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How much oil does a 3.6 liter Dodge engine hold?

Most 3.6-liter Dodge engines hold about 5 quarts (roughly 4.7 liters) of engine oil when you perform a standard oil change with a new filter.


The 3.6-liter engine family, commonly referred to as the Pentastar V6, has powered a wide range of Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler models since around 2010. While the baseline specification is around five quarts with a filter, the exact capacity can vary depending on model year, optional hardware like an oil cooler, and factory revisions. For an accurate figure, always consult your vehicle’s manual or official service data for your VIN.


To ensure you add the correct amount for your specific car, check the owner's manual, the under-hood oil-fill label, or the official service information for your vehicle. A precise figure is essential for accurate oil level readings and proper lubrication.


Understanding the 3.6L Pentastar and Its Oil Capacity


The 3.6L engine, known as the Pentastar V6, has powered many Dodge models along with Jeep and Chrysler offerings since 2010. In most configurations, the engine is designed to hold about 5 quarts of oil with the filter installed, supporting reliable lubrication across a range of driving conditions. This capacity is a general guideline used by many service manuals and dealer literature.


Typical Capacity and Model-Year Variations


While 5 quarts with a filter is the standard target for most 3.6L engines, some versions—particularly those with an oil cooler or revisions introduced in certain model years—may require slightly more oil. In practice, dealers and service documents sometimes list a small range, up to roughly 5.3 quarts (about 5.0 liters), depending on equipment. Always confirm the exact figure for your vehicle from the official documentation for your VIN.


Why Capacity Can Vary


Variations arise from factors such as the presence of an oil cooler, different oil pan configurations, additional cooling lines, and engine revisions across model years. These factors can influence the total oil volume the engine is designed to hold.


How to Verify the Exact Capacity for Your Vehicle


Check the owner’s manual for your specific model year and trim. Look for the section that lists oil capacity, either “oil with filter” or total engine oil capacity. If the manual isn’t available, contact a Dodge/Chrysler dealership or use the official service website to pull VIN-specific data. You can also inspect the engine bay for a capacity label near the oil fill cap or on the underside of the hood for the exact specification.


Oil-Change Best Practices for the 3.6L Engine


Always use the viscosity grade recommended by your manual; common choices for modern 3.6L engines include 5W-20 or 0W-20 depending on year and climate. Replace the oil filter during changes, and add the full amount specified for your vehicle (typically around 5 quarts with a filter). After filling, run the engine for a minute, then shut off and recheck the level on the dipstick, topping off as needed to reach the full mark. Ensure there are no leaks and that the oil appears clean and free of contaminants.


Summary


In most Dodge 3.6L applications, plan on approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) of engine oil with a new filter for a standard oil change. Exact capacity can vary by model year, hardware, and revisions, so always confirm via the owner's manual or VIN-specific service data. Mind the proper oil viscosity for your climate and vehicle, and verify the level after refilling to maintain optimal engine health.

How much oil does a 2019 Chrysler 3.6 take?


5 quarts
Engine Oil
Capacity: 5 quarts (with filter).



How many quarts of oil does a Dodge 3.6 take?


The oil capacity for a Dodge 3.6L engine is typically 5.9 quarts with a filter change, but this can vary by model and year. For example, some newer models like the Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK) and Dodge Durango (WD) with the 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine may use 6 quarts, while some applications might require 5 quarts. Always check your owner's manual for the exact specification, or look for the oil type and capacity listed on the oil filler cap itself. 

  • Standard capacity: 5.9 quarts with a filter change is a common capacity for many Dodge vehicles with the 3.6L engine. 
  • Model variations: Some models, particularly the 2016-and-newer Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK) and Dodge Durango (WD) with the 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine, have a larger oil pan and require 6 quarts. 
  • Checking the oil level: After refilling, check the oil level and add more as needed to reach the full mark, but be careful not to overfill. 
  • Best practice: To ensure the correct amount, it is recommended to add about 5 quarts, run the engine briefly, and then add more oil incrementally to reach the full mark. 



What kind of oil does a 3.6 Dodge Caravan take?


5W-20
6 liters 5W-20 Dodge Grand Caravan engine oil and oil filter for 3.6L V6 applications. Meets or exceeds recommended FCA MS-6395 motor oil quality standard using advanced RAVENOL USVO CleanSynto synthetic oil technology. Fits 2014-2021 Dodge Grand Caravan 3.6L models.



What kind of oil does a 19 RAM 1500 3.6 take?


The 2019 Ram 1500 with a 3.6L engine requires SAE 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil. The capacity is approximately 5.9 quarts, and you should ensure the oil meets the Chrysler MS-6395 specification. 

  • Oil Viscosity: SAE 0W-20
  • Oil Type: Full synthetic
  • Oil Specification: Chrysler MS-6395
  • Capacity: 5.9 quarts (with filter)


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.