The Dodge Journey generally requires 5W-20 engine oil that meets Chrysler's MS-6395 specification; most engines can use a synthetic blend or full synthetic, depending on climate and maintenance preferences. Always confirm with your specific model-year manual.
The Journey offers two main engines across its production years—the 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.6L V6—each following the same Chrysler oil standard, with some model-year tweaks. This article outlines the recommended oil by engine and how to verify the correct grade for your car.
Engine-specific oil requirements
Below is a concise guide to the usual oil recommendations for the Journey's two most common engines. Sizes and specs can vary by year, so consult the owner's manual or the oil filler cap to be certain.
- 2.4L I4 (World/ Tigershark family): typically requires 5W-20 engine oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395; synthetic blend is acceptable, with full synthetic preferred for extreme temperatures.
- 3.6L V6 (Pentastar): typically requires 5W-20 engine oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395; synthetic options recommended for longer drains and better protection in hot climates.
In practice, many Dodge Journeys from multiple model years use 5W-20 across both engines, but always verify for your exact year and engine configuration. Oil capacity and service intervals vary by engine and transmission, and some dashboards will indicate when an oil change is due.
How to confirm the correct oil for your Journey
Use these steps to ensure you're using the right oil grade and specification for your vehicle:
- Check the owner’s manual for the exact oil specification (usually MS-6395) and viscosity (commonly 5W-20).
- Inspect the oil filler cap or the engine stamping for the recommended grade; many Dodge engines print the spec on the cap.
- If the manual is not available, contact a Chrysler/Fiat dealership or search the VIN-specific manual online.
- Consider climate: in extreme cold or hot environments, your dealer may recommend a different viscosity to maintain proper oil performance.
Following these steps will help ensure optimal engine protection and performance, and will keep you aligned with the manufacturer’s warranty requirements.
Additional notes on oil specs
MS-6395 is Chrysler's specification for gasoline engines and is the accepted standard for the Dodge Journey; using an oil that meets this spec ensures compatibility with engine tolerances and emission controls. Some older or region-specific models may tolerate 0W-20 or 5W-30, but 5W-20 MS-6395 remains the common baseline.
Summary
In short, the Dodge Journey typically uses 5W-20 engine oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395. Always confirm by checking the owner's manual, the oil cap, or calling a dealer for your exact year and engine combination. Using the correct oil helps maintain fuel efficiency, engine protection, and warranty compliance.
Does it matter if I use 5W-30 or 5W-40?
The key difference between 5W30 and 5W40 engine oils is their high-temperature viscosity. 5W30 is thinner at operating temperature, offering better fuel efficiency, while 5W40 is thicker, providing enhanced engine protection under high loads, long-distance driving, or hot climates.
Can I run 5W-30 instead of 0W-20?
Modern engines designed for 0W-20 oil require specific viscosity for optimal performance, and using thicker 5W-30 oil may compromise efficiency while potentially voiding manufacturer warranties.
What oil should I put in my Dodge Journey?
Valvoline – High Mileage 5W-30 Full Synthetic Engine Oil, Prevents Leaks (Part No. 881169)
Can you put 5W-30 in a Dodge Journey?
Valid thru 5/4 on 5-qt. jug.