Tips for Seasonal Maintenance of Your Ram 1500
Tips for Seasonal Maintenance of Your Ram 1500
Posted on June 11, 2025
Owning a Ram 1500 in Calgary means you're ready for rugged terrain, snowy winters, and warm prairie summers. But just like any hard working truck, your Ram 1500 needs a bit of TLC throughout the year to keep it running at its best. Seasonal maintenance isn't just about preventing breakdowns, it's about protecting your investment, staying safe on the road, and getting the most out of your truck's legendary performance. Here’s how you can keep your Ram 1500 in top shape no matter the season.
Spring: Shake Off Winter Wear
After a long Alberta winter filled with snow, salt, and cold starts, spring is the perfect time to reset. Start by giving your Ram 1500 a good wash—especially the undercarriage. Salt buildup can lead to corrosion, and cleaning it away helps protect the frame and suspension. It’s also a great time to inspect your brakes. If you’ve been dealing with icy roads, your brake pads and rotors have been working overtime. Make sure they’re still in good shape and free of rust or excessive wear.
As the weather warms up, consider swapping out your winter tires for all-seasons or summer tires. Winter tires wear faster in warm temperatures, so changing them not only protects the rubber but also improves your fuel efficiency. Speaking of fuel, spring is a good time to check your air filter and fuel system. A clean air filter allows your Ram’s engine to breathe easier, which improves performance and mileage.
Summer: Beat the Heat
Calgary summers may be short, but they can still bring extreme heat, especially if you’re hauling or towing in the backcountry or on long road trips. Your Ram 1500’s cooling system is your best friend during these months. Make sure your coolant levels are topped up and the radiator is clean and functioning well. If the engine overheats, it could lead to costly damage, so it’s worth staying ahead of it.
Your battery should also be checked in the summer. Heat can accelerate internal corrosion and reduce battery life. If your truck’s battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested or replaced before you hit the highway. It’s also smart to test your air conditioning system early in the season. Nobody wants to be stuck in traffic on a 30°C day with no cool air.
During the summer, your Ram 1500 might also be pulling more weight, whether it’s a trailer, camper, or boat. If you drive a model equipped with the available 5.7-litre HEMI® V8, which delivers up to 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, you’ll want to make sure the towing components like the hitch, transmission fluid, and rear differential are in great condition.
Fall: Prepare for the Freeze
As the leaves start to change, it’s time to get ahead of the cold weather. Fall is a great time for a full inspection. Start by checking your windshield wipers and washer fluid, both will be working overtime during the slush and sleet season. Make sure you’re using winter-ready fluid that won’t freeze when temperatures drop.
It’s also time to think about switching back to winter tires. Alberta winters can be harsh, and having proper winter rubber on your Ram 1500 can make a big difference in traction and safety. Tire tread should be deep enough to handle snowy or icy roads, so inspect them carefully before reinstalling.
Another fall essential is checking your battery again. While summer heat wears it down, cold weather reduces its power output. You don’t want to be caught with a dead battery on a -20°C morning. Also, inspect your heating system to make sure you’ll have proper cabin heat and defrost when it matters most.
Winter: Survive and Thrive
This is the season where your Ram 1500 proves its worth. From tackling icy roads to hauling gear in extreme cold, winter brings the toughest test. If you haven’t already, winter tires should be installed and properly inflated. Colder air contracts, so tire pressure often drops. Low pressure can lead to reduced grip and increased tire wear.
Your engine oil should also be winter-appropriate. Thinner oil works better in cold temperatures, helping your engine turn over more easily on frosty mornings. It’s a good idea to use synthetic oil that performs well in extreme cold—something that’s especially important if you’re running the 3.6-litre Pentastar™ V6 or one of the optional V8 engines in the Ram 1500 lineup.
Make sure your block heater is functioning and plugged in overnight, especially when temperatures drop below -15°C. A warm engine not only starts more reliably but also reduces wear during ignition. Keep your fuel tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-ups, and consider keeping an emergency kit in your truck with essentials like jumper cables, a blanket, and a flashlight.
Year-Round Checks That Matter
Some maintenance isn’t tied to any one season, but it’s just as important. Oil changes, for example, should be done based on your truck’s usage and the manufacturer’s recommendations. The Ram 1500 is designed for hard work and long drives, and its powertrains—including the available 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6—are built to last. But that durability depends on regular care.
Transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid should be monitored year-round, especially if you frequently tow, carry heavy loads, or drive off-road. Don’t forget to rotate your tires every 10,000 kilometres or so to promote even tread wear. Keeping your suspension components, belts, and hoses inspected regularly will also help prevent sudden breakdowns.
And let’s not forget about technology. Today’s Ram 1500 models come equipped with advanced driver-assist features, infotainment systems, and sensors. Make sure your Uconnect® system is running the latest updates and that cameras, sensors, and safety alerts are all calibrated and clean.
Trust South Trail Chrysler in Calgary, AB for Expert Service
Staying ahead of seasonal maintenance keeps your Ram 1500 ready for whatever Alberta roads throw your way. Whether you’re navigating icy side streets in winter or heading out on a summer camping trip, a well-maintained truck delivers performance, safety, and peace of mind year-round.
If you’re unsure where to start or just want a second opinion, the service team at South Trail Chrysler in Calgary, AB, is here to help. We know the Ram 1500 inside and out and can handle everything from seasonal tire changes to complete multi-point inspections. Book your appointment today and give your truck the care it deserves because every season should be a smooth one behind the wheel of your Ram.