Choosing the right oil is not just about keeping the engine running, it directly affects fuel economy, engine life, towing power, and long-term reliability.
In this guide, we’ll break down the recommended oil type for the 2018 Ram 1500, oil capacity for each engine, and maintenance tips.
2018 Ram 1500 Oil Type
1. Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-20 Full Synthetic
A top-tier synthetic oil designed for long engine protection and extended oil change intervals.
Features:
- Supports up to 20,000 miles of protection under ideal conditions
- Excellent wear protection for HEMI engines
- Strong performance in extreme heat and cold
- Helps reduce sludge and engine deposits
- Ideal for high-mileage Ram 1500 trucks
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2. Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-20
One of the most recommended oils for Dodge/Ram engines due to strong OEM compatibility.
Features:
- Made from natural gas-based PurePlus technology
- Excellent cleaning properties for engine deposits
- Improves fuel economy and engine responsiveness
- Strong oxidation resistance for long engine life
- Meets FCA (Ram/Chrysler) requirements
3. Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-20
A balanced, affordable, and high-quality oil for everyday Ram 1500 use.
Features:
- 24X stronger protection against engine wear
- Good for towing and stop-and-go driving
- Excellent high-temperature stability
- Helps prevent sludge and engine buildup
- Budget-friendly compared to premium brands
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2018 Ram 1500 Engine Options and Oil Requirements
The 2018 Ram 1500 comes with three main engines, and each has different oil requirements:
1. 3.6L Pentastar V6
- Oil Type: 5W-20 full synthetic
- Oil Capacity: about 5.9–6 quarts
- Best for: Daily driving, light towing, fuel efficiency
2. 5.7L HEMI V8
- Oil Type: 5W-20 full synthetic
- Oil Capacity: 7 quarts
- Best for: Towing, hauling, performance driving
3. 3.0L EcoDiesel V6
- Oil Type: 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil
- Oil Capacity: 10.6 quarts
- Best for: Heavy towing, long-distance driving, torque performance
Most gas-powered 2018 Ram 1500 models use 5W-20 synthetic oil, which is designed for better cold starts, reduced engine wear, and improved efficiency.
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Why 5W-20 Oil Is Recommended for the 2018 Ram 1500
The manufacturer recommends 5W-20 full synthetic oil for the 3.6L and 5.7L engines because:
- It flows easily during cold starts
- Reduces engine friction
- Improves fuel economy
- Protects lifters and cam components in the HEMI engine
- Works well under towing and highway loads
Modern Ram trucks are also designed with oil life monitoring systems, meaning oil change intervals depend on driving conditions rather than a fixed mileage only.
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Oil Change Interval for 2018 Ram 1500
Most experts and manuals recommend:
- 7,500 to 10,000 miles for synthetic oil
- Or once per year, whichever comes first
Heavy towing, short trips, or dusty environments may require more frequent changes.
Best Oil Type Summary
If you want a quick answer:
- Gas engines (3.6L & 5.7L): 5W-20 full synthetic
- Diesel engine (3.0L EcoDiesel): 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil
Always ensure the oil meets API-certified full synthetic standards for best performance.
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Choosing the Right Oil for Your Ram 1500
Here’s a simple way to decide:
- For maximum protection – Mobil 1 Extended Performance
- For OEM-style performance – Pennzoil Platinum
- For budget + reliability – Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic
All three are excellent choices for the 5.7L HEMI, which is the most common engine in the 2018 Ram 1500.
FAQs
What oil type does a 2018 Ram 1500 use?
Most 2018 Ram 1500 gas engines use 5W-20 full synthetic oil, while the EcoDiesel uses 5W-40 diesel oil.
How many quarts does a 2018 Ram 1500 take?
- 5.7L HEMI: 7 quarts
- 3.6L V6: ~6 quarts
- 3.0L Diesel: 10.6 quarts
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20?
It is not recommended. The engine is designed for 5W-20, and using a different viscosity may affect performance and fuel economy.
Is synthetic oil required?
Yes, full synthetic oil is strongly recommended for all 2018 Ram 1500 engines.
How often should I change oil?
Every 7,500–10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
Final Thoughts
The 2018 Ram 1500 oil type depends mainly on the engine, but most gasoline models rely on 5W-20 full synthetic oil. Using the correct oil ensures:
- Longer engine life
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger towing performance
- Fewer maintenance issues over time
If you stick with high-quality synthetic oils like Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, or Valvoline Advanced, your Ram 1500 will stay reliable well past 100,000 miles.
