How often should you change the transmission fluid in a 2013 Dodge Dart?

The automatic transmission in a 2013 Dodge Dart is typically serviced about every 60,000 miles under normal driving, with more frequent changes (around 30,000 miles) in severe conditions. Manual transmissions use a separate maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual.

The 2013 Dart offered two transmissions: a 6-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual. The automatic uses Mopar ATF+4 fluid, and the recommended service intervals can vary by climate, driving style, and whether the vehicle is used for towing or heavy hauling. This article outlines commonly cited intervals and practical tips, while noting that the owner’s manual and local dealer guidance remain the best sources for your VIN.

Automatic transmission intervals

Before listing the recommended intervals, note that these reflect typical guidance found in owner manuals and Mopar service literature for the Dart’s automatic transmission. Your exact schedule can vary by model year, engine, and driving conditions.

• Normal service: change the automatic transmission fluid (ATF+4) roughly every 60,000 miles (about 96,000 km).


• Severe service: change roughly every 30,000 miles (about 48,000 km) if you operate in hot climates, do a lot of stop-and-go urban driving, tow a trailer, or frequently haul heavy loads.


• Additional notes: use Mopar ATF+4 or an approved equivalent; avoid fluids not rated for ATF+4 unless advised by Chrysler/Dodge.

In practice, many Dart owners follow the 60k-mile interval but monitor the fluid’s appearance and smell. If the fluid is dark, burnt-smelling, or contaminated, schedule a change sooner rather than later.

Manual transmission intervals

For the 6-speed manual, the maintenance schedule differs from the automatic and is generally less prescriptive. The manual typically uses a specific gear oil or manual transmission fluid as noted by Mopar, and intervals are often around the 50,000–60,000 mile range under normal driving. Severe conditions can justify earlier changes.

• Normal service: follow the owner’s manual for the recommended drain-and-fill or full oil change interval, often near 50,000–60,000 miles, using the correct gear oil or manual transmission fluid.


• Severe service: consider changing earlier (roughly 30,000–40,000 miles) if you tow, drive in dusty or hot environments, or engage in aggressive driving.

As with the automatic, verify exact specifications and procedures in the owner’s manual or with a dealership, since fluid type and method can vary by model and region.

Maintenance tips and indicators

A proactive approach combines scheduled changes with attention to fluid condition and performance symptoms. Here are practical tips to help you decide when to service.

• Watch for transmission symptoms: slipping, hard or delay in shifting, whining noises, or a transmission that fails to engage.


• Check fluid condition: for automatics, ATF+4 should be a clear, reddish, almost apple-breath color; dark or burnt-smelling fluid warrants replacement. For manuals, look for metal shavings on the drain or dipstick and unusual gear oil smell or color.


• Fluid level checks: check when the engine is warm and the vehicle is on a level surface; low fluid can indicate leaks or internal issues that require service.

Regular inspection and timely fluid changes can help extend the life of the transmission and maintain smooth operation.

Bottom line and where to verify

The 2013 Dodge Dart’s automatic transmission generally benefits from ATF+4 changes around 60,000 miles under normal driving, with shorter intervals for severe service. Manual transmissions follow a separate schedule, typically around 50,000–60,000 miles under normal conditions, with earlier changes possible in demanding service. Always confirm the exact interval and fluid specifications for your specific vehicle in the owner’s manual and with your dealer, as VIN-specific recommendations can apply.

Summary

For a 2013 Dodge Dart, plan automatic transmission fluid changes about every 60,000 miles under normal conditions, and about 30,000 miles in severe service. Manual transmissions use a different interval, commonly around 50,000–60,000 miles, with earlier changes if conditions are harsh. Always follow the owner’s manual and consult a dealer to confirm the exact schedule and fluid type for your car.

Is it better to flush or just change transmission fluid?

Flushed is better, it replaces all of the fluid. Drain and refill does not get the old fluid from the torque converter, coolers and cooler hoses.

What is the transmission issue on a 2013 Dodge Dart?

Common 2013 Dodge Dart transmission problems include a recall for a faulty shifter cable bushing that can cause the transmission to detach from the shift lever, leading to potential roll-away. Other issues include the dual-clutch automatic transmission unexpectedly shifting into neutral or going into limp mode, which can be caused by a faulty transmission control module (TCM) bracket, sensors, or internal component failures. 
This video explains the problems with the 2013 Dodge Dart transmission and recalls: 56sOBD InsightsYouTube · Jan 23, 2024
Common problems and causes

• Shifter cable detachment: A recall was issued for vehicles with a six-speed automatic transmission because the shifter cable bushing can deteriorate and detach from the transmission. 
  • Symptoms: The gear shift lever may feel loose, and the car could roll away even if it's in "Park". 
• Unexpectedly shifting into neutral: Some 2013-2015 models with a dual dry-clutch transmission were recalled because a bracket could put too much force on the transmission control module (TCM), causing it to unexpectedly shift into neutral. 
  • Symptoms: The car may lose power and momentarily disable the accelerator, though the engine remains on. 
• Limp mode or "gear unavailable": Owners have reported the car entering limp mode, and the dashboard displaying "service transmission" or "gear unavailable," often after 10-15 minutes of driving. 
  • Causes: This can be linked to the TCM, internal sensors (like the transmission range sensor or vehicle speed sensor), or other electrical issues. 
• No-start conditions: A faulty transmission range sensor or a transmission control module issue can prevent the car from starting. 
  • Symptoms: The car may not crank, or the dashboard may show an "invalid" gear selection. 
• Grinding noises and slipping: Some owners have reported grinding noises and the transmission slipping in various gears. 

What to do

• Check for recalls: Confirm if your vehicle is subject to any recalls by checking the NHTSA website or contacting a Dodge dealer. The shifter cable bushing recall is a high-priority issue, and dealers will perform the repair for free. 
• Consult a mechanic: If you experience any transmission issues, have a qualified mechanic diagnose the problem. They can check for trouble codes and diagnose specific components like the TCM, sensors, or internal transmission parts. 
• Regular maintenance: Ensure your transmission fluid is clean and at the correct level. Regular maintenance can help prevent some transmission problems from occurring. 

Is 100,000 miles too late to change transmission fluid?

No, it is not bad to change transmission fluid after 100,000 miles, and in most cases, it's recommended, especially if you've never done it before. The main risk is that old, dirty fluid can contain debris that might clog up passages if flushed aggressively, but this can be mitigated by opting for a "drain and fill" method instead of a full-system flush, which is safer for high-mileage transmissions. Always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your vehicle. 
This video explains the potential risks and benefits of changing transmission fluid in a high-mileage vehicle: 58sChrisFixYouTube · Apr 8, 2016
Why it's a good idea to change the fluid

• Protects the transmission: Over time, transmission fluid degrades due to heat and usage, losing its ability to lubricate and cool the transmission. 
• Removes contaminants: The fluid circulates and picks up clutch material and other debris. Changing it removes these contaminants that can cause sludge buildup and clogs. 
• Prevents overheating: Clean fluid helps prevent the transmission from overheating, which can shorten its lifespan. 

How to change it safely

• Check the owner's manual: The manual is the most accurate source for your specific vehicle's recommended interval. 
• Choose "drain and fill": This method involves draining the old fluid and replacing it with new fluid, which is safer for high-mileage transmissions than a complete system flush. A full flush can dislodge a large amount of debris at once, which could be problematic. 
• Consult a professional: If you're unsure or if the fluid looks very dark, burnt, or contains metal flakes, it is best to have a qualified mechanic assess the transmission and perform the service. They can determine if a drain-and-fill is appropriate or if other services are needed. 

This video demonstrates how to perform a transmission fluid change: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 8, 2021
When to be extra cautious

• If you have a history of neglect: If your car has never had its transmission fluid changed, the fluid is likely very dirty. A gradual drain and fill is the recommended approach to minimize risk. 
• If the transmission is already showing issues: If you are already experiencing shifting problems, trouble shifting gears, or strange noises, changing the fluid may not fix the problem and could even make it worse, so it's best to have a mechanic inspect it first. 

Does a 2013 Dodge Dart have a transmission filter?

And it's an ATL. And here's a a spec sheet on it it meets and exceeds all the specifications for the Chrysler SP4.