When Do You Need an Engine Oil Change and How To Check the Engine Oil Level

Regular engine oil change keeps your truck running smoothly. It protects the engine from wear and stops catastrophic engine failure. This guide by RAM UAE explains when to change oil, how to check levels, and why oil and the engine oil filter matter for RAM trucks in the UAE. It also shows how to check the engine oil level step by step so you can keep your vehicle in top shape. 

Why engine oil matters

Engine oil is the lifeblood of the car’s engine. Good motor oil lubricates moving parts and carries away heat. It keeps metal surfaces free of damaging friction. Clean oil reduces particles and debris that lead to wear. The right oil and proper oil filters protect engine parts and help the vehicle deliver reliable performance. 

If oil gets dirty or low, contaminants and metal particles build up. That affects engine health and may lead to potential damage. A worn engine loses power, fuel economy drops, and repairs can be costly. Regular car maintenance and timely oil changes preserve engine life and protect your ride. 

When to change engine oil: basic rules

Manufacturers set intervals in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Follow those guidelines. They consider oil type, engine design, and typical driving. As a general rule: 

• For conventional oil, change every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. 
• For synthetic oil, many models go 10,000 to 15,000 miles or more. 
• For heavy work, towing, or frequent short trips, change more often. 

The UAE’s hot climate and desert driving can affect battery and engine stress. Heat increases oil breakdown. Sand and dust increase contaminants that the oil filter must catch. If your RAM does heavy towing or off-road work, plan oil change intervals on the short side. This keeps the engine properly lubricated and running smoothly. 

Signs your engine needs attention

Watch for these common signs that point to an oil change or service: 

• Dark, dirty oil on the dipstick rather than clean amber oil. 
• A burning oil smell while driving or parked. 
• Low oil level warnings on the dashboard or frequent need to add oil. 
• Engine noise, ticking, or rough idle that suggests poor lubrication. 
• Reduced fuel economy and sluggish response. 
• A service light tied to oil or maintenance reminders. 

If you notice any of these signs, don’t delay. Low oil or dirty oil will affect friction and wear. That can shorten engine life and lead to repairs. 

How to check the engine oil level right now

Follow these steps to check the oil on level ground. This method answers how to check the engine oil level for most RAM trucks. 

1. Park on level ground and turn the engine off. Let the engine cool for several minutes. 
   
2. Locate the dipstick. You can find it with the help of the owner’s manual if needed. Many vehicles are equipped with a labeled handle. 
   
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth. 
   
4. Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again to check the oil level. 
   
5. Read the marks. The oil should be between the low and full marks. If the oil is below the low mark, you need to add oil. 
   
6. Inspect the oil color and consistency. Clean engine oil is amber and fairly clear. If the oil is dark and gritty, plan an oil change and a new engine oil filter. 

Use the exact oil type grade recommended in the owner’s manual. The right grade and viscosity keep the engine cool and protect moving parts in hot conditions. 

Choosing the right oil and filter

Pick the right oil for your model and the UAE climate. The owner’s manual lists approved grades and oil types. You will see options for conventional oil and synthetic oil. Synthetic oil offers superior performance in high heat and extended intervals. It resists breakdown and keeps the oil cleaner, which helps the engine run smoothly under load. 

Always use a quality engine oil filter matched to your engine. Filters trap dirt and particles so the oil stays clean longer. A clogged or poor filter shortens oil life and increases contaminants. A trained service team will choose the correct filter and ensure proper fitment. 

Oil change process and what professionals do

At a service, technicians drain the old oil and replace the engine oil filter. They inspect for leaks and check oil pressure and other systems. They may recommend additional maintenance, like filter changes or checking the air filter if contaminants are present. 

Professional services offer benefits: 

• Correct oil type and grade chosen for your RAM model. 
• Proper disposal and recycling of used oil and filters. 
• A full inspection that can catch hidden issues before they become repairs. 
• Records that help with warranty and resale value. 

Certified dealers and quality garages often run a free or low-cost check to determine oil condition. They can also test the oil for metal debris that hints at early wear. 

How often does driving style affect oil life

Your driving conditions change how fast oil degrades. Short trips and city driving prevent the engine from reaching optimal temperature. That leaves moisture and fuel in the oil. Those contaminants reduce oil effectiveness. Heavy loads, idling in traffic, towing, and desert dust also speed up oil breakdown. 

If your RAM gets heavy use, follow a tighter maintenance schedule. Book a service, inspect oil more often, and consider synthetic oil for greater resistance to heat and contaminants. Doing so protects engine parts and extends engine life. 

DIY vs professional oil change

DIY oil changes work if you have the right tools and knowledge. You must handle used oil safely and dispose of it properly. If you are not confident, choose the best service from a trained technician. Professional installation reduces the risk of incorrect oil grade, loose fittings, or leaks that can affect the ride. 

If you do it yourself, use quality oil, the correct filter, and tighten the drain plug and filter to specification. Wipe any spills and check for leaks after the first short drive. 

Extra checks to keep your engine healthy

When you change oil or check the level, also inspect: 

• The oil cap and filler for debris or contamination. 
• Visible engine parts for leaks or metal shavings. 
• Coolant levels and belts for wear that affect engine cooling. 
• The air filter helps reduce dirt from reaching the oil. 

Together, these checks protect engine performance and avoid early wear. 

RAM-specific recommendations

RAM trucks have specific needs because of weight and towing. Check the owner’s manual for oil grade and recommended intervals. Use a quality engine oil filter and a branded or approved synthetic oil when heavy-duty use is common. Certified RAM UAE dealers can recommend the right oil type and service plan that matches driving conditions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They also keep service records that help with warranty and resale. 

Final thoughts

Regular engine oil change and proper checks of the oil level are essential. Clean oil and the right engine oil filter keep your engine properly lubricated and running smoothly. The right oil reduces friction, cools engine parts, and protects against contaminants. Follow the vehicle’s owner's manual, inspect oil via the dipstick on level ground, and use professional service when needed. For RAM owners, trusted service from RAM UAE provides the correct oil grade, filters, and expert care that deliver long engine life and reliable performance.