What kind of oil does a Dodge take?
There isn’t a single oil specification for every Dodge vehicle. The correct oil depends on the specific model, engine type, and year. Most modern Dodges use synthetic multi-viscosity oil in the 0W-20 or 5W-20 range, while some older engines and diesel variants require different viscosities. Always verify with the owner's manual or the vehicle’s service label.
Understanding how oil requirements vary across Dodge models
The Dodge lineup includes passenger cars, performance models, and trucks with a range of engines and emission technologies. Because oil viscosity and specifications can change with year and engine design, a one-size-fits-all answer isn’t possible. This section explains why the answer can vary and how to find the exact requirement for your vehicle.
To help you navigate common possibilities, the following list outlines typical oil-viscosity patterns you may encounter across Dodge models.
- Modern gasoline engines (such as 3.6L Pentastar and many Hemi variants) commonly require a synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20 oil, depending on the exact engine and model year.
- Older gasoline engines (roughly pre-2010s) often call for 5W-30 or 10W-30, with climate and regional considerations influencing the choice.
- Diesel engines found in some Dodge vehicles (notably Ram trucks with Cummins) typically use heavier oils such as 5W-40 or 15W-40 that meet diesel-specific specifications.
Conclusion: The precise oil you should use is engine- and year-specific. Always confirm the exact viscosity and specification for your Dodge from authoritative sources.
How to verify the exact oil specification for your Dodge
Use these steps to confirm the exact oil requirements for your vehicle before purchasing oil or scheduling service.
- Consult the owner's manual for the recommended viscosity and any required specifications (API/ILSAC, and any Mopar-specific notes).
- Check under-hood labels or the oil-fill cap for the advised grade and specification.
- Enter your VIN on Dodge’s official resources or the dealership service database to retrieve the exact oil spec for your engine.
- When in doubt, contact a dealership service department or a certified technician to verify the correct oil for your model and year.
Following the manufacturer’s guidance helps protect engine performance, maintain warranty coverage, and optimize longevity and efficiency.
Notes by engine family and model year
For a quick reference, here are broad tendencies by engine family, with the caveat that exact grades can change by year and market. Always verify with your VIN-driven specification.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 and many modern Hemi engines: commonly use synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20.
- Older Dodge gasoline engines (pre‑2010s): often require 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on climate and application.
- Diesel variants (such as certain Ram diesel offerings): typically require diesel-grade oil like 5W-40 or 15W-40 with diesel specifications.
In practice, the exact oil specification will be listed in the owner’s manual and on the under-hood label, so those sources should be your primary references whenever you service your Dodge.
Summary: There is no universal oil for all Dodge vehicles. Oil type and viscosity are dictated by engine design, year, and climate. Always rely on the official owner’s manual, under-hood labels, or a Dodge dealership to confirm the precise specification for your specific vehicle. Proper oil choice supports performance, efficiency, and warranty protection.
What kind of oil does a 2013 Dodge Ram take?
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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Does Dodge use synthetic oil?
Again, there's no manufacturer we're aware of that makes this recommendation. Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Corvette, Volkswagen, Hyundai and many other manufacturers' vehicles come from the factory with synthetic oil. Myth: Using a synthetic oil voids a car's warranty.
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 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.
