How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Dodge?
There isn’t a single universal number for all Dodge vehicles. The amount of transmission fluid needed depends on the specific model and the transmission type. For most Dodge automatics, a full drain and refill typically falls in the 8–16 quart range, while manual transmissions usually take about 2–4 quarts. For an exact figure, consult the owner's manual or the official service specifications for your exact model and transmission.
Why the number varies
Different Dodge models use different transmissions across generations, from older 4- and 5-speed automatics to modern 8- and 9-speed units, as well as manual gearboxes. Each transmission has its own internal capacity, pan size, and filter requirements, and whether you’re performing a simple pan drain or a complete system flush can change the total amount of fluid required. Always use the recommended fluid type (often ATF+4 for Mopar transmissions) and refer to the vehicle’s documentation for precise capacity.
Common Dodge automatic transmissions and approximate capacity ranges
The following ranges reflect typical full-fill amounts for common Dodge automatics when performing a complete drain and refill, including the pan and filter, but exact figures vary by model and year.
- 41TE / A604 family (early Mopar automatics used in some Dodge/Chrysler vehicles): roughly 9–12 quarts total capacity.
- 42RLE and similar 4–speed automatics: about 11–13 quarts total capacity.
- 545RFE / 68RFE family (Ram pickups and some Dodge/Chrysler applications): typically around 14–16 quarts total capacity.
- 8-speed automatic family (modern Dodge/Chrysler transmissions, including some Charger/Challenger/Grand Cherokee applications): about 9–12 quarts total capacity.
Note: These ranges are estimates intended to guide maintenance planning. The exact capacity for your vehicle can differ based on year, model, and whether you’re flushing the system or just draining the pan and replacing the filter.
Manual transmissions in Dodge vehicles
Manual transmissions in Dodge vehicles generally require far less fluid than automatics. Typical capacities are in the 2–4 quart range for most manual gearboxes, depending on the specific model and gearbox design.
When performing a transmission service, always confirm the exact capacity for your vehicle from the owner’s manual, the service manual, or the official Mopar specifications. Using the correct fluid type (often ATF+4 for Mopar automatics) and the precise fill amount helps ensure smooth shifting and long transmission life.
How to find your exact capacity
If you want the exact quarts for your specific Dodge model and transmission, use these steps:
- Identify your exact vehicle (year, make, model) and the transmission type installed from the build sheet or VIN lookup.
- Consult the owner’s manual or service manual for the official ATF capacity and fluid type for that configuration.
- Check the Mopar or dealership service information databases for manufacturer-recommended capacities and procedures (including any differences for pan-only drains versus full flushes).
- During service, verify the fluid level with the vehicle’s specified procedure (hot/cold readings and correct dipstick method) to ensure proper fill.
Having the precise number ensures you don’t overfill or underfill, both of which can affect shifting performance and long-term transmission health.
Summary
In short, there isn’t a single Dodge transmission fluid quantity that applies to every model. Most Dodge automatics require roughly 8–16 quarts for a full refill, with some newer or heavier-duty units tending toward the higher end, and manuals typically needing 2–4 quarts. For accuracy, always refer to your specific model’s official specifications and-use the correct ATF type. Properly confirming the exact capacity helps protect transmission performance and longevity.
