How many quarts of transmission fluid for a 2008 Dodge Charger?
Most 2008 Chargers with a traditional four‑speed automatic require about 11 quarts of fluid for a complete drain-and-fill with a new filter, but the exact amount depends on the transmission model installed. Always verify the specific capacity for your car’s transmission.
The 2008 Charger offered with different engines and transmissions, so fluid capacity isn’t identical across every model. This article explains the typical capacities by transmission type and how your service steps (pan drain vs. full replacement) affect the total quantity you’ll need.
Transmission options and typical capacities
Before listing the numbers, it’s helpful to know which automatic transmission your Charger uses, as capacity varies by model and service scope. The following figures reflect common drain-and-fill practices with filter replacement for the two main transmissions that appeared in 2008 Chargers.
- 4‑speed automatic (commonly referred to as 41TE/42RLE in 2008 Chargers) — Total system capacity is typically around 11 quarts. A pan drain and filter change usually remove about 4–5 quarts, while a complete service (pan drain with full replacement of fluid and filter) is in the 10–11 quart range.
- 5‑speed automatic (the 5HP30 family used with the 5.7L Hemi in some trims) — Total capacity generally runs about 11–12 quarts. Pan-only drainage tends to replace roughly 4–6 quarts; a full fluid replacement can use approximately 11–12 quarts.
- Service scope considerations — If a technician flushes the torque converter or performs a less common full-flow flush, more fluid may be required. Routine maintenance typically means pan drain with filter replacement and a total of around 11 quarts for the system.
Conclusion: your exact amount will depend on the transmission type and whether you’re performing a simple pan drain or a full transmission service with filter replacement. Always confirm the capacity for your specific VIN and transmission code via the owners manual or the dealership service data.
Practical steps for planning a transmission fluid change
To ensure you have the right amount on hand and avoid overfilling or underfilling, keep these guidelines in mind: know your transmission code, count the number of quarts you’re draining, and fill gradually while checking the dipstick to reach the correct level.
Bottom line: for a typical full transmission service on a 2008 Dodge Charger, plan on about 11 quarts of fluid, acknowledging that the exact figure may vary by transmission type and service scope. Consult the vehicle’s manual or a dealer mechanic to confirm the precise capacity for your particular car.
Summary
In short, the commonly cited total capacity for a full transmission service on a 2008 Dodge Charger is around 11 quarts, with some variants edging toward 12 quarts. If you’re only performing a pan drain, you’ll typically replace about 4–6 quarts. The best practice is to verify the exact capacity for your specific transmission and follow the proper fill procedure to ensure proper operation and longevity.
