Faricy Chrysler Jeep
If you're lucky enough to drive a powerful Ram truck, chances are you've researched how to keep it running factory new. A quick google search for "Ram service near me" will reveal that getting your Ram truck serviced at an authorized Ram dealer like Faricy Chrysler Jeep pays big dividends. You can ensure your truck is in tip-top condition by doing two things: keeping up with regular maintenance and taking care of any mechanical issues right when they happen.
Trucks are complex machines. They contain multiple components that drivers rely on to get the most out of their rig's capabilities. This is especially true for towing, hauling, and off-roading since a breakdown during any of these activities could mean big trouble. The odds of a malfunction decrease substantially when you get your truck worked on regularly and quickly diagnose any potential problems.
Authorized Ram technicians like the pros here at Faricy Chrysler Jeep are trained to inspect every inch of your truck. They know when a component needs to be replaced, and they can decipher a strange road noise to uncover potential mechanical problems before they cause bigger issues. When it comes to full-size trucks like the Ram, keeping them in top shape is easiest when you stay on top of recommended maintenance.
Your Ram truck requires specific maintenance and ongoing attention in a few key areas. While some may seem obvious, like oil changes, others are easy to overlook. Your truck's value and quality are made up of the sum of its parts, which means careful attention to small details is critical for optimal performance. Here are some of the most important ongoing maintenance requirements you should pay attention to:
Your Ram truck runs on various fluids that keep key components lubricated and cool. Regularly topping off fluids is critical to ensure you don't inadvertently damage your truck's engine, transmission, or other mechanical features. The most important fluid of all is engine oil. Newer Ram trucks feature automatic oil change indicators, so you'll be reminded when you're due for an oil change.
At a minimum, Ram's owner's manual suggests annual maintenance visits. Specifically, oil change intervals should never exceed 10,000 miles or 12 months, and that's only if you're using full synthetic oil. During these maintenance visits, your Ram technician will also check several other vehicle fluid levels and inspect the fluids for clarity.
In higher-mileage vehicles, the automatic transmission fluid should also be checked and replaced if needed. In addition, the vehicle's entire engine cooling system, including hoses, should also be inspected to ensure fluids are reaching key components. Differential and transfer case fluids should be inspected roughly every 60,000 miles if you use your truck for heavy towing or off-roading. Finally, don't forget to keep the windshield wiper fluid topped off.
The manufacturer recommends rotating your Ram truck's tires at every oil change. However, if you notice any strange driving characteristics (e.g., pulling, wobbling, vibration), it's important to have your tires inspected to avoid uneven wear. Why rotate your tires? This ensures they wear evenly and keeps them balanced for more accurate road handling.
It's important to perform your own tire inspection between each maintenance visit. This starts with proper inflation–visually inspect each tire to ensure it appears fully inflated. Note that temperature changes will affect your tires, so make a note to check tire pressure at the beginning of every season. We recommend keeping a tire pressure gauge on hand for this purpose.
Another important maintenance item is checking your tires for foreign debris. Do you work on a construction site? The chances are high that you'll pick up a nail. If a sharp object penetrates your tire, it will start a slow leak. Sometimes it's hard to notice, which means you should carefully check each tire at least weekly. Last but not least, don't try to run longer on worn-down tires to save money–once the tread wears down, it's time to replace them.
Aside from your truck's tires, your brake system might be the most critical component, and it's one that you can't afford to ignore. It's no surprise that the Ram owner's manual suggests checking brake linings every 20,000 miles. Also, the brake master cylinder contains a brake fluid reservoir. Fluid levels should be checked frequently.
Brake fluid tends to diminish as the brake pads wear down, but if you notice a substantial decrease, it could indicate a leak. Additional brake system inspections should take place at every oil change and include: brake pads, rotors, hoses, and the parking brake. Keep an eye on your instrument panel for the Brake Warning Light. An illuminated Brake Warning Light could indicate something as simple as the parking brake is still engaged, or it could signal a bigger issue.
The Brake Warning Light monitors your truck's entire brake system. If it stays illuminated after you've disengaged the parking brake, your next step is to check brake fluid levels. If the reservoir is full, then it's time to schedule an appointment for a thorough brake inspection. Issues could involve the anti-lock braking system or the hydraulic system.
All Ram trucks–and all combustion engine vehicles, for that matter–are outfitted with an engine air filter. The filter acts as a barrier against debris entering the engine. When the air filter gets clogged and dirty, you'll notice a reduction in performance because the engine has to work harder.
Checking your Ram truck's engine filter yourself isn't too difficult, but it's messy, and you'll have to remember to keep a replacement filter on hand to switch them out. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions or take the easier route and keep up with recommended scheduled maintenance. If you do, your technician will check the filter every 30,000 miles, and you won't have to worry about it.
The cabin air filter must be replaced every 12,000 miles to ensure outside air entering your truck is clean and free of pollutants. One look at a dirty cabin air filter, and you won't need convincing. If you do a lot of off-roading or desert riding, this filter will need to be replaced more often. There is also an Evaporative System Fresh Air Filter that should be inspected every 10,000 miles. This system is responsible for trapping harmful gasoline vapors, so it shouldn't be neglected.
We often overlook the importance of keeping our vehicles clean. It can sometimes seem like a luxury to run it through the car wash. The thing is, the build-up of road gunk, bugs, or dirt can damage the paint and underbody over time. In the winter, salt and sand used to treat slick roads can also build up and create an environment that's ripe for corrosion.
Your Ram truck comes with a comprehensive corrosion warranty that protects you from premature corrosion damage, but even with the backup of factory coverage, keeping your truck clean is part of a good maintenance plan. Try to hit the car wash at least once a week or more frequently in the winter months. If you hit a muddy trail for some off-roading, take the time to thoroughly hose down your truck, including the underbody, to ensure dried mud isn't building up.
Don't overlook the interior! Leather seating benefits from regular conditioning, and keeping your carpets vacuumed and your dash free of dust makes for a healthier and more pleasant cabin environment. Springing for a full vehicle detail every few months or so is a great way to ensure your truck receives a deep cleaning.
Vehicle ownership comes with a lot of responsibility, but committing to regular maintenance will relieve you of much of the burden. Your Ram truck needs regular attention to ensure it always runs like new. Keeping up with basic maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations ensures many years of trouble-free driving.
Faricy Chrysler Jeep team includes a staff of factory-trained Ram technicians who know your truck inside and out. We're familiar with every bolt and component, which means you can trust your truck's well-being to us. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with all the tools and diagnostic equipment necessary to inspect, diagnose, and repair any mechanical issues.
Preventative maintenance is the name of the game if you want to ensure many years of driving enjoyment. Here at Faricy Chrysler Jeep, we understand the importance of attention to detail. When you bring your truck here, you can count on us to give it a thorough inspection and head off any potential issues before they grow into big problems.
Your Ram truck is designed for long-term durability, but without regular maintenance, small issues can become big headaches. Don't trust just anyone with your investment–trust Faricy Chrysler Jeep and our team of qualified, certified technicians. We only use genuine Mopar replacement parts, so you're never getting subpar aftermarket components.
Whether you drive a brand new Ram truck or your rig is a bit more seasoned, Faricy Chrysler Jeep has the equipment and know-how to keep it running great. From simple oil changes to extensive mechanical repairs, our team is factory-trained to handle any and all maintenance and repairs. Trust us with your truck and relax knowing we're Ram trucks experts.
Give us a call today or schedule your service appointment conveniently online. Our staff is standing by to make your service experience convenient and easy and to help you get years of enjoyment out of your Ram pickup.
