2020 RAM 1500 5.7 Hemi Recommended Oil

The RAM 1500 pickup truck continues to be one of the most popular light-duty trucks on the market. With strong towing capacity, a comfortable interior, and powerful available Hemi V8 engines, it’s easy to see why the RAM 1500 is a top choice for truck buyers. Today we will find the best 2020 ram 1500 5.7 hemi recommended oil!

One of the most common questions RAM 1500 owners have is what type of oil they should use for their truck’s engine. For 2020 RAM 1500 trucks equipped with the legendary 5.7L Hemi V8, the manufacturer recommends using 0W-20 synthetic oil that meets the specifications of FCA US LLC SN Plus.

Using the factory-recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil is important to properly lubricate the components in the Hemi V8 and keep the engine running at peak performance. Synthetic oils outperform conventional oils and provide enhanced wear protection, improved fuel economy, and better cold weather startup.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 2020 RAM 1500 5.7L Hemi’s recommended oil type and capacity, oil change intervals, how to check oil levels properly, and answer some frequently asked questions about getting the right oil for the 2020 RAM 1500 gas V8 engine.

Recommended Oil Type for 2020 RAM 1500 5.7L Hemi V8

As mentioned above, the factory-recommended oil for the 2020 RAM 1500 equipped with the 5.7L Hemi V8 engine is 0W-20 synthetic oil that meets the specifications of FCA US LLC SN Plus.

0W-20 oil has a zero weight at cold temperatures (indicated by the 0W) which allows for better flow at start-up in cold weather. The 20 weight gives the right viscosity protection at engine operating temperatures. Make sure any 0W-20 oil you use has the FCA US LLC SN Plus certification to ensure it has the proper additive package to protect the Hemi engine.

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Synthetic 0W-20 oils greatly outperform conventional oils in a number of ways:

• Enhanced wear protection – Synthetic oils maintain a strong lubricating film at higher temperatures to keep metal engine components properly separated and reduce friction and wear. This maximizes the life of critical engine parts.
• Increased fuel economy – The 0W-20 viscosity along with the synthetic’s low friction properties can boost MPG by reducing pumping losses and improving efficiency. Less friction means less wasted energy.
• Better cold temperature performance – Synthetic 0W-20 flows faster for easier starting in cold weather and protects the engine during warmup. Quick lubrication prevents dry starts.
• Extended oil change intervals – Synthetic oils hold up better over time allowing change intervals of 6 months or 6000 miles in the RAM 1500. Less oil breakdown means longer oil life.
• Reduced oil consumption – The heavier synthetic oil molecules are less prone to burning off which lowers oil consumption. Less makes it to the combustion chamber.
• Enhanced contaminant handling – Synthetics disperse soot and deposits to prevent buildup and help keep the Hemi engine clean. Detergents hold contaminants in suspension.
• Superior deposit control – Synthetic oils ward off sludge, varnish, and carbon deposits that can harm Hemi engine. Thermal breakdown and oxidation is reduced.
• Decreased maintenance costs – By extending oil drain intervals and engine life, synthetic oil can save money in the long run with fewer oil changes and repairs.

Always go with the manufacturer-recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil like Mobil 1, Shell Rotella, or Valvoline SynPower rather than conventional oils in the 2020 RAM 1500 5.7L Hemi for maximum performance and engine protection.

Benefits of 0W-20 Synthetic Oil in Hemi Engines

Let’s take a deeper look at some of the specific benefits that 0W-20 full synthetic oil provides for the high-performance Hemi V8 engine:

Extended Oil Life

Synthetic base oils are chemically engineered to have uniform, stable molecules. This uniformity prevents the oil from breaking down under heat and oxidation stress like conventional oils do. The longer-lasting molecules provide extended oil drain intervals of 6 months or 6000 miles in most driving conditions for the RAM 1500.

Maximum Horsepower

The low friction and viscosity of 0W-20 synthetic oils reduce parasitic losses related to pumping oil through the Hemi engine. Less drag on engine components allows the V8 to maintain higher horsepower and torque output.

Optimized Cold Weather Flow

The 0W base oil has been engineered to flow freely in cold temperatures below -22°F. This allows for faster oil delivery on startup to prevent dry starts in frigid conditions. The quick flow also helps the Hemi reach optimal temperature faster.

Reliable High-Temperature Protection

Synthetics maintain a strong lubrication film up to 400°F, significantly higher than conventional oils. This keeps metal engine components separated and prevents wear in hot conditions or heavy-load driving when the Hemi runs harder.

Minimized Oil Consumption

The lower volatility and heavier weight of synthetic oil make it less prone to burning off in hot Hemi engines. Conventional oils vaporize and oxidize more readily. Less oil consumption means lower top-off frequency.

** deposiSo keeping your 2020 RAM 1500 Hemi running in peak condition requires the use of quality full synthetic 0W-20 oil changed regularly. Conventional oil cannot provide the same level of protection and performance.

Oil Capacity for 2020 RAM 1500 5.7L Hemi V8

When performing an oil change on the 2020 RAM 1500 with the 5.7L V8, it’s critical to fill the engine with the proper amount of new oil. For the Hemi engine, the oil capacity is 6 quarts (or 5.7 quarts) when replacing the oil filter.

This 6-quart capacity could potentially vary slightly based on whether the truck is equipped with a skid plate that requires some additional oil to fill that void space. Checking your owner’s manual for the exact capacity is recommended, especially if not changing the filter.

When adding oil, be sure to use the manufacturer-recommended 0W-20 synthetic, and fill carefully while checking the oil level on the dipstick. It’s important not to overfill, as too much oil can cause excess pressure and leaks over time. Underfilling will leave engine components improperly lubricated.

Here are some tips for a smooth oil change on a 2020 RAM 1500 Hemi:

• Only use the recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting SN Plus standards
• Have 6 quarts of new oil on hand if changing the filter
• Allow oil to fully drain from the old filter before removing it
• Install new filter tightly by hand – do not overtighten
• Slowly add oil in small amounts, rechecking the level
• Do not top off above the FULL mark on the dipstick

Taking the time to add the precise amount of factory-recommended 0W-20 synthetic ensures your Hemi will have the right lubrication protection between oil changes. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions on this section!

Oil Change Interval for RAM 1500

Following the proper oil change interval is important to get the full benefit of high-performance synthetic oil in your 2020 RAM 1500 5.7L Hemi. The manufacturer recommends changing the 0W-20 synthetic oil every 6 months or 6000 miles in normal driving conditions.

Severe driving conditions such as frequent towing, extensive idling, or operation in extreme temperatures may warrant shortening the interval to 5 months or 5,000 miles. The RAM’s computer system will indicate when an oil change is due based on operating conditions.

Here are some benefits of adhering to the recommended oil change interval:

• Ensures oil is fresh with proper additives
• Prevents buildup of acid and contaminants
• Avoids sludge that can clog small passages
• Reduces friction and wear as oil breaks down
• Maintains factory emission system performance
• Helps new oil fully clean crankcase out

Neglecting oil changes can lead to a lack of lubrication, increased engine wear, loss of power, and sludge buildup in the Hemi V8. Synthetic oil helps extend the change interval but cannot last forever. Sticking to the 6 month or 6000 mile recommendation will maximize engine life.

Tracking mileage between oil changes can be tricky. Many RAM 1500 owners find it simpler to just follow the 6 month interval. An easy way is to change it every Spring and Fall. Proactively changing it on schedule prevents any issues down the road.

Checking Oil Level in 2020 RAM 1500

Checking the engine oil level regularly in between changes is an important habit, especially in the high performance Hemi V8 engine. Adding oil if the level is low can help prevent potential engine damage between oil changes.

Here is the proper procedure for checking oil level in a 2020 RAM 1500:

• Park the truck on a level surface and engage the parking brake
• Let the engine cool completely, as oil level varies with engine temperature
• Pop the hood and locate the engine oil dipstick near the front of the engine bay
• Remove the dipstick and wipe it off with a clean cloth
• Fully insert the dipstick back into the tube and pull it out again
• Examine the level – it should fall between the FULL and ADD marks
• If low, add small amounts of 0W-20 synthetic oil, rechecking the dipstick until it reads full
• Do not overfill over the FULL mark, as this can cause oil leaks

The oil level should routinely be checked every 1-2 fuel fill ups or at least monthly. Consumption varies, so keep an eye on the dipstick. Topping off when low ensures the Hemi V8 stays properly lubricated.

Let me know if you need any tips on reading the RAM 1500’s dipstick or determining the right oil level on it. Properly checking and maintaining oil levels is key to engine health between changes.

Choosing the Right 0W-20 Synthetic Oil Filter

In addition to using quality full synthetic 0W-20 oil, it’s critical to change the oil filter with every oil change on the 2020 RAM 1500 truck. The filter cleans contaminants from the oil to prevent accelerated engine wear.

Mopar OEM filters are engineered to OEM specifications for proper flow rate and contaminant holding capacity. OEM filters have anti-drainback valves to prevent dry starts.

There are also many quality aftermarket filters that meet the same specs as factory filters:

• Wix
• Bosch
• Purolator PureONE
• Fram Ultra Synthetic

Avoid cheap, poor quality bargain filters that can’t stand up to the high performance Hemi V8’s demands. Check that any aftermarket filter you use has a 20 micron rating for optimal filtering capability.

The RAM 1500 oil filter threads on and off by hand – do not use any filter wrenches or tighten more than 3/4 turn past hand tight. Proper filter installation prevents leaks. Follow the above oil capacity and check procedures after installing a new filter.

FAQs on Oil for 2020 RAM 1500 Hemi

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about selecting oil for the 5.7L Hemi engine in the 2020 RAM 1500:

Can I use 5W oils instead of 0W-20 in my Hemi?

No – 5W oils do not meet the factory recommended viscosity of 0W-20 and may not properly protect the engine under all conditions. Always use 0W-20 SN Plus rated synthetic oil.

Do oil additives help or harm the Hemi engine?

Additives are not necessary or recommended as they may counteract the proper additive package in quality synthetic oils. Stick to factory oil recommendations.

What about Royal Purple, AMSOIL, LiquiMoly – are these OK?

As long as they meet the 0W-20 viscosity and SN Plus specs, most major synthetic brands are fine to use. But check they meet OEM requirements for proper performance.

Can I extend oil changes past 6000 miles with synthetic oil?

It’s not recommended to exceed factory guidelines. While synthetics last longer, other wear factors still occur and contamination builds over time warranting regular oil changes.

Should I use thicker oil for towing or hauling heavy loads?

No, the 0W-20 weight will provide adequate protection under all normal driving situations. Heavier oils can potentially decrease fuel economy and are not required.

Summary

To keep a 2020 RAM 1500 pickup with the 5.7L Hemi V8 engine running in peak condition, be sure to use the manufacturer’s recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting FCA US LLC SN Plus specifications. This oil delivers enhanced performance, protection and engine life compared to conventional oils.

Adhering to the recommended oil change interval of 6 months or 6000 miles ensures oil is refreshed regularly to maintain the Hemi’s health. Always use a quality oil filter and check oil levels routinely between changes. The Hemi demands a high-quality full synthetic to live up to its performance legacy. Follow these tips to keep your RAM 1500 running smoothly for years to come.

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