Where is the oil filter on a Dodge?

The location varies by model and engine. In most Dodge vehicles, you’ll find the filter attached to the engine block either on the side or near the oil pan, and some engines use a cartridge in a housing on the side. Always consult your owner's manual for your exact model/year.

To explore this question in more detail, Dodge’s lineup covers passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks with a range of engines—from small four-cylinders to Hemi V8s. The filter access point depends on the engine layout, so identifying your exact model and engine is key before attempting maintenance.

Common engine layouts across Dodge models

The following describes typical locations you’ll encounter on common Dodge engine families. If you’re unsure, use the steps in the next section to verify for your exact car.

3.6L Pentastar V6 and related engines

On many cars and SUVs that use the 3.6L Pentastar family, the oil filter is mounted on the side of the engine block. It’s usually accessible from the engine bay, though some chassis layouts may require you to look from underneath or remove a plastic shield. Look near the front or side of the block, typically toward the passenger side of the engine compartment.

Hemi V8 family (5.7L, 6.4L, etc.)

For models equipped with Hemi V8s, the filter location varies by vehicle generation. In many Dodge Charger, Challenger, Durango, and Ram applications, the filter is still mounted on the engine block, often toward the front or side and sometimes behind a shield. In some configurations it sits in a canister that you remove by unthreading a cap. Access can require a short crawl beneath or from the top depending on the layout.

Smaller four-cylinder and turbo engines

Some compact Dodges (and some entry-level trims) use smaller four-cylinders where the filter is again mounted to the side of the block, frequently visible from above when you pull the hood, but may require a brief crawl underneath to confirm the exact spot.

How to find the oil filter on your exact Dodge model

To identify the precise location for your specific ride, follow these practical steps. This approach works for most Dodge models across model years and engine options.

1. Check the owner’s manual or the official Mopar service manual for the exact filter location and filter type for your engine.


2. Park and inspect the engine bay with the hood up. Look for a cylindrical filter canister or a housing with a removable cap; spin-on filters are metal cans with visible threading at one end, while cartridge filters sit in a housing.


3. If you don’t see the filter from above, bend down and check under the front of the engine or behind the bumper area; a shield or splash guard may hide the filter.


4. Trace the oil-pan area: the filter is usually connected to the engine block near the pan; follow any upward-extending feed lines or the oil filter mounting points.


5. When in doubt, search online for your exact model, year, and engine to see a photo-guided location, or ask a dealer/repair shop for confirmation.

Knowing the exact engine layout helps: Dodge’s approach to oil filtration has evolved, and some newer engines use cartridge-style filters in a remote housing that requires a tool to remove the end-cap. If you plan a DIY oil change, verify the filter type first so you have the correct tool and replacement filter.

Safety and practical tips for changing an oil filter

Before you touch the tools, consider these safety pointers and practical tips to do the job safely and correctly.

• Let the engine cool completely before starting and position the vehicle on a level surface with the parking brake set.


• Use proper jacks/stands or ramps if you need to get underneath; never rely on a jack alone.


• Have a drain pan, gloves, and the correct replacement filter and oil on hand; dispose of old oil and used filters at an approved facility.


• If your Dodge uses a cartridge-type filter, verify you have the correct removal tool and the correct replacement cartridge.

Following these guidelines helps ensure a safe and correct oil-filter change, regardless of your Dodge model.

Summary

The oil filter location on a Dodge is not universal; it depends on engine design and vehicle platform. In most modern Dodges, you’ll find the filter attached to the engine block on the side or near the oil pan, sometimes within a serviceable canister. To be sure, consult the owner’s manual or a model-specific guide, or tell me your exact Dodge model and year and I’ll pinpoint the precise spot for you.