The following article explains the oil specification for the Dodge Charger SE, including viscosity, standards, and maintenance guidance for owners.
The Dodge Charger SE typically requires 5W-20 synthetic motor oil for its standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. Always verify the exact specification in your owner's manual or the under-hood oil label for your model year and engine option.
In practice, the Charger SE’s oil needs hinge on the engine: most SEs use the 3.6L Pentastar paired with an 8-speed automatic, and some years may offer other V6 options. The recommended viscosity is 5W-20 full synthetic, meeting API SN/SN Plus and ILSAC GF-5. The typical oil capacity is around 5 quarts plus a filter; exact capacity depends on engine and year, so check the owner’s manual for precise figures.
Oil specifications for the Charger SE
Engine variants and their impact
While the Charger SE is most commonly equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar V6, certain model years or configurations may use related V6 options. Regardless of the exact engine, the official guidance centers on a 5W-20 viscosity with full synthetic oil to ensure proper lubrication across temperatures.
Key oil requirements for the Charger SE include:
- Viscosity: 5W-20 (full synthetic recommended for best protection and fuel efficiency)
- Standards: API SN (or newer) and ILSAC GF-5 or higher
- Synthetic: Full synthetic is preferred; synthetic blends acceptable if specified by manual
- Filling and capacity: Oil capacity typically around 5 quarts with filter; exact figure depends on engine year
- OEM recommendation: Mopar/Chrysler-approved lubricants or equivalents that meet the above specs
Oil specifications can vary by year and engine. Always confirm with the owner’s manual for your specific Charger SE to ensure you meet the required viscosity, standards, and capacity.
Maintenance tips for oil health
Before you perform an oil change or check the oil level, consider these guidelines to maintain optimal engine health on the Charger SE.
- Oil change interval: With synthetic 5W-20, typical normal-driving intervals are around 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as recommended by your manual; severe driving conditions may require 3,000–5,000 miles (5,000–8,000 km).
- Oil filter: Replace the oil filter with every oil change to ensure proper filtration and flow.
- Oil type choice: Use 5W-20 full synthetic oil that meets API SN/SN Plus and ILSAC GF-5; Mopar or equivalent is recommended.
- Checking oil: Regularly check the dipstick when the engine is cool to avoid burns; keep oil level between the two marks.
- Disposal and safety: Properly dispose of used oil and filter at an authorized recycling facility.
Remember that driving conditions and climate can affect oil life; always follow the manual's guidance and replace oil as needed to protect the engine.
Summary
Bottom line: For most Dodge Charger SE models, the recommended oil is 5W-20 synthetic, API SN/ILSAC GF-5, with a typical capacity around 5 quarts plus a filter. Always confirm exact specs for your model year in the owner's manual or under-hood label, and follow the suggested oil-change intervals to keep the engine running smoothly.
What kind of oil does a 2017 Dodge Charger SE take?
Castrol – Edge 5W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Superior Wear Protection, 5 Quarts (Part No. 15B9AD)
What oil for Dodge Charger SE?
SAE 5W-20
Dodge Charger Oil Requirements by Engine and Year
| Years | Engine | Oil Type |
|---|---|---|
| V6 ENGINES | ||
| 2006-2010 | 2.7L V6 | SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic |
| 2011-2023 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic |
| V8 HEMI ENGINES |
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W20 in my Dodge?
Using 5W-30 instead can reduce fuel economy and impede flow throughout the engine. While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it.
What oil goes in a 2014 Dodge Charger SE?
AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil.