How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 1999 Dodge Dakota take?

The short answer: if your 1999 Dodge Dakota has an automatic transmission, expect about 11 quarts for a full fill; if it has a manual transmission, expect about 2–3 quarts. Exact figures vary by model and service method.

This article explains the transmission options used in the 1999 Dakota, the typical fluid capacities for each type, and what to expect during common maintenance tasks such as a drain-and-fill versus a full flush.

Automatic transmission capacity (typical figures)

Most 1999 Dakotas with an automatic transmission fall into the 4-speed automatic family (commonly referred to as the 42RLE/42RE). The numbers below reflect common service guidelines for that family, though exact capacities can vary slightly by model and year.

• Total system capacity (including torque converter): about 11–12 quarts.


• Pan drain and refill (no full flush): about 5–7 quarts.


• Full flush with new filter: about 11–12 quarts.

In short, the automatic transmission in a 1999 Dakota generally requires around 11–12 quarts for a complete fill, with roughly half that amount exchanged during a simple drain-and-fill service.

Manual transmission capacity (typical figures)

For the 1999 Dodge Dakota, the manual transmission option is a five-speed unit (often the NV3500 family). Capacities are considerably smaller than the automatic transmissions.

• Total capacity: about 2–3 quarts (roughly 2.5 quarts typical).

In practical terms, a manual transmission service on a 1999 Dakota typically involves replacing around 2–3 quarts of fluid, depending on the exact model and any additional components being serviced.

Maintenance considerations and tips

When planning a transmission service, consider the following to ensure you use the correct amount for your specific vehicle:

• Check the exact transmission code or VIN to confirm the model family (automatic vs manual) and corresponding capacity.


• Whether performing a simple drain-and-fill or a full flush with filter replacement affects the total amount of fluid exchanged.


• Always use the fluid spec recommended by Chrysler/Dodge for the transmission type ( Dexron/ Dexron II/ Dexron III compatibility can apply to older automatics; use the correct specification for the 1999 Dakota).

When in doubt, consult the owner's manual, a factory service manual, or a trusted technician to verify the precise capacity for your exact build and drivetrain configuration.

Summary

For a 1999 Dodge Dakota, automatic transmissions generally require about 11–12 quarts for a full fill, with 5–7 quarts typically exchanged during a drain-and-fill, and around 11–12 quarts for a complete flush. Manual transmissions require about 2–3 quarts. Always verify the exact capacity for your specific vehicle variant, as configurations can vary by trim, drivetrain, and year.

How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 47RE take?

The 47RE transmission has a total capacity of approximately 14.8 to 16.9 quarts (14-16 liters), while a typical service fill is around 4 to 6 quarts. To properly fill the transmission, add the initial 6 quarts, then start the engine, and add the remaining 7 to 8 quarts in increments while checking the fluid level with the engine running and the transmission in neutral, as per Goerend Transmission. 
47RE transmission oil capacity

• Total capacity: 14.8–16.9 quarts (14–16 liters) 
• Service fill capacity: Around 4–6 quarts for a basic fluid change 

How to fill the transmission

1. Add initial fluid: Pour about 6 quarts of transmission fluid into the dipstick tube.
2. Start the vehicle: Turn the engine on and let it run for a short while.
3. Add more fluid: Add another 7 to 8 quarts of fluid through the dipstick tube.
4. Check the level: With the engine running and the transmission in neutral, check the fluid level. Read the dipstick from the low side.
5. Top off: Add fluid until it reaches the full mark.
6. Final check: Drive the vehicle for 5–10 miles and recheck the fluid level one last time. 

How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Dodge Dakota take?

The Dodge Dakota's transmission fluid capacity varies by model year and transmission type, with common service fill amounts ranging from about 5.5 quarts for a 42RLE 4-speed automatic to 8 quarts for a 545RFE 5-speed automatic. To confirm the exact amount, you must identify your specific transmission, which can be done by checking the vehicle's build sheet or a sticker in the glove box. 
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid on a Dodge Dakota: 57smreinsmithYouTube · Nov 27, 2013

• For 42RLE (4-speed automatic): A service fill is approximately 5.5 quarts (8.8 quarts total capacity). 
• For 545RFE (5-speed automatic): A service fill is around 8 quarts (14.8 quarts total capacity). 
• For manual transmissions: The 5-speed manual transmission requires about 2.5 quarts of SAE 80W-90 gear oil. 

This video explains how to check the transmission fluid level on a Dodge Dakota: 57sKentucky YankeeYouTube · Jun 29, 2019
How to find your transmission type: 

• Look for a sticker in the glove box that may specify the transmission (e.g., 4-speed (42RLE) or 5-speed (545RFE)).
• You can also get a build sheet from the manufacturer by providing your VIN, which will list all the original specifications for your vehicle.

How many quarts of transmission fluid for a drain and fill?

For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid. 
How to determine the right amount

• Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely. 
• Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling. 
• Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process. 
• Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid. 
• Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high. 
• Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading. 

Important considerations

• A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter. 
• You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage. 
• Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain. 

What kind of transmission fluid does a 1999 Dodge Dakota take?

Valvoline – High Performance Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Conventional 75W-90, 1 Quart (Part No. VV820)