As an Internet user I've personally seen plenty of mis-information spewed on forums. As an EcoDiesel owner (for those familiar with that RAM scenario) I've seen that same mis-information. I've spoken with more than my share of Service Managers about oil changes (related to the EcoDiesel) and the answers are all the same. Its considered normal maintenance any one can do it. If there is an issue down the road RAM may want receipts just to ensure that the changes were done and that the correct oil and filter were used. I've attached two links below - note that its actually illegal for a dealer to deny you warranty for maintenance done elsewhere. Keep in mind this all assumes that the oil changes are performed correctly with proper fluids and within specified time and mileage.
H3LZSN1P3R - I call baloney on your statements unless you can prove otherwise that written dealer permission is necessary for oil and filter changes. To be honest, I'm not sure that a dealer would want to give you this in writing just because it could put them at risk if you do a half baked job or use the wrong oil etc. If you ask, any Service Manager is simply going to mention using the right oil and filter and do it in the mileage and time periods specified.
To others reading this wondering why I keep pursuing this - to be honest, I wonder the same myself. Especially as a newbie on this forum. I'm an older guy that loves to work on vehicles, and that includes doing my own maintenance. I joined this forum to learn more about HD RAM trucks. I recently went through all these oil change scare tactics with my EcoDiesel (finest vehicle I've ever owned BTW) and this stuff about warranty cautions is just not true. From an EcoDiesel perspective, more than one engine was destroyed by dealers using the wrong oil in that engine. I've enjoyed taking pride in doing my own maintenance and hope that others can also. In fact, with the money saved doing your own changes, filters, etc you might want to put some of that towards oil analysis.
Auto Warranties & Routine Maintenance | FTC Consumer Information
When Can Your Car Dealer Void Your Vehicle's Warranty or Deny Auto Warranty Service Claims? (ncconsumer.org)
