How to Change Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid (2013-2024 8-Speed)

This blog article will provide the necessary steps and helpful info when changing the transmission fluid and filter on the 2013 to 2024 Ram 1500 models with the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. We also briefly discuss the correct type of Ram 1500 transmission fluid, the transmission fill capacity, how often the transmission fluid should be changed, and why changing your Ram 1500 transmission fluid is so important for long-term performance.

Ram 1500 8-Speed Transmission Fluid Change Info

This procedure is demonstrated on a 2019 Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi with 8-speed transmission.

However, these Ram 1500 transmission fluid and filter procedures also apply to the following Ram models:

• 2013 - 2024 Ram 1500 5.7L 16V with 8-Speed Auto Transmission
• 2013 - 2024 Ram 1500 3.6L 24V V6 with 8-Speed Auto Transmission
• 2014 - 2023 Ram 1500 3.0L 24V V6 Diesel with 8-Speed Auto Transmission (EcoDiesel)

This 8-speed transmission was manufactured by ZF and was used in other models. The ZF 8-speed transmission was also used in SELECT Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Durango, and Jeep Grand Cherokee models. Depending on the exact model you're doing this service on, visual differences will exist around the transmission pan and other areas due to the different chassis. However, many of the general steps and procedures for changing the transmission fluid, filter, fluid filling, and leveling process or sequence will still apply to these other models with 8-speed ZF transmissions.

Ram 1500 8-Speed Transmission Fluid Change Interval

How often should the Ram 1500 transmission fluid be changed? The recommended service interval for changing the Ram 1500 transmission fluid on 8-speed transmissions is every 60,000 miles. This includes the transmission fluid and filter.

Ram 1500 models that experience more aggressive driving styles or are used in the commercial delivery industry and contractor trades are typically subjected to heavy city traffic or trailer pulling that generates extreme heat in the transmission. Owners that subject their vehicles to these types of severe driving conditions should consider replacing the transmission fluid and filter more frequently, such as every 40,000 miles to 50,000 miles.

Why Should Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid Be Changed?

Why change your Ram 1500 ATF and transmission filter? Your transmission has hundreds of moving components. Over time these internal components mesh with one another, begin to wear, and create fine metallic particles. These fine metallic particles contaminate your vehicle's transmission fluid and plug the transmission filter. This contamination affects your transmission efficiency and long-term performance, causing more friction and wear on transmission components. Having a regular Ram 1500 transmission fluid and filter service intervals will easily extend your transmission life. With clean ATF and a fresh transmission filter, you will be providing clean lubrication and proper filtration for your transmission. This critical maintenance interval will support a long-lasting well-lubricated, protected transmission, minimizing the chances of costly transmission repairs and problems. Learn more about "lifetime transmission fluid" claims here.

Ram 1500 8-Speed Transmission Fluid Type & Specifications

• The recommended Ram 1500 transmission fluid type compatible with Ram 8-speed transmission is the 68218925AA specification.
• RAVENOL 8HP and Eurol 6700 fluids meet or exceed original Ram 1500 transmission fluid part numbers 68218925AA, 68157995AB; 68339073AA, 68157995AA, 68157995AB used in the 8-speed transmission.

Ram 1500 8-Speed Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity

• 2013-2024 Ram 1500 transmission fluid dry fill capacity is 8.7 quarts (8.3 - 8.5 liters)
• 2013-2024 Ram 1500 transmission fluid pan and fluid change capacity is 5.8 quarts (5.5 - 6.0 liters)
• 2013-2024 Ram 1500 transmission fluid drain and fill capacity is 4.7 quarts (4.5 liters)

Tools Needed for Ram 1500 8-Speed Transmission Fluid Change

• 10-millimeter hex bit and wrench
• T-40 Torx bit socket and ratchet
• 16mm socket and 1/4" drive NM torque wrench
• Transmission fluid fill pump tool
• Protective rubber gloves
• (Optional) Diagnostic scan tool for measuring transmission temperature can also use the vehicle information system within the digital instrument cluster

BLAU Ram 1500 8-Speed Transmission Fluid Filter Change Kits

Our BLAU transmission fluid change kits include everything necessary for a Ram 1500 transmission fluid and filter change. Kits include a transmission pan with an incorporated filter and gasket, hardware, and the correct amount of premium ATF that meets the required ZF 8-speed transmission fluid specifications. As well as a cost-effective fluid pump for side filling the transmission.

• 1 automatic transmission oil pan, gasket, and filter unit (unit includes incorporated 2 magnets and filter to valve body seal)
• 6 liters of synthetic automatic transmission fluid (ATF) specifically developed and engineered for 8-speed transmissions used in the Ram 1500. The fluid meets or exceeds the required 68218925AA ATF specification for the Ram 1500. Original, green-tinted ATF color.
• 13 transmission pan mounting bolts
• 1 fill plug with sealing O-ring
• 1 polypropylene transfer pump dispenser tool
  • Hand-operated with a clear dispensing hose used for transmission fluid transfer. This cost-effective tool can be used in place of expensive special tools for pumping transmission fluid into the fill port of the Ram 1500 8-speed automatic transmission.

Disclaimer: Blauparts recommends having a factory-trained A.S.E. certified Ram mechanic perform vehicle maintenance. Always refer to the owner's and factory service manuals for Ram automatic transmission fluid changing procedures. Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses when handling fluids and oils.

Ram 1500 8-Speed Transmission Fluid Change Video

Step-by-Step Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid Change Instructions

Step 1

Begin by confirming that the transmission temperature is below 86° F. The transmission temperature can be monitored using the digital instrument cluster by accessing the vehicle information system or using a diagnostic scan tool. If the transmission is above 86° F, allow the transmission to cool before starting your fluid change.

If you begin when the ambient temperature is above 90° F, when performing the later transmission fluid filling and level procedures, the 122° F maximum fluid level will likely be exceeded.

Step 2

To change the Ram 1500 transmission fluid properly, the vehicle must be elevated off the ground and in a LEVEL position. A general level position of the transmission along with the vehicle is adequate. We recommended raising the truck using an SAE-approved automotive lift. A general-level position of the vehicle front to back and side to side based on the frame or transmission pan area is adequate. This is required to gain access to the bottom of the transmission and perform the correct fluid filling and leveling procedure steps.

To confirm you're lifting the vehicle correctly, you can reference the factory owner's manual for the proper vehicle lift point locations and safety procedures.

Step 3

Locate and loosen the transmission fluid fill plug. This is found on the passenger side, right rear of the transmission, and above the exhaust.

Before draining the Ram 1500 transmission fluid, loosen and remove the fill plug in a counterclockwise direction using an 8mm hex bit socket and rachet. This will confirm that you will have a way to refill the transmission with fluid if the fill plug is seized or can’t be removed.

Step 4

Using a 10-millimeter hex bit and wrench, loosen and remove the transmission pan drain plug in a counterclockwise direction. The Ram 1500 drain plug is located on the rear backside area of the pan. The hex bit and wrench concept works well due to exhaust clearance issues. As the drain plug is removed, drain the old transmission fluid into a suitable waste oil drain pan.

Note: Some newer Ram transmission pans may not include a drain plug, depending on the exact year. If this applies to your model, you can drain the fluid during a later procedure (Step 6).

Step 5

Once the fluid draining is finished, reinstall and hand tighten the drain plug, threading it in a clockwise direction. Using a rag, clean the excess fluid from the exhaust and drain plug area. This will minimize fluid dripping while working under the Ram 1500 transmission pan area.

Step 6

Using a T-40 Torx bit socket and rachet, evenly loosen all 13 transmission pan mounting bolts. Working toward the rear of the pan.

The rear three transmission pan bolts are best removed using a long 5- to 6-inch T-40 Torx bit socket. This allows better tool angle and clearance around the transmission cross member.

Remove all transmission pan mounting hardware except two bolts, leaving one on each side of the pan hand tight to support the pan until its removal.

Note: If your model did not have a transmission fluid drain plug, as mentioned in step 4, you would need to allow the transmission fluid to drain slowly over the edge of the pan during this process. You’ll want a suitable waste oil drain pan positioned and ready while performing the transmission pan removal.

Step 7

Most Ram 1500 models have a deeper transmission pan, which requires that the rear side of the transmission be elevated around 1 inch to allow for more clearance between the pan and exhaust. This allows the pan to clear the valve body while it is removed. Some models may have a shallow pan and not require the transmission to be elevated for the pan removal. You will need to confirm your pan type and proceed as required.

For this write-up and as shown in the above video, to gain access, we've elevated the rear of the transmission by first loosening and removing the three transmission mount nuts located on the bottom side of the cross member.

Using a 16mm socket, loosen and remove the three nuts in a counterclockwise direction.

Using a certified under-hoist support stand, begin elevating the transmission by lifting on the steel area of the Ram 1500 transmission mount support bracket. Lift until around 1 inch of clearance is seen between the transmission mount and cross member.

Step 8

Loosen and remove the last two bolts holding the transmission pan in place. Tip the front side of the pan downward, allowing the filter to disengage from the valve body.

You can slide out and remove the pan, allowing the remaining fluid to drain into a suitable waste oil drain pan.

Using a lint-free rag, clean the Ram 1500 transmission pan gasket mounting surface from all oil residue, debris, and corrosion that could negatively affect a quality seal.

Step 9

Due to torque wrench clearance issues with the exhaust, confirm that the transmission drain plug is tightened to the 8-newton meter torque specification before installation.

Lubricate the new transmission filter o-ring with fresh new Ram 1500 transmission fluid. This will minimize o-ring damage during installation and ensure it seals correctly to the valve body.

Step 10

Begin installing the transmission pan and filter unit. First, confirm the transmission filter tube and valve body port are aligned and apply a small amount of upward pressure to slide the filter tube up into the valve body. Once in place, align the rest of the transmission pan gasket mounting area and start installing the new Ram 1500 transmission pan mounting bolts.

Step 11

Using a T-40 Torx bit socket, begin tightening the bolts in a clockwise direction. Evenly draw the pan up to the transmission using an alternate crisscross sequence while tightening the bolts to a snug, hand-tight feel. This will ensure that the transmission pan is evenly loaded, does not distort during installation, and the pan gasket gets evenly compressed to provide a quality seal.

Step 12

Begin the final transmission pan tightening sequence.

Using a T-40 Torx bit socket and ¼ drive Newton Meter (NM) torque wrench, begin tightening the transmission pan bolts in a clockwise direction using an alternate crisscross sequence shown below to the recommended 8-10 Newton Meter torque specification.

Step 13

On models with deeper transmission pans, lower the transmission back down onto the cross member and remove the under-hoist support stand, placing it out of the work area.

Step 14

Reinstall the three transmission mount nuts, threading them in a clockwise direction. Using a 16mm socket and torque wrench, tighten the nuts. In our case, and as shown in the video above, we tightened them to a 30 ft lb. torque specification.

Step 15

With the vehicle elevated and in a level position, begin filling the transmission with fluid that meets the recommended Ram 8-speed automatic transmission fluid specification. A general level position of the transmission along with the vehicle is adequate for the fluid filling and leveling process. Continue filling the transmission with fluid until it starts overflowing from the transmission fluid fill port. Once this is observed, you can re-install the fill plug to a snug, hand-tight feel.

Step 16

With the Ram 1500 still elevated and in a level position, start the engine and let it idle. This will allow the transmission to pump and distribute the new fluid throughout the transmission, causing a lower transmission fluid level in the pan.

Step 17

With the engine still idle, immediately remove the fill plug. Add more transmission fluid through the fill port until a steady stream of fluid starts flowing out from the fill port. Once this is observed, re-install the fill plug to a snug, hand-tight feel.

Step 18

The following shifting sequence helps remove any air in the Ram 1500 transmission fluid system:

1. With the brake pedal applied, shift the transmission into Reverse for 5 seconds.
2. Then, with the brake pedal applied, shift the transmission to Neutral momentarily, then shift into Drive for 5 seconds.
3. Next, release the brake pedal and lightly accelerate the engine allowing the transmission to shift into 2nd Gear. Continue in 2nd Gear for 5 seconds.
4. Release the accelerator pedal, gently apply the brake pedal, so the wheels stop rotating, and then shift the transmission into Neutral.
5. With the transmission still in Neutral, bring the engine up to 2000 RPM for 5 seconds. Then lower the RPM back down to idle.
6. Gently apply the brake pedal and shift the transmission back into Park.

Final Ram 1500 8 Speed Transmission Fluid Leveling Sequence (Steps 19-21)

Step 19

Prepare for the final steps in checking and confirming the correct transmission fluid level.

• Begin monitoring the transmission temperature.
• Start by ensuring the transmission temperature is between 86° F and 100° F.
• If the temperature is over 100° F, shut off the engine and let the transmission cool down to below 100° F before proceeding.
• The lower transmission temperature will allow you enough time to perform the next fluid leveling steps.
• IMPORTANT: The transmission temperature should not exceed 122° F at any time while performing the final transmission fluid level check. Exceeding 122° F will result in an incorrect transmission fluid level.

Step 20

With the engine idling, begin monitoring the transmission temperature. When the transmission temperature is in the 86° F - 100° F range, remove the fill plug and allow the excess fluid to drain out into a waste oil pan.

The transmission fluid level is correct when a steady stream of fluid flowing from the fill port transitions to a light trickling stream when the transmission temperature is between 86° F and no more than 122° F degrees.

Step 21

Once this fluid level transition is observed, the fluid level is correct, and you can now reinstall the fill plug. Tighten the fill plug in a clockwise direction using an 8mm hex bit socket and torque wrench to the recommended 35-Newton meters or 25 ft lbs torque specification.

Alternate Fluid Level Troubleshooting Scenarios:

Scenario 1 - If NO FLUID was flowing out of the fill port when you remove the plug, you would need to pump more fluid into the transmission until you experience a light trickling stream coming out of the fill port between the 86- and 122-degree temperature window. Once this fluid leveling scenario is observed, the fluid level is correct, and you can now reinstall the fill plug.

Scenario 2 - If a heavy stream of fluid flows out from the transmission fluid fill port hole (within the 86° F - 122° F degree window), then the transmission fluid level is over full. Allow the excess fluid to drain out until the fluid transitions from a steady flow to a light trickling stream. Once this fluid leveling scenario is observed, the fluid level is correct, and you can now reinstall the fill plug.

Step 22

Turn off the engine and allow the transmission and exhaust to cool.

Once cooled, use a rag to clean any excess fluid around the transmission pan and fill the plug areas. These areas should be thoroughly cleaned from any fluid residue. This will help inspect and confirm that the transmission does not have any leaks after performing your fluid change.

Step 23

Dispose of the old fluid responsibly by taking it to a certified recycling collection center.

Note: It is good to note in your records the current mileage at the time of your transmission fluid change and when you might want to change it next. We also recommend that you keep detailed service records to track your vehicle's condition. Keeping good vehicle maintenance records can help improve your vehicle's resale value.

See our Disclaimer on the right-hand side of this page. Always consult your service manual and confirm your application's specific fluid and oil requirements. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals. Blauparts, Ravenol, and Eurol are not affiliated with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V (FCA), FCA US LLC, FCA Group Marketing S.p.A, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Mopar, ZF, BorgWarner, New Venture Gear, its affiliated companies, subsidiaries, its licensors, any other vehicle, or vehicle part manufacturer. All trademarks and OE specification part numbers referenced in this product listing are displayed for identification purposes only. They are in no way intended to denote any affiliation with their corresponding owners.