How much transmission fluid does a 2013 Dodge Journey take?
The 2013 Dodge Journey with the common 62TE six‑speed automatic typically requires about 9 to 10 quarts of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for a full system fill. A simple pan‑drop drain and refill replaces roughly 4 to 5 quarts, while a complete flush can replace nearly all of the fluid. Always verify with your owner’s manual or a trusted service manual for your exact drivetrain configuration.
What you need to know about capacity and service
Understanding the treatment of transmission fluid for a 2013 Journey involves recognizing the total system capacity, what a basic drain and refill delivers, and what a full flush would replace. The numbers below reflect typical practice for the model with the 62TE six‑speed automatic, but exact figures can vary by engine/transmission combo and whether a filter is replaced during service.
Typical capacity and service options
Below is a concise guide to how much fluid is involved in common service options for most 2013 Journeys equipped with the 62TE automatic transmission. This helps you budget and plan for maintenance without overfilling or underfilling.
- Total transmission capacity (including torque converter): about 9 to 10 quarts (approximately 8.5 to 9.5 liters).
- Pan drop and refill (drain only the pan, replace with fresh ATF): typically about 4 to 5 quarts are replaced.
- Full transmission flush (replaces most or all of the fluid): approximately 9 to 10 quarts, depending on the flush machine and the vehicle’s exact configuration.
- Fluid type to use: Dexron VI, with OEM Mopar Dexron VI or equivalent recommended by Chrysler; always confirm if a fluid specification has been updated for your vehicle.
When planning a service, these figures serve as a baseline. Actual requirements may differ if the transmission has a replaced/updated filter, or if the vehicle has an atypical engine/transmission pairing.
How to check and maintain transmission fluid
Properly checking and maintaining ATF levels helps ensure smooth shifting and long transmission life. Follow these steps to check level and condition after servicing or during routine maintenance.
- Warm up the engine and transmission to operating temperature, then park on level ground with the engine running.
- With the transmission in Park or Neutral (per your owner’s manual) and the parking brake engaged, pull out the dipstick to check fluid level and inspect color and odor.
- Add fluid gradually through the dipstick tube if the level is below the recommended mark, rechecking as you go to avoid overfilling.
- If the fluid appears dark, burnt, or has a strong odor, consider a professional fluid service and filter replacement, as degraded ATF can impact shifting and longevity.
After performing service, driving a short loop to bring the system back to operating temperature followed by a final level check is recommended to ensure the level is within specifications.
Additional considerations and tips
Several factors can influence how much ATF your 2013 Journey actually takes during a service. If you’re using a professional shop with a transmission flush machine, they may replace more fluid than a simple pan drain. If you’re performing DIY service, you’ll generally remove and replace less fluid at once, then top off to the correct level after running the car through gears.
When to service the transmission
Routine maintenance intervals for transmissions vary by driving conditions and usage. If you notice slipping, shuddering, delays in engagement, hard shifts, or unusual noises, these can be signs that the transmission fluid needs inspection or replacement beyond a standard drain and refill. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended service interval and consult a qualified technician for a precise capacity and procedure for your exact vehicle configuration.
Summary
For a 2013 Dodge Journey with the common 62TE automatic, plan on about 9 to 10 quarts of ATF for a full system fill. A simple pan drain and refill typically replaces about 4 to 5 quarts, while a full flush will replace most or all of the fluid. Use Dexron VI (Mopar Dexron VI or equivalent) and verify the exact capacity for your engine/transmission pairing in your manual. Regular checks of fluid level and condition help maintain smooth shifting and extend transmission life.
What type of transmission fluid for a 2013 Dodge Journey?
The 2013 Dodge Journey transmission fluid type is ATF+4 for automatic transmissions. It is crucial to use the correct type of fluid to avoid damaging the transmission. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact specification to ensure you use the correct fluid.
- Fluid Type: ATF+4 is the specified fluid for the automatic transmission in your 2013 Dodge Journey.
- Recommendation: You can use genuine Mopar ATF+4, Valvoline ATF+4, or other brands that meet the ATF+4 specification.
- Verification: Always confirm the specific fluid type in your owner's manual, as it is the most reliable source of information for your vehicle.
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2013 Dodge Journey take?
The 2013 Dodge Journey AWD with a 3.6L engine typically requires about 9 quarts of transmission fluid for a full drain and refill. Use the manufacturer-recommended ATF+4 fluid. When changing fluid, warm up the transmission, drain the old fluid, replace the filter if applicable, then refill through the dipstick tube.
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?
For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid.
How to determine the right amount
- Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling.
- Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process.
- Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid.
- Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high.
- Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading.
Important considerations
- A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter.
- You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage.
- Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.
How many quarts does a Dodge Journey 3.6 take?
5.9 quarts (with filter).
