Owning a 2026 Ram 2500 is an investment in your business or lifestyle. Whether you are hauling livestock with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel or managing a fleet of 6.4L Hemi work trucks, following the correct maintenance schedule is the only way to ensure your truck lasts for the long haul.
At Sidney CDJR, we see too many heavy-duty trucks come in with preventable issues because owners followed a generic “light-duty” maintenance plan. A heavy-duty truck has different needs, specifically regarding fuel filters, DEF, and transmission service.
Here is the definitive maintenance guide for Sidney, OH drivers.
6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel Maintenance
The Cummins engine is legendary for longevity, but it requires strict adherence to fluid and filter changes.
6.4L Hemi® V8 Gas Maintenance
The gas engine is simpler but still works hard.
Every 7,500 – 10,000 Miles (or when Oil Life Monitor alerts)
Oil Change: 12 quarts of low-ash synthetic diesel oil. (Note: Frequent towing requires more frequent changes).
Fuel Filters (Critical): The Ram 2500 has two fuel filters, one at the engine and one at the rear near the fuel tank. Both must be changed every 15,000 miles. Failure to do so can destroy high-pressure fuel injectors.
DEF Top-Off: We refill your Diesel Exhaust Fluid tank to ensure emissions compliance.
Every 30,000 Miles
4×4 Service: Inspect transfer case fluid and change if you tow frequently.
Air Filter: A clogged air filter can raise Exhaust Gas Temperatures (EGTs) when towing.
Every 60,000 Miles
Transmission Service: Drain and refill fluid for the 68RFE or Aisin automatic transmission.
Crankcase Ventilation Filter: Replace the CCV filter to prevent excessive crankcase pressure.
Every 5,000 – 7,500 Miles
Oil Change: 0W-40 Synthetic Oil is recommended for the 6.4L Hemi to protect the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters.
Tire Rotation: Heavy-duty trucks wear front tires faster; rotate every oil change to extend tire life.
Every 30,000 Miles
Spark Plugs: Unlike the 1500, the heavy-duty 6.4L engine works harder. Inspect plugs, though they are typically rated for 100,000 miles.
Cooling System: Inspect hoses and coolant level, as the gas engine runs hotter under load than the diesel.
New vs. Used Ram 2500: What to Watch For
If you are looking at a used ram 2500 or certified pre-owned ram, check these specific records:
Fuel Filter History (Diesel): If the previous owner skipped the 15k-mile fuel filter changes, the injectors may be compromised.
Transmission Fluid: Pull the dipstick. If the fluid smells burnt, the truck may have been towed beyond its capacity without proper cooling.
Front End Play: On high-mileage trucks, check the track bar and tie rod ends for play, a common wear item on solid-axle trucks.
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