2003 Ram 1500 Maintenance & Specs

Everything you need to maintain your 2003 Ram 1500 — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.

The 2003 Ram 1500 takes 5W-20 Conventional with a total capacity of 7 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 16mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 34 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Mopar 68191349AC, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.

Data last verified: April 30, 2026

OEM spec: MS-6395

Quick DIY Tips for the 2003 Ram 1500

  • Torque your drain plug to 34 Nm (25 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
  • Using the OEM filter (Mopar 68191349AC) is recommended for warranty compliance.
  • Always use 5W-20 Conventional as specified by Ram — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
  • Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.

Oil

Viscosity
5W-20
Oil type
Conventional
Capacity (with filter)
7 qt
Capacity (without filter)
6.5 qt
OEM notes: MS-6395

Drain bolt & hardware

Socket size
16 mm
Thread size
M14x1.5
Torque spec
34 Nm
Gasket type
Crush washer
Notes: 3rd gen DR/DH (4.7L V8)

Fluid specifications

Transmission Fluid

Buy →
Type
ATF+4
Capacity
5 qt
Change interval
60,000 mi

Brake Fluid

Buy →
DOT type
DOT 3
Change interval
45,000 mi

Coolant

Buy →
Type
HOAT
Color
Purple
Capacity
8 qt
Change interval
100,000 mi

Power Steering Fluid

Buy →
Type
ATF+4

Parts & specifications

Maintenance schedule

Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.

Estimated Current Value

Original MSRP

$30,000

Private Party Value

$2,565 – $2,835

Dealer Retail Value

$2,970 – $3,375

Trade-In Value

$2,295 – $2,565

Depreciation

91%

Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.

Source: estimated

Torque specifications

lug nut
130 ft-lbs / 176.3 Nm

HD models may be 140

spark plug
18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm

14mm thread, aluminum head

Save by doing it yourself

A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.

Shop Oil & Filters →

Shop Parts for the Ram 1500

Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2003 Ram 1500 on Amazon.

Shop Parts →

Tools & supplies

Step-by-step guide

Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.

Read guide →

How often to change oil

Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.

Read guide →

Synthetic vs. conventional

Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.

Read guide →

Have info for this vehicle?

Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.

Submit specs

As an Amazon Associate, OilChangeDIY.com earns from qualifying purchases. Product links on this page may be affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure for details.

Helpful Guides

Related Vehicles

Other Ram 1500 Years