When shopping for Ram 1500 automatic transmission fluid, many owners wonder what type of ATF their specific model uses. Blauparts is here to help! This blog article explains transmission fluid specifications used in the 2002-2024 Ram 1500. This post will help you determine the correct Ram 1500 transmission fluid, part numbers, and fill capacities when changing your Ram 1500 automatic transmission fluid.
Post Contents [hide]
- How to Find Your Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid Type
- Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid Specifications
- Why Is Changing Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid (ATF) Important?
- What Is the Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid (ATF) Change Interval?
How to Find Your Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid Type
Currently, the Ram 1500 is available with four types of automatic transmissions in the United States. This article will primarily touch on the automatic transmissions used in the 2002-onward Ram 1500 truck models. These 1500 models include 4-speed, 5-speed, 6-speed, and 8-speed automatic transmissions. Below is a brief description of the four options with their two different automatic transmission fluid (ATF) formulations and their corresponding fluid specifications.
Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid Specifications
8 Speed Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission
The Ram 1500 8-speed automatic transmission debuted in the 2013 model year. The Ram 8-speed automatic transmission has had several versions since its inception, and they're used in the present 2024 Ram 1500 models. These transmissions are identified as the 845RE and 850RE in V6 gasoline engine models and the 8HP70 or 8HP75 TorqueFlite 8 in V8 Hemi and 3.0L EcoDiesel models. The Ram 1500 8-speed automatic transmission is shifted via an electronic rotary shift dial selector on the dash. These are the first 8-speed automatic transmissions offered in the Ram 1500 model line, providing owners with improved drivability for towing trailers and enhanced fuel economy. The transmission also has a tow-hauling feature that allows the driver to choose different transmission modes allowing optimized shifting characteristics and specific shift patterns for various trailer towing and hauling situations. This allows the engine to provide the best possible torque delivery while towing. Tow-haul mode also offers improved downshifting and engine braking to optimize slowing and descending hills with cargo in the pickup bed or loads on a trailer.
The Ram 1500 8-speed automatic transmissions require an ATF stating it is specifically designed and formulated for 8-speed ZF transmissions or equivalent. This correct ATF can also be identified as Chrysler Mopar OEM part numbers as 68218925AB, 68218925AA, 68339073AA, 668157995AA, 68157995AB.
To ensure proper transmission performance and longevity, we always recommend using an ATF that specifically states use for ZF 8 speed 845RE, 850RE, 8HP70, and 8HP75 automatic transmissions. Some ATFs claim performance levels for the Ram 1500 8-speed transmission but use general formulations that are multi-vehicle transmission types of ATF fluid and are not specifically for the Ram 1500 8-speed automatic transmission application. Our RAVENOL 8HP and EUROL 6700 ATF are formulated specifically for the Ram 1500 8-speed automatic transmission. It ensures the perfect function of the Ram 8-speed transmission and maximizes wear protection. To learn more about the benefits of using EUROL 6700 ATF or RAVENOL 8HP ATF see our online catalog.
Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid 8 Speed Fitments
- 2013-2019 Ram 1500 3.6L V6 with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 845RFE aka 8HP45
- 2020-2024 Ram 1500 3.6L V6 with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 850RE aka 8HP50
- 2014-2018 Ram 1500 3.0 V6 Diesel with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 8HP70
- 2020-2023 Ram 1500 3.0 V6 Diesel with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 8HP75
- 2013-2018 Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 8HP70
- 2019-2024 Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 8HP75
- 2021-2023 Ram 1500 TRX 6.4 V8 with 8 Speed Automatic Transmission 8HP95
6 Speed Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission
The Ram 1500 offered a 6-speed automatic transmission option starting in 2012 and can be identified as the 65RFE automatic transmission. The Ram 6-speed automatic transmission was optioned from 2012-2020. The 65RFE automatic transmission used in the Ram 1500 was an updated and revised version of the older 545RFE 5-speed automatic transmission. The revisions include an updated torque converter and an additional 6th gear split from the 2nd gear. All 6-speed transmissions can be shifted through an electronic range shifter or selector (ERS) located on the shift selector. These transmissions were the first time a 6-speed automatic transmission was put in the Ram 1500, which offered owners more diverse drivability for trailer towing and economy.
The Ram 1500 6-speed 65RFE automatic transmissions require a licensed ATF+4® automatic transmission fluid. This ATF formulation can also be identified as specifications MS-9602. There are also several dozen Chrysler Mopar OEM part numbers referenced for the ATF+4® fluid type such as 68218057AC, 68218057AA, 68218057AB, 5013457AA, 5142893AA, 68234631AA, 68234631AB, 68218057CA, 68218058CA, 68218054CA, 05013458AA, 04798234, 04741729, 04773591, 04467724, 05010125AC, 05013458MA, 05010125AA, 04773591AC, 05093764AA, 04467722, 5013458AA, 68218054GA, 680474406MA, 68087385EA, 68218058GA, 05013458AA, 05103531EA, 05013458GA, 68218057GA, 05013457AA, 05103527EA, 05013457GA. Since automatic transmission fluid ATF+4® inception in the early 2000s, it has had several updates to the formulation to offer improved performance characteristics and to keep pace with more modern applications.
To ensure transmission longevity and proper performance we always recommend using licensed ATF+4® transmission fluid in the Ram 1500 6-speed 65RFE automatic transmission. Some aftermarket name brand ATFs claim to have ATF+4 performance levels and use formulations that cover a broad range of multi-vehicle transmission types. However, they may not be the correct fluid because it was not specifically developed and engineered for the RAM 1500 6-speed automatic transmission application. The RAVENOL ATF+4® is formally licensed and approved specifically for use in the Ram 1500 65RFE 6-speed automatic transmission and carries license-No. 40630041 FCA US LLC (formerly: Chrysler Group LLC). The RAVENOL ATF is specifically formulated as an improved ATF for automatic transmissions requiring MS-9602 specification or ATF+4®. RAVENOL ATF+4® is formulated for maximum wear protection in all operating conditions. Improved shift quality due to the fluid's consistent viscosity profile and Improved cold temperature lubrication and shifting. It has been extensively tested and can provide longer fluid change intervals of about 100,000 miles or 160,000 km. To learn more about the benefits of using RAVENOL ATF+4® or EUROL ATF 1100 see our online catalog.
Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid 6 Speed Fitments
- 2012-2020 Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 6 Speed Automatic Transmission 65RFE (Classic Models)
- 2013 Ram 1500 4.7 V8 with 6 Speed Automatic Transmission 65RFE
5 Speed Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission
The Ram 1500 used a 5-speed automatic transmission from the model year 2004 up to 2012, known as the 545RFE transmission. The 5-speed transmission is a revised and improved version of the previous 4-speed automatic transmission used in the Ram 1500 and is based on the prior 4-speed 45RFE automatic transmission. Later, Ram replaced the 5-speed 545RFE transmission with the 6-speed 65RFE transmission.
The Ram 1500 5-speed automatic transmissions require ATF+4® automatic transmission fluid or equivalent. Chrysler used several OEM part numbers to reference the ATF+4® fluid type. OEM ATF part numbers 05010125AC, 05013458MA, 05010125AA, 04773591AC, 05093764AA, 04467722, 5013458AA, 68218054GA, 680474406MA, 68087385EA, 68218058GA, 05013458AA, 05103531EA, 05013458GA, 68218057GA, 05013457AA, 05103527EA, 05013457GA, 68218057AC, 68218057AA, 68218057AB, 5013457AA, 5142893AA, 68234631AA, 68234631AB, 68218057CA, 68218058CA, 68218054CA, 05013458AA, 04798234, 04741729, 04773591, 04467724.
To ensure the best transmission performance and longevity we always recommend using licensed ATF+4® transmission fluid in the Ram 1500 5-speed 545RFE automatic transmission. The RAVENOL ATF is specifically formulated as an improved ATF for automatic transmissions requiring MS-9602 specification or ATF+4®. RAVENOL ATF+4® is formulated for maximum wear protection in all operating conditions. Improved shift quality due to the fluid's consistent viscosity profile and improved cold temperature lubrication and shifting. It has been extensively tested and can provide longer fluid change intervals of about 100,000 miles or 160,000 km. To learn more about the benefits of using RAVENOL ATF+4® or EUROL ATF 1100 see our online catalog.
Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid 5 Speed Fitments
- 2011 Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 5 Speed Automatic Transmission 545RFE
- 2011-2012 Ram 1500 4.7 V8 with 5 Speed Automatic Transmission 545RFE
- 2004-2010 Dodge Ram 1500 3.7 V6 with 5 Speed Automatic Transmission 545RFE
- 2005-2010 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7 V8 with 5 Speed Automatic Transmission 545RFE
- 2004-2010 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 5 Speed Automatic Transmission 545RFE
4 Speed Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission
Ram 1500 models were also optioned with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Between the model years 2002 to 2011, they came with a few different versions of the 4-speed automatic transmission. These models are known as the 4-speed 42RLE, 45RFE, and 48RE transmissions. The 4-speed was later upgraded and replaced by the 5-speed 545RFE, 6-speed 65RFE transmission, and then the newest 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Ram 1500 4-speed automatic transmissions use the ATF+4® automatic transmission fluid specification or equivalent. Chrysler used several OEM part numbers to reference the ATF+4® fluid type. OEM ATF part numbers 68234631AA, 68234631AB, 68218057CA, 68218058CA, 68218054CA, 05013458AA, 04798234, 04741729, 04773591, 04467724, 05010125AC, 05013458MA, 68218057AC, 68218057AA, 68218057AB, 5013457AA, 5142893AA, 05010125AA, 04773591AC, 05093764AA, 04467722, 5013458AA, 68218054GA, 680474406MA, 68087385EA, 68218058GA, 05013458AA, 05103531EA, 05013458GA, 68218057GA, 05013457AA, 05103527EA, 05013457GA.
We always recommend using licensed ATF+4® transmission fluid in the Ram 1500 6-speed 65RFE automatic transmission to ensure transmission longevity and proper performance. Some aftermarket name-brand ATFs claim to have ATF+4® performance levels and use formulations that cover a broad range of multi-vehicle transmission types. However, they may not be the correct fluid because it was not explicitly developed and engineered for the Ram 1500 6-speed automatic transmission application. The RAVENOL ATF+4® is formally licensed and approved for use in the Ram 1500 65RFE 6-speed automatic transmission and carries license No. 40630041 FCA US LLC (formerly: Chrysler Group LLC). The RAVENOL ATF formulation is an improved ATF for automatic transmissions requiring MS-9602 specification or ATF+4®. RAVENOL ATF+4®'s formulation is designed for maximum wear protection in all operating conditions, improved shift quality due to the fluid's consistent viscosity profile, and Improved cold temperature lubrication and shifting. It has been extensively tested and can provide longer fluid change intervals of about 100,000 miles or 160,000 km. To learn more about the benefits of using RAVENOL ATF+4® or EUROL ATF 1100 see our online catalog.
Ram 1500 Automatic Transmission Fluid 4 Speed Fitments
- 2011 Ram 1500 3.7 V6 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 42RLE
- 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 3.7 V6 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 42RLE
- 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 3.7 V6 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 45RFE
- 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 3.7 V6 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 48RE
- 2002-2003 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7 V8 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 42RLE
- 2008-2009 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7 V8 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 42RLE
- 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 4.7 V8 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 48RE
- 2003-2004 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 42RLE
- 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 V8 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 48RE
- 2005-2006 Dodge Ram 1500 8.3 V10 with 4 Speed Automatic Transmission 48RE
Why Is Changing Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid (ATF) Important?
The Ram 1500 automatic transmissions have hundreds of moving components, such as needle bearings, ball bearings, pressure pumps, clutch packs, servo pistons, and seals. These internal components mesh or engage with one another, causing friction and begin to wear and create fine metallic particles which contaminate your Ram 1500 automatic transmission fluid over time. Your Ram 1500 automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and filament transmission filter eventually become contaminated with these particles. These metallic particles can cause wear on these internal transmission components leading to inefficiencies in the transmission and long-term reliability issues.
Also, through everyday transmission use and thousands of transmission operation shifting cycles, the essential additives, and base oils in the transmission fluid deplete, break down, and wear out. As part of your vehicle's regular maintenance, you should change the transmission fluid and filter, replenishing the transmission with fresh transmission fluid.
Suppose a Ram 1500 transmission has had poor service and has worn out the transmission fluid. In that case, it will typically be noticed by poor transmission operation with symptoms such as premature late shift points, rough or jamming shifts, and slipping. If you have seen a new transmission fluid, it's nearly clear in color when compared to the dark color of an old worn-out transmission fluid. You most likely will agree that it is logical that changing your Ram 1500 automatic transmission fluid and filter on a regularly scheduled interval is necessary for long-term transmission reliability and consistent performance. Suppose you are experiencing these transmission shifting issues. In that case, we recommend changing your automatic transmission fluid and filter as a first step in trying to resolve any problems dealing with transmission operation.
What Is the Ram 1500 Transmission Fluid (ATF) Change Interval?
We recommend changing your Ram 1500 transmission fluid and filter every 60,000 miles.
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 tends to generate 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 Choose Blauparts for All Your Vehicle Lubrication Needs?
BLAU® transmission fluid change kits use high-quality, synthetic* transmission fluids. Our fluids are sourced from lubricant partners that employ sustainable efforts to improve the environment using a higher level of quality. This in turn can support the conservation of the environment through less transmission fluid changes and waste, optimize vehicle efficiency and performance, improve and maintain fuel economy, reduce exhaust/carbon emissions, and improve performance through reduced coefficient of friction and less driveline rolling resistance.
*For most kits, check the product description.
- Convenient BLAU® ATF change kits include the correct spec, oil quantities, and OEM quality transmission filter for your specific vehicle make and model
- ATFs that meet or exceed your vehicle manufacturer's specific transmission fluid specification requirements
- Better transmission performance, less transmission slip, improved torque, and precise shifting efficiency
- Sustainable ATFs that conserve the environment, improve fuel economy, and reduce exhaust/carbon emissions through improved transmission operation
- Higher quality ATFs allow for longer change intervals and extended service lives, conserving the Earth's resources
- Higher quality ATFs with advanced fluid technologies provide improved lubricating properties for less transmission wear and longer life
- High-performance ATF with better shear load and flow performance properties
- ATFs with better cold temperature pour points and high heat flashpoints providing protection in all conditions
- ATFs with high, stable viscosity index reduces coefficient of friction inside the transmission
- ATFs with high thermal oxidative stability with excellent cooling capacity for better transmission performance and less wear
- ATFs with lower cold temperature pour points and high heat flashpoints provide transmission wear protection in all climate conditions
- Long-life OEM ATF filters for extended fluid change intervals
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, any other vehicle, or vehicle component manufacturer. All trademarks and OE specification part numbers referenced in this product listing are displayed for identification purposes only and are in no way intended to denote any affiliation with their corresponding owners.
