How much transmission fluid does a Dodge Dakota 44RE hold?
Approximately 12 quarts of ATF in total for a Dodge Dakota with the 44RE, with the exact amount varying by year and whether the torque converter is included in the service. A pan drain and fill alone typically replaces about 6–9 quarts.
To understand why these numbers vary and how to service the transmission correctly, here’s a detailed look at typical capacities and practical guidance for owners and technicians.
Capacity overview
Transmission capacity depends on how you service it. The numbers below reflect common figures for the 44RE across model years, but you should verify with the factory manual for your particular truck.
- Pan capacity (fluid that sits in the pan and can be drained during a pan-only service): approximately 6–8 quarts.
- Total system capacity (including torque converter, cooler lines, and internal passages): typically about 12–14 quarts.
- Refill amount after a pan drain and fill (to reach full) for a typical service without draining the torque converter: about 6–9 quarts.
In practice, these ranges cover most Dakota 44RE configurations, but the exact figure depends on the year and any aftermarket changes, as well as whether you’re including a new filter in the service.
Year-to-year variations
Some Dakota 44RE transmissions were designed around Dexron II/III compatibility, while later service literature points toward Mopar ATF+4 compatibility. The capacity numbers generally stay within the ranges above, but always confirm the recommended ATF specification and any year-specific notes in your owner’s manual or a factory service bulletin.
When in doubt, a professional transmission service will normally drain the pan, replace the filter, and refill with the appropriate ATF, then check the level with the dipstick at the operating temperature range specified by the manual.
Practical guidance for owners
To avoid overfilling or underfilling, perform a temperature-appropriate fill and verify using the dipstick. The system should be checked with the engine running and in Park or Neutral, with the brake on, and under the specified temperature range (often around 70–90 degrees Fahrenheit for an accurate reading). If you’re changing the fluid yourself, budget extra for an additional quart or two if the level isn’t at the mark after the first fill, as some fluid remains in the torque converter and cooler lines.
In real-world terms, plan for about 12–14 quarts for a complete flush including the torque converter and lines, or around 6–9 quarts for a simple pan drain and refill. The most reliable source remains the vehicle’s manual and, if available, a Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge workshop manual for the 44RE transmission.
Summary
The Dodge Dakota 44RE typically holds about 12 quarts of ATF in total, with a pan drain and refill replacing roughly 6–9 quarts. A full service, including draining the torque converter and all lines, can require roughly 12–14 quarts. Always reference the specific model-year manual and use the recommended ATF specification, then verify the level with the dipstick after warming up the transmission.
