Ram's reputation for building robust and dependable trucks is backed by its performance in industry studies. The brand came second in J.D. Power's 2023 Initial Quality Study, and in 2024, it moved into first place. While your pickup is designed to handle arduous jobs and long trips, its ability to do so hinges on the care and maintenance you provide. To stay in good condition, your truck needs regular checkups.
Basic RAM Maintenance
To keep your Ram truck running smoothly, you need to pay attention to its various components. A few basic maintenance tasks can help keep your truck in good condition:
- Oil change: Your Ram truck has an intelligent oil change indicator system, so when your oil life drops to 15%, your dashboard will display the message, OIL CHANGE REQUIRED. To keep your engine running smoothly and extend its life, you should refresh your oil at least once a year or every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
- Wheel rotation: Your truck's tires will wear evenly if you rotate them every 5,000 miles. Use the forward cross pattern for front-wheel-drive models, and if you have a rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, use the rearward cross pattern.
- Regular inspections: You should check your engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid every week, as well as your tire pressure, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid each month. Also, check the brake fluid every few months to avoid future problems.
- Air filter: Your air filter needs to be clean, especially if you frequently drive on dirt roads, as it protects your engine, improving its performance and fuel efficiency.
- Battery connections: Your battery connections should be clean and tight to avoid engine trouble on cold mornings. You should also ensure that your constant velocity/universal joints are properly lubricated.
- Cabin air filter: You usually need to swap this out around 15,000 miles, but if you drive in dirty, dusty, or polluted areas, you may need to change it more often to maintain your Ram's interior air quality.
These inspections can maintain the value of your Ram truck over time. Whether you do them yourself or hire a professional, regular checkups can keep your truck running efficiently for a long time.
Intermediate Maintenance
When your Ram reaches 30,000 to 60,000 miles, it will likely need some extra attention from a professional. At Ciocca Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) of Hanover, we can help with the following components:
- Transmission lubricant: We'll replace this if necessary. This fluid keeps gear shifts smooth and your transmission working well.
- Brakes: We'll give your brakes a full checkup, including the pads, rotors, and fluid levels, to ensure your Ram stops when you need it to.
- Cooling system: We'll clean the system around to remove built-up residue. This helps maintain the engine's temperature, no matter how hard it's working.
- Timing belt or chain: We'll inspect this to ensure the engine runs smoothly. Signs of damage include unusual noises, power loss, and tiny metal particles that are visible when you change the oil.
We'll also check the transfer case fluid at 30,000 miles with four-wheel-drive models. This may need replacing at 60,000 miles, especially if you use your Ram for towing or as a taxi, police car, or fleet vehicle. No matter how many miles are on your truck, we can check it over to ensure it remains reliable.
Advanced Maintenance
After 60,000 miles, it's time for some critical checks. The following components will typically need some work:
- Fuel system: Cleaning the fuel system removes residue that can slow down your engine and reduce its power.
- Spark plugs: Swapping out your spark plugs keeps the engine efficient and maintains your gas mileage.
- Differential fluid: Changing this protects your truck's drivetrain, which is important if you often tow heavy loads.
If your Ram has a Stop/Start engine system, you should install a top-notch Mopar accessory drive belt at around 150,000 miles. This will keep the gas-saving feature working efficiently.
By staying on top of all these maintenance tasks, you can preserve your Ram truck's optimal performance. It'll also help you to avoid surprise problems and big repair bills.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Your Ram Vehicle
Hanover's winter weather can strain your battery, so check it thoroughly and ensure your antifreeze levels are a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water to stop the engine from freezing. Don't use tap water in the cooling system, as it can cause corrosion.
In the summer, you need to keep your Ram's cooling system well-maintained. Check for cracks or leaks in the hoses, and ensure the radiator is clean. Also, make sure the air conditioning is working, and top off the washer fluid in the windshield wipers so you'll be ready for any summer showers.
Keep Your Ram Running Smoothly With Ciocca CDJR of Hanover
Following a maintenance plan isn't just about preventing breakdowns; it's about maintaining your truck's top performance. If you're ready for an upgrade, then keeping your vehicle well-maintained can also boost its trade-in value, which you can check with our trade-in tool.
Your truck's upkeep needs vary depending on its age and how you drive it. At Ciocca CDJR of Hanover, we're well versed in the Ram's specific requirements, and our service team cares about your truck as much as you do. So, contact us today to set up a service visit.
red chevrolet crew cab pickup truck on dirt road during daytime by Brock Wegner is licensed with Unsplash License