2021 RAM 2500

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
6.4L V8
Oil Type & Capacity
0W-40 Full Synthetic (7 qts)
Transmission
Automatic 8-spd
Wheel Torque
130
ft-lbs

The 2021 RAM 2500 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 RAM 2500.

For oil changes, the 2021 RAM 2500 takes 0W-40 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 7 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 RAM 2500, torque the lug nuts to 130 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.

Owners of the 2021 RAM 2500 have reported 5 common issues including "Steering Column Intermediate Shaft Noise", "6.7L Cummins DEF System Freezing and Derating" and "6.7L Cummins Heater Grid Relay Electrical Short". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

There are 8 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2021 RAM 2500. 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 2021 RAM 2500 uses 0W-40 Full Synthetic motor oil (7 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 130 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2021 RAM 2500 Specifications
Motor Oil0W-40 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity7 qt
Lug Nut Torque130 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)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2021 RAM 2500. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
8,000 mi / 12 mo
5W-20 (6.4L HEMI gas) or 15W-40 (6.7L Cummins diesel), 12 qt (Cummins)
Tire Rotation
8,000 mi / 6 mo
Rotate every oil change
Cabin Air Filter
20,000 mi / 24 mo
Replace more often in dusty conditions
Engine Air Filter
30,000 mi / 36 mo
Inspect every 15,000 mi
Brake Fluid
40,000 mi / 36 mo
DOT 4; heavy-duty brakes
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
AISIN 6-speed (diesel) or ZF 8-speed (gas); use manufacturer-approved fluid
Transfer Case Fluid
60,000 mi
4WD models; Mopar transfer case fluid
Coolant
100,000 mi
Mopar OAT coolant; then every 50,000 mi
Spark Plugs
30,000 mi
Gas engine only; HEMI uses copper core plugs at 30,000 mi
Serpentine Belt
100,000 mi
Inspect at 60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Dual battery on diesel; check annually
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2021 RAM 2500.

Common problems reported by 2021 RAM 2500 owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

Steering Column Intermediate Shaft Noise

A clicking, popping, or creaking noise emanating from the steering column when turning the steering wheel is a widespread complaint. The noise is most noticeable at low speeds during parking maneuvers and U-turns. The cause is insufficient lubrication of the steering column intermediate shaft splines and universal joints.

Solution

Lubricate or replace the steering column intermediate shaft. TSB 19-005-22 addresses the clicking/creaking noise. Some vehicles require the entire intermediate shaft assembly replacement with an updated part that has improved sealing to retain lubrication.

Est. Cost: $200 - $700
2

6.7L Cummins DEF System Freezing and Derating

In cold climates, the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system freezes, triggering the truck to enter a reduced power (limp) mode or even fail to start. The DEF heater element and sensor can malfunction, causing false 'low DEF quality' warnings. Repeated derating events prevent the truck from being used reliably for work in winter.

Solution

Replace the DEF heater element and quality sensor. TSB 18-015-22 addresses DEF system cold-weather diagnostics. Ensure the DEF tank heater circuit is functioning. Use only API-certified DEF fluid. Park in a heated garage when temperatures are below 12 degrees F.

Est. Cost: $300 - $1,200
3

6.7L Cummins Heater Grid Relay Electrical Short

An electrical short in the heater grid relay on vehicles equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel can result in an engine compartment fire, even with the ignition off. The relay may overheat and melt surrounding components. This is a critical safety issue that can cause vehicle fires while the truck is parked and unattended.

Solution

NHTSA Recall 22V-541 requires inspection and replacement of the heater grid relay and associated wiring. Dealers will install an updated relay with improved thermal protection. Do not park in an enclosed structure until the recall is completed.

Est. Cost: Covered under recall
4

Transmission Erratic Shifting (Aisin AS69RC)

The Aisin AS69RC 6-speed automatic transmission exhibits erratic shifting patterns, hard shifts between gears, lack of acceleration response, and occasional slipping. Some owners report the transmission failing completely and requiring replacement, particularly under heavy towing loads. Transmission temperature warnings may appear.

Solution

Perform a transmission fluid and filter service using only Mopar AS69RC-approved fluid. TSB 21-020-22 addresses transmission adaptive learning resets. Reflash the TCM with updated calibration software. For severe cases, valve body or complete transmission replacement may be required.

Est. Cost: $300 - $6,000
5

Infotainment Screen Blank and Battery Drain

The Uconnect infotainment screen goes completely blank while the backup camera continues to function normally. The system may cause parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery after the vehicle sits for a day or two. Radio presets and vehicle settings reset when the issue occurs.

Solution

Update the Uconnect software and check for parasitic draw from the radio module. TSB 08-055-22 covers blank screen diagnostics. If the head unit is not entering sleep mode properly, it will drain the battery. Replace the radio module if the issue persists after software updates.

Est. Cost: $0 - $1,500

8 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2021 RAM 2500. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Campaign: 25V765000 Date: 06/11/2025

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Ram 4500, and Ram 5500 vehicles. The steering column control module may cause the driver's side air bag not to deploy as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Consequence

A driver's side air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the steering column control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 14C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.

2

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:RELAYS/SOLENOIDS

Park Outside
Campaign: 23V060000 Date: 09/02/2023

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, and 4500, 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. An electrical short may occur in the heater grid relay with the ignition on or off.

Consequence

An electrical short in the relay can result in an engine compartment fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the relay, free of charge. This will be a Phased campaign. Phase 1 will include 2023 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers on or about 3/23/2023 and begin notifying owners on or about 4/5/2023. Phase 2 will include 2022 model year vehicles and Phase 3 will include 2021 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers and owners on or about 4/27/2023 for Phase 2 and 5/11/2023 for Phase 3. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed March 28, 2023. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 13A. This recall is an expansion of and supersedes recall number 21V-798.

3

STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

Campaign: 22V904000 Date: 08/12/2022

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate may not latch properly due to misaligned tailgate strikers, which could result in the tailgate opening while driving.

Consequence

An unintended tailgate opening while driving may result in a loss of unsecured cargo, possibly creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the tailgate striker alignment to the box latch and adjust, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZB8.

4

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Campaign: 22V835000 Date: 10/11/2022

FCA US, LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Ram 2500 and 2020-2022 Ram 3500 vehicles. A build-up of pressure and heat inside the transmission may result in a transmission fluid leak from the dipstick tube.

Consequence

Leaking transmission fluid may contact an ignition source within the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the transmission dipstick and transmission vent assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is ZA3.

5

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Campaign: 22V140000 Date: 10/03/2022

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 2500 and 2021-2022 Dodge Durango vehicles, and 2019-2022 3500 cab chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs. The ABS control module software may prevent the electronic stability control (ESC) malfunction indicator light from illuminating during certain conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

Consequence

An ESC malfunction indicator light that fails to illuminate during an electronic stability control problem can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the ABS control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z20.

6

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN

Campaign: 21V925000 Date: 24/11/2021

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 2500, Ram 3500, and 2021 Ram 1500 Classic pickup trucks. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) assemblies may have been manufactured with the incorrect amount of compressed gas, which can result in an improper air bag deployment.

Consequence

An air bag that deploys improperly can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y99.

7

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:RELAYS/SOLENOIDS

Park Outside
Campaign: 21V798000 Date: 14/10/2021

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 3500, 2500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines. An electrical short in the relay may cause a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.

Consequence

A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park these vehicles outside of buildings or structures, and not near other vehicles, until the vehicle has been remedied. Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay ("Relay"); if FCA US Recall ID Y08 (NHTSA Recall ID 21V-163) is open, then insulating material will be applied to the Relay after inspection. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y76. This recall has been superseded by 23V060.

8

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Campaign: 21V163000 Date: 11/03/2021

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 2500, 3500, and 3500, 4500, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. An electrical short may occur in the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay, which could result in a vehicle fire.

Consequence

A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay ("Relay"); if FCA US Recall ID Y08 (NHTSA Recall ID 21V-163) is open, then insulating material will be applied to the Relay after inspection. Customers are advised to not park these vehicles inside of buildings or structures, or near other vehicles until the vehicle has the final repair completed. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y76. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y08. This recall has been superseded by recall number 21V-798.

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2500 — Other Model Years
2026202520242023202220202019201820172016
See Also
2021 RAM 2500 Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2021 RAM 2500All Vehicles Using 0W-40 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2021 RAM 2500Wiper Replacement: 2021 RAM 2500