What kind of brake fluid does a Dodge Charger take?

The Dodge Charger in most modern configurations uses DOT 4 brake fluid (glycol-based, synthetic) as the standard. Always verify the exact specification for your year and trim in the owner's manual or on the reservoir cap.

Standard guidance across Charger generations

As the Charger evolved from its earlier generations to current models, the recommended brake-fluid type has remained within the glycol-based family, with DOT 4 being the most common baseline. Some trims or years may permit a higher-performance option, such as DOT 5.1, but silicone-based DOT 5 is generally not used in modern Chargers with ABS. The safest approach is to follow the manual or the reservoir cap label exactly.

Common fluid labels you might see

Below is a quick guide to the fluid options you may encounter when servicing a Charger. This list highlights typical practice, but always confirm with the car’s documentation.

• DOT 4 brake fluid (glycol-based, synthetic) — standard for most modern Chargers; good balance of performance and availability.


• DOT 5.1 brake fluid (glycol-based, high boiling point) — acceptable in some trims if the manual allows; designed for higher-performance systems without silicone.


• DOT 3 brake fluid (older glycol-based fluid) — generally not recommended for newer Chargers equipped with ABS; may be acceptable only in very old or specific vintage configurations.


• DOT 5 silicone brake fluid — not compatible with the typical ABS and seal materials used in modern Chargers; usually not recommended.

In practice, DOT 4 is the default choice for most current Chargers, with DOT 5.1 available only if your manual explicitly allows it. Silicone-based DOT 5 is not used in standard Dodge brake systems.

How to confirm the correct specification for your Charger

To avoid mistakes, verify the exact specification for your vehicle. The following steps help ensure you select the correct fluid for your specific model year and brake system.

1. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended brake-fluid specification (DOT number and any performance notes).


2. Look at the brake-fluid reservoir cap or nearby label; it often lists the required fluid type (for example, "DOT 4" or "DOT 4+").


3. Note your Charger’s year, trim level, and brake-system details (some high-performance trims may have different requirements).


4. If still unsure, consult a certified mechanic or your local Dodge/Mopar dealer for definitive guidance.

When in doubt, avoid mixing different brake-fluid types and never substitute without confirming compatibility. Using an incorrect fluid can compromise braking performance and damage seals.

Maintenance tips and best practices

Proper handling and routine maintenance help maintain braking performance and fluid integrity over time. Consider these best practices.

• Use only the recommended DOT grade and avoid mixing fluids of different types.


• Bleed and flush the system using the specified fluid if replacing fluid across the entire system or if the brake fluid appears dark or contaminated.


• Keep the reservoir cap clean and tight to prevent moisture ingress and contamination.


• Replace brake fluid at intervals suggested by Dodge for your model year (often every 2–3 years, but check the manual).

Following the manual’s guidance and using the correct fluid type protects ABS components and maintains braking performance across daily driving and performance variants.

Summary

For most contemporary Dodge Chargers, the recommended brake fluid is DOT 4 (glycol-based, synthetic). DOT 5.1 is a possible alternative if your manual allows it, while DOT 5 silicone is generally not suitable for these vehicles. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or reservoir cap, and follow proper maintenance procedures when servicing the braking system. Keeping to the prescribed fluid type helps preserve braking performance and system longevity.

Do I want DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid?

You should use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid based on your vehicle's manufacturer specifications, which can be found in your owner's manual. If your car requires DOT 3, you can upgrade to DOT 4 for its higher boiling point, which is beneficial for high-temperature braking or frequent use, but do not use DOT 3 if your car calls for DOT 4. 
When to use DOT 3

• Daily driving: Most standard cars and trucks use DOT 3 for moderate braking conditions. 
• If specified: Always use DOT 3 if it is the fluid specified by your vehicle's manufacturer. 

When to use DOT 4

• For higher performance: DOT 4 has higher boiling points, making it better for high-performance vehicles or situations where brakes are used frequently, like in hilly terrain or towing. 
• If specified: Some modern vehicles, especially those with ABS systems, may specifically require DOT 4. 
• Upgrading from DOT 3: If your car currently uses DOT 3, you can upgrade to DOT 4 for improved performance and a higher safety margin. The two are compatible and can be mixed, though it's generally recommended to use the higher-spec fluid if you have the option. 

Key differences

• Boiling points: DOT 4 has higher dry and wet boiling points than DOT 3, meaning it can withstand higher temperatures before it begins to boil and lose effectiveness. 
• Moisture absorption: Both fluids are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture over time, which lowers their boiling point. Because DOT 4 has a higher starting boiling point, it has more of a buffer before becoming a safety risk. 

Important considerations

• Check your manual: Always refer to your car's owner's manual for the correct brake fluid specification to ensure compatibility and prevent system damage. 
• Do not use lower-spec fluid: Never use a lower-spec fluid (like DOT 3) in a vehicle that requires a higher-spec fluid (like DOT 4). 
• Do not mix DOT 3 and DOT 5: While DOT 3 and DOT 4 are compatible, DOT 5 is silicone-based and should not be mixed with either glycol-based DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluids. 

Is it okay to mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid?

Yes, you can mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid, as they are chemically compatible, but you should never mix them with DOT 5. Mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 is acceptable because both are glycol-based. Adding DOT 4 to DOT 3 will lower its boiling point, while adding DOT 3 to DOT 4 will lower its boiling point. 
This video explains the differences between DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid and whether they can be mixed: 1mHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Dec 28, 2021
Compatibility and mixing

• DOT 3 and DOT 4: These are compatible and can be mixed without causing harm to the braking system. 
• DOT 3, 4, and 5.1: These are all compatible with each other and can be mixed. 
• DOT 5: This is silicone-based and is not compatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1. Mixing them will cause the system to fail. 

What to consider when mixing

• Boiling point: DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3. Mixing them will lower the overall boiling point of the fluid in your system. 
• Performance: If your car requires DOT 4 and you mix it with DOT 3, you will reduce the braking system's performance. 
• Best practice: It is best to check your vehicle's manual and use the specific DOT fluid recommended for your car. If you need to upgrade to DOT 4, it is best to completely flush the old DOT 3 fluid out first to get the full benefits of the DOT 4 fluid. 

This video explains what happens when you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids: 50sMotor MatchupsYouTube · Jan 2, 2024

What kind of brake fluid does a 2015 Dodge Charger take?

DOT 3 brake fluid
Prestone DOT 3 brake fluid.

What kind of brake fluid for Dodge Charger?

What are the most popular Brake Fluids for the Dodge Charger? DOT 3 Brake Fluid: Synthetic, Prevents Corrosion, Safe For ABS, Disc, Drum Brakes, 50k miles, 32 oz.