For the 2012 Ram 3500 Pickup with the 6.7L 6-Cylinder Diesel Turbo (Engine Code L ETJ L), the engine oil capacity is 12 quarts with a filter change. The recommended viscosity is 15W-40 for temperatures above -18°C, or 5W-40 synthetic oil for ambient temperatures below -18°C (0°F) to prevent severe engine damage. AMSOIL recommends using Signature Series 5W-40 Max-Duty Diesel Oil paired with an AMSOIL oil filter.
What oil does a 2012 Ram 3500 6.7L Diesel take?
The 2012 Ram 3500 with the 6.7L diesel engine requires an oil grade of SEO39. For temperatures above -18°C (0°F), a 15W-40 viscosity is appropriate. However, for ambient temperatures below -18°C, you must use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil to avoid potential severe engine damage.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup for your 2012 Ram 3500, here are the recommended fluids and filters to maintain peak performance and engine longevity.
Engine Oil Options
| Product Name | Viscosity | Code |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-40 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil | 5W-40 | DEOQT-EA |
| AMSOIL 5W-40 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil | 5W-40 | ADOQT-EA |
Note: The AMSOIL lookup notes require API CJ/CK-4 oil meeting MS-10902 or Cummins CES 20081 standards. 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 Filter Options
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| WIX Air Filter | 46930-EA |
| Donaldson P-Series Heavy Duty Air Filter | P616743-EA |
Coolant Recommendation
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
- Required Specification: API CJ/CK-4 that meets MS-10902.
- Alternative Standard: Oil meeting Cummins CES 20081 standards may also be used.
- Ash Content: Low ash diesel engine oil is required for this application.
How much oil does it take with a filter change?
The total capacity for the 6.7L engine is 12 quarts when including the oil filter. To ensure accuracy during an oil change, follow these steps: run the engine to operating temperature, stop it, and wait approximately 30 minutes to allow oil in the upper engine parts to drain back into the pan before checking and topping off the level.
Oil Change Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity (with filter) | 12 quarts |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 37 ft/lbs |
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Diesel engines operating under heavy loads face unique lubrication challenges. The following table outlines common concerns and how specific AMSOIL products are designed to address them.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Important Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extreme Wear | High pressure in diesel engines can cause component scuffing. | Signature Series 5W-40 | Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. | Requires proper maintenance intervals. |
| Cold Starts | Thick oil can prevent immediate lubrication in freezing weather. | Signature Series 5W-40 | Excels in extreme temperatures. | Must use 5W-40 below -18°C. |
| Contaminants | Small particles can cause abrasive wear. | AMSOIL Oil Filter | 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Filter must be replaced per schedule. |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
When servicing the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, pay close attention to the following:
- Drain Procedure: Always allow the engine to sit for 30 minutes after running at operating temperature before checking oil levels to ensure all oil has drained back into the pan.
- Temperature Warning: Failure to use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil in ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) could result in severe engine damage.
- Low Ash Requirement: Ensure you are using a low ash diesel engine oil as specified by the manufacturer requirements.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
NHTSA research indicates several recalls for the 2012 Ram 3500. Owners should verify their specific VIN through official channels to check for open recalls.
- Wheel Studs/Lug Nuts: A recall (Campaign 21V398000) was issued because incorrect manual information could lead to over-tightened flanged lug nuts, potentially causing broken wheel studs or wheel separation.
- Frontal Air Bags: A recall (Campaign 15V459000) addressed a steering wheel wiring harness that might rub against the driver air bag module retainer spring, which could cause an electrical short and unexpected deployment.
- Transmission Linkage: A recall (Campaign 17V821000) was noted regarding the automatic transmission column shift for certain models.
Note: NHTSA complaints are owner reports and do not constitute confirmed defects.
About this vehicle
The 2012 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck manufactured by the Ram Trucks division, which operates as a brand under Stellantis North America. Historically part of the Dodge line, the Ram brand became its own distinct entity following a spin-off from Dodge in 2009. The 3500 model sits within the Heavy Duty hierarchy, positioned above the light-duty Ram 1500 and alongside other heavy-duty variants like the Ram 2500, 4500, and 5500.
This specific vehicle is equipped with a 6.7L diesel turbo engine (Engine Code L ETJ L), which belongs to a class of engines designed for high-capacity towing and commercial utility applications. Because these vehicles are frequently subjected to high-stress workloads, such as heavy towing and hauling large payloads, maintenance is critical to longevity. Owners often research specialized attention for fuel filtration, turbocharger health, and exhaust aftertreatment systems in this engine family. Users should always consult the official vehicle owner’s manual or a verified service database to ensure accuracy for specific technical specifications.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the oil capacity for my 2012 Ram 3500 6.7L?
The engine requires 12 quarts of oil when performing a service that includes a filter change.
Can I use 15W-40 in the winter?
You can use 15W-40 if temperatures remain above -18°C (0°F). If temperatures drop below -18°C, you should use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil to prevent severe engine damage.
What oil specification does the Cummins 6.7L require?
The AMSOIL lookup note references API CJ/CK-4 standards meeting MS-10902 or Cummins CES 20081. Low ash diesel engine oil is required.
How much should I torque the oil drain plug?
The oil drain plug for this vehicle should be torqued to 37 ft/lbs.
Does AMSOIL offer a high-efficiency filter for this truck?
Yes, the AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO80-EA provides 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns.
How do I check the oil level correctly after a change?
After changing the oil, run the engine to operating temperature, stop it, and wait about 30 minutes for the oil to drain back into the pan before checking the level and topping off if needed.
Disclaimer: While this information is derived from manufacturer and AMSOIL data, always verify your specific vehicle’s requirements with the official owner’s manual or a certified mechanic.