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2018 Ram 1500 Hemi - Transmission Fluid Change Interval?

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:36 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Ram 1500 Laramie 5.7L Hemi

Hey everyone, I've got a 2018 Ram 1500 Laramie with the 5.7L Hemi, just hit 75,000 miles. I'm wondering about the transmission fluid. The owner's manual seems a bit vague on the exact interval for 'normal' driving, and I do a mix of city and highway, occasional light towing.

Should I be looking to change it soon? What type of fluid does it take? Is this something a DIYer can tackle, or is it best left to the pros?

Any tips or common pitfalls to watch out for would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:36 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

For your 2018 Ram 1500 with the 8HP70 8-speed automatic transmission, understanding the maintenance schedule is key.

  1. Service Interval: Ram recommends inspecting the transmission fluid at 60,000 miles and replacing it at 120,000 miles for normal driving conditions. However, for severe duty (which includes frequent heavy towing, off-road use, or commercial applications), the interval is typically reduced to 60,000 miles. Given your mileage and occasional light towing, a proactive approach would be to inspect it now and consider a change between 75,000 and 90,000 miles.
  2. Fluid Type: It's crucial to use the correct fluid: Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF (Part #68157995AB or an equivalent specifically approved for ZF 8HP transmissions). Using the wrong fluid can cause significant damage.
  3. DIY Difficulty: A transmission fluid and filter change on these 8-speed transmissions can be quite challenging for a novice DIYer. It involves dropping the pan, replacing the integrated filter/gasket, and refilling to a precise level while monitoring the transmission temperature with a diagnostic tool. The procedure is specific and unforgiving.
  4. Causes for Early Change: Factors like consistent heavy towing, extreme operating temperatures, or prolonged stop-and-go traffic can accelerate fluid degradation, warranting an earlier change.
  5. When to See a Shop: If you're not fully comfortable with precise fluid level checks, working with specific torque specifications, or handling the potential mess, it's highly recommended to take your truck to a professional shop. They have the specialized tools and experience to ensure the job is done correctly, preventing costly transmission issues down the line. Incorrect fluid levels or types are common causes of premature transmission failure.
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