How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Dodge Caliber take?
The Dodge Caliber’s transmission fluid capacity depends on the gearbox. For the common automatic (42RLE), expect about 9.5–10 quarts of ATF. For the five‑speed manual, the fluid capacity is roughly 2.0–2.5 quarts. Exact amounts can vary by model year and whether you’re doing a pan drain and fill or a full system change.
To understand the question in more detail, the Caliber (2007–2012) offered two main transmission options: an automatic 42RLE and a manual five‑speed. Each has its own capacity specification, and service method (pan drain vs. complete system flush) affects how much fluid you actually add or replace. Always verify the correct specification in the owner’s manual or official service data for your exact vehicle.
Automatic transmission (42RLE)
Here are typical capacity figures you may encounter for the 42RLE automatic used in many Caliber models:
- Total system capacity (including torque converter): about 9.5–10 quarts.
- Drain-and-fill (pan drain only): typically around 3–4 quarts replaced per service.
- Full fluid change (with converter drained or flushed): may require up to 9–10 quarts.
These figures can vary by model year and whether a new filter is installed during service. Always consult the vehicle’s service data for the exact specification.
Manual transmission (5-speed)
For the five‑speed manual transmission option in the Caliber, the typical fluid capacity is:
- Total fill capacity: about 2.0–2.5 quarts.
- Notes: Use the manual’s specified transmission fluid; some years may have particular spec requirements. A drain-and-fill will remove and replace a portion of the fluid, while a complete fill depends on service procedure.
As with automatics, check the owner’s manual or service information for your exact year and model to confirm the correct fluid type and capacity.
Summary
In short, the Dodge Caliber’s transmission fluid needs depend on the gearbox: about 9.5–10 quarts for the automatic 42RLE, and roughly 2.0–2.5 quarts for the manual five‑speed. Always confirm the exact figures in your owner’s manual or a dealership service bulletin, and use the fluid specification recommended by Chrysler/Mopar for your transmission type and year.
