For the 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 HD Pickup with the 6.7L 6-Cylinder Diesel Turbo (Engine Code L ETJ 0), the oil capacity is 12 quarts with a filter change. The preferred viscosity for temperatures above -18°C is SAE 15W-40, though SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil is recommended for all temperatures to prevent severe engine damage in ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C). AMSOIL recommends the Signature Series 15W-40 Max-Duty Diesel Oil paired with an AMSOIL or WIX oil filter.
What oil does a 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 HD 6.7L take?
Your vehicle requires high-quality diesel engine oil that meets specific API and OEM standards to protect the Cummins turbo-diesel engine. The AMSOIL lookup identifies an oil grade of SEO39. For temperatures above -18°C, SAE 15W-40 is preferred. However, if you operate in ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C), failure to use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil could result in severe engine damage.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup for your 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, here are the recommended fluids and filtration components to maintain peak performance and protect against wear.
Engine Oil Options
| Product Name | Viscosity | Code |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Diesel Oil | 15W-40 | DMEQT-EA |
| AMSOIL Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil | 15W-40 | ADPQT-EA |
Oil Specification Note: The AMSOIL lookup note requires API CJ/CK-4 oil meeting MS-10902 standards. Oil meeting Cummins CES 20081 standards may also be used. Low ash diesel engine oil is required.
Oil Filter Options
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Oil Filter | EAO80-EA |
| WIX XP Oil Filter | 57620XP-EA |
| WIX Oil Filter | 57620-EA |
Additional Maintenance Products
| Component | Product Name | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Air Filter | WIX Air Filter | 46930-EA |
| Coolant | AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Coolant (Concentrate) | AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze | ANT1G-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications and Details
| Detail | Specification/Value |
|---|---|
| Oil Viscosity (Preferred) | 15W-40 (Above -18°C) |
| Oil Viscosity (All Temps) | 5W-40 Synthetic |
| Oil Capacity | 12 quarts (with filter) |
| Drain Plug Torque | 37 ft/lbs |
Important Maintenance Note: When changing the oil, start and run the engine to operating temperature, then stop and wait approximately 30 minutes. This allows oil in the upper parts of the engine to drain back into the pan. Check the level again and top off as needed.
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
Maintaining a 6.7L Cummins diesel requires attention to specialized systems that differ from gasoline engines. Owners should focus on fuel system integrity, turbocharger health, and advanced emission control systems. Regular monitoring of the cooling system is essential for maintaining reliability under heavy loads.
- Low Ash Requirement: Low ash diesel engine oil is required for this application.
- Filter Capacity: Using high-quality filters like the AMSOIL Oil Filter can provide 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns and greater capacity for small, wear-causing contaminants.
- Coolant Capacity: The cooling system capacity is 22.6 quarts.
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Diesel engines face unique stresses including soot loading and extreme temperature fluctuations. The following table outlines how specific AMSOIL products can support your maintenance routine.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Wear | High-pressure diesel combustion causes friction. | DMEQT-EA | Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. | Requires proper service intervals. |
| Extreme Temperatures | Cold starts or high heat can affect viscosity. | ADPQT-EA | Excels in extreme temperatures. | Must match viscosity to ambient temp. |
| Contaminants | Soot and debris can damage engine parts. | EAO80-EA | 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Filter must be replaced regularly. |
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
Based on owner reports and general diesel requirements, owners of the 2010 Ram 2500 HD should monitor several key areas:
- Cooling System: Given the heavy-duty nature of these trucks, monitoring cooling system integrity is essential for reliability under load.
- Drivetrain/Power Train: While not a confirmed defect in all models, owner complaints have historically touched upon power train and electrical components.
- Turbocharger Health: As a turbo-diesel, maintaining proper lubrication is critical to the longevity of the turbocharger.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
Official NHTSA recall research for the 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 HD returned no recall records at the time of this report. However, owners should always verify open recalls by VIN, as applicability depends on production date, trim, and specific equipment. Additionally, while no formal recalls were listed, NHTSA complaint data shows reports regarding power train and electrical systems; these are owner reports and should not be treated as verified defects.
About this vehicle
The 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 HD represents a significant era in the history of heavy-duty pickups. During this period, the Ram line was still marketed under the Dodge brand, prior to the official spin-off of Ram Trucks as a standalone brand by Stellantis (formerly Chrysler Group LLC). As a member of the Heavy Duty (HD) family, the 2500 series is designed for high-capacity towing and heavy payloads, sitting above the light-duty Ram 1500 in terms of capability.
The heart of this specific vehicle is the 6.7L diesel engine, part of the Cummins engine family. Cummins Inc. is a prominent American manufacturer specializing in diesel engines and power generation systems. The presence of a Cummins turbo-diesel engine in a Ram HD platform typically signifies a vehicle built for demanding work cycles, such as commercial hauling or heavy agricultural use. Because these engines are engineered for longevity and high torque, they are central to the vehicle’s identity and value.
Maintenance Context: Owners of this 6.7L diesel platform should focus on specialized maintenance routines that differ significantly from gasoline-powered counterparts. Key research areas typically include fuel system integrity, turbocharger health, and advanced emission control systems. Because specific engine codes (such as L Etj) and exact performance specifications can vary by production run, owners should always cross-reference their specific VIN with service manuals to ensure accuracy.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
How much oil does my 6.7L Cummins take?
The capacity is 12 quarts when performing an oil change with a new filter installed.
What is the correct oil viscosity for winter driving?
For ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C), it is critical to use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil to avoid severe engine damage. For temperatures above -18°C, SAE 15W-40 is preferred.
What oil specifications should I look for?
The AMSOIL lookup note references API CJ/CK-4 and MS-10902 standards. It also notes that oil meeting Cummins CES 20081 standards may be used, and low ash diesel engine oil is required.
How often can I change my oil?
While specific intervals depend on usage, AMSOIL products like the Signature Series are designed to confidently extend drain intervals compared to standard oils.
Can I use any antifreeze in my Ram 2500?
The AMSOIL lookup lists Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze (ANTPC1G-EA) and Propylene Glycol options. Always ensure compatibility with your specific cooling system requirements.
How do I verify if my vehicle has an open recall?
Owners should always verify open recalls by checking their specific VIN through official manufacturer or NHTSA channels, as recall applicability can vary based on production date and equipment.
Disclaimer: All fluid and filtration recommendations must be verified against the owner’s manual or a certified service professional to prevent engine damage.