How Often to Change Crankcase Filter on a 6.7 Cummins

Owning a Ram truck with the powerful 6.7 Cummins diesel engine means you’ve got serious performance under the hood. But with that power comes responsibility—especially when it comes to regular maintenance. One often overlooked but essential component is the crankcase filter, also known as the CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) filter. Timely crankcase filter replacement is crucial to keeping your engine running clean, efficient, and trouble-free.

In this article, we’ll break down how often you should change the crankcase filter on your 6.7 Cummins, why it matters, and how it impacts your truck's health and performance.

What Is a Crankcase Filter and What Does It Do?

The crankcase filter is a critical part of the emissions and ventilation system in diesel engines. It filters oil vapors, unburned fuel, and other contaminants from the blow-by gases that escape from the engine’s cylinders. These gases are rerouted back into the intake system for combustion, and the filter prevents oil mist and harmful particulates from entering the intake air. Like many other Cummins diesel engine parts, the crankcase filter plays a vital role in maintaining performance and emission compliance.

In trucks like the 2015–2024 Ram 2500, 3500, and 4500 with the 6.7L Cummins engine, the Mopar crankcase filter 6.7 Cummins is designed to maintain engine cleanliness and comply with emissions standards.

How Often Should You Change the Crankcase Filter?

The recommended interval to change the crankcase filter on a 6.7 Cummins engine is every 67,500 miles, according to Cummins and Mopar guidelines. However, real-world conditions may vary this timeline slightly. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Standard driving: 67,500 miles
  
  

• Severe-duty driving (towing, dusty conditions): Consider checking around 50,000 miles
  
  

• High-idle or commercial use: Inspect more frequently, possibly around 40,000–50,000 miles
  
  

If you drive a 2015 Cummins, it's especially important to inspect the filter regularly as mileage increases. The filter can clog up over time, reducing its efficiency and causing excess crankcase pressure.

Signs That Your Crankcase Filter Needs Replacement

Even if you haven’t hit the mileage mark, certain symptoms can indicate the CCV filter is nearing the end of its life:

• “Service Crankcase Vent Filter” warning on the dashboard
  
  

• Increase in oil consumption
  
  

• Visible oil leaks around seals or gaskets
  
  

• Whistling or hissing noises near the engine
  
  

• Reduced fuel efficiency and overall performance
  
  

Failing to replace a clogged filter can lead to pressure build-up inside the crankcase, forcing oil past seals and potentially damaging components like the turbocharger.

Why Regular CCV Filter Maintenance Is Crucial

Changing your crankcase filter at recommended intervals has several long-term benefits:

• Prevents oil vapor contamination of the turbo and intercooler
  
  

• Maintains optimal crankcase pressure
  
  

• Keeps your truck EPA-compliant
  
  

• Improves engine longevity and reduces internal wear
  
  

• Ensures clean air recirculation within the system
  
  

A fresh Mopar CCV filter or equivalent quality aftermarket option will keep your 6.7 Cummins diesel running strong for hundreds of thousands of miles.

How to Replace the Crankcase Filter

Replacing the filter is straightforward and can be done with basic tools. It’s typically mounted on top of the engine beneath the plastic engine cover.

Basic Steps to Replace the CCV Filter:

1. Remove the engine cover.
   
   

2. Unbolt the CCV filter housing.
   
   

3. Lift and remove the old filter.
   
   

4. Clean any residual oil from the housing.
   
   

5. Install the new Mopar crankcase filter 6.7 Cummins.
   
   

6. Reassemble the housing and engine cover.
   
   

7. Reset the filter warning using the ignition/accelerator method or scan tool.
   
   

Always refer to your owner’s manual or factory service manual for precise torque specs and steps.

Choosing the Right Filter for Your Cummins

While OEM Mopar filters are recommended for fit and performance, some high-quality aftermarket brands also offer reliable options. Make sure any replacement matches OEM standards for filtration efficiency and build quality.

Look specifically for parts labeled for your model year, such as the 2015 Cummins CCV filter, to ensure a perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

Regularly changing the crankcase filter on a 6.7 Cummins diesel is a small but powerful way to keep your engine breathing clean and performing at its best. Whether you're clocking long highway miles or hauling heavy loads, this simple maintenance task protects your investment and ensures trouble-free operation.

Stay ahead of the game by monitoring mileage, watching for symptoms, and using quality parts for every filter replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens if I don’t change the crankcase filter on my 6.7 Cummins?

Failing to change the filter can lead to excess crankcase pressure, oil leaks, and contamination of the turbocharger and intake system.

2. Can I clean the CCV filter instead of replacing it?

No. These filters are designed to be replaced, not cleaned. Reusing a clogged filter will compromise engine ventilation.

3. How do I reset the service light after replacing the filter?

Turn the ignition to “Run” (without starting the engine), then press the accelerator pedal to the floor three times within 10 seconds. The message should be clear.

4. Is it okay to use aftermarket crankcase filters?

Yes, as long as they meet or exceed OEM specifications. However, Mopar crankcase filters are the preferred option for OEM fitment and performance.

5. Does a bad crankcase filter affect fuel economy?

Yes. A clogged CCV filter can lead to reduced efficiency and higher fuel consumption due to increased internal pressure and poor air quality.