How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2011 Dodge Nitro take?
The 2011 Dodge Nitro’s automatic transmission typically requires about 9 quarts of ATF for a full service with a filter change; a simple pan drain-and-fill usually uses around 4–5 quarts. Always verify with your owner's manual or a service manual for your exact vehicle and transmission configuration.
Transmission type and official capacity
The Nitro in most configurations uses a four‑speed automatic transmission (the 41TE/related family). Chrysler commonly specifies ATF+4 for these transmissions since the mid-2000s. The total capacity can vary depending on whether you drain the torque converter or perform a full service, but a standard full capacity is about 9 quarts, including the torque converter. If you’re only draining the pan, you’ll typically replace roughly 4–5 quarts.
Before listing the common service figures, note that actual amounts can vary by transmission variant and model year. Always consult the factory service data for your VIN to be precise.
Here are the common service figures for the 2011 Nitro's automatic transmission:
- Full transmission service with pan drain, filter replacement, and torque converter draining: about 9 quarts
- Pan-only drain and fill (no converter drain): approximately 4–5 quarts
- Automatic flush using a machine: roughly equivalent to a full service, about 9 quarts depending on the setup
After performing any service, recheck the transmission level with the dipstick and follow the manufacturer’s fill procedure, as overfilling or underfilling can cause shifting issues or fluid foaming.
Steps for a drain-and-fill procedure
When you perform a simple drain-and-fill on a 2011 Nitro, use the following steps as a guideline. The list below outlines a typical, non-flushing method that does not remove the torque converter entirely and is commonly used for routine maintenance.
- Raise the vehicle safely and support it on jack stands.
- Place a drain pan under the transmission pan and remove the pan bolts to drain the fluid completely.
- Carefully remove the pan, clean the gasket surfaces, replace the filter, and install a new pan gasket.
- Reinstall the pan with new gasket and refill the transmission with the recommended ATF (about 4–5 quarts to start).
- Start the engine, bring the transmission to operating temperature, shift through all gears, then recheck the level and add more fluid in small increments until the proper level is reached.
A full fluid exchange that drains the torque converter and uses a machine will typically require about the full 9-quart capacity, so be prepared to add a similar amount if your service intends to completely replace all fluid.
Fluid type and compatibility
Use the fluid type recommended by Chrysler for the Nitro’s transmission. Since the mid-2000s, ATF+4 is the standard specification for most Chrysler automatic transmissions, including many variants used in the Nitro. If you’re unsure, check the owner’s manual or the dipstick markings and, when in doubt, consult a professional technician.
Summary
In summary, a full transmission service on a 2011 Dodge Nitro typically calls for about 9 quarts of ATF, including the torque converter. A pan-only drain and fill usually uses about 4–5 quarts. Always confirm the exact capacity for your specific VIN and service method, and use the recommended ATF (ATF+4) to maintain proper shifting and transmission life. If in doubt, have a professional perform or supervise the service.
How much transmission fluid does a 2011 Dodge Journey take?
The 2011 Dodge Journey Crew with a 3.6L engine typically requires about 6.9 quarts of transmission fluid during a full drain and refill. Use the manufacturer-recommended ATF+4 fluid for optimal performance. Check the transmission fluid level with the dipstick when the engine is warm and running in park or neutral.
How much transmission fluid does a 2011 Dodge Nitro take?
8.8 quarts
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Capacity: 4 speed 42RLE Total Fill 8.8 quarts.
What kind of transmission is in the 2011 Dodge Nitro?
five-speed automatic transmission
New for 2011 was the Heat 4.0 lifestyle package. The Heat 4.0 came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission, Uconnect Phone, and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?
You will need approximately 3-6 quarts of transmission fluid for a drain and fill, but the exact amount depends on your vehicle, so it's best to measure how much you drain out and replace that amount. Always check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount of fluid for your specific make and model.
Before you begin
- Check your owner's manual to find the specific type of transmission fluid your vehicle requires.
- You can also get this information from an auto parts store, such as AutoZone.
- Purchase enough fluid for the job, plus a little extra in case of spills or to have on hand for future top-offs.
During the procedure
- Drain the old fluid: Place a catch pan under the transmission's drain plug and remove the plug to let the old fluid drain out.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure the amount of fluid you collected in the pan. This will be the amount you need to add back into the transmission.
- Refill the transmission: Pour the new, correct type of fluid into the transmission through the fill tube. Start with the amount you just measured.
- Check the level: After refilling, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check the dipstick to see if the fluid level is correct. You may need to add a little more or less to reach the "full" mark.
