMI.

Step 7: Check Levels and Monitor for Leaks

What you need: Clean paper towel or rag.

Instructions: Start the engine and let it idle for about 1-2 minutes. Look under the truck immediately to ensure there are no drips coming from the drain plug or the oil filter. If everything looks dry, turn the engine off and let the truck sit for at least 5 minutes to allow the oil to settle back into the pan. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again. The oil level should be right at the “Full” or “Safe” mark. If it is slightly low, add a small amount and recheck. Do not overfill, as this can cause aeration of the oil and potential engine damage.

Pro Tip: Fresh oil is very clear and can be hard to see on a shiny dipstick. Look at the dipstick in indirect sunlight or lay it flat against a clean paper towel to see where the “wet” mark ends.

Step 8: Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System

What you need: The vehicle’s ignition key or Start button.

Instructions: To keep your truck’s maintenance schedule accurate, you must reset the internal computer. Without starting the engine, turn the ignition to the “ON/RUN” position. Using the steering wheel buttons, navigate the driver information display (cluster) to the “Vehicle Info” menu. Scroll until you find the “Oil Life” screen. Press and hold the “OK” button (or the right arrow, depending on your trim) until the percentage resets to 100%. Alternatively, you can fully depress the accelerator pedal slowly three times within 10 seconds while the ignition is in the “ON/RUN” position, then turn the ignition off. This signals to the PCM that the maintenance has been performed.

Pro Tip: Write the date, mileage, and oil type on a small sticker and place it in the top left corner of your windshield as a physical backup to the digital monitor.

✅ Final Checklist

Verify the drain plug is tightened to 20-25 ft-lbs and the area is dry.
Confirm the oil filter is hand-tight (spin-on) or torqued to 25 Nm (cartridge).
Check the dipstick one final time to ensure the level is in the safe zone.

Ensure the oil fill cap is tightened and the dipstick is fully seated.
Confirm the “Oil Life” percentage on the dashboard reads 100%.

Important Notes:

Safety Warning: Always dispose of used oil and filters at a certified recycling center or local auto parts store. Never pour oil down a drain or onto the ground.

Professional Help: Seek a mechanic if you notice metal shavings in the old oil or if the drain plug threads are stripped.
Estimated Time: 30 to 60 minutes.
Cost Range: $50 – $110 depending on oil type (synthetic is more expensive) and whether you catch items on sale.

Recommended Oil Viscosity and Chrysler Specifications

Capacity is only one half of the equation; using the correct oil weight (viscosity) is just as important for the 2020 Ram 1500. Modern Ram engines use variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation (MDS) which rely on specific oil pressures to function correctly. If the oil is too thick or too thin, these systems may trigger a “Check Engine” light or cause premature mechanical wear.

Gas Engine Viscosity Requirements

For the gas-powered engines, Ram has very specific requirements printed directly on the oil fill cap. The 5.7L HEMI V8 requires 5W-20 oil. This lighter weight is essential for the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) to properly deactivate cylinders during highway cruising. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 requires 0W-20 oil. This ultra-low viscosity helps reduce internal friction and ensures that the engine is lubricated immediately upon startup, even in freezing temperatures.

The Chrysler MS-6395 Specification

When shopping for oil for your gas-powered Ram, you must look for the Chrysler MS-6395 certification on the back of the bottle. This is the industry standard set by Mopar to ensure the oil resists thickening and prevents sludge buildup in HEMI and Pentastar engines. Many high-quality synthetic oils meet this spec, but always verify the label to ensure your 2020 warranty remains protected. Using oil that lacks this specification can lead to “HEMI tick” or premature cam wear over time.

EcoDiesel Viscosity and MS-10902

The 3.0L EcoDiesel has entirely different requirements. You must use a 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil that meets the Chrysler MS-10902 and API CJ-4 or CK-4 standards. This oil is formulated to handle the high heat of a turbocharged diesel engine and the increased soot load. Never use standard passenger car oil in the EcoDiesel, as it lacks the “ashless” additives required to protect the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) in your exhaust system.

5.7L HEMI: 5W-20 (Must meet MS-6395)
3.6L Pentastar: 0W-20 (Must meet MS-6395)
3.0L EcoDiesel: 5W-40 Full Synthetic (Must meet MS-10902)

Essential Component Specs: Filters and Drain Plugs

Getting the oil capacity right is only half the battle. To keep your 2020 Ram 1500 running smoothly, you need to ensure the supporting hardware—the filter and the drain plug—is up to the task. Using a high-quality filter is especially important if you are utilizing full synthetic oil, as the filter needs to last as long as the oil does without clogging or bypassing.

Matching Your Filter to Your Engine

Each engine option for the 2020 Ram 1500 uses a specific filter design. Installing the wrong one can lead to leaks or, worse, a loss of oil pressure. Here are the common Mopar specs and what to look for:

5.7L Hemi V8: Typically uses the Mopar MO-339 (or equivalent like Wix 57060). This is a spin-on filter located near the front of the engine.

3.6L Pentastar V6: Uses a cartridge-style filter, specifically the Mopar MO-349. This sits in a permanent housing on top of the engine, making it much cleaner to replace than traditional spin-ons.
3.0L EcoDiesel: This also uses a cartridge filter (Mopar 68507598AA). Because diesels produce more soot, these filters are built with specialized media to capture finer particles.

Drain Plug and Gasket Basics

The drain plug is a small part that can cause big headaches if ignored. Most 2020 Ram models use a 13mm or 1/2-inch hex head bolt. Over time, the integrated rubber gasket on the flange can perish or flatten, leading to slow drips on your driveway. Pro tip: Always inspect the built-in seal on the plug; if it looks cracked or compressed, it is time for a fresh plug to ensure a leak-free seal.

Maintenance Intervals and Oil Life Monitoring Systems

Gone are the days of the mandatory 3,000-mile oil change. The 2020 Ram 1500 is a sophisticated machine that calculates its own needs based on how you drive. Understanding how the truck “thinks” about its oil can save you money and prevent unnecessary wear on the internal components.

Understanding the Oil Life Monitor

Your Ram features an Automatic Oil Change Indicator System. This isn’t just a simple timer; it is an algorithm that monitors engine temperatures, idle time, speeds, and even ambient temperatures. When the system hits a certain threshold, a “Change Oil” message will appear on your instrument cluster.

Maximum Limit: Regardless of what the monitor says, never exceed 10,000 miles or 12 months between changes.

System Logic: Short trips in cold weather will trigger the light much sooner than long highway hauls because moisture doesn’t have a chance to evaporate from the oil.
The Reset: Remember that the system doesn’t “know” you changed the oil unless you manually reset the indicator via the steering wheel controls.

Severe vs. Normal Operating Conditions

While 10,000 miles is the “up to” limit, very few trucks live a perfectly “normal” life. If you use your Ram for heavy lifting, you need to adjust your expectations. Consider shortening your interval to 4,000 to 6,000 miles if you frequently experience the following:

Heavy towing or hauling a full bed regularly.
Extensive idling (common at job sites or in heavy traffic).
Driving in extremely dusty or off-road environments.
Consistent short-trip driving (less than 10 miles) in freezing temperatures.

Conclusion

Maintaining the 2020 Ram 1500 requires more than just a quick trip to the auto parts store. By matching the specific 7-quart or 5-quart capacity to your engine and selecting the correct 0W-20 or 5W-20 synthetic oil, you are protecting one of your most valuable assets. Remember that while the onboard computer is a great guide, your driving habits—especially towing and idling—should ultimately dictate how often you refresh your engine’s lifeblood.

To keep your truck in peak condition, make it a habit to check your dipstick at least once a month and keep a log of your service dates. Ready to get started? Grab the right Mopar filter for your engine and give your Hemi or Pentastar the high-quality synthetic oil it deserves today!

💬 Quick Questions & Answers

How many quarts of oil does a 2020 Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi take?

The 5.7L Hemi V8 engine requires 7 quarts (6.6 liters) of oil.

What is the oil capacity for the 2020 Ram 3.6L V6?

The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has an oil capacity of 5 quarts (4.7 liters).

What oil does a 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel use?

The 3.0L EcoDiesel requires 8.5 quarts of 5W-40 full synthetic oil meeting MS-10902 specs.

Does the 2020 Ram 1500 require synthetic oil?

While synthetic blend is the minimum, full synthetic is highly recommended for engine longevity and performance.

What is the drain plug torque for a 2020 Ram 1500?

The standard oil drain plug torque is 20 lb-ft (27 Nm) for most 2020 models.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Chrysler MS-6395 oil specification?

MS-6395 is a unique performance standard required by Chrysler (FCA) for engine oils used in their gasoline engines. It ensures the oil provides adequate protection against sludge, oxidation, and wear over the entire oil change interval.

Can I use 5W-30 oil in my 5.7L Hemi instead of 5W-20?

It is strongly discouraged because the 5.7L Hemi uses a Multi-Displacement System (MDS) that relies on the specific flow rate of 5W-20 oil to deactivate cylinders. Using a thicker oil can cause the MDS to malfunction and trigger a check engine light.

How often should I change the oil in my 2020 Ram 1500?

Ram recommends changing the oil when the Oil Life Indicator alerts you, but typically no later than every 10,000 miles or 12 months. For heavy towing or off-road use, shorter intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles are recommended.

Does the eTorque system change the oil capacity?

No, the eTorque mild-hybrid system does not change the internal oil capacity of the 3.6L V6 or 5.7L V8 engines. The fluid requirements remain 5 quarts and 7 quarts respectively.

Which oil filter should I use for the 2020 Ram 1500?

The Mopar MO-339 is the standard OEM filter for the 5.7L Hemi, while the 3.6L V6 uses a cartridge-style Mopar MO-349 filter. Always verify fitment with your VIN.

Why does the 3.0L EcoDiesel require so much oil?

The 8.5-quart capacity in the 3.0L EcoDiesel is designed to handle the higher thermal loads and soot production common in diesel engines. The large reservoir helps keep the oil cooler and extends the life of the lubricant between changes.

Author

Zayn

Zohn Zayn Smith is a seasoned automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the industry. As the Founder and Chief Editor of Truckguider, he specializes in Dodge Ram models, including the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500. His deep understanding of these trucks makes him a trusted authority on everything from performance and maintenance to towing capabilities.

View all posts