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Ram Chassis Cab · Model year 2016

2016 Ram Chassis Cab specs, maintenance & manuals

Everything the manufacturer published about the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab in one place: the factory spec sheet, the maintenance schedule, fluid capacities and 12 manufacturer publications.

Horsepower
320–410 hp
Recalls
8
Schedule covers
150k miles
Publications
12
Chassis Cab towing capacity by yearTow ratings for every year we have charts for; the 2016 spec sheet's towing figures are in Specs & features below.See the towing chart

What changed for the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab

The 2016 Chassis Cab versus 2015: what's different, from the factory charts and spec sheets.

All the differences we found

Listed for the first time on the equipment chart

  • Front park assist — optional: Tradesman, SLT, Laramie
  • Premium speakers — optional: SLT, Laramie
  • Standard speakers — standard: Tradesman
  • Standard speakers — standard: SLT, Laramie
  • Uconnect 3.0 AM/FM/Bluetooth — optional: Tradesman, SLT
  • 2.5-amp charging USB port — standard: Laramie — optional: Tradesman, SLT
  • 9-1-1 call/Assist Call — optional: Tradesman, SLT, Laramie
  • Single disc remote CD player — optional: Tradesman, SLT, Laramie
  • SiriusXM Radio — standard: SLT, Laramie — optional: Tradesman

No longer on the equipment chart

  • Uconnect Multimedia: Auxiliary Power: 2.5-amp charging USB port
  • Uconnect Multimedia: Auxiliary Power: Premium speakers
  • Uconnect Multimedia: Auxiliary Power: Single disc remote CD player
  • Uconnect Multimedia: Auxiliary Power: SiriusXM Radio
  • Uconnect Multimedia: Auxiliary Power: Standard speakers
  • Uconnect Multimedia: Auxiliary Power: Standard speakers
  • Alternator: 160-amp, standard with 5.7-liter engine
  • Rcall/Ecall

Compared automatically from the manufacturer's trim feature charts, specification sheets, towing guides and the EPA's fuel-economy data for 2015 and 2016. Equipment varies by trim and market; confirm details on a specific vehicle.

2016 Ram Chassis Cab specs & features

Engines, gear ratios, suspension, brakes, dimensions and capacities as published in the manufacturer's 2016 specification sheets.

Spec sheet
General information4 specs
Vehicle type
Chassis Cab: Regular Cab and Crew Cab
Assembly plant
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico
EPA vehicle class
Large Pickup
Introduction
2007 Model Year
Engines45 specs
6.4-liter Hemi V-8
AvailabilityStandard
Type and descriptionEight-cylinder, 90-degree V-type, liquid-cooled, variable-valve timing (VVT)
Displacement392 cu. in. (6,417 cu. cm)
Bore x stroke4.09 x 3.72 (103.9 x 94.6)
Valve systemVVT, push-rod operated overhead valves (16, two per cylinder), eight de-activating and eight hydraulic lifters with roller followers
Fuel injectionSequential, multiport, electronic, returnless
ConstructionDeep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps, 356 aluminum cylinder heads with hemispherical combustion chambers
Compression ratio10:1
Power410 hp (302 kW) @ 5,600 rpm; Up to 370 hp (267kW) @ 4,600 rpm (over 10k rating)
Torque429 lb.-ft. (582 N•m) at 4,000 rpm
Maximum engine speed5,800 rpm limited; 4,800 rpm with Aisin transmission
Fuel requirementUnleaded regular, 87 octane (R+M)/2
Oil capacity7 quarts (6.6 liters)
Coolant capacity16.6 quarts (15.75 liters)
Emission controlThree-way catalytic converters, heated oxygen sensors, cooled electronic EGR and individual cylinder fuel control
6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel I-6
AvailabilityManual six-speed transmission
Type and descriptionSix-cylinder, inline, liquid-cooled, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement408 cu. in. (6,690 cu. cm)
Bore x stroke4.21 x 4.88 (107 x 124)
Valve systemOHV, 24 valves, solid lifters
Fuel injectionElectronic high-pressure common rail
ConstructionCast-iron block and head
Compression ratio17.3:1
Power320 hp (239 kW) @ 2,800 rpm
Torque650 lb.-ft. (881 N•m) @ 1,400 rpm
Maximum engine speed3,200 rpm
Fuel requirementUltra-low sulfur diesel
Oil capacity12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter
Coolant capacity23.8 quarts (22.5 liters)
Emission controlsSelective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
6.7-liter high output Cummins turbo diesel I-6
AvailabilityOptional (Aisin six-speed automatic)
Type and descriptionSix-cylinder, inline, liquid-cooled, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement408 cu. in. (6,690 cu. cm)
Bore x stroke4.21 x 4.88 (107 x 124)
Valve systemOHV, 24 valves, solid lifters
Fuel injectionElectronic high-pressure common rail
ConstructionCast-iron block and head
Compression ratio17.3:1
Power325 hp (242 kW) @ 2,400 rpm
Torque750 lb.-ft. (1,017 N•m) @ 1,500 rpm
Maximum engine speed3,200 rpm
Fuel requirementUltra-low sulfur diesel
Oil capacity12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter
Coolant capacity23.8 quarts (22.5 liters)
Emission controlsSelective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
Transmissions43 specs
G56 — manual six-speed overdrive
Availability6.7-liter diesel
DescriptionSynchronized in all gears
Axle ratios3500: 3.42, 3.73, 4.10
PTOLeft -or right-side with split shaft capability
66RFE — automatic six-speed
Availability5.7-liter HEMI V-8 and 6.4-liter HEMI V-8
DescriptionThree planetary gear sets, one overrunning clutch, full electronic control, electronically controlled converter clutch
Axle ratios5.7-liter: 4.10; 6.4-liter: 4.10
AS66RC — automatic six-speed
Availability6.4-liter HEMI V-8
DescriptionThree planetary gear sets, one overrunning clutch, full electronic control, electronically controlled converter clutch
Axle ratios3500: 4.44
PTOLeft- or right-side capability
AS69RC — automatic six-speed
Availability6.7-liter diesel
DescriptionThree planetary gear sets, one overrunning clutch, full electronic control, electronically controlled converter clutch
Axle ratios3500: 3.42, 3.73, 4.10
PTOLeft -or right-side with split shaft capability
Gear ratiosG56 — manual six-speed overdrive66RFE — automatic six-speedAS66RC — automatic six-speedAS69RC — automatic six-speed
1st5.943.233.753.75
2nd3.281.842.02.0
3rd1.981.411.341.34
4th1.311.001.01.0
5th1.00.820.770.77
6th0.740.630.630.63
Reverse5.424.443.543.54
Transfer casesBW 44-46, BW 44-47Transfer cases: BW 44-46, BW 44-475 specs
Availability
Optional on 6.7-liter diesel, 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 and 5.7-liter HEMI V-8
Type
Part-time – BW 44-47 manual shift and BW 44-46 electric shift
Operating modes
2WD; 4WD High; Neutral; 4WD Low
Low-range ratio
2.64
Center differential
None
Axles1 spec
See Feature Availability chart
Electrical system1 spec
See Feature Availability chart
Suspension2 specs
Front
Three-link with track bar, coil springs, stabilizer bar, twin-tube shock absorbers, solid axle
Rear
Hotchkiss leaf spring suspension, solid axle
Brakes3 specs
Front
360 x 39 vented disc with 2 x 60 front caliper
Rear
358 x 34 vented disc with 2 x 45 caliper for SRW, 2 x 51 for DRW
Power-assist
Hydroboost
Air bags2 specs
Regular Cab
2
Crew Cab
2
Steering1 spec
Power-assist
Hydraulic assist
Dimensions and capacities48 specs
4x24x4
Regular Cab 143.5-in. WB 60-in. CA SRW
Wheelbase143.5143.5
Turning diameter(a)45.055.5
Track Width – Front76.076.0
Track Width – Rear73.673.6
Overall Length234.3234.3
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.978.9
Overall Height80.180.1
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.38.7
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.48.4
Approach Angle (degrees)28.328.3
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)23.723.7
Departure Angle (degrees)31.131.1
Regular Cab 143.5-in. WB 60-in. CA DRW
Wheelbase143.5143.5
Turning diameter(a)55.545.0
Track Width – Front76.076.0
Track Width – Rear73.673.6
Overall Length234.3234.3
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.978.9
Overall Height80.180.1
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.38.7
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.48.4
Approach Angle (degrees)28.328.3
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)23.723.7
Departure Angle (degrees)31.131.1
Regular Cab 167.5-in. WB 84-in. CA DRW
Wheelbase167.5167.5
Turning diameter(a)51.7551.75
Track Width – Front76.076.0
Track Width – Rear73.673.6
Overall Length258.3258.3
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.978.9
Overall Height80.080.0
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.38.7
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.48.4
Approach Angle (degrees)28.428.4
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)20.820.8
Departure Angle (degrees)31.031.0
Crew Cab 172.4-in. WB 60-in. CA DRW
Wheelbase172.4172.4
Turning diameter(a)53.1753.17
Track Width – Front76.076.0
Track Width – Rear73.673.6
Overall Length282.3282.3
Overall Width @ Single Ground Reference Point (SgRP) Front78.978.9
Overall Height79.979.9
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Front10.38.8
Suspension or Axle to Ground – Rear8.48.4
Approach Angle (degrees)28.528.5
Ramp Breakover Angle (degrees)18.218.2
Departure Angle (degrees)30.930.9

Turning diameter is measured at the outside of the tires at curb height; it may differ with optional tires and wheels.

Accommodations13 specs
Regular CabCrew Cab
Seating Capacity, F/R3/0 or 2/03/3 or 2/3
Front
Headroom39.9 (1,013.5)41.0 (1,040.5)
Legroom41 (1,041.4)41 (1,041.4)
Shoulder Room66 (1,676.4)66 (1,676.4)
Hip Room62.9 (1,598.7)63.2 (1,605.3)
Seat Travel9.0 (230.0)9.0 (230.0)
Recliner Range (degrees)85 (38 RWD, 47 FWD)56 (38 RWD, 18 FWD)
Rear
Headroom—39.9 (1,013.5)
Legroom—40.3 (1,023.3)
Shoulder Room—65.7 (1,668.8)
Hip Room—63.2 (1,605.3)
Interior Volume
Front – cu. ft. (cu. m)62.5 (1.8)64.2 (1.8)
Rear – cu. ft. (cu. m)—61.1 (1.7)

— not listed or not applicable

Source: 2016 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab Specifications (Stellantis media site).

No EPA fuel-economy rating. Heavy-duty pickups, chassis cabs and full-size vans above 8,500 lb gross vehicle weight are exempt from EPA labeling, so there is no official MPG figure for the Chassis Cab.

2016 Ram Chassis Cab wheels & tires

The spec sheet doesn't list tire sizes for this model year; here is what the owner's manual says.

Cold tire pressure
Not a single number: the owner's manual refers to the tire and loading placard (driver's side B-pillar or rear edge of the driver's door), which lists the pressures for your exact tire size and load.
Spare
Manual covers compact, full-size, limited-use and tire-service-kit setups depending on equipment; the sheet does not say which applies.
Lug nut torque
130 ft-lb (176 N·m) (Cone type), M14 x 1.50 thread, 22 mm socket
Pressure monitor
A tire pressure monitoring system warns when a tire is low.

Sizes and pressures vary by trim, wheel package and load: check the placard on your vehicle and the tire sidewall. Sizes from the manufacturer's specification sheet (2016 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab Specifications, 2016 Ram 4500/5500 Chassis Cab Specifications). Pressure and spare notes from the owner's manual.

2016 Ram Chassis Cab maintenance schedule

The factory schedule for normal driving. Oil changes follow the oil-change indicator on most models; severe use (towing, dusty roads, lots of idling) shortens some intervals.

A dot means the service is due at that mileage or after that many years, whichever comes first.

Additional Inspections

  • Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary
  • Inspect the front and rear axle surfacesIf gear oil leakage is suspected, check the fluid level. If using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid.
  • Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function
Service20k2 yr30k3 yr40k4 yr50k5 yr60k6 yr70k7 yr80k8 yr90k9 yr100k10 yr110k11 yr120k12 yr130k13 yr140k14 yr150k15 yr
Additional Inspections
Inspect the CV/Universal joints
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary
Inspect the front and rear axle surfacesIf gear oil leakage is suspected, check the fluid level. If using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid.
Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function
Additional Maintenance
Replace engine air filter
Replace spark plugs. **
Flush and replace the engine coolant at 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) whichever comes first
Change the automatic transmission fluid (AS66RC Transmission Only)
Change the automatic transmission fluid and sump filter (AS66RC Transmission Only)
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter(s) (66RFE Transmission Only), if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter(s) (66RFE transmission)
Inspect the transfer case fluid, change for any of the following: police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing
Change the transfer case fluid
Inspect and replace PCV valve if necessary

Once a month or before a long trip

  • Check engine oil level
  • Check windshield washer fluid level
  • Check the tire inflation pressures and look for unusual wear or damage
  • Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, power steering and automatic transmission and fill as needed
  • Check function of all interior and exterior lights

At every oil change

  • Change oil and filter
  • Rotate the tires. Rotate at the first sign of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the oil indicator system turns on
  • Inspect battery and clean and tighten terminals as required
  • Inspect automatic transmission fluid if equipped with dipstick
  • Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, hoses and park brake
  • Inspect engine cooling system protection and hoses
  • Inspect exhaust system
  • Inspect engine air cleaner if using in dusty or off-road conditions
  • Lube the front drive shaft fitting

Gasoline engines

  • Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 8,000 miles (13,000 km), twelve months or 350 hours of engine run time, whichever comes first

Severe duty

  • Change engine oil at 4,000 miles (6,500 km) if the vehicle is operated in a dusty and off road environment or is operated predominately at idle or very low engine RPM's

Footnote

  • ** The spark plug change interval is mileage based only, yearly intervals do not apply

Transcribed from the printed schedule in the owner's manual.

Compare with another year

2016 Ram Chassis Cab fluids & capacities

Oil, coolant, transmission and axle fluids with their capacities and specifications, wheel torque and fuel requirements, from the owner's manual.

Fluid capacities

SystemApplies toCapacity
All engines
Fuel tank (approximate)Standard rear tank52 gal197 L
Optional midship tank22 gal83 L
Diesel exhaust fluid tank (approximate)Chassis Cab9 gal34 L
6.4L engine
Engine oil with filter7 qt6.6 L
Cooling system16.6 qt15.7 L
6.7L diesel engine
Engine oil with filterCummins turbo diesel12 qt11.4 L
Cooling systemCummins turbo diesel (Mopar 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula coolant)5.7 gal21.4 L

Engine fluids

ComponentFluid / gradeMopar product
All engines
Engine coolant
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 10-year/150,000-mile coolantMS.90032
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT
6.4L engine
Engine oil
SAE 0W-40 full synthetic, API SNMS-12633
Pennzoil Ultra 0W-40 or equivalent Mopar engine oil
Engine oil filter
—
Mopar Engine Oil Filters
Spark plugs
—
Mopar Spark Plugs
Fuel selection
89 octane recommended, 87 octane acceptable, 0-15% ethanol
—
6.7L diesel engine
Engine coolantCummins turbo diesel
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 10-year/150,000-mile coolant
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT
Engine oilCummins turbo diesel, ambient above 0°F (-18°C)
SAE 15W-40, API CJ-4 required; Cummins CES 20081 products also acceptableMS-10902
Mopar, Shell Rotella or Shell Rimula 15W-40
Engine oilCummins turbo diesel, ambient below 0°F (-18°C)
SAE 5W-40 synthetic, API CJ-4 requiredMS-10902
Mopar, Shell Rotella or Shell Rimula 5W-40 synthetic
Engine oil filterCummins turbo diesel
—
Mopar Engine Oil Filters
Fuel filtersCummins turbo diesel
3 micron rating required
Mopar Fuel Filter
Crankcase ventilation filterCummins turbo diesel
—
Mopar CCV Filter
Fuel selectionCummins turbo diesel
Ultra-low-sulfur highway diesel (15 ppm sulfur max), No. 2 diesel ASTM D975 Grade S15; B5 (ASTM D975), B20 (ASTM D7467) only if configured for B20
—
Diesel exhaust fluidCummins turbo diesel
DEF API certified to ISO 22241
Mopar Diesel Exhaust Fluid (API Certified)

Chassis fluids & lubricants

ComponentFluid / gradeMopar product
All engines
Transfer case
Transfer case fluid
Mopar BW44-44 Transfer Case Fluid
Front and rear axle fluid4500/5500
GL-5 SAE 75W-90 syntheticMS-9763
—
Brake master cylinder
DOT 3 and SAE J1703; DOT 4 acceptable if DOT 3 is unavailable
Mopar DOT 3
Power steering reservoir
Power steering fluid +4 or ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid
Mopar Power Steering Fluid +4; Mopar ATF+4
6.4L engine
Automatic transmissionWith 66RFE transmission
ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid
Mopar ATF+4
Automatic transmissionWith AS66RC transmission
Mopar ASRC automatic transmission fluid or equivalent
Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid
6.7L diesel engine
Automatic transmissionCummins turbo diesel with AS69RC transmission (all Chassis Cab models)
Mopar ASRC automatic transmission fluid or equivalent
Mopar ASRC Automatic Transmission Fluid
Front and rear axle fluid4500/5500, Cummins turbo diesel
GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic; limited-slip additive not required
—

Fuel

EngineMinimumEthanol / biodiesel
6.4L engine
87 octane Regular unleaded (89 for optimum performance and fuel economy)
0–15%
6.7L Cummins turbo diesel
Ultra-low-sulfur diesel
Up to B5 (ASTM D975); up to B20 (ASTM D7467) only on Chassis Cab configured for B20 by a dealer

Wheel lug nut torque

WheelsTorque
Cone typeThread M14 x 1.5022 mm socket130 ft‑lb (176 N·m)
Flanged typeThread M14 x 1.5022 mm socket129 ft‑lb (175 N·m)
  • Dual wheels are flat mounted and center piloted; the two-piece dual-wheel lug nuts should be cleaned between the hex and washer when wheels are rotated or replaced.
  • Lug nut/bolt size must be the dealer-recommended type; clean off dirt and oil before tightening.
  • Diesel engine and its transmission are covered in a separate Diesel Supplement.
  • Diesel Supplement lists DEF tank as 5.5 gal for 2500/3500 pickups and 9 gal for Chassis Cab; only the Chassis Cab figure is kept here.

Source: Owner's manual (PDF). Always confirm with the manual for your exact vehicle.

2016 Ram Chassis Cab recalls & safety

What the U.S. government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has on file for the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab: 8 recall campaigns and 18 owner complaints. Fetched November 8, 2026.

NHTSA hasn't published 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab.

Recalls (8)

Newest first. A campaign covers certain vehicles of this model year, not necessarily every one. To see which apply to a specific vehicle, and whether the fix has been done, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ask a dealer; repairs are free of charge.

Air bags: side/window: curtain: inflatorJanuary 16, 2025 · Campaign 25V010000

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.

Fix: Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.

Campaign 25V010000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studsMay 27, 2021 · Campaign 21V398000

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.

Risk: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.

Fix: Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021.

Campaign 21V398000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system: wiringMay 17, 2018 · Campaign 18V332000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles.

Risk: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.

Campaign 18V332000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentDecember 21, 2017 · Campaign 17V824000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher.

Risk: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on…

Campaign 17V824000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train: automatic transmission: lever and linkage: column shiftDecember 20, 2017 · Campaign 17V821000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position.

Risk: Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.

Campaign 17V821000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling: engine: dieselSeptember 12, 2017 · Campaign 17V562000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.

Risk: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T51.

Campaign 17V562000 on NHTSA.gov
Show 2 older recalls
Power train: transfer case (4-wheel drive)July 1, 2016 · Campaign 16V495000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 3500 trucks manufactured July 24, 2015, through January 7, 2016, and 2016 Ram 4500/5500 trucks manufactured July 24, 2015, through October 8, 2015. The transfer case may have been manufactured with a misshapen main output shaft, creating voids that may cause a shaft fracture.

Risk: If the main output shaft fractures, the vehicle may lose motive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the driver may be unable to place the vehicle in PARK, increasing the risk of a vehicle rollaway.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transfer case, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S48.

Campaign 16V495000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling: engineSeptember 23, 2015 · Campaign 15V592000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.

Risk: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.

Campaign 15V592000 on NHTSA.gov

Owner complaints by component

Complaints
18
Crashes
2
Fires
1
Injuries
3
  • Power train6
  • Wheels6
  • Steering3
  • Suspension3
  • Electrical system2
  • Structure2
  • Engine1
  • Service brakes1

Complaints are reports owners filed with NHTSA; they are not verified and a complaint can name more than one component. A high count reflects how many were sold as much as how often something fails.

Source: NHTSA public data (recalls, complaints and the New Car Assessment Program), covering Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500, Ram 5500. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest.

2016 Ram Chassis Cab owner's manuals & publications

The manufacturer's owner's manual, quick guides, radio manuals, supplements and warranty booklets for the 2016 model year.

Read for lake-effect country

What counts on a 2016 Ram Chassis Cab from Michigan to Tennessee

From the Snowbelt east of Cleveland to the ridges of West Virginia and east Tennessee, this part of the country throws salt, snow and grade at every vehicle. Here is how the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab specifications line up against all three.

What the manual says about oil

Oil capacity is 7 qt (6.4L) and 12 qt (6.7L Cummins turbo diesel), and the manual lists SAE 0W-40 (6.4L) and SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 by temperature (6.7L Cummins turbo diesel). Where more than one engine appears in the lineup, the engine code on the window sticker settles which grade applies. The wrong one in a Tennessee winter gives up a little protection on every cold start, and over years of driveway starts that adds up.

Starting in single digits

Battery care in this schedule: inspect it and clean and tighten the terminals as required at each oil change. A battery that bakes through a Nashville or Memphis summer ages faster, then gets found out by the first hard freeze. Have it load-tested in fall rather than waiting for a slow crank.

Drive systems for lake-effect snow

The 2016 lineup includes four-wheel drive. Power at both axles pays off when a band off Lake Erie buries the Snowbelt east of Cleveland, or on a steep, unplowed road out of a hollow in eastern Kentucky. It gets you moving; stopping on ice is still up to the tires.

Boats, campers and Appalachian grades

The schedule lists axle fluid, automatic transmission fluid and transfer case fluid service for frequent trailer towing, starting at 20,000 miles. Whether it is a fishing boat headed for the Ohio River or a pop-up camper bound for the Smokies, the extra heat of towing ages these fluids faster, most of all on long July climbs.

When the schedule shortens oil changes

The schedule's severe-service oil interval is 4,000 miles, and heavy idling is one of the conditions behind it. Winter commuting in Detroit or Columbus traffic, with stop-and-go crawling and engines idled to clear snow, is exactly the use that brings the shorter figure into play.

Filters for dust and pollen

The schedule asks for more frequent air-filter attention in dusty conditions, beyond the normal replacement every 30,000 miles. Gravel roads up Appalachian hollows and coal-haul routes in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky qualify, so inspect the filter at each oil change if they are part of your week.

Specifications are the manufacturer's; the weather and road context is ours. When a note here and the 2016 owner's manual disagree, follow the manual.

2016 Ram Chassis Cab questions

How much oil does the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab take?

With a filter change: 6.4L engine, 7 qt / 6.6 L and 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, 12 qt / 11.4 L. Capacities are from the owner's manual; check the dipstick or oil-life display after filling.

What kind of oil does the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab use?

6.4L engine: SAE 0W-40 full synthetic, API SN (MS-12633); 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, ambient above 0°F (-18°C): SAE 15W-40, API CJ-4 required; Cummins CES 20081 products also acceptable (MS-10902); and 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, ambient below 0°F (-18°C): SAE 5W-40 synthetic, API CJ-4 required (MS-10902).

When is the first scheduled maintenance on the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab?

At 20,000 miles or 2 years: inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary; inspect the front and rear axle surfaces. if gear oil leakage is suspected, check the fluid level. if using your vehicle for police, taxi, fleet, off-road or frequent trailer towing, change axle fluid; inspect the brake linings, parking brake function. Oil changes in between follow the oil-change indicator.

Where can I find the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab owner's manual?

The manufacturer publishes it free on Mopar.com as a PDF (linked in the manuals section above), along with quick guides, radio manuals and the warranty booklet.

What MPG does the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab get?

The EPA doesn't publish a fuel-economy rating for the Chassis Cab: heavy-duty pickups, chassis cabs and full-size vans above 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight are exempt from fuel-economy labeling, so there is no official MPG figure to quote.

What changed on the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab?

New body styles: Reg/Crew and Crew; Body styles dropped: Regular/Crew Cab and Crew Cab; Powertrain no longer listed: 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with variable-valve timing; New to the equipment chart: Standard speakers and Standard speakers.

Does the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab have recalls?

NHTSA lists 8 safety recall campaigns for the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab. The most recent: Air bags: side/window (January 2025), Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studs (May 2021), and Electrical system: wiring (May 2018). NHTSA's data was last fetched November 8, 2026. Recalls are listed by model year, so a given vehicle may or may not be covered: enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ask a dealer to see which are open.

What are the most common safety complaints about the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab?

Owners have filed 18 complaints about the 2016 Ram Chassis Cab with NHTSA. The components named most often are power train (6), wheels (6), and steering (3). 2 complaints involved a crash and 1 complaint a fire. Complaints are reports from owners that NHTSA does not verify, so treat them as a signal to look into, not a finding.

Specifications come from the manufacturer's spec comparison and its media-site specification sheets; maintenance schedules, fluids and publications come from Mopar's owner site and owner's manuals. Equipment and ratings vary by configuration; check the owner's manual or a dealer for a specific vehicle.