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What kind of oil does a 2013 Dodge use?

There isn’t a single oil specification for every 2013 Dodge model. Most vehicles in that lineup commonly use SAE 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic-blend oil, but some engines and climates may call for 5W-30. Always confirm the exact specification in your owner's manual or on the hood/engine sticker.


In this article, we break down how to determine the correct oil for your specific 2013 Dodge and highlight the typical guidance for the two most common engine families found in that year. You’ll also get practical steps to verify the exact grade for your VIN.


Common engine families and typical guidance


Before the list, note that oil requirements vary by engine. The following guidance reflects the two most prevalent powerplants in 2013 Dodges and how their viscosity tends to be specified. Use this as a starting point, but always verify for your exact vehicle.



  • 3.6L Pentastar V6 — typically SAE 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend; climate and driving conditions can lead to a 5W-30 recommendation in some situations.

  • 5.7L Hemi V8 — commonly SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 depending on climate and model; synthetic oil is widely recommended for durability and performance.


These guidelines cover the most common engines you’ll encounter in 2013 Dodge automobiles, but exact specifications can vary by model and VIN. Always double-check the official specification for your car.


How to verify the exact oil specification for your car


To confirm the precise grade and spec for your vehicle, follow these steps:



  • Check the owner's manual for the exact viscosity and the oil specification (for example, API SN or newer, and ILSAC certification). The manual will list the approved oil grade for your engine.

  • Look under the hood for an oil-fill cap or a sticker on the engine bay that states the recommended viscosity and specification.

  • Identify your engine code and model using the VIN or by inspecting the engine label; this helps confirm the correct variant and its oil requirements.

  • If you’re still unsure, contact a Dodge dealer or a trusted mechanic who can pull the factory spec for your VIN and confirm the right oil for your engine.


Following these steps will help ensure you use the right oil for your 2013 Dodge and maintain engine health and warranty coverage.


Summary


In short, there isn’t a single oil type for all 2013 Dodges. The most common viscosity is 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend, but some engines and climates may require 5W-30. Verify the exact specification with your owner's manual, hood sticker, or dealership, especially since engine choices (such as the 3.6L Pentastar and 5.7L Hemi) can influence the recommended grade. Keeping to the correct oil type helps protect the engine and keeps performance consistent.

What oil is recommended for a Dodge?


Best Oil for Dodge Vehicles
For high-performance engines, full synthetic oil like SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30 is often recommended.



What kind of oil goes in a 2013 Dodge Ram?


The 2013 Dodge Ram's oil type depends on the engine, but most models with the 5.7L HEMI V8 or the 3.6L V6 require 5W-20 oil, while the 3.0L EcoDiesel needs 5W-40 synthetic blend oil. For gasoline engines, 5W-20 is the standard viscosity, but for the 3.6L V6 specifically, 0W-20 full synthetic is recommended by some sources. 

Engine Recommended Oil Type
3.6L V6 SAE 0W-20 full synthetic or SAE 5W-20
5.7L HEMI V8 SAE 5W-20 full synthetic
3.0L EcoDiesel SAE 5W-40 synthetic blend
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Can I use 5w30 instead of 5W20 in my Dodge?


You can run 5w-30 without issues. The owners manual used to "allow" it in older rams (2014 or so) and it was actually recommended in the 2500's when towing. If it's under warranty you may want to stick to what the cap says.



What kind of oil goes in a 2013 Dodge Charger?


The 2013 Dodge Charger requires SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil for the 3.6L V6 engine and SAE 0W-40 full synthetic oil for the 5.7L and 6.4L V8 engines. Always confirm the specific oil type and capacity in your owner's manual to ensure compatibility and proper engine performance, and look for oil that meets the Chrysler MS-6395 specification. 

Engine Oil Type Capacity (with filter)
3.6L V6 SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic 6 quarts
5.7L V8 SAE 0W-40 Full Synthetic 7 quarts
6.4L V8 SAE 0W-40 Full Synthetic 7 quarts
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Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.