What kind of oil does a 5.7 Hemi Durango take?
The Durango with a 5.7 Hemi typically uses 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, with a fill of about 7 quarts per change. In hotter climates or as specified by the owner's manual, 5W-30 can be used as an alternative; always verify the exact specification on your vehicle’s under-hood label and in the manual.
Oil specifications for the 5.7 Hemi
This section outlines the standard oil weight, type, and capacity commonly recommended for the Durango’s 5.7 Hemi. The exact spec can vary by model year and market, so use this as a guide and confirm with your manual.
- Grade: 5W-20 is the standard recommendation for most 5.7 Hemi Durangos.
- Alternative: 5W-30 may be used in hot climates or if your owner’s manual specifies it.
- Oil type: Synthetic or synthetic-blend oils are preferred; conventional oil is typically not recommended for modern engines.
- Capacity: About 7 quarts of oil, plus a filter (roughly 6.5–7 quarts depending on year and filter choice).
Understanding these guidelines helps ensure proper lubrication and compliance with emissions and fuel-economy targets.
How to verify the exact specification for your Durango
Because details can vary by year, trim, and market, check your vehicle’s documentation and labels to confirm the precise grade and capacity.
- Owner’s manual: Look up the maintenance section for oil viscosity and capacity recommendations.
- Under-hood label: The oil filler cap or nearby sticker often lists the required viscosity (for example, 5W-20) and the engine oil capacity.
- VIN-specific resources: Use the VIN on Mopar’s site or with a dealer to pull the exact spec for your year/model.
When in doubt, contact a Dodge/Chrysler dealer or a trusted mechanic to confirm the correct oil specification for your specific Durango model year.
What the numbers mean
The numbers in oil grades like 5W-20 describe viscosity characteristics. The first number (5) indicates viscosity at cold temperatures (W stands for winter), while the second number (20) shows viscosity at typical engine operating temperatures. A 5W-20 oil is thinner when cold and provides quicker lubrication on startup, which supports fuel economy and emissions goals. A 5W-30 oil is slightly thicker at operating temperature, offering different protection characteristics in hotter conditions or under heavy loads. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended grade for your exact vehicle.
Additional considerations
Use high-quality oil meeting current API and ILSAC standards. For newer vehicles, many manufacturers require API SP or SN and ILSAC GF-6. Always follow the latest official guidance. For extreme climates, towing, or high-load driving, you may opt for a heavier grade within the allowed range, but do so only after consulting the manual.
Summary
The 5.7 Hemi Durango generally calls for 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, with a typical fill of about 7 quarts. In some conditions, 5W-30 is an acceptable alternative if listed in the manual. Always verify the exact specification on the under-hood label and in the owner’s manual for your specific year and market, and use a quality oil that meets current standards.
