What kind of oil does a 1998 Dodge Intrepid take?
The 1998 Dodge Intrepid typically requires 5W-30 motor oil, either conventional or synthetic, with 10W-30 as an acceptable alternative in hot climates. This article covers the standard oil grade, engine variations, and how to verify the exact specification for your car.
Engine options and oil guidance
The 1998 Dodge Intrepid was available with multiple V6 engines during its production run. The most common configuration for model year 1998 used a 2.7-liter V6, with larger-displacement V6 options appearing in later years. Regardless of the exact engine, Chrysler’s guidance for these cars has generally pointed to using a 5W-30 viscosity for normal operation, with either conventional or synthetic oil depending on your preference and maintenance plan. In very hot climates or under specific operating conditions, 10W-30 can be used as an alternative, but you should verify the exact specification for your engine code in the owner’s manual.
For older or high-mileage engines, some drivers opt for synthetic or synthetic-blend oils to improve cold-start performance or long-term wear protection, but the fundamental viscosity recommendation tends to remain within the 5W-30 range unless the manual specifies otherwise.
Oil grade options and climate considerations
Here are the common oil grade options and when to use them for the 1998 Intrepid.
- 5W-30 conventional motor oil — standard recommendation for typical driving in moderate climates.
- 5W-30 synthetic motor oil — acceptable if you prefer synthetic performance or longer change intervals.
- 10W-30 conventional motor oil — may be used in hotter climates or under certain operating conditions where a thicker oil at operating temperature is desired.
- Avoid using oils with a viscosity outside the recommended range or formulations not approved for the engine by Chrysler.
In practice, the most common choice remains 5W-30, with 10W-30 as a climate-based alternative. Always align your choice with the engine code and the climate described in the owner’s manual.
How to confirm the exact specification for your car
Because the Intrepid was produced with different engines and updates over its long run, the precise oil specification can vary by engine code and production date. The following steps help you confirm the correct oil for your specific vehicle:
- Check the owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity and API service category for your exact engine.
- Look under the hood for a label on the oil-fill cap or nearby on the engine that lists the preferred viscosity (for example, 5W-30) and whether synthetic oil is encouraged or required.
- Consult a Dodge/Chrysler dealer or a trusted independent shop with access to factory service information for your VIN.
By confirming the engine code and climate guidance, you can ensure you’re using the correct oil formulation for reliability and longevity in this aging vehicle.
Bottom line and practical guidance
For a typical 1998 Dodge Intrepid, 5W-30 motor oil is the standard recommendation, usable as conventional or synthetic oil. In very hot climates, 10W-30 can be used within the acceptable range. Always verify the exact specification for your engine by checking the owner’s manual or the under-hood label, and adhere to the oil-change intervals specified by Chrysler. Keeping the oil within the recommended viscosity range is important for an older engine to help prevent sludge and wear.
Summary
In summary, the 1998 Dodge Intrepid generally takes 5W-30 motor oil, with 10W-30 as a climate-based alternative. Confirm the precise specification for your car by consulting the owner’s manual, the under-hood oil cap label, or a dealer, especially given the vehicle’s age and potential engine variants. Regular oil changes remain a key part of maintaining this model’s longevity.
What kind of oil does a 3.7 L V6 take?
Capacities and Specifications - 3.7L
| Name | Specification |
|---|---|
| Recommended motor oil (U.S.): Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Premium Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W20-QSP | WSS-M2C945-A |
| Recommended motor oil (Canada): Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Super Premium Motor Oil CXO-5W20-LSP12 | WSS-M2C945-A |
What kind of oil does a 1999 Dodge Intrepid take?
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What kind of oil does a Dodge Intrepid take?
Mobil 1 – High Mileage 10W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Extends Engine Life, 5 Quart (Part No. 14995)
What kind of oil does a 4.0 V6 take?
Over to our computer you can see that this vehicle requires 5 quarts of 5W30 premium synthetic blend and for this vehicle we'll be using the Carquest Romeo 85372 oil filter let's get to it.
