What kind of oil does a Dodge Caravan take?

Most Dodge Caravans built in the last decade use 5W-20 engine oil, typically a synthetic blend or full synthetic. However, the exact grade and specification depend on the model year and engine. Always verify with the owner's manual or the under-hood label.

Understanding the correct oil for your Caravan matters because the engine architecture changed across generations, and oil specifications have evolved over time. This guide explains how to determine the right oil for your specific Caravan and what you’re likely to encounter when you shop for oil.

How to determine the right oil for your Caravan

To identify the exact specification for your Caravan, follow these steps:

• Identify your model year and engine type (for example, 3.3L/3.8L V6, or newer 3.6L Pentastar) — this information is on the owner's manual or the vehicle identification label.


• Check the oil recommendation on the owner’s manual’s specifications page or the oil fill cap/under-hood sticker for viscosity (such as 5W-20) and API/ILSAC specifications (such as API SP, ILSAC GF-5 or newer).


• Note the engine’s required oil type (synthetic, synthetic blend, or conventional) and the typical capacity so you know how much to buy.


• Follow the climate guidance in the manual—some engines have different recommendations for cold or hot climates.

Engine and year are the biggest variables

The Dodge Caravan has used several engines over its production life. While newer models tend to favor 5W-20, older generations may specify 5W-30 or another grade depending on the engine and climate. Always confirm with the official documentation for your exact vehicle.

In practice, starting with 5W-20 is a safe default for many Caravans, especially those built in the last 10–15 years, but deviations exist by engine and region.

Common oil grades you’ll encounter

Below is a practical snapshot of what you’re likely to see assigned to Dodge Caravans, noting that the exact requirement can differ by engine and year. Always cross-check with the manual or sticker on the vehicle.

• 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic — the most common specification for many modern Caravans.


• 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic — sometimes recommended for older engines or certain climates; verify if your engine supports it.


• API SP or newer (with ILSAC GF-5 or newer) certification — ensure the oil meets current standards.

These options cover the majority of Dodge Caravan models, but your exact grade and spec must be confirmed from authoritative sources for your specific year and engine.

Practical tips for changing the oil

Use these tips to ensure you choose the right oil and complete a proper oil change.

• Consult the owner's manual or the under-hood oil fill label to confirm viscosity, API specification, and capacity.


• Choose a quality oil: synthetic blend is typically acceptable and offers better protection over conventional oil; full synthetic provides the highest protection and performance.


• Replace the oil filter with a correct fit and a compatible filter for your engine; the filter type often matches the engine generation.


• Dispose of used oil properly and do not mix used oil from different vehicles; if you’re unsure, have a professional perform the oil change.

Following these steps helps ensure your Caravan’s engine stays protected and maintains optimal performance across its service life.

Summary

In short, the Dodge Caravan generally uses 5W-20 engine oil as the default for modern engines, with variations depending on the exact year and engine. Always verify the precise requirement from the owner's manual or the vehicle’s under-hood label, and choose a quality oil (synthetic blend or full synthetic) that meets API SP or newer specifications. If you’re uncertain, consult a dealer or a trusted mechanic to confirm the correct grade, capacity, and service intervals for your specific Caravan.

What type of oil does my Dodge Caravan take?

The oil type for a Dodge Caravan depends on the model year and engine, but most recent models with the 3.6L V6 engine use SAE 5W-20 full synthetic or conventional oil that meets the Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Older models may require different weights like 5W-30 or 10W-30. Always check the owner's manual or the oil filler cap for the specific recommendation for your vehicle. 
For most 2008-2020 Dodge Grand Caravans

• Oil Weight: 5W-20
• Composition: Full synthetic or conventional
• Specification: Look for oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 6 quarts, including the filter (check your owner's manual for the exact amount) 

For older models (e.g., 2004-2007)

• Oil Weight: 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on the specific model and engine
• Composition: Conventional or synthetic blend 

How to find the correct oil for your specific vehicle

• Check the oil filler cap: The cap usually has the recommended oil weight printed on it. 
• Consult the owner's manual: This is the most accurate source for your vehicle's oil specifications. 
• Look for the Chrysler MS-6395 specification: Many brands will list this on the bottle if the oil is compatible with your engine. 

What kind of oil does a 2002 Dodge Caravan take?

The recommended oil for a 2002 Dodge Caravan is SAE 5W-30. For temperatures below $38^\circ$C, 5W-30 is the preferred viscosity, though 10W-30 is acceptable for temperatures above $-18^\circ$C. The caravan holds a capacity of 5 quarts with a filter change. 
Oil type:

• For most conditions: Use SAE 5W-30.
• For temperatures below $38^\circ$C ($100^\circ$F): SAE 5W-30 is the preferred choice.
• For temperatures above $-18^\circ$C ($0^\circ$F): SAE 10W-30 can be used. 

Oil capacity:

• 5 quarts (with filter) . 

What kind of oil does a 2010 Dodge Caravan take?

5W-20
Notes: Conventional high mileage. 5W-20.

What kind of oil does a 2009 Dodge Caravan take?

The correct oil for a 2009 Dodge Caravan is 5W-20 viscosity grade motor oil for the 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines. The 4.0L V6 engine requires 10W-30 oil, and the 3.6L V6 engine in 2011-2020 models can use either 5W-20 or 5W-30. The 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines require approximately 5 quarts of oil. 
2009 Dodge Caravan oil type

• For 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines: Use SAE 5W-20. 
• For 4.0L V6 engine: Use SAE 10W-30. 
• Engine capacity: Approximately 5 quarts for 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines when changing the filter. 

What to consider

• Check your specific engine: Always verify the engine size in your vehicle to ensure you have the correct oil type. 
• Full synthetic or conventional: You can use either full synthetic or conventional 5W-20 oil, but synthetic oil generally provides better protection and performance, especially in high or low temperatures. 
• High-mileage options: If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles, consider using a high-mileage oil formula, which can help prevent leaks and sludge.