8,000-Mile Service
The first service is pretty basic and should consist of a multi-point inspection, oil change, and tire rotation. As Ram states, your 1500's first service should take place at roughly 8,000 miles. However, this can vary by usage. For instance, if you use the truck for everyday driving and occasional light towing, 8,000 miles is fine. But if you use the Ram 1500 for off-roading or frequent towing, every 5,000 to 6,000 miles is recommended. As your mileage increases, it is best practice to keep up with the same oil change interval. Routine oil changes and tire rotations ensure that the engine continues to run smoothly and that your tires maintain good traction on the road. Meanwhile, getting multi-point inspections with each service ensures the quality of your truck's condition from things you might otherwise miss.
20,000-Mile Service
As you roll past the 20,000-mile mark, you should have at least two oil change services under your belt and nearing your third. When you bring your truck in for its 20,000-mile oil change, there are a few additional items to be aware of. The first that Ram recommends is the engine air filter. This rids the air entering the engine of dirt, debris, and other contaminants, mixing only clean air with the fuel to burn. When this filter becomes clogged, it doesn't provide adequate airflow, decreasing performance and increasing fuel consumption. If a clogged air filter isn't replaced, the dirt and debris can begin to slip into the engine and cause bigger problems. If you frequently drive on dirt roads or take your truck off the road, a technician might have already recommended the replacement of this filter. 20,000 miles is also a good time for the technician to inspect the braking, steering, suspension, and exhaust systems for any damage.
40,000-Mile Service
After another 20,000 miles, at 40,000, Ram recommends having your truck's spark plugs replaced. This is because as your truck's engine ages, the spark plugs can become corroded and not provide enough spark to light the air/fuel mixture inside the engine, leading to a misfire. Cylinder misfires will decrease your performance and trigger the check engine light. This service should also include an inspection of the CV axles and joints, checking for loose fluid, which is an indication of a leak. Additionally, the fluid and gaskets of the rear differential, transfer case, and front differential should be checked to ensure that there are no leaks or metal shavings.
60,000-Mile Service and Beyond
60,000 miles is still young for a Ram 1500. However, it is the time when services should start being repeated. For example, you should have the spark plugs inspected at 60,000 miles, as well as the air filter, braking, steering, suspension, driveline, axles, and gearboxes. Under normal driving conditions, 60,000 is when your brakes may be due to be replaced. Beyond 60,000 miles, as you approach 100,000 miles, the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve should be looked at and replaced if needed. This small valve plays a big role in your truck's emissions by removing waste gases out of the crankcase, where the engine oil is stored and recycles them into the air intake to be mixed with fuel and burned. This process reduces the carbon emissions that your truck creates.
Ram 1500 Service Center in Longmont, CO
If you own a Ram 1500, you know that you have a truck that you can rely on. Return the favor by giving it the care it deserves as the mileage increases. The service center here at Prestige Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is here to help. Our technicians have the tools, training, and knowledge to maintain your vehicle from its first oil change through any diagnostics and mechanical repairs. Schedule your next service appointment with us right here on our website to give your Ram 1500 the care it deserves!