Most Dodge Chargers require full-synthetic motor oil with a viscosity of 5W-20 for the standard engines, but the exact grade and specification depend on the engine and model year. Always consult the owner's manual or the oil fill cap for the precise requirement.
This article explains the typical oil options across common Charger powertrains, how to determine the correct viscosity for your specific engine, and tips for maintenance intervals and the specifications to look for on motor oil bottles.
Oil requirements by engine family
Below are typical guidelines for the main Charger engines. Use this as a starting point, but verify against your manual.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 (common in many Chargers): 5W-20 synthetic oil, API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5; Chrysler MS-6395 specification is often referenced.
- 5.7L Hemi V8: 5W-20 synthetic oil (some climates allow 5W-30; verify in manual); API SN/SP and ILSAC GF-5 requirements generally apply, with MS-6395 guidance.
- 6.4L Hemi (392) in R/T/Scat Pack: commonly 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic, depending on model year and climate; confirm with the manual for MS-6395 compliance.
- Supercharged 6.2L Hellcat: typically 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil as specified by the manual, designed to handle higher heat and RPM; verify exact grade in your documentation.
Note: These viscosities are representative. Always confirm the exact spec for your Charger’s year, engine, and climate by checking the owner’s manual or the oil fill cap and the specification sticker under the hood.
Why the viscosity and spec matter
The wrong oil grade or missing specification can affect lubrication, wear, and warranty coverage. High-performance variants have stricter requirements, and using the wrong weight can impact oil pressure and engine protection, especially in hot weather or aggressive driving.
How to confirm the exact oil:
- Check the owner's manual under Engine Oil or Specifications.
- Check the oil cap on the engine for grade and sometimes the specification (MS-6395 or similar).
- If in doubt, contact a Dodge dealer or consult Mopar’s official oil specification resources with your VIN to ensure the exact grade and spec.
- When purchasing oil, look for a full synthetic that meets API SN/SP and ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6, plus Chrysler MS-6395 if recommended in your manual.
- Replace the oil filter with the correct Mopar-approved filter; avoid using filters not specified for your engine.
In summary, the standard Charger engines usually take 5W-20 full synthetic, but high-performance variants and various model years may require 0W-40 or 5W-40 and different specifications; always verify the exact grade by model/year and engine.
Summary of key points
- Most Chargers use full synthetic 5W-20 as the baseline.
- Engine and climate can shift the required viscosity to 5W-30, 5W-40, or 0W-40 for certain variants.
- Check the owner's manual and the engine oil fill cap for the exact requirement.
Summary: Keeping up with the correct oil grade and specification is essential for optimal protection across the Dodge Charger's range of engines and model years. Always verify the exact requirement for your car’s year and engine.