1996 Dodge RAM 3500

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
3.9L V6
Oil Type & Capacity
5W-30 (4.5 qts)
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Wheel Torque
130-160
ft-lbs

The 1996 Dodge RAM 3500 maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Dodge RAM 3500.

For oil changes, the 1996 Dodge RAM 3500 takes 5W-30 motor oil with a capacity of 4.5 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Mopar OAT (Purple/Violet), and transmission fluid is ATF+4. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Dodge RAM 3500, torque the lug nuts to 130-160 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

There is 1 NHTSA safety recall on file for the 1996 Dodge RAM 3500. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 1996 Dodge RAM 3500 uses 5W-30 motor oil (4.5 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 130-160 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

1996 Dodge RAM 3500 Specifications
Motor Oil5W-30
Oil Capacity4.5 qt
Lug Nut Torque130-160 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantMopar OAT (Purple/Violet)
Transmission FluidATF+4
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
ATF+4
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Coolant
Fluid Type
Mopar OAT (Purple/Violet)
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Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
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Washer Fluid
Windshield
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DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 1996 Dodge RAM 3500.

No known problems reported for this vehicle yet.

1 NHTSA safety recall for the 1996 Dodge RAM 3500. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH

Campaign: 99V024000 Date: 05/02/1999

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MODEL 3500 LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS ONLY. OPERATION OF THE HEADLAMPS OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME CAN RESULT IN HEADLAMP SWITCH FAILURE, CAUSING THE HEADLAMPS OR PARK LAMPS TO GO OUT.

Consequence

IF THE LIGHTS FAIL, A VISIBILITY PROBLEM COULD OCCUR, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HEADLAMP SWITCH INCLUDING A RELAY IN THE PARK LAMP WIRING CIRCUIT.

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Decode your VIN for even more detailed specs including trim-level data.

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RAM 3500 — Other Model Years
2010200920082007200620052004200320022001
See Also
1996 Dodge RAM 3500 Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 1996 Dodge RAM 3500All Vehicles Using 5W-30 OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 1996 Dodge RAM 3500Wiper Replacement: 1996 Dodge RAM 3500