Loading

How much coolant does a 2008 Dodge Caliber take?

The 2008 Dodge Caliber typically requires roughly 6.5 to 8 quarts of coolant, depending on the engine. The 2.0L engine uses about 6.5–7.0 quarts, while the 2.4L engine uses about 7.5–8.0 quarts when performing a full drain and fill.


Coolant capacity depends on the engine variant, and the total system capacity includes the radiator, hoses, engine block, and heater core. Always verify exact figures in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a factory service manual, and follow the recommended coolant type and mixing ratio for your model year.


Engine options and coolant capacities


The Caliber was offered with two common engine options in 2008. The following figures reflect typical total-system capacities when performing a complete drain and refill.



  • 2.0L I4 engine: approximately 6.5–7.0 quarts (about 6.2–6.6 liters).

  • 2.4L I4 engine: approximately 7.5–8.0 quarts (about 7.1–7.6 liters).


Note: These ranges are approximate and can vary slightly by production batch or whether you include heater core and auxiliary circuits in the fill. When topping off, use the coolant type specified by Chrysler/Mopar and mix with distilled water to the recommended 50/50 ratio if required.


Coolant type and mixing guidelines


To ensure proper protection and longevity, use the coolant type specified for your vehicle. For many Dodge and Chrysler models, Dex-Cool or a compatible HOAT coolant that meets the MS 9769 specification is recommended. Do not mix Dex-Cool with certain conventional green coolants, and always follow the 50/50 mix guideline unless your manual states otherwise.



  • Use the coolant type recommended in the owner’s manual (often Dex-Cool or a compatible HOAT coolant).

  • Mix with distilled water to the recommended ratio (commonly 50/50) unless the product you choose specifies a different mix.


Always perform a proper bleed and fill procedure after refilling to remove air pockets from the cooling system, and check for leaks after the service. If in doubt, consult a qualified mechanic for an accurate drain-and-fill procedure.


Maintenance tips and final checks


After replacing coolant, inspect for leaks, verify that the radiator cap is correct for the system, and ensure the coolant level remains within the proper range on the reservoir when the engine is cool. Regularly checking the coolant level and condition can help prevent overheating and maintain optimal engine performance.


In summary, the 2008 Dodge Caliber requires roughly 6.5–7.0 quarts for the 2.0L engine and 7.5–8.0 quarts for the 2.4L engine, with exact figures depending on the specific configuration and what components are included in the fill. Always refer to the owner’s manual for the precise specification and follow proper mixing and bleeding procedures.

How many gallons does a 2008 Dodge Caliber hold?


The 2008 Dodge Caliber has a gas tank size of approximately 13.6 gallons. Some sources may list it as 13.5 gallons, but 13.6 is the most common figure. 

  • Capacity: 13.6 gallons
  • Alternative listing: Some sources show 13.5 gallons
  • Fuel type: Regular unleaded



How many quarts does a 2008 Dodge Caliber take?


4.5 quarts
Oil Grade: API*

Viscosity:5W-20 (All TEMPS)
Capacity:4.5 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.
Torque:30 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)



What kind of coolant does a 2008 Dodge Challenger take?


Prestone – MAX Original Equipment Antifreeze + Coolant: American Purple, 50/50 Ready To Use, 1 Gallon (Part No. AF6900)



How many gallons of antifreeze do I need?


You will likely need 1.5 to 3 gallons of total coolant mixture, but the exact amount depends on your vehicle's cooling system capacity, so you should check your owner's manual for the specific figure. For a complete flush, you will typically need a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water, but remember that some old coolant will remain in the system, so purchase an appropriate amount of 100% concentrated antifreeze to mix yourself. 
Before you begin

  • Check your owner's manual: This is the most accurate source for your vehicle's specific cooling system capacity. 
  • Plan your purchase: Most vehicles need around 1.5 to 3 gallons of 50/50 mixed coolant, but some may require more. 
  • Buy the right type: Purchase a 100% concentrated antifreeze product, as you will need to mix it with distilled water to achieve the correct 50/50 ratio. 
  • Do not use tap water: The chemicals in tap water can cause corrosion in your engine's cooling system. 

How to calculate
  • Determine your capacity: Find your vehicle's total cooling system capacity in your owner's manual (e.g., 10 quarts). 
  • Determine the amount of 50/50 mix you need: For a 10-quart capacity, you'll need about 10 quarts of the 50/50 mix. This is approximately 2.5 gallons. 
  • Account for leftover coolant: You cannot drain every drop of old coolant. A general rule of thumb is to have enough concentrated antifreeze on hand to create your 50/50 mixture once you refill the system. For example, if your system capacity is 10 quarts and you estimate you can drain about 7 quarts, you will need to refill with 10 quarts of 50/50 mix. This requires 5 quarts of concentrated antifreeze and 5 quarts of distilled water. 

Tips for adding coolant
  • Wear safety glasses: Always protect your eyes when working with coolant. 
  • Drain and flush the system: Before adding the new coolant, you'll need to drain the old coolant and flush the system, preferably with distilled water. 
  • Pour slowly: Pour the 50/50 mixture in slowly to avoid creating air pockets. 
  • Bleed the system: Run the engine with the radiator cap off until the thermostat opens and the air bubbles stop coming out. 
  • Top off as needed: Once the system is cool, top off the coolant reservoir to the "COLD" mark. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.