How much transmission fluid does a 2010 Dodge Caliber CVT hold?
The CVT-equipped 2010 Dodge Caliber typically requires about 6.5–7 quarts of CVT fluid for a full fill. Exact amounts can vary by service method and vehicle configuration; consult the owner’s or service manual for your VIN.
What affects the CVT fluid capacity in the Caliber
Several factors influence how much fluid you need to add during maintenance, including whether you drain only the pan or perform a full system drain (which includes the torque converter) and the specific engine/transmission combination in your Caliber.
Estimated capacity by service method
Before listing the typical estimates, note that actual amounts can vary. The numbers below are approximate ranges commonly cited by technicians and service manuals.
- Complete drain and refill (pan drained, torque converter drained): about 7–8 quarts total in the transmission system.
If you only drain the pan and refill (no torque converter drain), you will add less fluid—typically around 3–4 quarts—to bring the level back to the correct mark, depending on how much old fluid remains in the converter and lines. Always refer to the service manual for your exact figure.
How to verify the correct fill
Follow the dipstick or level-check procedure specified by Chrysler/Mopar for CVT applications. CVT fluid level checks are sensitive to temperature, engine RPM, and transmission temperature, so precise conditions matter.
Summary
For a 2010 Dodge Caliber with a CVT, plan on roughly 6.5–7 quarts for a full fill. Exact amounts depend on service method and model configuration. Use the correct CVT fluid type specified by Mopar and confirm with the manual or a dealer for your exact VIN.
How much fluid does a CVT transmission hold?
The amount of fluid a CVT transmission holds varies significantly by vehicle, with total capacities ranging from about 4 to 9.5 quarts, and a drain-and-fill service typically replacing only 3.5 to 5 quarts. To determine the correct amount for a specific vehicle, check the owner's manual and always measure the amount of old fluid that drains out, adding approximately the same amount of new fluid.
This video demonstrates how to change CVT fluid on a Nissan Pathfinder, including tips on total capacity and drain and fill procedures: 43sdial2fastYouTube · Nov 11, 2022
General fluid capacity
- Total capacity: This is the maximum amount the transmission can hold, but it's not the amount you will replace in a typical service.
- Drain and fill capacity: In a standard drain and fill, you will only drain a portion of the old fluid, so you will replace only that amount.
- This usually results in draining and refilling between 3.5 and 5 quarts.
- You should purchase 4 to 5 quarts to be safe, as some may be needed to top off the system.
This video shows a typical drain and fill procedure, highlighting the amount of fluid drained: 30sMatt SRYouTube · Feb 18, 2023
How to determine the correct amount
- Check the owner's manual: The most accurate way to know the total capacity and recommended service procedure is to consult your vehicle's owner's manual.
- Measure the old fluid: The best practice is to measure the amount of old fluid you drain out and replace it with the same amount of new fluid.
- Use the overflow plug: When refilling, add fluid until it begins to drip from the overflow plug. Be sure the vehicle is as level as possible to get an accurate fill level.
How much transmission fluid does a 2010 Dodge Caliber take?
The 2010 Dodge Caliber's transmission fluid capacity depends on the transmission type, with the CVT2 having a total fill of 8.6 quarts and an initial fill of 7.4 quarts. For the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, the total capacity is 8.6 quarts and the initial fill is 7.4 quarts. It is crucial to check your specific model and owner's manual for the correct capacity and fluid type, as the vehicle also came with a manual transmission and different engine options.
This video shows the process of changing the CVT fluid and filter in a Dodge Caliber: 54sDIY KAIYouTube · Jan 4, 2023
- CVT2 Transmission:
- Total Fill: 8.6 quarts
- Initial Fill: 7.4 quarts
- Other Transmissions: If your vehicle has a different transmission (like a manual or a different automatic), the capacity will vary. It is essential to consult your owner's manual for the correct specifications and fluid type.
How much transmission fluid does a Dodge Caliber CVT hold?
The CVT2 transmission fluid capacity for a Dodge Caliber is approximately 7.4 quarts for an initial fill and 8.6 quarts for a total fill. However, the exact amount can vary depending on the specific model year and the job being performed (e.g., filter change vs. full rebuild).
Approximate fluid capacities by model year
- 2012 Dodge Caliber: 7.4 quarts initial fill, 8.6 quarts total fill
- 2010 Dodge Caliber: 7.4 quarts initial fill, 8.6 quarts total fill
- 2007-2008 Dodge Caliber: Approximately 8.5 to 8.6 quarts total fill
Important considerations
- Manual check: For a drain-and-fill, add fluid a quart at a time, checking the dipstick after each addition until the fluid reaches the correct level.
- Specific fluid type: Use a fluid specifically designed for Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) in Dodge vehicles, such as Mopar CVT fluid.
- Professional advice: It is best to consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic for the most accurate fluid capacity and type for your specific vehicle.
- Fluid level check: Always follow the correct procedure for checking the CVT fluid level, which typically involves running the engine to operating temperature, keeping it in park, and using a specialized tool to read the level from the fill tube.
What kind of transmission fluid does a Dodge Caliber take?
FRAM – ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid: 1 Quart (Part No. F440)
