What kind of oil does a 02 Dodge Dakota 4.7 take?
The Dakota with the 4.7-liter V8 typically uses 5W-30 motor oil (conventional or synthetic blend) and holds about 6 quarts with a filter. Oils should meet the vehicle’s API specification and Chrysler MS-6395, so check your owner's manual or talk to a dealer to confirm climate-specific guidance.
Oil types and specifications for the 4.7L engine
The following details outline viscosity options, oil type, and capacity for the 2002 Dakota with the 4.7L engine. Use this as a reference when shopping for oil.
Choosing between conventional and synthetic
Oil can be conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic. For best protection and longer change intervals in many driving conditions, a synthetic blend or full synthetic that meets the vehicle’s specification is a solid option.
Before selecting a product, verify it meets the Chrysler/MS-6395 specification and an API rating appropriate for your engine.
- Viscosity: 5W-30 is the standard recommendation for most climates and operating conditions; 10W-30 can be used in very hot climates or on high-mileage engines as a practical alternative. 0W-30 is generally not required for this engine.
- Oil specification: Use oil that meets API service category SM (or higher) and Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Oils labeled API SN/GF-5 are typically compatible, but check the label to ensure MS-6395 compliance if you want to be strictly aligned with Chrysler requirements.
- Oil capacity: The 4.7L engine typically holds about 6 quarts (approximately 5.7 liters) of oil with a filter; plan to have around 6 quarts on hand and verify level with the dipstick after filling.
- Change interval: With conventional oil, many owners change every 3,000–5,000 miles; with synthetic blends or full synthetic, 5,000–7,500 miles or more can be acceptable under normal conditions, but follow your manual and driving conditions.
In practice, most 2002 Dodge Dakota 4.7L owners run 5W-30 oil, with 10W-30 as an option in hot climates or for older engines. Always confirm your specific vehicle’s requirements in the owner's manual or with a dealer for climate-specific guidance.
Practical tips for oil changes
When changing the oil, use a compatible filter and ensure the drain plug is properly torqued. After adding oil, recheck the level with the dipstick and run the engine briefly to circulate the oil before rechecking again.
Summary
For a 2002 Dodge Dakota with the 4.7L engine, the typical oil choice is 5W-30 (conventional or synthetic blend), with a capacity of about 6 quarts including the filter. Ensure the oil meets API service requirements and Chrysler MS-6395. In very hot climates, 10W-30 is a practical alternative, but always reference the owner's manual or a dealer for your exact operating conditions. Regular oil changes are essential to maintain engine longevity.
