For the 2016 Ram 4500 Pickup with the 6.7L 6-cylinder [L] ETK L Diesel Turbo engine, the oil capacity is 12 quarts (with filter). The recommended viscosity is 15W-40 for ambient temperatures above -18°C, and 5W-40 for temperatures below -18°C. AMSOIL recommends using Signature Series 5W-40 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil (DEOQT-EA) or Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil (ADOQT-EA) paired with an appropriate AMSOIL or WIX filter.
What oil does a 2016 Ram 4500 6.7L Diesel take?
The 2016 Ram 4500 with the 6.7L diesel engine requires an oil viscosity of 15W-40 for temperatures above -18°C (0°F). For ambient temperatures below -18°C, SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil must be used to prevent severe engine damage. The application requires API CJ/CK-4 oil meeting MS-10902 or Cummins CES 20081 standards.
The total oil capacity for the 6.7L diesel engine in the 2016 Ram 4500 is 12 quarts when performing a service that includes replacing the oil filter. Always follow proper checking procedures to ensure correct levels.
AMSOIL product recommendations
The following high-performance fluids and filters are recommended for the 2016 Ram 4500 6.7L Diesel engine to support heavy-duty operation and extended service life.
Engine Oil Options
| Product Name | Viscosity | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Series Max-Duty Diesel Oil | 5W-40 / 15W-40 | DEOQT-EA |
| Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil | 5W-40 / 15W-40 | ADOQT-EA |
Oil Specification Note: The AMSOIL lookup note specifies use of API CJ/CK-4 oil meeting MS-10902. 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 |
Air & Coolant Recommendations
| Component | Product Name | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Air Filter | WIX Air Filter | 46930-EA |
| Coolant | Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Coolant | Propylene Glycol Antifreeze | ANT1G-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
- Oil Grade: SEO39
- Viscosity (Above -18°C): 15W-40
- Viscosity (Below -18°C): 5W-40 (Synthetic required)
- Required Standards: API CJ/CK-4, MS-10902, or Cummins CES 20081
- Ash Content: Low ash diesel engine oil is required
How much oil does it take with a filter change?
Oil Change Service Details
| Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity (with filter) | 12 quarts |
| Drain Plug Torque | 20 ft/lbs |
Service Note: After filling, start the engine and idle for several minutes. Check for leaks. Stop the engine and wait 30 minutes to allow oil to drain back into the pan before checking the level again.
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
Maintaining a heavy-duty diesel chassis cab requires strict adherence to fluid and filtration schedules. Because these vehicles are often used in commercial, industrial, or agricultural environments, managing soot loading and protecting high-pressure components is vital.
- Filtration: Use high-efficiency filters like the AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO80-EA) which provides 99% efficiency at 20 microns to help reduce engine wear.
- Temperature Management: Ensure the correct viscosity is used for your climate; using 15W-40 in extreme cold can lead to severe damage.
- Cooling System: Monitor coolant levels and quality. AMSOIL offers OAT formulations that protect all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Diesel engines face unique stresses compared to gasoline engines. The following table outlines common concerns for this platform.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Wear | High pressure and soot can cause abrasive wear. | Signature Series 5W-40 | Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. | Requires proper service intervals. |
| Extreme Temperatures | Viscosity changes can affect lubrication and startup. | Heavy-Duty 5W-40 | Excels in extreme temperatures. | Must match ambient temperature requirements. |
| Contaminants | Small particles can damage engine components. | AMSOIL Oil Filter | Provides 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Filter must be replaced per schedule. |
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
Based on available research, owners of the Ram 4500 should be aware of several areas regarding structural and electrical integrity:
- Wheel/Suspension: One NHTSA complaint noted potential fracturing of wheel wells over rear tires at high speeds.
- Electrical Systems: Some models may experience cruise control issues due to wiring short circuits that prevent deactivation.
- Hardware: There have been concerns regarding lug nut torque specifications which could lead to broken wheel studs if over-tightened.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
Official NHTSA research indicates the following recalls for certain Ram 4500/5500 models:
- Cruise Control (Campaign 18V332000): A defect in the electrical wiring could prevent cruise control from disengaging, increasing crash risk. The remedy is a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module.
- Wheel Studs (Campaign 21V398000): Incorrect manual information may lead to over-tightened lug nuts, potentially causing broken wheel studs. Dealers are instructed to update torque specifications and inspect studs.
Note: Owners should always verify open recalls by checking their specific VIN through official manufacturer channels or the NHTSA website.
About this vehicle
The 2016 Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty chassis cab vehicle produced by Ram Trucks, a division of Stellantis (formerly FCA US LLC). Unlike standard consumer pickup trucks, the 4500 series is designed for high-capacity hauling, towing, and demanding commercial applications. It sits within the commercial/chassis cab hierarchy, making it a cornerstone for industrial, agricultural, and construction tasks.
This vehicle is powered by the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, a platform renowned for its high-torque output and reliability in heavy-duty environments. Because these vehicles are often utilized in demanding commercial settings with high duty cycles, maintenance schedules are critical to ensuring longevity. Owners typically focus on managing soot loading, maintaining exhaust aftertreatment systems, and performing frequent high-capacity oil changes to mitigate the effects of heavy loads and extended idling.
Maintenance for this platform revolves around robust fluid management. Given its role in commercial fleets, preventative maintenance is vital to minimizing downtime and ensuring the reliability of the diesel powertrain under extreme stress.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the correct oil viscosity for my 2016 Ram 4500?
For temperatures above -18°C, use 15W-40. If you operate in environments below -18°C (0°F), you must use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil to avoid severe engine damage.
How often should I change the oil on my 6.7L Cummins?
While specific intervals depend on usage, AMSOIL products like WIX XP Oil Filters can support drain intervals up to 25,000 miles under certain conditions.
Can I use any diesel oil in my Ram 4500?
No. The AMSOIL lookup note specifies that you should use API CJ/CK-4 oil meeting MS-10902 or Cummins CES 20081 standards, and it must be a low ash diesel engine oil.
What is the oil capacity for an oil and filter change?
The capacity is 12 quarts including the filter replacement. Always verify the level after idling the engine to ensure proper lubrication.
Does my Ram 4500 have any active recalls?
NHTSA research has identified recalls related to cruise control wiring and wheel stud torque specifications. You should contact a dealer or visit NHTSA.gov with your VIN to check for specific open recalls on your vehicle.
How do I protect my diesel engine from wear during heavy towing?
Using high-quality synthetic oils like AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-40 can help provide extreme-pressure protection and minimize wear during high-load applications.
Disclaimer: This information is derived from provided source data. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a certified professional for specific maintenance requirements.