Best Tools for Ram 1500 (2019-2024): Complete Buyer’s Guide

DTP Parts is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Affiliate Disclosure: dtpparts.com is a participant in affiliate advertising programs. We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on genuine research and expertise.

Best Tools for Ram 1500 (2019-2024): Everything You Need to Work on Your Truck

If you own a 2019-2024 Ram 1500, you already know this truck is a capable, sophisticated machine — whether you’re hauling loads on the worksite or cruising highways on the weekend. But keeping a modern Ram 1500 in peak condition takes more than a basic socket set. The fifth-generation Ram 1500 introduced a host of new tech, including the eTorque mild-hybrid system, an air suspension option, and a 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen — all of which demand the best tools for Ram 1500 owners who want to tackle maintenance and repairs at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top tool picks, what to look for before you buy, and exactly why having the right equipment makes every job faster, safer, and more satisfying.

Quick Comparison Table: Top Tools for 2019-2024 Ram 1500

Top Tool Picks for the 2019-2024 Ram 1500

1. OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner — Know What Your Ram Is Telling You

The modern Ram 1500 is packed with sensors and control modules. When a warning light pops up on that gorgeous 12-inch display, you need an OBD2 scanner that goes beyond generic codes and can read manufacturer-specific Ram/FCA fault codes. Top choices include the Autel MaxiCOM MK808 and the LAUNCH CRP129E, both of which support ABS, SRS, transmission, and eTorque system diagnostics on 2019-2024 Ram trucks.

Pros:

• Saves expensive dealer diagnostic fees
• Reads and clears Ram-specific codes
• Live data streaming for real-time monitoring

Cons:

• Advanced models can be pricey upfront
• Some features require software subscriptions

View OBD2 Scanners Compatible with Ram 1500 [CTA_BUTTON:obd2-scanner-ram-1500:Shop OBD2 Scanners]

2. 1/2-Inch Drive Torque Wrench — Essential for Wheels and Suspension

Torque specs matter enormously on the Ram 1500. The lug nuts on 2019-2024 models call for 130 lb-ft of torque — overtighten them and you risk warped rotors; undertighten and you risk a wheel coming loose. A quality click-type torque wrench like the Tekton 24335 or the CDI Torque 2503MFRPH gives you repeatable accuracy every time. Look for a range of at least 25–250 lb-ft to cover everything from lug nuts to suspension components.

Pros:

• Protects expensive wheels and brake components
• Click mechanism prevents over-torquing
• Dual-direction models work on both tightening and loosening

Cons:

• Must be stored at lowest setting to preserve spring calibration
• Cheaper models lose accuracy faster

Shop Torque Wrenches for Ram 1500 [CTA_BUTTON:torque-wrench-ram-1500:Find Your Torque Wrench]

3. 3-Ton Low-Profile Floor Jack — Lift Your Ram 1500 the Right Way

At a curb weight of up to 5,400 lbs depending on configuration, the Ram 1500 demands a quality 3-ton floor jack. A low-profile model is critical because the Ram’s side skirts and rocker panels sit lower than older body-on-frame trucks. The Arcan XL20 and Pro-Lift F-767 are both popular choices, offering a saddle height that works with the Ram’s factory jack points without damaging the frame rails or pinch welds.

Pros:

• 3-ton capacity handles even crew cab configurations
• Low-profile entry fits under modern truck side skirts
• Rapid-rise pump reduces lifting time

Cons:

• Heavier than 2-ton alternatives
• Always pair with quality jack stands — never work under a vehicle on a jack alone

See Top-Rated Floor Jacks for Ram 1500 [CTA_BUTTON:floor-jack-ram-1500:Shop Floor Jacks]

4. 1/2-Inch Cordless Impact Wrench — Speed Up Every Job

An impact wrench is arguably the single biggest upgrade a home mechanic can make. For the Ram 1500, you’ll want a model delivering at least 700 ft-lbs of torque to break loose stubborn lug nuts and suspension bolts. The Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL and the DeWalt DCF899HB are both highly rated for truck work, offering enough grunt to tackle even corroded fasteners that have been on since the factory.

Pros:

• Dramatically reduces tire change and brake job time
• Brushless motors offer longer tool life
• Works on lug nuts, ball joints, and exhaust hardware

Cons:

• Battery platforms lock you into an ecosystem
• Should not be used for final torque — always finish with a torque wrench

Browse Impact Wrenches for Ram 1500 [CTA_BUTTON:impact-wrench-ram-1500:Get an Impact Wrench]

5. Oil Filter Wrench Kit — Smoother Oil Changes Every Time

The 5.7L Hemi and 3.6L Pentastar V6 in the 2019-2024 Ram 1500 both use cartridge-style oil filter housings that require a specific cap socket to remove cleanly. Using the wrong tool risks cracking the plastic housing — an expensive mistake. A dedicated oil filter socket kit from brands like Lisle or Motivx Tools (specifically their MX2320 for the Chrysler/FCA filter housing) makes oil changes clean and quick.

Pros:

• Prevents damage to plastic filter housing
• Makes 5,000-mile oil changes a 20-minute job
• Inexpensive investment with high payback

Cons:

• Must verify socket size matches your specific engine

Shop Oil Filter Wrenches for Ram 1500 [CTA_BUTTON:oil-filter-wrench-ram-1500:Find Oil Filter Tools]

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Ram 1500 Tools

Compatibility with 5th-Gen Ram Specifics

The 2019-2024 Ram 1500 introduced several engineering changes that affect tool requirements. The air suspension system (available on Laramie Longhorn, Limited, and higher trims) requires specific fitting tools for service. The eTorque mild-hybrid system means there’s a 48V belt-integrated starter-generator — make sure your scan tool supports this system before purchasing.

Build Quality and Warranty

Buy from reputable brands with solid warranties. Snap-on and Matco are professional-grade but expensive. For home mechanics, Tekton, GearWrench, and Craftsman offer excellent quality-to-price ratios with lifetime warranties on hand tools. For power tools, Milwaukee and DeWalt are the gold standard.

Safety Ratings

Any lifting equipment — floor jacks, jack stands, ramps — should meet or exceed ASME PASE standards. Never cut corners on safety equipment. A Ram 1500 is a heavy vehicle; use rated equipment every single time.

Storage and Organization

If you’re building a tool collection for your Ram, invest in a proper tool chest or rolling cabinet. Organized tools save time and prevent the frustration of searching for the right socket mid-job.

Brief Install Overview: Using Your Tools on Common Ram 1500 Jobs

• Oil Change: Warm up the engine, drain via drain plug (15mm on most Ram 1500s), use your oil filter socket to remove the filter housing cap, swap the filter cartridge and O-ring, refill with the specified oil (5W-20 or 0W-40 depending on engine).
• Tire Rotation: Use your floor jack on the designated frame jack points, secure with jack stands, break lug nuts loose with impact wrench, rotate tires per the recommended pattern, torque lug nuts to 130 lb-ft in a star pattern with your torque wrench.
• Brake Pad Replacement: After safely lifting and supporting the truck, remove the caliper bolts (requires a 13mm or 18mm socket depending on axle), compress the caliper piston with a brake caliper tool, swap pads, and torque caliper bolts to spec.
• Diagnostic Scan: Plug OBD2 scanner into the port under the dash (driver’s side), turn key to Run position, select your vehicle (2019-2024 Ram 1500) and perform a full system scan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Building the Right Tool Kit for Your Ram 1500

The 2019-2024 Ram 1500 is one of the most advanced trucks on the road, but that doesn’t mean you need to hand every job over to the dealership. With the right tools — a capable OBD2 scanner, a quality torque wrench, a 3-ton floor jack, a cordless impact wrench, and the right oil filter socket — you can handle the most common maintenance and repair tasks right in your own garage.

Start with the tools that match the jobs you do most often. If you’re doing your own oil changes and tire rotations, the oil filter socket, torque wrench, and floor jack should be your first purchases. If you’re diving deeper into diagnostics and suspension work, add the OBD2 scanner and impact wrench to your arsenal.

Investing in quality tools pays for itself quickly when you factor in the labor costs you’re saving — and there’s real satisfaction in knowing your Ram 1500 has been serviced properly, by your own hands, with the right equipment.

Shop Complete Tool Kits for Ram 1500 [CTA_BUTTON:ram-1500-tools-complete-kit:Build Your Ram 1500 Tool Kit]