6.7 Cummins Oil Capacity Guide: Quarts, Specs & Tips

Many RAM 2500/3500 owners ask, "How many quarts or gallons does a 6.7 Cummins take?" Understanding the 6.7 Cummins oil capacity is essential for proper engine care and a longer engine life.

The 6.7 Cummins oil capacity is 12 quarts, with a filter change recommended for 2007.5-2025 models. Knowing this ensures proper lubrication, cooling, and extends engine life to over 300,000 miles—avoiding overfill foaming or underfill wear.

The right 6.7 L Cummins oil capacity ensures that your diesel engine stays cool, well-lubricated, and protected under heavy loads. Every oil change is a chance to protect your investment and keep your 6.7 L Cummins running at its best.

In this article, let's explore how many quarts of oil a 6.7 Cummins holds, the best oil types, and oil change tips for Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500 trucks.

How Much Oil Does a 6.7 Cummins Really Need?

A 6.7 Cummins needs 12 quarts with a filter change, 11 quarts without. After turbo work, add 0.5–1 quart extra.

Underfill causes overheating; overfill leads to foaming and blow-by—always check the dipstick.

Standard 6.7 Cummins Oil Capacity

Oil + Filter Change: 12 quarts (11.4 liters) — the manufacturer-recommended 6.7 Cummins oil capacity with filter for most Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks.

Drain Only (No Filter): Approximately 11 quarts (10.4 liters).

After Turbo or Engine Work: Add 0.5–1 quart extra to replace oil lost during part replacement or engine service.

So, if you're wondering how many quarts a 6.7 Cummins takes, the simple answer is 12 quarts with a filter—about 3 gallons of oil.

Why Oil Level Matters

Maintaining the correct oil level ensures proper lubrication, cooling, and pressure balance within the engine. Low oil levels promote friction, bearing damage, and heat buildup, while excessive filling disrupts oil flow and causes aeration and pressure spikes.

After changing or topping up the oil, always verify your 6.7 Cummins dipstick oil level after the engine has idled for two to three minutes—the oil should settle between the MIN and MAX markers.

Following the correct 6.7 Cummins oil change capacity helps maintain coolant stability, turbocharger protection, and oil viscosity during demanding driving conditions.

While the 6.7-liter Cummins oil capacity can differ slightly depending on the production year, adhering to factory specifications is the best way to ensure lasting reliability and optimal performance from your engine.

6.7l Cummins Oil Capacity by Year & Model

The 6.7L Cummins oil capacity has stayed almost the same over the years.

2007.5 – 2018: 12 quarts with filter. 2019 – 2025: 12 quarts, some 12–12.5 with pans. Without filter ~11.4.

Towing the same, but CK-4 oil. Early 2007-2012, May 11.5—dipstick check.

Use this 6.7 Cummins oil capacity chart to avoid adding too little or too much oil.

Model Year	With Oil Filter	Without Filter	Notes
2007.5–2018	12 quarts (11.4 L)	11 quarts (10.4 L)	Use 15W-40 or 5W-40 based on temperature.
2019–2025	12 or 12.5 –13 quarts (11.4 or 11.8–12.3 L)	11.4 quarts	Slight difference from the new oil pan design.
Aftermarket / HD Pans	Up to 13 quarts	–	Some towing setups hold more oil.
Heavy-Duty / Towing Models	12 quarts (11.4 L)	–	Use CJ-4 or CK-4 rated diesel oil.

Quick Tip: The 6.7 Cummins oil amount equals about 3 gallons (12 quarts), a bit more than the 5.9L Cummins. Check your 6.7 Cummins dipstick oil level after refilling.

Best Oil for 6.7 Cummins (Weight & Specs)

Selecting the best oil for a 6.7 Cummins is essential to preserve engine strength and long-term reliability. The right oil helps maintain pressure, limits friction, and controls heat when towing or operating under heavy load.

2007.5–2018: 15W-40 warm or 5W-40 cold, CJ-4/CK-4 CES 20081. 2019+: 10W-30 above 0°F or 5W-40, CK-4 low-ash. Brands: Rotella T6, Valvoline Blue, AMSOIL Signature.

Combined with the correct 6.7 Cummins oil capacity, it ensures consistent performance and protects vital components from wear.

Recommended Oil Weights

The 6.7L Cummins oil capacity remains the same for all model years, yet oil weight varies with temperature and driving conditions.

Choosing the correct viscosity stabilizes 6.7 Cummins oil temp, supports lubrication, and extends oil life.

Model Years	Recommended Oil Weight	Brand	Ideal Use Case	Oil Type
2007.5–2018	15W-40	Amsoil Max Duty	Warm weather or towing	API CJ-4 / CK-4
2007.5–2018	5W-40	Blue Diamond PAO	Cold or all-season driving	Full Synthetic
2019–2025	10W-30	Amsoil Signature	Mild climates	API CK-4, Low Ash
2019–2025	5W-40	Shell Rotella T6	All temperatures	Full Synthetic

Pairing the correct oil with the right performance upgrades, such as EGR delete kits or DPF delete kits from EGR Performance, ensures maximum reliability for your 6.7 Cummins.

Top 6.7 Cummins Oil Brands

The best oil brands for the 6.7 Cummins include Shell Rotella T6, Valvoline Premium Blue, and AMSOIL Signature Series.

Choose 5W-40 in colder or variable climates, while 15W-40 is ideal for towing or high-temperature conditions.

Always follow the correct oil change interval and fill the proper 12-quart capacity with a filter to keep your 6.7L Cummins diesel running at peak performance.

6.7 Cummins Oil Change Intervals & Best Practices

Maintaining proper service intervals for your 6.7 Cummins oil change is essential to preserving engine life and reliability. The correct 6.7 Cummins oil change interval varies based on your truck's setup, workload, and tuning.

Adhering to a consistent schedule prevents sludge buildup, protects the turbocharger, and helps your Cummins 6.7 engine oil maintain steady pressure under load.

Stock: 7,500–15,000 miles by year/duty. Tuned/deleted: 5,000–7,500 monitor after load. Replace filter always, warm drain, dipstick verify.

Standard Oil Change Intervals

Stock trucks: Replace oil every 7,500–15,000 miles, depending on climate and driving conditions.

Tuned or deleted setups: Reduce the deleted 6.7 Cummins oil change interval to 5,000–7,500 miles.

Always choose the best oil for the deleted 6.7 Cummins, such as a premium 5W-40 synthetic rated for high heat.

Severe duty or commercial use: Change oil every 5,000 miles for vehicles that tow or idle continuously.

Pro Maintenance Tips

Warm the engine before draining, since heated oil flows faster and removes more residue.

Replace the filter with each change and use approved Cummins motor oil meeting API CJ-4 or CK-4 standards. Always confirm levels using the dipstick after refilling.

Comparison with Other Cummins Engines

While the Cummins ISB, 12-valve, and 5.9L engines typically hold 10–12 quarts of oil, the 6.7L Cummins has a larger capacity.

This added volume helps the engine stay cooler under load and supports a longer service life.

Step-by-Step 6.7 Cummins Oil Change Guide

Performing a 6.7 Cummins oil change on schedule is one of the best ways to protect your truck from wear, overheating, and loss of power.

Clean oil doesn't just lubricate—it stabilizes pressure, removes heat, and prevents contaminants from damaging internal parts.

Warm engine 5–10 min. Drain oil, torque plug 37 ft-lbs. Replace filter. Fill 12 quarts, check dipstick. Idle 2–3 min, recheck leaks level.

This detailed 6.7 L Cummins oil change guide outlines the correct process for consistent, professional results.

Step 1: Warm Up the Engine

Idle the truck for five to ten minutes so the oil reaches operating temperature. Warm oil drains faster and flushes out carbon or sludge that would otherwise cling to the crankcase.

Step 2: Drain the Old Oil

Shut off the engine and remove the drain plug with a 3/8-inch ratchet. Because the 6.7 Cummins oil capacity with filter equals about 12 quarts, always use a pan large enough to handle the full volume. Once drained, reinstall the plug securely and torque it to 37 ft-lbs to prevent leaks.

Step 3: Replace the Oil Filter

Clean the gasket surface thoroughly, apply a light coat of oil to the seal, and install the new filter by hand until snug.

Step 4: Refill and Final Check

Add 12 quarts (11.4 liters) of 5W-40 or 15W-40 diesel oil meeting API CJ-4 or CK-4 standards.

After idling for several minutes, shut off the truck and confirm the 6.7 Cummins dipstick oil level falls between MIN and MAX, adjusting only if needed.

Common 6.7 Cummins Oil-Related Issues & Troubleshooting

We see many truck owners face oil troubles. Skip checks, and small issues grow big. Our team fixed foaming once after overfill.

Common 6.7 Cummins oil issues include foaming from overfill causing poor lubrication, excess consumption due to turbo seals or PCV blockage, low pressure from worn pumps or clogs, and milky oil signaling coolant leaks

Troubleshoot with level checks, seal inspections, and pressure tests to avoid $2,000+ repairs.

Foaming or Overfill: Too much oil causes aeration (foaming), which reduces lubrication and increases wear.

Excess Oil Consumption: Often linked to turbo seal leaks or a clogged PCV system. Check for oil residue near the turbo or intake.

Low Oil Pressure: Can signal a worn oil pump or clogged pickup tube. Continuously monitor the oil gauge after service.

Milky or Cloudy Oil: This means coolant contamination — usually from a bad head gasket or oil cooler leak.

Regular checks of the 6.7 Cummins dipstick oil level and sticking to proper 6.7 Cummins oil change capacity protect your engine from these costly issues.

Maintenance Tips for Modified 6.7 Cummins Engines

Modified 6.7 Cummins engines produce more power and torque, yet they rely on strict maintenance to remain durable.

Tips: Bypass filter long intervals high soot. Crankcase pressure check seals. Inspect boots oil weep after tune.

Whether your Ram 2500 or 3500 is tuned, deleted, or upgraded, a consistent 6.7 Cummins maintenance routine preserves reliability and long-term performance.

1. Use the Correct Oil Capacity

The 6.7 Cummins oil capacity with filter is 12 quarts (11.4 liters). Adding more than this may seem minor, but overfilling can cause oil foaming and pressure drops, leading to poor lubrication and faster internal engine wear.

2. Install a Bypass Oil Filter

A bypass system captures tiny contaminants that standard filters leave behind. For towing or high-output setups, it helps 6.7 Cummins engine oil stay cleaner between service intervals while extending component life.

3. Monitor Crankcase Pressure

Increased boost and tuning raise crankcase pressure, which can stress seals and promote leaks. Replace the crankcase filter regularly to maintain balanced airflow and steady oil control.

4. Inspect Turbo and Intercooler Boots

Oil residue near turbo or intercooler joints often signals early seal failure. Routine checks prevent expensive damage and keep your 6.7 L Cummins delivering strong, consistent power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I shorten oil change intervals on deleted or tuned 6.7 Cummins trucks?

A: Yes. Aim for 5,000–7,500 miles to limit soot and manage heat from tuning.

Q: Does synthetic oil last longer?

A: It does, but keep changes within 7,500–10,000 miles. Even premium synthetics lose protection beyond that range.

Q: How do I check the 6.7 Cummins oil level?

A: Warm the engine, park level, wipe the dipstick, insert it fully, and read the mark when oil reaches "full."

Q: Should I check if the oil is hot or cold?

A: For the most accurate reading, check your oil when the engine is cold. If the engine has been running, wait at least 5–10 minutes after shutting it off before checking the level.

Q: Does deleting emissions affect oil capacity?

A: No. EGR/DPF deletes reduce soot but do not change the 6.7 Cummins oil capacity.

Q: Can I run 10W-30 in my 6.7 Cummins?

A: Yes, in mild climates. For heavy towing or extreme heat, use 15W-40 diesel oil for stronger protection.

Conclusion

The 6.7 Cummins oil capacity plays a vital role in engine health and performance. Most Ram 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 trucks require 12 quarts (11.4 liters) with the filter installed.

Using 5W-40 or 15W-40 diesel oil that meets Cummins CES 20081 standards ensures lasting protection, while regular filter replacement prevents buildup and wear.

After each service, verify on the dipstick that the oil rests between MIN and MAX for peak 6.7L Cummins reliability.

For professional diesel delete services, EGR/DPF kits, and aftermarket parts, trust egrperformance.com — your go-to shop for Powerstroke, Duramax, HEMI, EcoDiesel, and Cummins performance upgrades.

About the Author- John Barrett

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