🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500 Mega Cab

Year:

2009

Product Code Identifier:

2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab Owners Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck, Crew Cab configuration with extended rear seating (Mega Cab).

Target Audience:

Buyers seeking a large, capable pickup truck with substantial passenger and cargo capacity, often for families or work/recreational use.

Primary Competitors:

Ford F-150 SuperCrew, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab, GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, Toyota Tundra Double Cab/CrewMax.

Mega Cab Advantage:

The Mega Cab offered class-leading rear-seat legroom and overall interior volume, distinguishing it from standard crew cab configurations.

Drivetrain Options:

Available in 4x2 (RWD) and 4x4 (4WD) configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered Overview:

Comprehensive coverage of all major vehicle systems, including operation, features, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab.

Page Count:

Approximately 450-550 pages (typical for this model year and trim)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet (original equipment)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Operation:

Details on starting, stopping, engine break-in, monitoring gauges, and understanding engine warning lights.

Transmission Operation:

Explanation of gear selection (P, R, N, D, L), electronic range selection (if applicable), and towing considerations.

Brakes And Traction:

Information on the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), and proper brake usage.

Steering And Suspension:

Basic overview of steering wheel controls, power steering operation, and suspension components.

Electrical And Lighting:

Operation of headlights, taillights, interior lighting, power outlets, and fuse box locations.

HVAC System:

Detailed instructions for operating the climate control system, including A/C, heating, defrosting, and recirculation modes.

Infotainment And Audio:

Operation of the factory audio system, radio functions, CD player, and any available Uconnect features.

Safety Restraints:

Proper use of seat belts, airbag system explanation, and child seat installation guidelines.

Instrument Panel And Gauges:

Explanation of all dashboard indicators, warning lights, and gauge functions (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature).

Towing And Loading:

Guidelines for proper trailer towing, payload capacity, tongue weight, and securing loads.

Wheels And Tires:

Information on tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), tire rotation, and spare tire usage.

Exterior Features:

Operation of power windows, power locks, mirrors, and tailgate/door mechanisms.

Interior Features:

Details on seating adjustments, interior lighting, cup holders, and storage compartments.

Routine Maintenance:

Guidance on checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire inflation checks, and visual inspections.

Troubleshooting Basics:

Information on what to do if specific warning lights illuminate, or if minor operational issues arise.

Tire And Wheel Care:

Instructions on checking tire wear, proper inflation, and emergency spare tire installation.

Wiper And Washer Operation:

Details on using and maintaining windshield wipers and the washer fluid system.

Fueling Procedures:

Correct procedures for refueling, including fuel type recommendations and cap operation.

Battery Maintenance:

Basic guidance on battery care and understanding battery-related warning indicators.

Emergency Procedures:

Information on what to do in various emergency situations, including jump-starting and basic roadside assistance guidance.

Depth Level:

Owner-level operational and maintenance guidance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, or complex repair instructions, which are found in service manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Physical Product)

Print Quality:

Original OEM quality print

Binding Type:

Staple-bound or perfect-bound paperback

Paper Type:

Durable, coated paper stock suitable for automotive environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

5.7L HEMI V8

Engine Displacement:

5.7 Liters (345 cubic inches)

Engine Configuration:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), Multi-Displacement System (MDS)

Horsepower:

380 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

404 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type Recommendation:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane minimum

Engine Option 1:

4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC) - Less common for Mega Cab, but potentially available in some configurations. ~310 hp / 330 lb-ft torque.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Automatic (545RFE)

Transmission Type Optional:

N/A for this specific model year/configuration as the 5-speed auto was standard.

Transmission Features:

Electronic Range Select (ERS), Tow/Haul mode.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid type 4)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 11.2 quarts (10.6 liters) for refill

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 140.5 inches (3569 mm)

Overall Length:

Approximately 243.7 inches (6190 mm)

Overall Width:

Approximately 79.4 inches (2017 mm)

Overall Height:

Approximately 77.0 inches (1956 mm)

Rear Seat Legroom:

Class-leading, exceeding 50 inches (approx. 50.5 inches)

Passenger Capacity:

5-6 passengers

Bed Length Standard:

Mega Cab typically paired with the shorter bed, often the 5' 7" bed (67.4 inches).

Curb Weight:

Approximately 5,500 - 6,000 lbs (2495 - 2722 kg), varies by configuration.

Max Payload Capacity:

Varies by configuration, typically around 1,200 - 1,500 lbs.

Max Towing Capacity:

Varies significantly by configuration and axle ratio, typically up to 9,100 - 9,600 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 out of 5 stars (typical for trucks of this era)

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good (Good rating in frontal offset crash tests by IIHS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Roll Mitigation.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Antilock Brakes:

Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Airbags Front:

Advanced multi-stage front airbags for driver and front passenger.

Airbags Side:

Available supplemental side-curtain airbags for front and rear passengers (highly recommended for Mega Cab).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Features:

AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 playback capability, auxiliary audio input jack.

Uconnect Availability:

Optional Uconnect system, which may include Bluetooth hands-free calling and voice recognition.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Power Outlets:

12V auxiliary power outlets for charging devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific severe/normal duty). Owners Manual will recommend a specific interval.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000-8,000 miles.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 20,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Check at regular intervals, service typically recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for severe duty).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.

Engine Oil Capacity:

7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter for 5.7L HEMI V8.

Coolant Type:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant, OAT (Orange).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 13.4 quarts (12.7 liters) for 4x4 models.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 or equivalent power steering fluid.

Common Wear Item:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) due to vehicle weight and use.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some HEMI engines can exhibit minor oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Regular checks are important.

Transfer Case Issues:

In 4x4 models, ensure the transfer case fluid is maintained, as wear can occur if neglected.

Brake Wear:

Due to the truck's weight, brake pads and rotors may wear faster than lighter vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the pickup truck market, known for robust engineering and powerful engines.

Ram Lineage:

The Ram brand was spun off from Dodge in 2010, but this 2009 model represents the final generation under the Dodge banner.

DTC Generation:

This is part of the 3rd Generation Dodge Ram (2002-2008/2009). The Mega Cab variant was introduced in 2005, primarily based on the Quad Cab platform but with an extended cab structure.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Contender:

The Dodge Ram lineup frequently contended for and won various 'Truck of the Year' awards from automotive publications during this generation, highlighting its capability and design.