5.9L Cummins Oil Capacity
The 5.9L Cummins takes 12 quarts (11.4 liters) of oil with a filter change, and 15W-40 is the standard grade. That capacity is the same for every model year (1989-2007).
Key takeaways
- Capacity: 12 quarts with a filter change - the same for every model year.
- Viscosity: 15W-40, or 5W-40 synthetic (cold climates).
- Look for oil meeting API CJ-4 or higher (low-ash on later 24V/ISB).
- Fitted to: Dodge Ram 2500, Dodge Ram 3500.
Oil capacity by model year
| Model years | Capacity (with filter) | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|
| 1989-2007 | 12 qt(11.4 L) | 15W-40 · 5W-40 synthetic (cold climates) |
12 quarts with a filter change, 11 without - consistent across the 12-valve (1989-1998), 24-valve (1998.5-2002) and ISB (2003-2007) generations.
Oil for the 5.9L Cummins
You need 12 quarts of 15W-40 heavy-duty diesel oil meeting API CJ-4 or higher (low-ash on later 24V/ISB) - that is more than one jug, so buy accordingly. Change the filter with it.
Shop 15W-40 diesel oilYou need about 12 quartsShopAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Shop 15W-40 diesel oilTrucks with the 5.9L Cummins
Looking for a specific year instead? Look up oil by year, make and model.
Frequently asked
How much oil does a 5.9L Cummins take?
The 5.9L Cummins takes 12 quarts (11.4 liters) of oil with a filter change, and 15W-40 is the standard grade. That capacity is the same for every model year (1989-2007).
What oil viscosity does the 5.9L Cummins use?
1989-2007: 15W-40, or 5W-40 synthetic (cold climates). Look for oil meeting API CJ-4 or higher (low-ash on later 24V/ISB).
Which trucks use the 5.9L Cummins?
Dodge Ram 2500, Dodge Ram 3500. It ran from 1989 to 2007.
Should I fill it to exactly 12 quarts?
No - treat the capacity as a guide and finish on the dipstick. Published capacities are nominal, and how much drains out varies with temperature, how long you let it drip, and whether the filter holds oil. Add most of it, run the engine briefly, then top up to the mark.