2026 Ram 1500
Maintenance Schedule
The big news for 2026 is the return of the 5.7L Hemi® V8 with eTorque. While the twin-turbo Hurricane engines offer record-breaking power, many Kingfisher drivers still prefer the deep rumble and proven simplicity of the Hemi.
Whether you choose the high-tech Hurricane I-6, the fuel-sipping Pentastar V6, or the legendary Hemi V8, your maintenance strategy is the key to longevity. This guide breaks down the service requirements for all three 2026 powerplants.
The Oil Strategy: Synthetic vs. Conventional
Oklahoma heat and dust are brutal on engine oil. For 2026, the requirements vary strictly by engine type:
- 3.0L Hurricane I-6: Requires SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic (API SP/GF-6A). This oil is designed to withstand the extreme heat of the twin turbochargers.
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Requires SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic. The eTorque system and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) depend on high-quality oil to function smoothly.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: Requires SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic.
Interval: For all three engines, do not exceed 7,500 miles or 6 months. At Johnsons of Kingfisher, we strongly recommend a 5,000-mile interval for trucks used for towing or oil field work.
2026 Ram 1500 Service Schedule
| Mileage | Service Required | Engine Specifics |
|---|---|---|
| 7,500 Miles | Oil & Filter Change | Crucial for Hurricane turbo health and Hemi MDS longevity. |
| 15,000 Miles | Tire Rotation & Cabin Filter | Oklahoma dust clogs filters fast. Check brake pads here. |
| 30,000 Miles | Engine Air Filter | Hurricane Alert: Turbo engines need massive airflow. A dirty filter kills your MPG. |
| 60,000 Miles | Spark Plug Replacement | Critical: The Hemi and Hurricane wear plugs differently. Fresh plugs prevent misfires under load. |
| 100,000 Miles | Coolant & Drive Belts | Inspect the eTorque belt (Hemi/V6) for any signs of cracking or wear. |
| 150,000 Miles | Drivetrain Fluids | Change Front/Rear Axle and Transfer Case fluids to protect your 4x4 system. |
Reliability Spotlight: What to Watch
- The Hurricane I-6: This engine uses a Plasma Transfer Wire Arc (PTWA) cylinder coating for extreme durability. The key to its reliability is the cooling system; keep your coolant fresh to protect those turbos.
- The Hemi V8: The 2026 version continues to use the eTorque Mild Hybrid System. This system is proven, but it means you have a high-torque electric motor-generator instead of a traditional alternator. It provides 130 lb-ft of supplemental launch torque, making it feel stronger than ever off the line.
- The Pentastar V6: This is the "high-mileage king." It is a naturally aspirated workhorse that thrives on basic, consistent maintenance.
Oklahoma "Severe Duty" Driving
In Kingfisher, we do not just drive, we work. Most local trucks qualify for the Severe Duty Schedule if you:
- Tow or Haul: Whether it's a horse trailer or a bed full of feed.
- Extended Idling: Common in oil field applications or rural job sites.
- 3Dusty Roads: Rural Oklahoma dust acts as sandpaper on your internal components.
If you fall into these categories, we recommend a 3,000-5,000 mile oil change to ensure your 2026 Ram lasts for the next decade.
Why Service at Johnsons of Kingfisher?
We are one of the few dealerships equipped with the specific diagnostic software for both the new Hurricane platform and the returning Hemi eTorque systems. Our technicians are factory-trained to know the exact torque specs for the 2026 hardware. We use only Mopar OEM parts, ensuring your factory warranty stays 100% intact.
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