With three different engine options, two drivetrain configurations, two transmission options, and three cab configurations, keeping track of your 2012 Ram 1500’s specifications may prove difficult. Luckily, the engine oil capacity varies depending on what's under the hood.

If you want to save on the cost of vehicle maintenance and find out how to change your engine oil from home, you’ll need to know your engine’s oil capacity. In this guide to 2012 Ram 1500 oil capacity, Jerry, the

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We’ll go over how much oil your Ram needs, how often to change your oil, and run through the steps to change your oil from home. We’ll even throw in some tips on how to save on your

2012 Ram 1500 car insurance

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2012 Ram 1500 engine oil capacity

Before you try your hand at changing your oil, you’ll need to know just how much oil your truck needs.

The engine oil capacity of your 2012 Ram 1500 is dependent on the size of the engine in your vehicle. Be sure not to confuse your engine oil capacity, the amount of oil you'll need to complete an oil change, with your engine displacement, andthe volume taken up by your Ram’s cylinders.

3.7L engine: 5 quarts or 4.7 liters

4.7L engine: 6 quarts or 5.7 liters

5.7L engine: 7 quarts or 6.6 liters

While the two may sound like the same thing, the numbers cannot be used interchangeably, so ensure you’ve got the correct number before you start changing your oil!

What kind of oil does a 2012 Ram 1500 need?

Now that you know just how much oil to put in your vehicle, you’ll need to find out what type of oil is compatible with your 2012 Ram. That’s right—your engine oil capacity isn’t the only specification you’ll need to remember!

According to Dodge manufacturers, drivers should opt for SAE 5W-20 motor oil when swapping out the oil in a Ram. If you’re wondering how different oil grades are actually distinguished from one another, we’ve got you covered.

Each number in an oil grade specifies how viscous or thick the oil is. In this oil grade, the 5 in front of the “W” (which stands for “winter”), refers to the oil’s low viscosity level at 0°F. The second number in the grade specifies the oil’s thickness in hot temperatures. In this grade, the number 20 oil will also be relatively thin at 212°F.

So why does viscosity level matter? Over time, using an oil with a low viscosity at various temperatures will result in less wear and tear on your engine, thereby increasing the longevity of your vehicle. In addition, if you opt for a syntheticoil as per the manufacturer’s recommendation, you’ll be able to go for long periods without needing an oil change.

The genuine article: Keep it simple and try

MOPAR® Synthetic 5W-20 Engine Oil

MORE:

Ultimate FRAM oil filter guide

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How often to change oil on a 2012 Ram 1500

You’ve got your 5, 6, or 7 quarts of SAE 5W-20 engine oil and you’re ready to get the job done. So when is it actually time to change your oil?

If you’re using conventional engine oil, the recommended interval for an oil change is every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, if you're using a synthetic motor oil, you can let a good 7,500 to 10,000 miles go by before you need to pop the hood.

While these are easy benchmarks to follow, you should keep an eye on your oil between these intervals to ensure your oil remains clean and functional. If you notice any of the following symptoms before you’ve hit that 10,000-mile interval, you may need to change it sooner:

Dark, gritty, or dirty motor oil

Unfamiliar sounds

or smells, like oil or smoke, coming from the engine

A noticeablechange or deterioration in your vehicle's performance

MORE:

Dodge common problems

How to change your oil and oil filter

Ready to change your oil? Let’s get started! Before we dive in, ensure you’re prepared with a socket wrench, a drain pan, a filter wrench, a replacement filter, and 5, 6, or 7 quarts of 5W-20 synthetic motor oil. Allow your engine until it reaches a normal operating temperature before switching off your engine.

Follow the steps below to change your 2012 Ram 1500 oil:

Locate the oil fill cap under the hood and remove it

Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from underneath the engine

Drain out the old oil into the drain pain and remove the old oil filter

Install the new oil filter and oil drain bolt

Refill the engine with fresh oil

Reinstall the fill cap

With a dipstick, check that you’ve added the correct amount of oil to your engine

After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.

And that’s it—you’ve changed your Ram 1500’s oil! As a final step, let your engine for a few moments to ensure your oil isn’t leaking and ensure that the oil

pressure light

on your dashboard has turned off. Dispose of the old motor oil in a sealed container and you’re ready to hit the road!

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

In a few quick steps, you can save yourself the cost of paying for a mechanic’s labor at a garage by completing maintenance services from home! Another simple way to save on Ram ownership? Download the

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