What oil filter your 2014 RAM 1500 needs

The 2014 RAM 1500 uses one of two oil filters depending on engine size. Trucks with the 3.6L V6 engine take the Mopar 68157291AA filter or equivalent aftermarket filters rated for that engine. Trucks with the 5.7L V8 Hemi engine take the Mopar 68157291AB filter. Both are spin-on filters that thread directly onto the engine block.

The difference between these two filters matters because they have different flow rates and bypass valve settings tuned to each engine's oil pressure and volume. Using the wrong filter can reduce oil flow or cause the bypass valve to open at the wrong pressure, leaving parts of the engine under-lubricated during cold starts or high-load driving.

If you are unsure which engine your truck has, check the door jamb sticker on the driver's side or your owner's manual. The engine size is also visible on the valve cover itself — the V6 cover is narrower and the V8 cover is wider and more angular.

Key Takeaways

  • The 3.6L V6 engine uses Mopar 68157291AA filters, and the 5.7L V8 Hemi uses Mopar 68157291AB filters — they are not interchangeable.
  • Both filters are spin-on type and thread onto the engine block at the same location, making replacement straightforward without special tools.
  • RAM recommends changing the oil and filter every 10,000 miles under normal driving or every 3 months, whichever comes first.
  • Aftermarket filters from Fram, Motorcraft, and ACDelco are available as lower-cost alternatives if they carry the same SAE and micron ratings as the Mopar equivalent.

Where to find the filter on your truck

On the 2014 RAM 1500, the oil filter sits on the driver's side of the engine block, mounted vertically. On the V6, it is positioned lower and slightly forward of the valve cover. On the V8, it sits higher and more toward the center of the engine bay, just below the intake manifold.

The filter is accessible from above without removing the wheel or undercarriage panels, though you may need to move the air intake hose or coolant reservoir slightly to reach it comfortably. A flashlight and a filter wrench make the job easier, especially if the filter is tight or the engine bay is cramped.

Mopar part numbers and cross-references

The official Mopar part numbers are the most reliable way to order the correct filter. For the 3.6L V6, order Mopar 68157291AA. For the 5.7L V8, order Mopar 68157291AB. Both part numbers are recognized by RAM dealerships, online parts retailers, and most auto parts stores.

If you prefer an aftermarket filter, look for filters that match the original specifications: SAE thread size (which is the same for both engines), micron rating of 10 microns absolute, and a bypass valve set to open at 50 to 65 psi. Fram PH8A, Motorcraft FL-820-S, and ACDelco PF2232 are common cross-references, but verify the micron rating and bypass pressure on the package before purchase.

Oil viscosity and capacity for your engine

The 2014 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L V6 holds 5.9 quarts of oil and requires SAE 5W-30 motor oil. The 5.7L V8 Hemi holds 6 quarts and also requires SAE 5W-30. Both engines use the same viscosity grade, which is important because the oil filter bypass valve is calibrated for that oil weight.

Using a heavier oil like 10W-30 or 15W-40 can cause the bypass valve to open too early, especially in cold weather, reducing oil pressure to the engine. Using a lighter oil like 0W-30 can cause the bypass valve to stay closed too long, increasing pressure spikes during cold starts. Stick with 5W-30 unless your owner's manual or a RAM technician directs otherwise.

How often to change the filter

RAM's maintenance schedule calls for an oil and filter change every 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions or every 3 months, whichever comes first. If you tow a trailer, drive in dusty conditions, or make frequent short trips, RAM recommends changing the filter every 5,000 miles instead.

The filter itself does not wear out like a mechanical part, but the media inside becomes saturated with dirt and debris over time, reducing its ability to trap particles. A clogged filter forces oil through the bypass valve, which sends unfiltered oil to the engine. Changing the filter on schedule prevents this and extends engine life.

Tools and supplies you will need

To change the oil filter yourself, gather a filter wrench (a band wrench or socket-style wrench works best for spin-on filters), a drain pan to catch old oil, a rag or shop towel, and the new filter. You do not need to lift the truck or remove any panels — the filter is accessible from the top of the engine bay.

Before you start, run the engine for a minute to warm the oil slightly. Warm oil drains faster and the filter comes off more easily. Let the engine cool for a few minutes so you do not burn your hands, then locate the filter and position the drain pan underneath.

Turn the filter counterclockwise by hand or with the wrench until it spins free, then unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Dispose of the old filter and oil according to your local regulations — most auto parts stores and service stations accept used oil and filters for free.

Installing the new filter correctly

Before installing the new filter, wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine block with a clean rag to remove any dirt or old gasket material. Dip your finger in fresh oil and coat the rubber gasket on the new filter — this creates a seal and makes removal easier next time.

Thread the new filter onto the block by hand until the gasket contacts the mounting surface, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Do not use the wrench to tighten it — hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds, watching the oil pressure gauge. The pressure should rise to normal within a few seconds. Turn off the engine, wait a minute, then check the oil level with the dipstick and top off if needed. The new filter adds about 0.5 quarts of capacity, so the level may be slightly lower than before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different filter if the Mopar one is out of stock?

Yes, as long as the replacement has the same SAE thread size, 10-micron absolute rating, and a bypass valve set between 50 and 65 psi. Check the package or the retailer's website to confirm these specs match the original. Fram, Motorcraft, and ACDelco all make filters that meet these requirements for the 2014 RAM 1500.

What happens if I use the wrong filter for my engine?

Using the V8 filter on a V6 or vice versa can cause oil pressure problems. The filters have different bypass valve settings tuned to each engine's oil flow rate. A mismatched filter may open the bypass valve too early or too late, reducing oil pressure to critical engine parts and potentially causing bearing wear or engine damage over time.

How do I know if my oil filter is clogged?

A clogged filter usually triggers the oil pressure warning light on the dashboard, especially during cold starts or idle. If the light comes on and stays on after the engine warms up, the filter is likely clogged and needs replacement when ready. Do not drive the truck long distances with the warning light on — low oil pressure can damage the engine quickly.

Do I need to change the filter every time I change the oil?

Yes, RAM's maintenance schedule includes the filter with every oil change. The filter media becomes saturated with contaminants and loses effectiveness after 10,000 miles. Changing the filter at the same interval as the oil ensures the engine receives clean, filtered oil throughout the service period.

Can I reuse the old filter if I top off the oil between changes?

No. The filter cannot be cleaned or restored to working condition once it has been in service. Reusing a filter defeats the purpose of the oil change and leaves contaminants in the engine. Always install a new filter when you change the oil.