Last reviewed: March 28, 2026
2020 Ram 1500 Oil Type & Fluid Specs
Oil Filter Part Numbers
Complete Fluid Specifications
Oil Specs for the 2020 Ram 1500
The 2020 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI V8 is built for work, and its oil system reflects that — 7 quarts of 5W-20 full synthetic is a large capacity designed to handle the thermal demands of towing, hauling, and sustained highway driving. The HEMI V8 is known for longevity when properly maintained, and oil changes are the single most important piece of that maintenance.
Ram recommends 10,000-mile intervals under normal conditions. If you're towing regularly or running the truck hard, cut that to 5,000 miles. The Ram uses HOAT Purple (Mopar) — this is specific to Stellantis vehicles, and using the wrong coolant type can cause serious problems. Stick with the Mopar brand or a compatible HOAT formulation. The ZF 8-speed transmission in the Ram 1500 is one of the best automatic transmissions on the market, but it does best with regular fluid service on schedule.
Save on Your Next Oil Change
Use our oil change cost calculator to see exactly what a DIY change costs compared to a shop — most 1500 owners save $30–$60 per change. Not sure when to change it? Our oil change interval calculator gives you a personalized recommendation based on your actual driving habits, climate, and vehicle age.
Sources & Methodology
- 2020 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual — Fluid specifications section
- American Petroleum Institute (API) — Oil certification standards
- FRAM, Mobil 1, Bosch — Oil filter cross-reference catalogs
Data last verified: March 28, 2026
2020 Ram 1500 — Common Questions
The 2020 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine takes 5W-20 Full Synthetic oil meeting API SN Plus specifications. You'll need 7 quarts with a new filter.
Ram recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or 12 months for the 2020 1500, whichever comes first. If you frequently drive in severe conditions — lots of short trips, stop-and-go traffic, towing, extreme temperatures, or dusty roads — consider shortening that interval to 5,000 miles.
Ram specifies full synthetic oil for the 2020 1500. While using conventional oil in an emergency won't immediately damage your engine, it doesn't meet the same performance standards that your engine was designed around. Synthetic oil provides better protection at temperature extremes, lasts longer between changes, and reduces internal engine friction. For the relatively small price difference ($10–$15 more per oil change), stick with synthetic — your engine will thank you.
The OEM oil filter part number for the 2020 Ram 1500 is 68191349AC. Compatible aftermarket filters include the FRAM PH16, Mobil 1 M1-113A, and Bosch 3323. Any of these will work well — the key is to always replace the filter with every oil change and to make sure the gasket on the old filter comes off cleanly when you remove it.