Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Gladiator: Which Should You Buy?

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

Few engine names carry as much weight as HEMI. Say it to a car or truck fan and you'll get a knowing grin. It means the thundering 426 that dominated NASCAR in the 1960s, the Hemi 'Cuda and Charger R/T that turned heads on Woodward Avenue, the Ram pickups that brought V8 power to job sites across America and the supercharged Hellcats that redefined what a muscle car could be. More than 70 years after Chrysler's first hemi-head V8, the name still sells trucks. The short answer HEMI is the name for Chrysler's V8 engines built around hemispherical, or dome-shaped, combustion chambers. The first, the 331-cubic-inch FirePower, debuted in 1951 with 180 horsepower. The legendary 426 HEMI swept the top three spots at the 1964 Daytona 500, and today's HEMI family powers the Ram 1500, Ram 2500/3500, Jeep Wrangler 392 and Dodge Durango. After a short break, Ram brought the 5.7-liter HEMI back to the Ram 1500 for 2026 because customers asked for it. In this look back, we'll explain what makes a HEMI a HEMI, walk through each generation from the 1950s to today and cover the race wins, muscle cars and record-breaking horsepower that built the legend. We'll also show Lee's Summit and Kansas City drivers where they can still get HEMI power in a new Ram, Jeep or Dodge today. What Makes a HEMI a HEMI? The name comes from the shape of the combustion chamber, the space in the cylinder head where the air-fuel mixture burns. In a classic HEMI, that chamber is shaped like half of a sphere, or a hemisphere. That dome shape has a few big advantages: Room for big valves: The curved chamber leaves space for large intake and exhaust valves set across from each other, so the engine can breathe in and push out more air. Efficient combustion: The chamber has a good surface-to-volume ratio, which helps the fuel burn efficiently and makes more power. A centrally placed spark plug: The flame spreads evenly across the chamber. The tradeoffs were complexity and cost. Classic HEMIs had complicated valvetrains and were large, heavy and expensive to build, which is why early HEMIs were often reserved for premium cars and racing. Modern HEMIs, starting with the 2003 5.7-liter, use a different chamber design that is no longer truly hemispherical. It's flatter and more efficient, and it uses two spark plugs per cylinder for cleaner, more complete combustion. The name stuck, though, along with the HEMI's reputation for big, reliable V8 power. The HEMI Timeline at a Glance Year Milestone 1951 Chrysler introduces the FirePower V8: 331 cubic inches and 180 horsepower 1952–1953 DeSoto FireDome and Dodge Red Ram HEMI V8s arrive 1964 The 426 race HEMI debuts; Plymouths finish 1-2-3 at the Daytona 500 1966 The 426 Street HEMI arrives, rated at 425 horsepower 1971 The classic 426 Street HEMI era comes to an end 2003 The modern 5.7-liter HEMI debuts in the Dodge Ram with 345 horsepower 2005 The 6.1-liter HEMI powers SRT models with 425 horsepower 2011 The 6.4-liter "392" HEMI debuts with 470 horsepower 2015 The supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat HEMI arrives with 707 horsepower 2023 The Challenger SRT Demon 170 makes up to 1,025 horsepower on E85 2026 The 5.7-liter HEMI returns to the Ram 1500 The First Generation: FirePower, FireDome and Red Ram (1951–1950s) Chrysler's first V8 for passenger cars arrived in 1951. It wasn't called HEMI yet. Chrysler branded it FirePower. It displaced 331 cubic inches (5.4 liters) and made 180 horsepower, which was a lot of power for a family car at the time. Other Chrysler brands soon got their own versions. DeSoto introduced the FireDome V8 in 1952, and Dodge followed in 1953 with the Red Ram, a smaller V8 that gave Dodge buyers a taste of hemi-head performance. These engines quickly earned a reputation for strength and power, and racers and hot rodders took notice. The early hemi engines became favorites in drag racing, a reputation that still follows the HEMI name today. The 426 HEMI: A Legend Is Born (1964–1971) If one engine made the HEMI a legend, it was the 426. Built to win at Daytona Chrysler designed the 426 HEMI as a pure racing engine for NASCAR and drag racing. It made its debut at the 1964 Daytona 500, and the results were stunning. According to Stellantis, Richard Petty led 184 of the 200 laps in his HEMI-powered Plymouth and won at a record average speed of 154.334 mph. Plymouths with the 426 HEMI took the top three spots. Petty went on to win the 1964 NASCAR championship. The HEMI was so dominant that NASCAR changed its rules, requiring engines to be available in production cars. Chrysler sat out much of the 1965 stock car season as a result, then came back with a street version. The 426 Street HEMI In 1966, Chrysler began offering a detuned version of the race engine to the public. The 426 Street HEMI was rated at 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. It became the ultimate option in Dodge and Plymouth muscle cars, and today the cars that carried it are some of the most valuable American cars ever built, including: Dodge Charger and Charger R/T Dodge Coronet R/T and Super Bee Dodge Challenger R/T Plymouth Road Runner and GTX Plymouth 'Cuda The 426 Street HEMI was expensive and built in small numbers, and changing emissions rules and insurance costs brought the classic muscle-car era to a close in the early 1970s. The last 426 Street HEMI cars were built for the 1971 model year. According to Stellantis, the 426's basic design still powers NHRA drag racers today. Want to read more about this era? See our look back at Dodge's great muscle cars. The Modern HEMI Returns (2003) For three decades, the HEMI name was mostly a memory, and an aftermarket favorite for racers and restorers. Then, in 2003, Chrysler brought it back in a place many people didn't expect: the Dodge Ram pickup. The new 5.7-liter HEMI made 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. It was a modern engine, with two spark plugs per cylinder and a redesigned combustion chamber, built for durability, towing and everyday driving. It helped turn the Ram into a serious challenger in the full-size truck market and made "That thing got a HEMI?" one of the most famous lines in truck advertising. The 5.7 soon spread across the lineup, into the Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler 300C, Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger. Later versions added the Multi-Displacement System, which shuts off four cylinders under light load to save fuel, and variable valve timing for more power and efficiency. Bigger HEMIs for SRT: The 6.1 and the 392 Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group built higher-performance HEMIs for its most powerful models. 6.1-liter HEMI (2005): Built for SRT models like the Chrysler 300C SRT8, it made 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, matching the horsepower rating of the original 426 Street HEMI. 6.4-liter "392" HEMI (2011): Named for its displacement in cubic inches, a nod to the 392 HEMI of the 1950s. It debuted in the Dodge Challenger SRT8 with 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, and some later versions made 485 horsepower. The 392 went on to power the Challenger and Charger Scat Pack, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, Dodge Durango SRT and, starting in 2021, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. A heavy-duty version of the 6.4-liter HEMI also powers Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks. Learn more in our guide, What Is the Jeep Wrangler 392? The Supercharged Era: Hellcat, Demon and TRX In 2015, Dodge stunned the automotive world with the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat HEMI. Rated at 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, it made the Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcat some of the most powerful production cars on sale, at a fraction of the price of exotic supercars. The Hellcat engine kicked off a horsepower war: Hellcrate: Mopar even sold the Hellcat engine as a crate engine, nicknamed the Hellcrate, for hot rodders and restorers. Challenger SRT Demon: rated at 808 horsepower on pump gas and 840 horsepower on 100-octane racing fuel. Challenger SRT Demon 170 (2023): up to 1,025 horsepower on E85 fuel. It was the final Challenger built at the Brampton, Ontario, plant in December 2023. Ram 1500 TRX: brought supercharged HEMI power to a high-performance off-road pickup from 2021 to 2024. Durango SRT Hellcat: put supercharged HEMI power in a three-row family SUV. A Pause, Then a Comeback As emissions and fuel economy rules tightened, Stellantis began replacing the HEMI with its new 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six. The last HEMI-powered Challengers and Chargers were built in late 2023, and the Ram 1500 switched to Hurricane power for 2025. Truck buyers made their feelings clear. In June 2025, Ram announced that the 5.7-liter HEMI would return to the Ram 1500 for 2026. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis didn't sugarcoat it, admitting that Ram "screwed up when we dropped the HEMI" and saying the company had listened to its customers. The supercharged HEMI is coming back, too. In January 2026, Ram revealed the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX, powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI rated at 777 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque. Where You Can Get a HEMI Today The HEMI is very much alive in today's Ram, Jeep and Dodge lineup. Here's where you'll find it: Vehicle HEMI engine Output 2026 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque 395 hp / 410 lb-ft 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 6.4L HEMI V8 405 hp / 429 lb-ft 2026 Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 and Willys 392 6.4L HEMI V8 470 hp / 470 lb-ft 2026 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 710 hp The Dodge Durango GT HEMI also offers the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with standard all-wheel drive, a great fit for families who want V8 power and three rows of seating. The 2026 Ram 1500 HEMI The returning 5.7-liter HEMI in the Ram 1500 makes 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. It uses Ram's eTorque 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which replaces the traditional alternator with a belt-driven motor-generator. According to MoparInsiders, eTorque supports smooth stop/start operation, captures energy during braking and adds up to 130 lb-ft of extra torque when you first press the accelerator. The HEMI Ram 1500 is rated to tow up to 11,470 pounds and carry up to 1,750 pounds of payload when properly equipped. According to MoparInsiders, the HEMI is available on Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, Limited and Longhorn trims. It isn't offered on the Tungsten or RHO, which use the high-output Hurricane. HEMI or Hurricane? Ram 1500 shoppers now have a real choice. The twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six offers big torque, strong efficiency and, in high-output form, more horsepower. The HEMI offers the classic V8 sound, a proven design and a feel many truck owners love. The best way to decide is to drive both. Our guide to half-ton vs. three-quarter-ton vs. one-ton trucks can also help you choose the right Ram. Caring for a HEMI HEMI engines have a reputation for durability, and a little routine care helps keep it that way: Use the right oil. Stellantis owner's manuals call for SAE 0W-20 full synthetic in the 5.7-liter HEMI and SAE 0W-40 full synthetic in the 6.4-liter HEMI. Always confirm with your owner's manual or oil fill cap. Stay on schedule. Follow your oil change indicator and never exceed the maximum interval in your owner's manual. Our guide to oil change intervals by model explains more. Keep the oil level up. HEMIs with the Multi-Displacement System rely on steady oil pressure to switch cylinders on and off smoothly. Use the right fuel. Check your owner's manual. For example, Jeep recommends premium fuel rated 91 octane or higher for the 6.4-liter V8 in the Wrangler 392. Listen for changes. If you hear new ticking or tapping, have it checked early. Our certified technicians in Lee's Summit work on HEMI engines every day, from classic 5.7 Rams to the latest Wrangler 392s. Fun HEMI Facts It wasn't called HEMI at first. Chrysler's first hemi-head V8 in 1951 was marketed as the FirePower. Two spark plugs per cylinder. Modern HEMIs use 16 spark plugs in a V8 for cleaner, more complete combustion. A record-setting debut. Richard Petty's 1964 Daytona 500 win came at a record average speed of 154.334 mph. Rules were changed because of it. The 426 HEMI was so dominant that NASCAR rewrote its engine rules. You could buy one in a crate. Mopar sold the 707-horsepower Hellcat engine as the Hellcrate crate engine. The last Challenger was a HEMI. The final Challenger built at the Brampton, Ontario, plant in December 2023 was a 1,025-horsepower SRT Demon 170. The comeback was customer-driven. Ram brought the HEMI back to the Ram 1500 for 2026 after hearing from truck buyers who missed it. Collecting Classic HEMI Cars Original 426 Street HEMI cars from 1966 to 1971 are some of the most sought-after American collector cars, and later modern HEMI models are building their own following. If you're shopping for a classic or modern collectible HEMI car, a few tips: Verify the engine. Documentation, build sheets and matching numbers make a big difference in value for classic HEMI cars. Look for originality. Factory-correct parts and finishes matter to collectors. Check service records on modern HEMI performance cars, especially supercharged models that may have seen track or drag strip use. Get an inspection from a technician who knows Mopar performance engines before you buy. Store it properly, especially through Kansas City winters, with fresh fluids, a battery maintainer and a dry, secure space. Why the HEMI Still Matters The HEMI has outlasted trends, regulations and even its own retirement. Part of that is engineering: big, efficient combustion chambers and a strong, simple V8 design. But a bigger part is emotion. The HEMI connects today's drivers to Richard Petty's 1964 Daytona win, to the Hemi 'Cudas and Chargers that ruled the streets in the late 1960s and to the "That thing got a HEMI?" Rams that brought V8 pride to job sites and driveways. Here in the Kansas City area, you'll still see that pride everywhere: HEMI Rams towing boats to the lake, Wrangler 392s heading out on weekend adventures and classic HEMI muscle cars at cruise nights and car shows across the metro. For many Mopar fans, a HEMI isn't just an engine. It's part of the family. Frequently Asked Questions What does HEMI stand for? HEMI is short for hemispherical, which describes the dome-shaped combustion chambers of Chrysler's classic HEMI V8 engines. Modern HEMIs use a flatter, more efficient chamber design but keep the famous name. When did the first HEMI engine come out? Chrysler's first hemi-head V8 for passenger cars, the 331-cubic-inch FirePower, debuted in 1951 with 180 horsepower. What was the 426 HEMI? The 426 HEMI was Chrysler's legendary racing engine of the 1960s. Plymouths with the 426 finished 1-2-3 at the 1964 Daytona 500, and the 426 Street HEMI, rated at 425 horsepower, was offered in Dodge and Plymouth muscle cars from 1966 to 1971. Is the HEMI coming back? It's already back. Ram brought the 5.7-liter HEMI back to the Ram 1500 for 2026, rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Ram also revealed the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX with a 777-horsepower supercharged HEMI. Which 2026 vehicles have a HEMI? The 2026 Ram 1500 (5.7L), Ram 2500 and 3500 (6.4L), Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 and Willys 392 (6.4L) and Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat (supercharged 6.2L) all offer HEMI V8 power. What is the most powerful HEMI ever? The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170's supercharged HEMI made up to 1,025 horsepower on E85 fuel, making it the most powerful production HEMI. Does the 2026 Dodge Charger have a HEMI? No. The 2026 gas-powered Charger uses the twin-turbo Hurricane Sixpack inline-six. Read our Charger vs. Mustang comparison to learn more. Get Your HEMI at McCarthy CDJR in Lee's Summit Whether you want the classic rumble of a HEMI Ram 1500, the heavy-duty muscle of a 6.4-liter Ram 2500 or the trail-ready thrills of a Wrangler 392, the team at McCarthy Jeep Ram Chrysler Dodge can help you find your HEMI. We'll set up a test drive, explain the differences between HEMI and Hurricane power and help you choose the right configuration for the way you drive. Ask about trade-in appraisals while you're here. 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 HEMI-powered inventory or call us at (816) 441-5389 to schedule a test drive. Shop HEMI-Powered Inventory

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road. Every time you accelerate, brake or turn, four patches of rubber about the size of your hand are doing all the work. That's why the right tires can make a bigger difference in winter than four-wheel drive, all-wheel drive or any electronic safety feature. But with all-season, winter, all-terrain and all-weather tires all on the market, choosing the right set can be confusing. The short answer All-season tires are a good everyday choice for most Kansas City drivers on plowed roads. Winter tires give the best grip on snow and ice and the shortest stopping distances once temperatures drop below about 45°F. All-terrain tires are built for gravel, mud and trails, and many also carry the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol for severe snow. The right choice depends on where you drive, how much you drive in bad weather and whether your Jeep or Ram sees off-road use. In this guide, we'll explain how each tire type works, what the symbols on your sidewall really mean, how Kansas City winters affect your choice and which tires make the most sense for popular Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler models. Whether you commute from Lee's Summit to downtown, live on a gravel road near Lone Jack or take your Wrangler off-road on weekends, you'll know what to look for before your next tire purchase. The Four Main Tire Types at a Glance Tire type Best for Strengths Tradeoffs All-season Year-round driving on paved, mostly plowed roads Quiet, comfortable, long-lasting, good in rain and light snow Less grip in deep snow, on ice and in very cold temperatures Winter Cold weather, snow, slush and ice Best cold-weather grip, shortest winter stopping distances Wear faster in warm weather; usually swapped seasonally All-terrain Trucks and SUVs that see gravel, dirt, mud and trails Tough construction, off-road traction, many rated for severe snow Can be louder and less efficient; less ice grip than winter tires All-weather Drivers who want one tire for all four seasons with stronger snow ability Severe-snow rated, can stay on year-round Not as strong as dedicated winter tires in the worst conditions All-Season Tires: The Everyday Choice All-season tires are what most cars, minivans and many SUVs come with from the factory. They're designed to balance comfort, low noise, long tread life and good wet-road grip, with enough snow traction for light winter conditions. Where all-season tires work well Daily commuting on plowed streets and highways Rainy spring and fall days Light snow and slush on main roads Drivers who want one set of tires all year Where they fall short All-season tires are a compromise. Their rubber is designed to handle summer heat, which means it gets firmer in the cold. Michelin explains that when temperatures drop below 45°F, all-season and summer tires begin to harden. Harder rubber doesn't grip as well, especially on ice and packed snow. All-season tires also don't have as many biting edges as winter tires, so deep snow can pack into the tread. For many Kansas City drivers who stay on main roads, a quality all-season tire with plenty of tread is enough. But if you have to drive early in the morning after a storm, live on a hilly or unplowed street or simply want the most confidence possible, consider an upgrade. Winter Tires: The Cold-Weather Specialist Winter tires, sometimes called snow tires, are built for one job: grip in cold, snowy and icy conditions. Michelin describes three key differences: Soft rubber compounds that stay flexible in freezing temperatures instead of hardening. Lots of sipes, tiny slits across the tread that create extra biting edges on snow and ice. Deeper, more aggressive grooves that clear snow and slush out of the tread. How much difference do winter tires make? A lot. In Consumer Reports' snow testing, an all-wheel-drive SUV on all-season tires took almost 700 feet to stop from 60 mph. On new winter tires, both that SUV and a front-wheel-drive sedan stopped in about 300 feet. Consumer Reports concluded that winter tires matter more than all-wheel drive in many situations and recommends four winter tires for any vehicle, whether it's front-, rear- or all-wheel drive. The tradeoffs Seasonal swaps: Winter tires are meant for cold weather. Their soft rubber wears faster on warm pavement, so most drivers switch back to all-season or summer tires in the spring. Storage: You'll need space to store the off-season set, or ask your tire shop about storage options. A second set of wheels: Many drivers mount winter tires on their own wheels to make seasonal swaps quicker and easier. Studded winter tires in Missouri Some winter tires can be fitted with metal studs for extra ice grip. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, studded tires are prohibited on Missouri roads from April 1 through November 1 under state law, so they can only be used during the winter months. Most Kansas City drivers find that modern studless winter tires offer plenty of ice grip without the road noise and seasonal restrictions. All-Terrain Tires: Built for Jeeps and Trucks All-terrain tires are designed for vehicles that split their time between pavement and dirt. You'll find them on many Jeep Wranglers, Gladiators and Ram trucks, especially off-road trims. For example, the 2026 Jeep Wrangler Willys 392 comes standard with 35-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires. What makes them different Tougher construction with stronger sidewalls that resist cuts and punctures from rocks and gravel Open, chunky tread blocks that grip loose surfaces and clean out mud Better load capacity for trucks that haul and tow How do all-terrain tires do in snow? It depends on the tire. Tire Rack notes that many all-terrain tires carry the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, which means they've passed a standardized snow traction test. Those tires can be quite capable in deep snow, and combined with four-wheel drive and good ground clearance, they make Jeeps and Rams very confident on snowy rural roads. The limitation is ice. All-terrain tires usually use firmer rubber than winter tires, so on glare ice they can't match a dedicated winter tire. Tire Rack cautions that snowflake-rated all-season and all-terrain tires can't match winter tires in every winter condition. The tradeoffs More road noise than highway or all-season tires Often a small hit to fuel economy because of extra weight and rolling resistance A slightly firmer ride on the highway For many Jeep and Ram owners, those tradeoffs are worth it for the extra capability and the rugged look. All-Weather Tires: The Middle Ground All-weather tires are a newer category that sits between all-season and winter tires. They carry the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol for severe snow, but they're designed to stay on your vehicle all year instead of being swapped seasonally. They're a good option for drivers who want better winter grip than an all-season tire without managing two sets of tires. Like all-terrains, they can't fully match a dedicated winter tire on ice or in the harshest conditions. A Quick Word About Summer and Performance Tires Some performance vehicles come with summer or high-performance tires. These use rubber compounds designed for maximum grip on warm, dry and wet pavement, and they're fantastic in July. In cold weather, though, that rubber hardens even more than an all-season tire's, and many summer tires aren't meant to be driven in snow or freezing temperatures at all. If you own a performance car with summer tires and plan to drive it through a Kansas City winter, a set of winter tires is the safest way to do it. Check your tire manufacturer's guidance on cold-weather use and storage. Reading Your Tire's Sidewall: M+S vs. the Snowflake Two winter-related markings show up on many tires, and they don't mean the same thing. M+S (mud and snow) Tire Rack explains that the M+S marking is based only on the tire's tread pattern geometry. It doesn't require any performance test in snow. Many all-season tires carry M+S. Three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) This symbol, a snowflake inside a mountain with three peaks, means the tire passed a standardized test on medium-packed snow. To earn it, a tire must reach a traction index of at least 110 compared with a standard reference tire rated 100. In other words, it accelerates on snow at least 10% better than the reference tire. Tire Rack notes one important limitation: the test only measures acceleration traction on packed snow. It doesn't test braking, cornering or ice grip. So a snowflake-rated all-season or all-terrain tire is a step up for winter, but it isn't the same as a true winter tire. Other sidewall information to know Tire size, like 275/55R20, shows the width, sidewall height ratio and wheel diameter. Load index and speed rating must meet your vehicle's requirements. Check your owner's manual or the tire placard in the driver's door jamb. The DOT date code shows the week and year the tire was made. Older tires can lose grip even with plenty of tread. Tread Depth: When It's Time for New Tires Even the best tire loses grip as its tread wears down. Tire Rack's guidance: 2/32 of an inch is considered legally worn out in most states. 4/32 of an inch is when Tire Rack suggests considering replacement if you drive in rain often. In Tire Rack's testing, tires at 2/32 needed about 100 more feet to stop from 70 mph on wet roads than tires at 4/32. About 5/32 of an inch is when Tire Rack suggests replacement if you drive in snow, because snow and slush traction drops off as tread gets shallower. The classic penny test, where you check whether Lincoln's head is covered, only tells you whether you're near the legal minimum. By then, your winter traction is long gone. A tread depth gauge costs a few dollars, or our service team can measure your tread during any visit. Other signs you need new tires Cracks in the sidewall or tread, which can come from age and sun exposure Bulges or blisters on the sidewall, which can mean internal damage and a risk of failure Uneven wear, such as one edge wearing faster than the other, which can point to alignment or suspension issues Vibration at highway speeds that wasn't there before Repeated pressure loss or a tire that needs air more often than the others Age, since rubber hardens over time even when tread looks good. Check the DOT date code and ask a technician to inspect older tires. Which Tires Are Right for Your Jeep, Ram, Dodge or Chrysler? Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator Many come with all-terrain tires, especially off-road trims. If yours carry the snowflake symbol, they'll handle most Kansas City winters well, especially with four-wheel drive. If you drive a lot on icy roads, a set of winter tires for the coldest months adds a lot of stopping confidence. Jeep Grand Cherokee, Compass and Wagoneer These usually come with all-season tires. Paired with Jeep's 4x4 systems, they work well for most winter commuting. For families who drive early mornings, unplowed roads or icy hills, winter tires or all-weather tires are a smart upgrade. Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 Trucks may come with all-season or all-terrain tires depending on the trim. Pickups have a light rear end when the bed is empty, so tire choice matters a lot in snow. All-terrain tires with the snowflake symbol are a popular choice for truck owners who drive rural roads or job sites. If you tow in winter, make sure your tires' load rating matches your truck's requirements. Dodge Charger and Durango Performance vehicles may come with high-performance tires designed for grip on warm, dry pavement. Check your sidewall and owner's manual. If your tires aren't rated for snow, winter tires let you enjoy the Charger's standard all-wheel drive year-round. The Durango's AWD models pair well with all-season or winter tires for family winter driving. Chrysler Pacifica The Pacifica usually comes with all-season tires. For families who drive to school and practices no matter the weather, winter tires or all-weather tires add confidence, especially on AWD models. What Kansas City Winters Mean for Your Tires Kansas City winters bring a mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain and cold, dry days. January is usually the coldest month, with average lows around 24°F. That has a few practical effects: Cold temperatures are common even on days without snow, which is exactly when winter tire compounds help most. Ice and freezing rain are often a bigger danger than deep snow, and that's where winter tires shine. Hills and side streets in Lee's Summit, Blue Springs and Independence can stay slick long after highways are clear. Rural roads around Lone Jack, Pleasant Hill and Greenwood may stay snow-covered longer, which favors snowflake-rated all-terrains or winter tires. A good rule of thumb for the metro: install winter tires in mid to late November, as Kansas City's cold season settles in and temperatures spend more and more time below 45°F, and switch back in spring once temperatures warm up and the risk of snow passes. Winter Tire Care Tips Install them as a set of four. Consumer Reports recommends four winter tires, not two. Mixing tire types can make the vehicle unpredictable in a skid, and matching tires matter for AWD and 4WD systems. Check tire pressure often. As a rule of thumb, tire pressure drops about 1 to 2 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Fill to the pressure on your door placard. Rotate regularly to keep wear even, following your owner's manual. Check the tire pressure monitoring system when you swap seasonal sets, especially if you use a separate set of wheels. Store off-season tires properly, in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Tires are only part of winter readiness. Check out our guides to 4WD vs. AWD in snow and ice and the 7 signs your car battery is dying. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need winter tires in Kansas City? Many Kansas City drivers do fine with good all-season or snowflake-rated all-terrain tires. Winter tires are the best choice if you drive often in snow and ice, travel early before roads are treated or live on hilly or unplowed streets. They offer the best grip and shortest stopping distances in cold, icy conditions. Are all-terrain tires good in snow? Many are, especially those with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, which means they passed a standardized snow traction test. They usually can't match dedicated winter tires on ice, though. What's the difference between M+S and the snowflake symbol? M+S is based only on tread pattern and doesn't require a snow performance test. The three-peak mountain snowflake symbol means the tire passed a standardized acceleration test on packed snow. When should I put winter tires on? Once temperatures regularly drop below about 45°F. In the Kansas City area, that's usually mid to late November, and they can typically come off in spring. Can I use winter tires all year? It's not recommended. Winter tires' soft rubber wears quickly on warm pavement and handles less precisely in hot weather. If you want one tire for all seasons with better snow ability, consider all-weather tires. Are studded tires legal in Missouri? Yes, but only seasonally. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, studded tires are prohibited on Missouri roads from April 1 through November 1. Do I need winter tires if I have 4WD or AWD? Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive help you accelerate, but they don't help you stop or turn on ice. Tires do. Consumer Reports found winter tires matter more than AWD in many situations. Get the Right Tires at McCarthy CDJR in Lee's Summit Not sure which tires are right for your Jeep, Ram, Dodge or Chrysler? Our service team at McCarthy Jeep Ram Chrysler Dodge can check your tread depth and tire age, explain the options for the way you drive and make sure your new tires meet your vehicle's size, load and speed requirements. We'll also check your alignment, tire pressure monitoring system and the rest of your vehicle so you're ready for whatever Kansas City winter brings. 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, Lone Jack, Pleasant Hill and across the Kansas City metro. Schedule a tire check online or call us at (816) 441-5389. Shopping for a new vehicle that's ready for winter? Browse our Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler inventory. Schedule a Tire Check