How much transmission fluid dodge caravan?
Most Dodge Caravans require about 11–12 quarts of automatic transmission fluid for a full fill, with roughly 5–7 quarts replaced during a pan drain and refill. A complete flush can require around 12–14 quarts. Always verify the exact specification for your model year and transmission type in the owner's manual.
This article explains how to determine the precise capacity for your Caravan, depending on its transmission code (for example 41TE or 42RE) and year, and how to perform a safe drain-and-fill or flush.
Know Your Transmission
To know the exact capacity, you must identify which automatic transmission your Dodge Caravan uses. Over its production, the Caravan utilized several transmissions, and each has a different total capacity and refill amount.
Common automatic transmissions in the Caravan
Below are typical total fluid capacities for the two most common transmissions found in Dodge Caravans. The numbers represent the amount needed to fill the system from empty, including any fluid retained in the torque converter.
- 42RE automatic (found in many Grand Caravans with the 3.3L/3.8L V6): about 12 quarts (roughly 11.5 liters) total capacity.
- 41TE / A604 automatic (earlier models): about 11.3–11.5 quarts total capacity, depending on exact configuration.
Note: Some late-model or specialized variants may have different capacities. Always confirm with the vehicle’s service data or owner’s manual for your exact year and trim level.
How Much You Should Expect to Drain and Refill
Before performing a service, it helps to know what you’re aiming to replace. The following figures are typical guidelines for common Caravan transmissions and service methods.
These figures assume a complete service where the transmission is drained and refilled, not just a shallow pan drain.
- Pan drain and refill (no torque converter drained): typically about 5–7 quarts replaced.
- Full pan drop plus torque converter drain (more thorough): brings total closer to the transmission’s stated capacity, around 11–12 quarts for many 42RE/41TE configurations.
Concluding: If you’re performing a full system service or a professional-level flush, plan on replacing roughly 12–14 quarts of ATF to ensure the system is thoroughly topped up and the level is correct after warm-up.
Step-by-Step: Draining, Refilling, and Checking the Fluid
Before starting, confirm you’re using the correct transmission fluid for your model. Chrysler/Jeep transmissions in these vehicles typically require Mopar ATF+4 or an approved equivalent. Proceed only if you’re comfortable with automotive maintenance; otherwise, have a qualified technician perform the service.
- Warm up the engine and transmission to operating temperature, then park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Lift the vehicle and place it on stands if needed. Remove the transmission pan bolts and carefully lower the pan to drain the fluid into a catch basin.
- Inspect and clean the pan and magnet; replace the filter if accessible and install a new pan gasket as needed.
- Reinstall the pan, snug the bolts to specification, and begin refilling with the recommended ATF in small increments.
- With the vehicle warm, shift through all gears, then return to Park and recheck the dipstick. Add fluid as needed to reach the correct level on the dipstick.
- Take a short drive to bring the transmission to operating temperature, recheck the level again, and adjust if necessary.
Concluding: A careful drain-and-fill routine yields reliable results. Expect around 5–7 quarts with a simple pan drain, and closer to the full system capacity (11–12 quarts or more) if you perform a thorough flush that also empties the torque converter and cooler lines.
Fluid Type and Maintenance Notes
Use the fluid specified by Chrysler for your model year. Most Dodge Caravans require Mopar ATF+4 or an equivalent that meets Chrysler’s specifications. Do not mix ATF types unless explicitly approved in the manual. Regular checks and changes, typically every 30,000–60,000 miles depending on driving conditions, help extend transmission life.
Summary
In practical terms, Dodge Caravans generally need about 11–12 quarts of ATF for a full fill, with a standard pan-drain service replacing roughly 5–7 quarts. A complete flush can require around 12–14 quarts. Exact capacity depends on the transmission code and year, so always verify with the owner’s manual or service data for your specific vehicle, and use the recommended ATF type for your transmission.
What transmission fluid does a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan take?
ATF + 4
ATF + 4 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). It is recommended to check your vehicle owner's manual to be sure Pentosin ATF 44 is right for your vehicle. 1.32 Gallons (5 L).
How many quarts does a Dodge Grand Caravan take?
Notes: Conventional high mileage. 5W-20. 5 quart.
How much transmission fluid does a Dodge Caravan hold?
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Capacity: 5.5 quarts Initial Fill.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 2019 Dodge Caravan take?
Valvoline – ATF+4® Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon (Part No. 883587) Valvoline ATF+4® is a full-synthetic transmission fluid specifically engineered to protect and prolong the life of (FCA) Fiat Chrysler automatic transmissions.
