The 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 is a workhorse van designed for demanding commercial applications. Whether you are hauling heavy loads, navigating urban delivery routes, or towing in various conditions, the integrity of your vehicle’s lubrication system is critical. Proper fluids ensure that the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and transmission operate smoothly, resisting the heat and stress that come with daily commercial use. Using the wrong viscosity or a standard fluid can lead to accelerated wear, reduced fuel economy, and premature component failure.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
Choosing the right lubricant is the first step in extending the life of your ProMaster 2500. AMSOIL offers a range of premium synthetic options tailored to different driving habits and engine conditions. Below are the primary motor oil and filter combinations that meet the specifications for your vehicle’s 5W-20 requirement.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice for maximum protection, offering up to 25,000 miles of performance and 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to industry standards.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent option that balances performance with a long service interval, providing up to 20,000 miles of protection and superior cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Designed to meet original equipment manufacturer expectations while providing the benefits of a 100% synthetic formulation, this oil fights sludge and deposits effectively.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents to clean the engine and enhanced anti-wear additives to reduce sludge.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K19 – A high-efficiency filter that captures 99% of contaminants at 20 microns, featuring a robust canister and synthetic media to handle extended drain intervals.
- WIX Oil Filter WL10010 – A premium aftermarket filter option that offers high performance and compatibility with the AMSOIL OE Motor Oil for standard maintenance intervals.
Once you have secured the right motor oil and filter, it is essential to look at the other critical fluids in your 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500. The engine oil capacity for this specific model is 5.9 quarts, including the filter change. Ensuring you have the correct volume is vital; after refilling, always check the oil level to confirm proper lubrication.
Transmission and Differential Fluids
The transmission is another component that bears the brunt of commercial hauling. The 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission (62TE). For a total fill, this transmission requires 9 quarts, with an initial fill capacity of 5.5 quarts. Using a high-quality synthetic automatic transmission fluid is crucial for maintaining shift quality and protecting against wear, especially under heavy towing loads or in stop-and-go traffic.
AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is recommended for its ability to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures. It remains fluid in sub-zero conditions and provides reserve protection during severe use. For those seeking an OE-standard synthetic option, the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid offers excellent cold-weather performance and helps guard against leaks while promoting smooth, shudder-free shifts.
Coolant, Brake, and Power Steering Fluids
Maintaining the cooling system is vital for the longevity of the 3.6L engine. The cooling system capacity is 10.6 quarts. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ideal choice, formulated as an OAT (Organic Acid Technology) mix that provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years. It is compatible with all cooling system metals and is free of phosphates, nitrates, and other additives that can harm seals and gaskets. Alternatively, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers a concentrated formula that can be mixed to achieve even longer service life.
For safety and braking performance, the vehicle recommends a DOT 4 fluid. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. Its stable viscosity over a wide temperature range ensures consistent pedal feel and prevents brake fade during hard stops. Additionally, the power steering system benefits from AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid, which helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks and resists heat degradation for long fluid life.
Fuel System and Seasonal Storage
Keeping the fuel system clean is essential for optimal performance. For drivers looking to maximize fuel economy and engine responsiveness, AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is a powerful solution. It helps restore lost horsepower, cleans fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel. This additive is particularly beneficial for GDI engines.
If your ProMaster is stored for extended periods, such as during off-seasons, proper storage maintenance is required. AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup. For engines that sit idle, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to coat internal components, preventing rust and corrosion during long periods of inactivity.
Vehicle Background
The 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 is part of a highly successful line of vans that has redefined the light commercial vehicle market. Originally developed in collaboration with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles using the European Fiat Ducato platform, the ProMaster series brought European engineering standards to North America. The 2500 trim represents the medium-duty variant of the lineup, designed to handle a gross vehicle weight rating that strikes a balance between payload capacity and maneuverability. It sits between the lighter 1500 and the heavier 3500 models, making it a versatile choice for delivery services, construction, and utility work.
At the heart of the 2018 ProMaster 2500 is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant is widely regarded for its smooth power delivery and reliability. Producing around 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, it provides ample motivation for the van, whether it is empty or carrying a full payload of goods. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that is known for its smooth shifting characteristics. The vehicle’s front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout contributes to a compact turning radius and a low loading floor, which are significant advantages for urban delivery drivers who need to make frequent stops.
Owners of the 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 often cite its spacious interior and high roof options as key selling points, allowing for maximum cargo volume and standing room. The vehicle is popular among small business owners who rely on it for daily operations. However, like any work vehicle, it is subject to specific issues that can be mitigated with high-quality lubricants. One common concern is the susceptibility to oil consumption, particularly in earlier model years of the Pentastar engine, which can be managed by monitoring oil levels closely and using high-detergent synthetics like AMSOIL to maintain seal integrity.
Another potential issue involves sludge buildup in the valvetrain and oil pickup screen, which can lead to timing chain rattles or oil starvation if not addressed. Regular oil changes with a high-performance synthetic and a high-efficiency filter can significantly reduce the risk of this accumulation. Drivers may also experience premature wear in the automatic transmission if the fluid is not changed frequently enough; synthetic transmission fluids are far better at resisting thermal breakdown than conventional oils, ensuring smooth operation even under the heavy loads typical for the ProMaster 2500. Finally, cooling system corrosion can be a long-term concern in older vans, making the use of a high-quality, long-life antifreeze like AMSOIL’s OAT formulation essential for preventing leaks and maintaining optimal engine temperatures.