All-Season vs. Winter vs. All-Terrain Tires

You just changed your oil, or picked up your Jeep or Ram from a quick-lube shop, and the "Oil Change Required" message is still glowing on your dashboard. It's one of the most common questions we hear from drivers in Lee's Summit: how do I make that reminder go away? The good news is that on most Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles, resetting the oil change indicator takes less than a minute, and you don't need any tools. The short answer Most Stellantis vehicles offer two ways to reset the oil change light. Method 1: with the ignition on and the engine off, use the steering wheel buttons to go to Vehicle Info, then Oil Life, and select Reset. Method 2: with the ignition on and the engine off, slowly press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor three times within ten seconds, then turn the ignition off. Start the vehicle to confirm the message is gone. Only reset it after the oil and filter have actually been changed. In this guide, we'll walk through both reset methods step by step, explain how the steps differ for push-button and key-start vehicles, cover what to do if the light won't reset and explain why resetting the indicator correctly matters for your engine. We'll also share tips for doing your own oil change and when it makes sense to let our Lee's Summit service team handle it. What the Oil Change Light Actually Means Before you reset anything, it helps to know what the indicator is telling you. Most Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles use an oil change indicator system, sometimes called an oil life monitor. According to Stellantis owner's manuals, the system is based on the engine's duty cycle, which means it estimates oil life from how the vehicle is actually driven, not just from mileage. When the system decides an oil change is due, it displays a message like "Oil Change Required" or "Oil Change Due," often with a single chime. After the oil is changed, the system doesn't know the job has been done. Someone has to tell it by resetting the indicator, so it can start counting down again from 100%. The oil change message is a maintenance reminder. It's different from the red oil pressure warning light, which looks like an oil can and means the engine has low oil pressure. If the red oil pressure light comes on, pull over safely and shut off the engine. Don't try to reset it. Our dashboard warning lights guide explains the difference. Before You Reset: A Quick Checklist Make sure the oil and filter have actually been changed. Resetting the indicator without changing the oil just hides the reminder. Check the oil level. Confirm the oil is filled to the correct level with the type listed in your owner's manual. Park somewhere safe with the transmission in Park. Have your owner's manual handy. Menu names and button layouts can vary slightly by model and year. Method 1: Reset Through the Instrument Cluster Menu This is the primary method on many newer Stellantis vehicles. Here are the steps from the Ram 2500/3500 owner's manual. Most Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles with steering-wheel display controls follow a very similar path. Turn the ignition on without starting the engine. Without pressing the brake pedal, push the ENGINE START/STOP button to put the ignition in the ON/RUN position. Don't start the engine. Scroll to Vehicle Info. Use the down arrow button on the steering wheel to scroll to "Vehicle Info." Open the Oil Life screen. Press the right arrow to enter Vehicle Info, then scroll up or down to "Oil Life." Select Reset. Press and hold the right arrow to select "Reset." Confirm. Press the down arrow to select "Yes," then press the right arrow to reset oil life to 100%. Exit. Press the up arrow to leave the menu. On some models, the menu may be labeled slightly differently, or you may confirm with an "OK" button instead of an arrow. If you don't see these exact labels, look for an oil life or vehicle information screen in your instrument cluster menu and check the "Engine Oil Life Reset" section of your owner's manual. Method 2: The Accelerator Pedal Reset This is the classic Mopar reset method, and it's listed in Stellantis owner's manuals as a secondary method. It works on many Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles, including those without a reset option in the display menu. For vehicles with push-button start Turn the ignition on without starting the engine. Without pressing the brake pedal, push the ENGINE START/STOP button once to put the ignition in ON/RUN. Press the accelerator three times. Slowly press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor three times within ten seconds. Turn the ignition off. Without pressing the brake pedal, push the ENGINE START/STOP button once to return the ignition to OFF. Check your work. Start the vehicle. If the oil change message doesn't appear, the reset worked. For vehicles with a traditional key On older vehicles with a turn key, the process is generally the same: turn the key to the ON/RUN position without starting the engine, slowly press the accelerator to the floor three times within ten seconds, then turn the key back to the OFF or LOCK position. Confirm the exact steps in your owner's manual, since older models can differ slightly. Tips for the pedal method Go slowly and fully. Press the pedal all the way to the floor each time, at a steady pace. Pressing too fast or not far enough is the most common reason it doesn't work. Don't touch the brake. On push-button vehicles, pressing the brake while pushing the start button can start the engine instead of just turning on the ignition. Watch the clock. All three presses need to happen within about ten seconds. Quick Reference: Reset Methods Method Steps Best for Instrument cluster menu Ignition on, engine off; Vehicle Info, then Oil Life, then Reset; confirm Yes Newer vehicles with steering-wheel display controls Accelerator pedal (push-button start) Ignition on without the brake; press the pedal to the floor slowly three times within 10 seconds; ignition off Most push-button Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles Accelerator pedal (key start) Key to ON without starting; press the pedal to the floor slowly three times within 10 seconds; key to OFF Older key-start models; confirm in your manual Model-by-Model Notes While the two methods above cover most vehicles, here's what to keep in mind for each brand. Steps can vary by model year, trim and instrument cluster, so your owner's manual is always the final word. Jeep Most Jeep models, including the Wrangler, Gladiator, Compass, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, support one or both reset methods. Newer models with larger digital clusters often have an "Engine Oil Life Reset" option in the instrument cluster display menu. For example, the 2023 Grand Cherokee owner's manual lists Engine Oil Life Reset under its Instrument Cluster Display section. We also have a dedicated guide for resetting the oil change light on a 2026 Jeep Compass. Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer The Wagoneer's owner's manual also covers Engine Oil Life Reset in its instrument cluster display section. Its manual notes that an authorized dealer resets the indicator after an oil change, and that the oil should be changed within about 500 miles of the message appearing. Ram Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 trucks typically use the instrument cluster menu method described above, with the accelerator pedal method as a backup. On Cummins diesel models, you may also see a separate "Perform Service" message for emissions-related maintenance. That's a different reminder with its own reset procedure, described in the owner's manual. Dodge Dodge Charger and Durango models generally follow the same instrument cluster or accelerator pedal methods. Performance models may have additional performance pages in their displays, but the oil life reset is usually found under vehicle information or settings. Chrysler Chrysler Pacifica owners can usually reset the indicator using the instrument cluster menu or the accelerator pedal method. Check the "Oil Change Indicator" or "Engine Oil Life Reset" section of the owner's manual for your model year. What If the Oil Change Light Won't Reset? If the message comes back when you start the vehicle, the reset didn't take. The Ram owner's manual simply says to repeat the procedure. If it still won't reset, try these fixes: Start over with the engine off. Make sure the engine is fully off before turning the ignition to ON/RUN. Don't start the engine. The reset needs to be done with the ignition on and the engine off. Slow down your pedal presses. Press the accelerator all the way to the floor each time, steadily, within ten seconds. Try the other method. If the pedal method doesn't work, try the instrument cluster menu, and vice versa. Check for other messages. If a different warning is showing, it may need attention first. Call your service department. If nothing works, the system may need to be reset with a diagnostic tool. Our technicians can take care of it quickly. When You Should Not Reset the Oil Change Light When the oil hasn't been changed. The indicator exists to protect your engine. Resetting it without changing the oil just means you'll lose track of when the next change is really due. When the red oil pressure light is on. That's a warning about low oil pressure, not a maintenance reminder. Stop driving and have the vehicle checked. When the oil level is low. Top off or change the oil first. If your oil change is overdue, our guide on how long you can drive with an overdue oil change explains what to do. Common Mistakes to Avoid Starting the engine. Both reset methods require the ignition to be on with the engine off. On push-button vehicles, pressing the brake while pushing the start button will start the engine. Rushing the pedal. Quick, partial taps often don't register. Press the pedal all the way to the floor, slowly and steadily. Resetting the wrong item. Some displays show other service reminders or trip meters. Make sure you're resetting oil life, not a trip odometer or another reminder. Forgetting to confirm. In the menu method, you usually need to select "Yes" to finish the reset. Resetting too early. Reset only after the oil and filter have been changed and the oil level is correct. Other Service Reminders You Might See The oil change message isn't the only maintenance reminder on newer vehicles. Depending on your model, you may also see: "Perform Service" on Ram Cummins diesels: a reminder for emissions-related maintenance, such as the closed crankcase ventilation filter, with its own procedure in the owner's manual. Tire pressure warnings: common when temperatures drop in the fall. Fill tires to the pressure on the driver's door placard. Low washer fluid: top off with a winter-rated fluid as the weather turns cold. If a warning or message isn't familiar, check your owner's manual or give our service team a call. Why Resetting Matters It might seem like a small step, but resetting the indicator correctly protects your engine and your wallet: It keeps your schedule accurate. The indicator can only tell you when the next change is due if it starts counting from the right point. It prevents false alarms. If the indicator isn't reset, it will keep telling you the oil is due, and you may start ignoring it, which is risky when it's actually due. It supports your maintenance records. Following the indicator, along with keeping receipts, helps show your vehicle has been properly maintained. Remember that the indicator isn't the only limit. Every owner's manual also lists a maximum interval in miles and months. For example, many Jeep gas models top out at 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Learn more in our guide, How Often Should You Change Your Oil? Doing Your Own Oil Change? A Few Tips Plenty of Jeep and Ram owners like doing their own maintenance. If that's you, a few tips help you do it right: Use the right oil. Stellantis owner's manuals call for specific oils, such as SAE 0W-20 full synthetic for the 5.7-liter HEMI and SAE 0W-40 full synthetic for the 6.4-liter HEMI. Check your manual or oil fill cap. Use a quality filter. A genuine Mopar filter is designed for your engine. Check the drain plug and filter seal. Make sure the old filter gasket came off with the filter, and tighten the drain plug to the correct torque. Fill to the correct level and recheck after running the engine briefly and letting it sit. Dispose of used oil properly. Many auto parts stores and local recycling centers around the Kansas City area accept used motor oil and filters. Keep records. Save receipts for oil and filters, and write down the date and mileage. Records help with warranty claims and resale value. Reset the indicator using one of the methods above. Why Let a Dealership Handle Your Oil Change? Doing it yourself works, but a dealership oil change has advantages, especially for newer vehicles: The correct oil and filter, every time, matched to your exact engine Indicator reset included, so you don't have to fiddle with menus A check of other systems, like fluids, tires, brakes and battery, while your vehicle is in the shop Recall checks, so any open recalls can be addressed during your visit Factory-trained technicians who work on Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles every day Kansas City Driving and Your Oil Life Kansas City's weather and roads affect how quickly your oil change indicator counts down. Hot summers, cold winters, short trips around town and towing season all count as tougher conditions, and the system adjusts for them. Don't be surprised if your indicator comes on sooner in the winter or after a summer of towing a boat to Lake of the Ozarks. That's the system doing its job. Frequently Asked Questions How do I reset the oil change light on my Jeep? On many Jeeps, turn the ignition on without starting the engine, then either use the steering wheel buttons to go to Vehicle Info, then Oil Life, and select Reset, or slowly press the accelerator to the floor three times within ten seconds and turn the ignition off. Start the Jeep to confirm the message is gone. How do I reset the oil life on a Ram truck? According to the Ram owner's manual, with the ignition on and the engine off, scroll to Vehicle Info, then Oil Life, press and hold the right arrow to select Reset, choose Yes and confirm. You can also use the accelerator pedal method as a backup. Why won't my oil change light reset? The most common reasons are starting the engine instead of just turning on the ignition, pressing the accelerator too quickly or not all the way to the floor, or not completing the presses within ten seconds. Repeat the procedure carefully, or try the other reset method. Can I reset the oil light without changing the oil? You can, but you shouldn't. The indicator is there to tell you when your oil needs to be changed. Resetting it without an oil change means you'll lose track of when the next change is truly due. Is the oil change light the same as the oil pressure light? No. The oil change message is a maintenance reminder. The red oil pressure warning light means low oil pressure. If it comes on, pull over safely and turn off the engine. Do I need to reset the oil light after a dealership oil change? No. At McCarthy CDJR, our technicians reset the oil change indicator as part of every oil change. How often should I change my oil? Follow your oil change indicator, and never exceed the maximum interval in your owner's manual, which for many Jeep gas models is 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Let McCarthy CDJR Handle Your Next Oil Change Skip the menus and the mess. The certified technicians at McCarthy Jeep Ram Chrysler Dodge in Lee's Summit will change your oil with the right Mopar-approved oil and filter, reset your oil change indicator and check your vehicle's other key systems while you wait. If your oil change light won't reset after a DIY change, stop by and we'll take care of it. We're located at 1051 SE Oldham Parkway in Lee's Summit, just off US-50, serving drivers from Blue Springs, Raymore, Independence, Belton, Grain Valley, Greenwood and across the Kansas City metro. Schedule your service online or call us at (816) 441-5389. Schedule an Oil Change

Ask ten people how often you should change your oil, and you'll probably hear ten different answers. "Every 3,000 miles." "Every 5,000." "Whenever the light comes on." "Once a year." The confusion makes sense, because the right answer has changed a lot over the years, and it depends on what you drive and how you drive it. A Jeep Wrangler that commutes on I-470 has very different needs from a Ram 2500 Cummins that tows a fifth-wheel to the lake. The short answer Most modern Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles use an oil change indicator that tells you when your oil is due based on how you drive. Follow it, but never go past the maximum in your owner's manual. For many Jeep and Wagoneer gas models, that's 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Ram 2500 and 3500 gas trucks top out at 8,000 miles or 12 months, and Ram's Cummins diesel at 15,000 miles or 12 months. Towing, short trips, extreme temperatures and off-road driving can bring the next change much sooner. In this guide, we'll explain how the oil change indicator works, share the maximum oil change intervals from Stellantis owner's manuals, cover which oil types popular engines call for and show you how driving in Lee's Summit and the Kansas City area affects your schedule. If your oil change is already past due, our guide on how long you can drive with an overdue oil change explains what to do next. Why the 3,000-Mile Rule Doesn't Apply Anymore For decades, "change your oil every 3,000 miles" was the standard advice, and for older engines and older oils, it made sense. Today's engines are built with tighter tolerances and better fuel control, and modern full synthetic oils resist heat and breakdown far better than the oils of the past. That's why automakers now set oil change intervals much longer than 3,000 miles for most vehicles, and why they use oil change indicators to tailor the interval to the way each vehicle is actually driven. Changing your oil more often than necessary won't hurt your engine, but it can cost you time and money you don't need to spend. The flip side matters just as much: the right interval for your vehicle may be much shorter than the maximum if you tow, make lots of short trips or drive in extreme conditions. The goal is the right interval for you, not the longest one possible. How the Oil Change Indicator Works Most Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles have an oil change indicator system, sometimes called an oil life monitor. Instead of simply counting miles, it monitors how the engine is being used and estimates when the oil needs to be changed. According to Stellantis owner's manuals, the system is based on the engine's duty cycle, so the interval varies with driving habits. For Jeep vehicles, Kelley Blue Book's summary of the factory schedule notes the indicator may call for an oil change as early as 3,500 miles or as late as 10,000 miles, depending on how the vehicle is driven. Conditions that can make it come on sooner include: Frequent short trips Towing a trailer Very hot or very cold weather Long periods of idling Heavy loads and off-road driving Using E85 fuel, on vehicles designed for it When an oil change is due, you'll see a message like "Oil Change Required" or "Oil Change Due" in the instrument cluster. For the 2022 Wagoneer, for example, the owner's manual says to change the oil within about 500 miles of the message appearing. Some engine controllers also track engine run time, which mostly matters for fleet vehicles that idle for long periods. After the oil is changed, the indicator needs to be reset so it can start counting again. Our technicians reset it as part of every oil change. If you change your own oil, the reset steps are in your owner's manual, and we have a guide for resetting the oil change light on a 2026 Jeep Compass. Maximum Oil Change Intervals by Vehicle Type Even if your oil change indicator hasn't come on, every owner's manual sets a maximum interval you should never exceed. Here's what recent Stellantis owner's manuals and factory maintenance schedules say for several popular vehicle types. Vehicle and engine Oil change indicator? Never exceed Jeep gas models (factory schedule summary) Yes, about 3,500 to 10,000 miles depending on driving 10,000 miles or 12 months Jeep Wagoneer gas (2022 owner's manual) Yes; change within about 500 miles of the message 10,000 miles or 12 months Ram 2500/3500 gas (2022 owner's manual) Yes 8,000 miles, 12 months or 350 engine hours Ram 2500/3500 Cummins diesel (2022 owner's manual) Yes; change sooner if it calls for it 15,000 miles, 12 months or 500 engine hours Ram Cummins using more than 5% biodiesel (B20-capable) Yes 12,500 miles or 400 engine hours Always follow whichever comes first: the indicator, the mileage limit or the time limit. And remember that these are maximums, not targets. Maintenance schedules can vary by model year and engine, so check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle, or ask our service team to look it up by your VIN. What about Ram 1500, Dodge and Chrysler models? Ram 1500, Dodge Charger, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Pacifica and other gas-powered Stellantis vehicles also use an oil change indicator, and each owner's manual lists its own maximum interval. Because these limits can differ by engine and model year, including high-performance models like the Durango SRT Hellcat and the Ram 1500 RHO, the best source is the Scheduled Servicing section of your owner's manual. You can also find digital owner's manuals on the Mopar owner website. Why time matters, not just miles Notice that every interval includes a time limit, usually 12 months. Oil breaks down even when a vehicle isn't driven much. Moisture and fuel vapors collect in the oil, and additives slowly lose their strength. If you have a weekend Wrangler, a summer-only Charger or a second vehicle that doesn't see many miles, change the oil at least once a year. What Oil Does Your Engine Need? Using the right type and viscosity of oil is just as important as changing it on time. Modern engines are engineered around a specific oil, and the wrong one can affect protection, fuel economy and even warranty coverage. Here's what recent Stellantis owner's manuals specify for several popular engines: Engine Found in models such as Oil specified in the owner's manual 5.7L HEMI V8 Ram 1500, Dodge Durango SAE 0W-20 full synthetic 6.4L HEMI V8 Ram 2500/3500, Jeep Wrangler 392 SAE 0W-40 full synthetic 3.0L Hurricane HO twin-turbo I6 Jeep Wagoneer, Ram 1500 SAE 0W-40 full synthetic 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel Ram 2500/3500 10W-30 diesel oil above 0°F; 5W-40 full synthetic below 0°F (API CK-4) A few important notes: Check your own vehicle. Oil specifications can change between model years. The correct oil is listed in your owner's manual and often printed on the oil fill cap. Look for the right certifications. Mopar's manuals call for oils that meet specific Chrysler material standards and carry the API certification marks shown in the manual. Diesels are different. The Cummins uses diesel-rated oil, and the recommended viscosity changes with outside temperature. In a cold Kansas City January, that matters. Don't guess at quick-lube shops. Make sure whoever changes your oil uses the oil your engine was designed for. Our service department uses Mopar-approved oil matched to your engine. Conventional, Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic? Motor oil generally comes in three types: Conventional oil is refined from crude oil. It's the least expensive, but it breaks down faster under heat and stress. Synthetic blend mixes conventional and synthetic base oils for better protection than conventional at a moderate cost. Full synthetic oil is engineered for more uniform molecules and stronger additives. It flows better on cold starts, resists breakdown at high temperatures and holds up longer between changes. Many modern Stellantis engines, including the HEMI V8s, the Hurricane inline-six and the Cummins diesel in cold weather, call for full synthetic oil in their owner's manuals. Even when synthetic lasts longer, keep following your oil change indicator and the maximum interval. Synthetic is better oil, not permanent oil. What a Dealership Oil Change Includes An oil change is also a good chance to catch small problems before they turn into big ones. At McCarthy CDJR, an oil change visit includes the correct Mopar-approved oil and a genuine Mopar filter for your engine, a check of your other fluids, a look at your tires and a reset of your oil change indicator. If we notice anything that needs attention, like worn brakes, a weak battery or a leaking hose, we'll explain it in plain language and let you decide what to do. It's an easy way to keep your Jeep, Ram, Dodge or Chrysler on schedule and ready for Kansas City's weather. What Counts as "Severe" Driving? Many drivers assume "severe service" only applies to police cars and taxis. In reality, a lot of everyday driving around the Kansas City area qualifies. The Ram owner's manual lists conditions that can shorten oil change intervals, including: High outside temperatures, like July and August heat waves Short trips, such as quick runs to school, the grocery store or the gym Heavy loads in the bed or cargo area Trailer towing, whether it's a boat, camper or work trailer Off-road driving, including dusty gravel roads and trail days If several of these describe your driving, don't be surprised if your oil change indicator comes on well before the maximum mileage. That's the system doing its job. How Kansas City Driving Affects Your Oil The Kansas City area's weather and roads make oil changes especially important: Hot summers: Engine and oil temperatures climb in summer traffic, especially when you're running the A/C and sitting in stop-and-go traffic on I-70 or I-435. Cold winters: January averages lows around 24°F. Cold oil is thicker at startup, and short winter trips don't let the engine fully warm up, so moisture can build up in the oil. Towing season: Spring and summer trips to Lake of the Ozarks, Truman Lake or Smithville Lake add heavy-duty miles. Gravel and county roads: If you live outside Lee's Summit in areas like Lone Jack or Pleasant Hill, dust and rough roads add to the workload. A smart habit for Kansas City drivers: get a fresh oil change in the fall before winter arrives, and another before summer towing season if the indicator calls for it. Oil Change Tips for Common Situations If you drive a Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator off-road Trail days mean dust, low-speed crawling and high engine loads. Watch the oil change indicator closely, check your oil level before and after trips, and consider changing the oil sooner if you've been in deep water or mud. Our guide to the Jeep Wrangler 392 covers the V8 model's unique needs. If you tow with a Ram Towing is hard on oil. If you tow regularly, expect your indicator to come on sooner, and check your oil level more often during towing season. Heavy-duty gas trucks have a lower maximum interval than many Jeeps for a reason. Our guide to half-ton vs. three-quarter-ton vs. one-ton trucks explains more about towing capacity. If you drive a Cummins diesel Diesel engines produce more soot, and diesel oil changes are larger and more involved. Follow the oil change indicator, watch the "Perform Service" message for other emissions-related maintenance and switch to the cold-weather viscosity in winter if your manual calls for it. If you mostly make short trips Short trips are surprisingly hard on oil. If your vehicle rarely runs longer than 15 minutes at a time, take it for a longer drive now and then, and don't be surprised if the indicator comes on early. If you drive a turbocharged engine Turbocharged engines like the Hurricane inline-six and the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder rely on clean oil to lubricate and cool the turbocharger, which spins at extremely high speeds. Staying on schedule and using the correct oil helps protect it. If your vehicle sits a lot Change the oil at least once a year, even with very low miles. If a vehicle will be stored for the winter, a fresh oil change before storage is a good idea. Signs You Need an Oil Change Sooner Even between scheduled changes, watch for these warning signs: The oil change message or oil pressure warning light comes on Oil on the dipstick looks dark, thick or gritty The oil level is low The engine sounds louder than usual, with ticking or knocking You smell burning oil Remember, the red oil pressure warning light is not a maintenance reminder. If it comes on, pull over safely and shut off the engine. Our dashboard warning lights guide explains the difference. Check Your Oil Between Changes The Ram owner's manual recommends checking your engine oil level once a month and before a long trip. It only takes a few minutes: Park on level ground with the engine off for a few minutes. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully and pull it out again. Make sure the oil level is between the marks. Top off with the correct oil if it's low, and don't overfill. Some newer vehicles show the oil level electronically instead of using a dipstick. Your owner's manual will show you how to check yours. Why Keeping Records Matters Keep receipts or service records for every oil change, whether we do it or you do it yourself. Records help if you ever need warranty work, and they add value when you sell or trade in your vehicle. A Jeep or Ram with a complete service history is more attractive to buyers. Frequently Asked Questions How often should I change the oil in my Jeep? Follow your oil change indicator, which may call for a change anywhere from about 3,500 to 10,000 miles depending on how you drive. Jeep's factory maintenance schedule sets a maximum of 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. How often should I change the oil in a Ram 2500 or 3500? According to the 2022 Ram 2500/3500 owner's manual, gas engines should never go more than 8,000 miles, 12 months or 350 engine hours between changes, and Cummins diesel engines no more than 15,000 miles, 12 months or 500 engine hours. Follow the oil change indicator if it calls for a change sooner. Is it OK to change my oil more often than recommended? Yes. Changing your oil more often won't harm your engine. It just may not be necessary. If you tow, drive off-road or make lots of short trips, more frequent changes can be a smart choice. Do I need synthetic oil? Many modern Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler gas engines call for full synthetic oil, such as SAE 0W-20 for the 5.7L HEMI and SAE 0W-40 for the 6.4L HEMI. Always use the type listed in your owner's manual or on the oil fill cap. How often should I change my oil if I don't drive much? At least once a year. Oil breaks down over time even when a vehicle isn't driven, which is why every maximum interval includes a time limit. Does towing affect my oil change interval? Yes. Towing is one of the conditions the owner's manual lists as shortening oil change intervals. Your oil change indicator will usually account for it, but check your oil level more often when you tow. Where can I find the oil change interval for my vehicle? Look in the Scheduled Servicing section of your owner's manual, or find a digital copy on the Mopar owner website. Our service team can also look up your vehicle's schedule by VIN. Schedule Your Oil Change at McCarthy CDJR in Lee's Summit Whether your oil change indicator just came on, your 12-month mark is coming up or you're getting ready for winter, the certified technicians at McCarthy Jeep Ram Chrysler Dodge can help. We'll use the correct Mopar-approved oil and filter for your engine, whether it's a Pentastar V6, a HEMI V8, a Hurricane twin-turbo or a Cummins diesel. We'll check your fluids and tires and reset your oil change indicator so you know exactly when your next service is due. We're located at 1051 SE Oldham Parkway in Lee's Summit, just off US-50, serving drivers from Blue Springs, Raymore, Independence, Belton, Grain Valley, Greenwood and across the Kansas City metro. Schedule your service online or call us at (816) 441-5389. If your vehicle is getting older and needs more than an oil change, ask our team about trade-in options on a new or certified pre-owned Jeep, Ram, Dodge or Chrysler. Schedule an Oil Change

For more than half a century, Dodge and Ford have been fighting for the hearts of American performance fans. In 2026, that rivalry looks different than ever. The Dodge Charger has been completely reinvented with a twin-turbo inline-six, standard all-wheel drive and your choice of two or four doors. The Ford Mustang has stuck to its roots with a naturally aspirated V8, rear-wheel drive and an available manual transmission. Two very different answers to the same question: what should a modern muscle car be? The short answer The 2026 Dodge Charger is the more powerful, more spacious and more all-weather-capable choice, with up to 550 horsepower, standard AWD, a real back seat, a hatchback and a four-door option. The 2026 Ford Mustang is the lighter, more traditional sports car, with a V8 rumble, an available manual transmission and a convertible. If you want one car that can do everything, including Kansas City winters and family duty, the Charger has the edge. If you want a classic two-door V8 experience, the Mustang delivers. In this guide, we'll compare the 2026 Charger and Mustang head to head on power, performance, drivetrain, space, technology and everyday livability, using the manufacturers' own published specs. We'll also explain which one makes more sense for drivers in Lee's Summit and the Kansas City area, where a muscle car has to handle a commute on I-470 and a snowy January morning, not just a sunny Saturday cruise. The 2026 Charger and Mustang at a Glance Here's how the two lineups compare, based on Dodge's and Ford's published 2026 specifications. 2026 Dodge Charger (gas) 2026 Ford Mustang Engines 3.0L twin-turbo Hurricane Sixpack inline-six 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder; 5.0L V8 Horsepower 420 hp (R/T); 550 hp (Scat Pack) 315 hp (EcoBoost); 480–486 hp (GT); 500 hp (Dark Horse) Torque 468 lb-ft (R/T); 531 lb-ft (Scat Pack) 350 lb-ft (EcoBoost); 415–418 lb-ft (GT and Dark Horse) Drivetrain Standard AWD with selectable RWD mode Rear-wheel drive Transmission 8-speed automatic 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic (V8); 10-speed automatic (EcoBoost) Body styles 2-door or 4-door Fastback coupe or convertible Cargo space 22.8 cu ft; 37.4 cu ft with rear seats folded 13.3 cu ft (fastback); 10.3 cu ft (convertible) Seating Full-size rear seat 4, with a small rear seat Ford also offers the limited, supercharged Mustang Dark Horse SC and the track-focused Mustang GTD, and Dodge offers the all-electric Charger Daytona. This guide focuses on the mainstream gas-powered models most buyers are cross-shopping. Power and Performance Dodge Charger: Twin-turbo muscle The biggest change for the Charger is under the hood. Instead of a HEMI V8, the gas-powered Charger uses Stellantis' 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six, branded "Sixpack" in a nod to Dodge's classic six-barrel V8s. It comes in two strengths: Charger R/T (standard output): 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. Dodge says it runs 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds. That's 50 more horsepower and a half-second quicker to 60 than the HEMI V8 R/T it replaces. Charger Scat Pack (high output): 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque from twin Garrett turbos. Dodge's figures put it at 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and the quarter mile in 12.2 seconds. Twin turbos give the Sixpack a huge, flat wave of torque that arrives early, so the Charger pulls hard from a stop and in passing situations without needing to wind out the engine. Combined with standard all-wheel drive, that power actually reaches the pavement. AWD lets the Charger launch hard without a cloud of tire smoke, which helps explain the quick 0 to 60 times. Ford Mustang: The V8 tradition The Mustang lineup starts with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost making 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The heart of the lineup, though, is the 5.0-liter "Coyote" V8: Mustang GT: 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft, or 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft with the available active valve exhaust. Mustang Dark Horse: 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft, with track-focused upgrades. The naturally aspirated V8 is the Mustang's biggest emotional selling point. It loves to rev and delivers the classic American V8 sound that many enthusiasts crave. The verdict on power On paper, the Charger Scat Pack leads the mainstream Mustang lineup by 50 horsepower over the Dark Horse and by more than 100 lb-ft of torque. Even the Charger R/T makes more torque than any V8 Mustang below the Dark Horse SC. The Mustang counters with its V8 sound and lighter weight. If raw acceleration and torque are your priority, the Charger is hard to beat. If the sound and feel of a V8 matter most, the Mustang has the advantage. Drivetrain: Standard AWD vs. Rear-Wheel Drive This is one of the biggest differences between the two, and it matters a lot in the Kansas City area. Every 2026 gas-powered Charger comes standard with all-wheel drive. According to Dodge, the system continuously varies torque between the front and rear axles, and a Wet/Snow mode splits power evenly for the best traction in bad weather. When you want old-school fun on dry pavement, you can switch the Sixpack Charger into a rear-wheel-drive mode that sends 100% of the torque to the rear wheels. Every 2026 Mustang is rear-wheel drive. That's part of the Mustang's classic character, and on a dry, sunny day it's a blast. But rear-wheel-drive performance cars with wide summer tires can be a real challenge on snow and ice. Many Mustang owners in cold climates switch to winter tires or simply park the car for the season. For Lee's Summit, Blue Springs, Raymore and Independence drivers who want a muscle car they can use all year, the Charger's AWD is a major advantage. You'll still want appropriate tires for winter conditions, but you won't have to choose between performance and getting to work after the first snow. For a deeper look, read our guide to 4WD vs. AWD in snow and ice. Transmissions: Automatic vs. Manual Every 2026 Charger uses an eight-speed automatic transmission with a pistol-grip shifter. It's quick, smooth and makes launch control easy. The Mustang GT and Dark Horse offer something the Charger doesn't: a six-speed manual transmission, with a 10-speed automatic available. The EcoBoost comes only with the 10-speed automatic. If rowing your own gears is a must-have, the V8 Mustang is one of the few new performance cars that still lets you do it. Size, Space and Practicality Here the two cars are completely different animals. Charger: A muscle car you can live with The Charger is a large car with a real, adult-sized back seat and a clever hatchback design. Dodge says it offers 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 37.4 cubic feet with them folded. It also comes as a two-door or a four-door, so families can have the four-door's easier rear access without giving up the Charger's performance. That means a Charger can handle a Costco run, a weekend road trip to the Lake of the Ozarks, hockey bags, golf clubs or car seats in the back, and still be a 550-horsepower muscle car. Mustang: A true sports car The Mustang is smaller and lighter, and it feels like it. Ford lists seating for four, but the rear seat is tight and best for kids or extra storage. The fastback has 13.3 cubic feet of trunk space, and the convertible has 10.3 cubic feet. Ford is also the only one of the two that offers a convertible, which is a big draw for summer cruising. The Mustang's smaller size and lighter weight make it feel nimble and easy to place on a twisty road. The tradeoff is less practicality for daily family use. The verdict on practicality If your performance car also needs to be your daily driver, family car or road-trip car, the Charger is the clear winner. If it's a weekend toy or a car for one or two people, the Mustang's size works just fine. What They're Like to Drive The Charger The Charger feels like a big, confident grand touring car with a serious punch. Press the throttle and the twin-turbo six delivers a strong surge of torque, while the all-wheel-drive system puts it down cleanly, even on a cool or damp day. On the highway it's quiet and settled, and the long wheelbase makes it comfortable on long drives. Switch to rear-wheel-drive mode on a dry road or at a track day, and the Charger shows a more playful, old-school side. It's a car that's equally happy cruising to a dinner on the Plaza or blasting up an on-ramp. The Mustang The Mustang feels smaller, lighter and more eager to change direction. The V8 models reward you for revving the engine, and the manual transmission adds a level of involvement few modern cars offer. It's a more traditional sports-car experience: louder, more raw and more focused on the driver. The tradeoff is a firmer ride and a smaller cabin that can feel cramped on long trips with more than two people. Technology and Interior Both cars have modern, screen-heavy cabins. Charger: Uconnect 5 with a 12.3-inch center touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital driver display with an available 16-inch display, an available head-up display and a pistol-grip shifter. Track tools like Line Lock and Launch Control are available. Mustang: A 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen. Performance features like rev matching on manual models and track apps are available. The biggest interior difference is space, not screens. The Charger's larger cabin and back seat make it more comfortable for passengers on long drives. Fuel Economy Dodge rates the 2026 Charger R/T at 23 mpg combined. That's impressive for a 420-horsepower, all-wheel-drive car, and it's one of the benefits of the twin-turbo six. The Mustang EcoBoost is the efficiency pick in Ford's lineup, while the V8 models trade some fuel economy for sound and character. Check the window sticker for each specific model, since fuel economy varies by engine, transmission and configuration. 2026 Charger Trims Explained If you're leaning toward the Charger, here's a quick guide to the gas-powered lineup. Every trim is available as a two-door or a four-door. Charger R/T: the 420-horsepower standard-output Sixpack, standard AWD, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital cluster. The available Performance Handling Group adds Line Lock, Launch Control, a Custom drive mode, a shift indicator, Brembo six-piston front calipers and 20-inch wheels. Charger R/T Plus: adds more comfort and tech, including eight-way power seats, a head-up display and a 16-inch digital driver display. Charger Scat Pack: the 550-horsepower high-output Sixpack with twin Garrett turbos, an eight-speed automatic and AWD with selectable RWD mode. Dodge lists a top speed of 177 mph. Charger Scat Pack Plus: adds premium features, including the 16-inch driver display. Two-door or four-door? One of the new Charger's most unusual features is the choice of body style. The two-door has the classic coupe profile that recalls the original muscle-car era. The four-door makes it much easier to get people and car seats in and out of the back, which is a big deal for families. Both share the same engines, all-wheel drive and hatchback cargo area. If you regularly carry rear passengers, the four-door is worth a close look. If it's mostly you and one passenger, the two-door's style may win you over. Ownership and Service A performance car is a long-term relationship, so think about what ownership looks like after you drive off the lot. Turbocharged engines like the Sixpack rely on clean oil and regular maintenance, and all-wheel-drive systems benefit from periodic fluid checks and even tire wear. Performance tires and big brakes also wear faster than those on an everyday sedan. Having a local service department that knows your car makes a difference. Our certified technicians in Lee's Summit service Dodge performance vehicles, use genuine Mopar parts and can help you keep your Charger running the way it did on day one. Our guide to oil change intervals is a good place to start. Which Should You Choose? The Dodge Charger is right for you if: You want the most power and torque in the mainstream muscle-car segment You need to drive it year-round, including Kansas City winters You want a usable back seat, a big cargo area or a four-door option You want quick launches without fighting wheelspin Your performance car also needs to be your daily driver or family car The Ford Mustang is right for you if: A naturally aspirated V8 sound is a must-have You want to drive a manual transmission You want a convertible for summer cruising You prefer a smaller, lighter two-door sports car It'll mostly be a weekend or fair-weather car Both are great cars, and both carry on a proud American performance tradition. The best way to decide is to drive them back to back and see which one makes you grin wider. Living With a Muscle Car in Kansas City A performance car has to fit your real life, not just your weekend. A few things to think about around the metro: Winter: January in Kansas City averages lows around 24°F, with snow possible from November through April. AWD and the right tires make a performance car usable all year. Commuting: If your car will handle a daily drive on I-470, US-50 or I-435, comfort, fuel economy and visibility matter as much as horsepower. Road trips: Weekend drives to Lake of the Ozarks, Branson or Omaha are more comfortable with a roomy back seat and a big trunk. Insurance: High-horsepower cars can carry higher insurance costs. Get quotes on the specific models you're considering before you buy. Fuel: Check the recommended fuel for each engine. Many high-performance engines call for premium. A Quick Look Back at the Rivalry The Dodge vs. Ford muscle-car rivalry goes back to the 1960s, when the original Charger and Mustang helped define American performance. Over the decades, both nameplates have changed shape many times, from big-block V8 coupes to modern four-door sedans and high-tech performance machines. Today's Charger takes the rivalry in a bold new direction with turbocharged power and all-wheel drive, while the Mustang stays loyal to its V8 roots. Want more Mopar history? Read our look back at the Dodge Viper. Frequently Asked Questions Which is faster, the 2026 Dodge Charger or the Ford Mustang? The 2026 Charger Scat Pack makes 550 horsepower, more than any mainstream Mustang, and Dodge rates it at 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. Its standard all-wheel drive helps it launch hard. Ford does offer the limited, supercharged Mustang Dark Horse SC, which makes more power. Does the 2026 Dodge Charger have a V8? No. The 2026 gas-powered Charger uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane Sixpack inline-six, making 420 horsepower in the R/T and 550 horsepower in the Scat Pack. Dodge also offers the all-electric Charger Daytona. Is the Dodge Charger all-wheel drive? Yes. According to Dodge, all-wheel drive is standard on every 2026 Charger. The gas-powered Sixpack models also have a selectable rear-wheel-drive mode. Does the 2026 Mustang come with a manual transmission? Yes. The Mustang GT and Dark Horse come with a six-speed manual, with a 10-speed automatic available. The EcoBoost is automatic only. The Charger is automatic only. Is the Charger available as a four-door? Yes. The 2026 Charger R/T and Scat Pack are available as a two-door or a four-door. The Mustang is available as a two-door fastback or a convertible. Which has more room, the Charger or the Mustang? The Charger, by a wide margin. It has a full-size rear seat and 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space, or 37.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Mustang fastback has 13.3 cubic feet of trunk space and a small rear seat. What is the top speed of the 2026 Charger? According to published specs, the 2026 Charger R/T has a top speed of 168 mph, and the Charger Scat Pack has a top speed of 177 mph. Which is better for winter driving? The Charger's standard all-wheel drive and Wet/Snow mode make it the better choice for driving in snow and slush. The rear-wheel-drive Mustang can be driven in winter with the right tires, but it takes more care. Test Drive the 2026 Dodge Charger at McCarthy CDJR The best way to understand the new Charger is to feel that twin-turbo torque and all-wheel-drive launch for yourself. Stop by McCarthy Jeep Ram Chrysler Dodge in Lee's Summit to test drive the Charger R/T or Scat Pack in two-door or four-door form. Our team will walk you through the trims and options, help you find the right configuration and appraise your current vehicle for trade-in. We're located at 1051 SE Oldham Parkway in Lee's Summit, just off US-50, serving drivers from Blue Springs, Raymore, Independence, Belton, Grain Valley, Greenwood, Overland Park and across the Kansas City metro. Browse our Dodge Charger inventory or call us at (816) 441-5389 to schedule a test drive. Shop Dodge Charger Inventory