Staring at that “Oil Change Due” message on your dashboard can be frustrating, especially if you just finished crawling under your truck to swap the filter. You have done the hard work, but the computer is still living in the past. Knowing how to reset oil change due 2013 dodge ram is a simple skill that every owner should have in their back pocket.
I have spent years working on 4th Gen Rams, and I can tell you that the 2013 model year is a bit of a “sweet spot” for DIYers. It is modern enough to have a smart Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), but it is not so complex that you need a master’s degree in computer science to clear a maintenance light. Whether you drive the 5.7L Hemi, the 3.6L Pentastar, or the 6.7L Cummins, the process is straightforward.
In this guide, I will walk you through the two primary methods for clearing that light, troubleshoot why it might not be resetting, and explain the science behind how your truck calculates oil life. By the end of this article, you will be able to clear that message faster than you can find your 13mm wrench. Let’s get that dashboard clean and your truck back on the road.
how to reset oil change due 2013 dodge ram using the pedal method
The “Pedal Method” is the classic way to reset Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram vehicles. It is quick, requires no tools, and works on almost every trim level of the 2013 1500, 2500, and 3500. This method interacts directly with the Engine Control Module (ECM) to signal that fresh oil has been added to the system.
First, climb into the driver’s seat and ensure all your doors are closed tightly. For some reason, the 2013 Ram logic occasionally ignores reset commands if the door latch is open. Put your key in the ignition, but do not start the engine. You want the truck in the “RUN” position, which is the second click for keyed ignitions or two presses of the button for keyless systems.
Once the dashboard lights up and the chimes stop, slowly and fully depress the accelerator pedal three times within a 10-second window. Do not rush this step; the computer needs to register the full travel of the pedal. After the third press, turn the ignition to the “OFF” position. When you restart the truck, the maintenance reminder should be gone.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Pedal Method
- Turn the ignition to the RUN position (Engine Off).
- Slowly depress the accelerator pedal to the floor 3 times within 10 seconds.
- Turn the ignition OFF.
- Start the engine to verify the message is cleared.
If the message “Oil Change Due” still appears, do not panic. This often happens if the pedal was not pressed down far enough or if the timing was slightly off. Simply turn the truck off and try again, ensuring you are firmly hitting the floor mat with the pedal on each stroke.
Navigating the EVIC Menu for a Manual Reset
If your 2013 Ram is equipped with the higher-end 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) display, you have a more visual way to handle this. This screen is located between your tachometer and speedometer and is controlled by the directional arrows on the left side of your steering wheel. This is often the preferred method for tech-savvy owners.
Start by turning the ignition to the “RUN” position without starting the engine. Use the “Up” and “Down” arrows on the steering wheel to scroll through the main menu categories. You are looking for the “Vehicle Info” section, which usually features an icon that looks like the front of a truck or a small i for information.
Once you are in the Vehicle Info menu, use the “Left” and “Right” arrows to scroll through the sub-menus. You will see screens for tire pressure, coolant temperature, and transmission fluid. Keep scrolling until you find the Oil Life percentage screen. It will likely show a low percentage or 0% if the light is currently active.
Using the Steering Wheel Buttons
When you are on the Oil Life screen, look at the bottom of the display for instructions. Usually, it will say “Hold [Right Arrow] to Reset.” Press and hold the right arrow button (or the ‘OK’ button, depending on your software version) for about five seconds. You should see the percentage jump back up to 100% instantly.
This method is highly effective because it provides visual confirmation. If you see the number change to 100%, you know the computer has accepted the command. If the number does not change, it usually means the truck is in the “ACC” (Accessory) position instead of the “RUN” position. Ensure the dash is fully lit up before attempting the reset.
Why the 2013 Ram Oil Life Monitor Matters
It is important to understand that knowing how to reset oil change due 2013 dodge ram is about more than just clearing a light. The system in your Ram is not just a simple mileage timer. It uses a complex duty-cycle-based algorithm to determine when the oil is actually breaking down based on your driving habits.
The ECM monitors several variables, including engine temperature, ambient temperature, idle time, and engine speeds. If you spend your weekends towing a heavy camping trailer through the mountains, the light will come on much sooner than if you are cruising on the highway at 65 mph. This helps protect the internal components of your engine from premature wear.
For those of us who use our trucks for off-roading or heavy job site work, this system is a lifesaver. Dust, high heat, and frequent stop-and-go driving accelerate oil oxidation. By following the monitor and resetting it properly, you ensure that the computer stays calibrated to your specific driving conditions and maintenance schedule.
The Role of the Hemi MDS System
If you have the 5.7L Hemi engine, the oil life is even more critical because of the Multi-Displacement System (MDS). This system deactivates four cylinders during light cruising to save fuel. The MDS relies on solenoids that are incredibly sensitive to oil viscosity and cleanliness. If your oil is dirty or the wrong weight, the MDS may fail to engage or disengage properly.
When you reset the oil life monitor, you are essentially telling the MDS system that it has a fresh supply of 5W-20 lubricant to work with. Neglecting the oil change or failing to reset the monitor can lead to the dreaded “Hemi Tick” or lifter issues. Always use a high-quality synthetic oil to keep these complex valvetrain components happy.
Common Troubleshooting When the Reset Fails
Sometimes, you follow the steps perfectly, but that “Oil Change Due” message refuses to go away. This is a common headache for 2013 Ram owners. The most frequent culprit is the brake pedal. Make sure your foot is nowhere near the brake while you are pumping the gas pedal. The computer can get confused if it sees both inputs simultaneously.
Another common issue is the “Keyless Go” system. If you have a push-button start, do not press the brake while hitting the start button. If the engine starts, the reset sequence will be ignored. You must be in the RUN mode with the engine off. Hit the button twice without touching the brake to enter the correct mode for the reset.
In rare cases, a glitch in the instrument cluster or the Body Control Module (BCM) might prevent the reset. If you have tried both the pedal and the menu methods multiple times without success, try disconnecting the negative battery terminal for about ten minutes. This can “reboot” the modules and often clears the path for a successful manual reset.
Checking for Fault Codes
If the light persists, it is worth checking for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner. Sometimes a faulty oil pressure sensor or a temperature sensor can trigger maintenance warnings that look like the standard oil change light. If the sensor is sending bad data, the algorithm cannot calculate oil life correctly, and it may lock out the reset function.
Essential Tools and Maintenance Tips for your 2013 Ram
While the reset itself requires no tools, performing the actual oil change correctly requires a few essentials. For the 2013 Dodge Ram 1500, you will typically need a 13mm socket for the drain plug. I always recommend using a 6-point socket to avoid rounding off the bolt, as they can get quite tight over time due to heat cycles.
When it comes to the filter, the 2013 Hemi uses a spin-on filter located on the passenger side of the engine. It can be a bit messy, so a form-a-funnel or a simple piece of cardboard can help direct the draining oil away from the steering rack. For the 3.6L Pentastar, you will be looking for a cartridge-style filter on top of the engine, which requires a 24mm socket to open the housing.
- Oil Capacity: 5.7L Hemi (7 Quarts), 3.6L Pentastar (6 Quarts), 6.7L Cummins (12 Quarts).
- Oil Weight: 5W-20 for the Hemi (strictly required for MDS), 5W-20 or 5W-30 for the Pentastar.
- Filter Choice: Stick with Mopar or high-end brands like Wix or Purolator Boss for the best filtration.
Always check your oil level on the dipstick after the reset. I have seen many DIYers reset the light but forget to double-check the actual level. Running a Hemi even one quart low can lead to oil starvation in the top end of the engine. A quick 30-second check can save you thousands in repair bills down the road.
Expert Tips for Long-Term Ram Reliability
As an expert who has spent plenty of time in the dirt with these trucks, I suggest not waiting for the “Oil Change Due” light to hit 0% if you are an off-roader. Fine dust can find its way past even the best air filters, eventually contaminating the oil. If you spend a lot of time on trails, consider changing your oil every 5,000 miles regardless of what the computer says.
Another pro-tip: inspect your PCV valve (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) every other oil change. On the 2013 Ram, a clogged PCV valve can cause increased crankcase pressure, which leads to oil leaks and faster oil degradation. It is a $20 part that takes five minutes to replace but significantly extends the life of your seals.
Finally, always keep a small logbook in your glovebox. While the digital reset is great, having a physical record of the date, mileage, and brand of oil used is invaluable if you ever decide to sell the truck. It proves to the next owner that you were a meticulous steward of the vehicle, which adds real-world value to your 2013 Dodge Ram.
Frequently Asked Questions About how to reset oil change due 2013 dodge ram
Does resetting the oil light also clear “Service Engine Soon” codes?
No, learning how to reset oil change due 2013 dodge ram only clears the maintenance reminder. If you have a “Service Engine Soon” or “Check Engine” light, that indicates a fault in the emissions or engine management system. You will need an OBD-II scanner to read those specific codes and address the underlying mechanical issue.
What if my 2013 Ram doesn’t have steering wheel buttons?
If your truck has the basic instrument cluster without the directional arrows, you must use the pedal method. The pedal method is the universal “backdoor” for almost all Chrysler vehicles from this era. Even if you have the fancy screen, the pedal method will still work as a secondary option if the menu buttons are acting up.
Can I reset the light before it actually comes on?
Yes, you can. If you decide to do an early oil change before a long road trip, you can use the EVIC menu to reset the percentage back to 100% at any time. This ensures your maintenance schedule stays synced with the actual oil in the crankcase. The pedal method also works for early resets; it doesn’t require the light to be active to function.
Will disconnecting the battery reset the oil life?
Usually, no. The oil life percentage is stored in non-volatile memory within the ECM. This means it survives even if the battery is removed for a long period. You must manually perform the reset using the pedal or menu methods to update the computer’s internal tracking.
Final Thoughts on Your Maintenance Journey
Maintaining a 2013 Dodge Ram is a rewarding experience. These trucks are built to work hard, and they respond well to consistent care. Knowing how to reset oil change due 2013 dodge ram is the final piece of the puzzle for any DIY oil change. It gives you that satisfying “job well done” feeling when the dashboard finally clears.
Remember to always prioritize safety when working on your truck. Use jack stands if you are lifting the vehicle, and always dispose of your used motor oil at a proper recycling center. Keeping your Hemi or Cummins well-lubricated is the single best thing you can do to ensure it reaches that 200,000-mile milestone and beyond.
Stay proactive with your maintenance, keep an eye on those fluid levels, and don’t let a simple light on the dash stress you out. You have the tools and the knowledge to handle it yourself. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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