How much oil does a 1991 Dodge Dakota 3.9 take?
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) of engine oil, with a new filter, are typically required for a full oil change on the 1991 Dodge Dakota equipped with the 3.9-liter V6.
This article outlines the official capacity, practical expectations, and steps to verify the oil level for this vintage Dodge pickup, including notes on small variations that can occur with filters and optional equipment.
Baseline capacity and what can affect it
The 3.9L V6 used in early Dakotas is part of Mopar's Magnum family, and service manuals generally quote a full-fill amount with filter included. Real-world practice is to fill, start the engine, run briefly, then recheck and top off to the full mark.
Variations by configuration
Actual capacity can vary slightly if the engine has an oil cooler or uses different aftermarket filters, but for most stock setups on the 1991 Dakota, the common figure is around 5 quarts with a standard filter.
Recommended oil types and climate considerations
Always follow the owner's manual for oil grade; typical climates use SAE 5W-30, though some owners use 10W-30 in hotter or older engines. The oil type does not change capacity, but it can affect starting and flow characteristics.
Before listing a range, here's the practical capacity you should expect when performing a standard oil change with a replaceable filter:
- Typical full-fill capacity with a standard filter: 5 quarts (4.7 L).
- Possible variation range due to filter size or optional equipment: roughly 4.5–5.0 quarts (4.3–4.7 L).
Concluding note: After draining, replacing the filter, and adding oil, always verify the level using the dipstick while the engine is off, then re-check after a short run and cool-down period to ensure an accurate reading.
Practical steps to fill and verify the oil level
- With the vehicle on level ground, engine cold, remove the oil filler cap and prepare the right grade of oil and a new filter.
- Drain old oil, replace the drain plug, and install the new filter result in secure fitment.
- Add about 4.5–5.0 quarts to the engine, then start the engine and let it run for about a minute to circulate the oil.
- Turn off the engine, wait 5–10 minutes for oil to settle, then check the dipstick and top off to the full mark if needed.
- Double-check again after the engine cools to ensure the reading remains within the full range.
Following these steps helps ensure you achieve the correct oil capacity and reliable lubrication for the 1991 Dakota's 3.9L V6.
Additional considerations
Oil grade and synthetic vs conventional formulations can affect performance, but not the capacity. If your truck has an oil cooler or other aftermarket components, verify with the service manual for any capacity variations and adjust accordingly.
Summary
For the 1991 Dodge Dakota with the 3.9L V6, plan on about 5 quarts (4.7 liters) of engine oil for a standard oil change with a new filter. Actual fill may vary slightly (roughly 4.5–5.0 quarts) depending on filter size and installed options. Always verify with the dipstick after filling and follow the owner's manual for the correct grade and procedures.
In short, expect around five quarts as the baseline, with small variations possible based on configuration and filter choice. Always check the oil level after a change to ensure full, proper lubrication.
How many quarts of oil does a 3.9 Dodge Dakota take?
A 3.9L Dodge Dakota typically takes 4 to 5 quarts of oil, depending on the specific model year. For example, a 2002 model with a filter change takes about 5 quarts, while a 2001 or 2000 model with a filter change takes 4 quarts. It's always best to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate capacity for your vehicle, as capacity can vary slightly by year.
- 2002 Dodge Dakota: Approximately 5 quarts with a filter change.
- 2001 Dodge Dakota: 4 quarts with a filter change.
- 2000 Dodge Dakota: 4.5 quarts with a filter change.
- 1993 Dodge Dakota: 4 quarts with a filter change.
- 1987 Dodge Dakota: 5 quarts with a filter change.
Important: Always check your owner's manual for the precise oil capacity and fill level for your specific year of Dodge Dakota. After refilling, check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is correct.
How much oil does a 1991 Dodge Dakota take?
Oil Grade: API*
| Viscosity: | 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred. 5W-30 (Below 0°C) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 5 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
How much is a 1991 Dodge Dakota worth?
The value of a 1991 Dodge Dakota varies significantly by condition and trim, with average values ranging from $1,400 to $2,000 for clean or average-condition models, but can be higher for exceptional examples. For instance, a clean 4x4 Sport model is valued around $1,873 privately, while an "average" condition vehicle in the same trim is about $1,671. Expect to pay more for vehicles in outstanding condition or specific rare trims.
Factors influencing value
- Condition: A vehicle's condition is the most significant factor. Expect rough, average, clean, and outstanding conditions to have values that differ by several hundred dollars.
- Trim and options: Different trims, such as the LE or Sport, and added options will affect the final price. Some specific versions, like a 4x4 model, will be worth more than a base 2WD model.
- Drivetrain and engine: A 4-wheel drive model will generally be worth more than a 2-wheel drive model. The engine size can also play a role in value.
- Mileage: While not explicitly detailed in the provided snippets, lower mileage typically correlates with a higher value.
Value examples by condition and trim
- LE 2dr Regular Cab SB (2.5L 4cyl):
- Outstanding: ~$2,009
- Clean: ~$1,887
- Average: ~$1,683
- Rough: ~$1,419
- Sport 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (3.9L 6cyl):
- Outstanding: ~$1,994
- Clean: ~$1,873
- Average: ~$1,671
- Rough: ~$1,409
What oil does a 1992 Dodge Dakota take?
The recommended oil for a 1992 Dodge Dakota is SAE 10W-30 for temperatures above -18∘Cnegative 18 raised to the composed with power cap C−18∘𝐶 (0∘F0 raised to the composed with power cap F0∘𝐹) and SAE 5W-30 for temperatures below 0∘C0 raised to the composed with power cap C0∘𝐶 (32∘F32 raised to the composed with power cap F32∘𝐹). The oil capacity is approximately 4-5 quarts, including the oil filter.
Oil specifications
- Recommended viscosity: 10W-30 (for temperatures above -18∘Cnegative 18 raised to the composed with power cap C−18∘𝐶) or 5W-30 (for temperatures below 0∘C0 raised to the composed with power cap C0∘𝐶).
- Oil capacity: Around 4 to 5 quarts, depending on the engine size, and always check the level after a refill.
- Oil drain plug torque: 20 ft/lbs.
