2011–2024 Ram 5500

2011-2024 Ram 5500 — Fuel Filter Replacement

By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 24, 2026 · Updated Oct 14, 2026

🔧🔧 Moderate 45-60 minutes $72 DIY

Save $218 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $290

Quick answer: Fuel Filter Replacement on a 2011–2024 Ram 5500 is rated Moderate and takes about 45-60 minutes. You'll need 4 tools for this job, and parts cost about $72. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost

$72.00

Part Name	Part Number	Price	Buy
Fuel filter (2011-2024 Ram 5500 6.7L Cummins)	—	$72.00	Amazon
Fuel filter housing O-rings (if not included) Optional	—	—	Amazon

About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

Prepare and Locate Filter

Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and shut off the engine. The primary fuel filter sits on the driver's side of the 6.7L Cummins. Gather a new Mopar or equivalent filter, a drain pan, and basic hand tools.

Drain the Filter Housing

Place a drain pan under the fuel filter housing to catch spilled diesel. Open the housing's drain valve to empty it before removing the filter — this minimizes spillage when you open the housing.

Remove Old Filter Element

Unscrew the fuel filter housing cap using a 28mm socket. Lift out the old fuel filter element and inspect the housing for sediment or water contamination. Clean the inside of the housing with a lint-free cloth if debris is present.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker

If I find water or sludge in the housing, I don't just slap in the new filter — I drain it and think about where I'm buying diesel, because algae or bad fuel will plug a fresh filter in weeks.

Install New Filter

Install the new fuel filter element into the housing, ensuring the O-rings are properly seated and lightly lubricated with clean diesel. Thread the housing cap back on by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten to specification. Close the drain valve.

Prime the Fuel System

Prime the fuel system: cycle the ignition to ON (without starting) for 30 seconds, then OFF, and repeat 3–4 times so the lift pump fills the housing and purges air. Skipping this causes extended cranking and can damage the injectors.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker

I don't cheat the priming cycles on the 6.7L Cummins — I've learned three to four full 30-second cycles is the difference between a clean start and a roasted starter or scored injectors.

Start Engine and Check for Leaks

Start the engine and idle while checking the filter housing for leaks. It may stumble briefly as remaining air purges. Take a short test drive, recheck for leaks, and reset the fuel filter life monitor if equipped.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not priming the fuel system after filter replacement, causing hard starting or stalling.
• Cross-threading the filter housing cap, leading to fuel leaks under pressure.
• Using a non-OEM filter that doesn't seal properly in the 6.7L housing.