What kind of oil does a SXT charger take?
The Dodge Charger SXT typically uses synthetic motor oil, most often in the 0W-20 or 5W-20 range. Always confirm the exact specification for your year and engine in the owner's manual.
While the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is the most common SXT engine, some configurations may use a different setup such as a V8 option. The following guide covers the main possibilities and how to verify the correct oil for your vehicle.
Engine options and oil requirements
Use this as a reference for the most common Charger SXT configurations. Always verify with the manual for your exact year and engine.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 (the typical SXT engine): Synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20, approved by Mopar (MS-6395) or API SN/ILSAC GF-5. Oil capacity is about 5 quarts with a filter.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 (optional in higher trims or special packages): Synthetic 5W-20 (often also MS-6395). Oil capacity is about 7 quarts with a filter.
In practice, the 0W-20 grade is favored for modern Pentastar engines due to fuel economy and cold-start performance, with 5W-20 as a compatible alternative when the 0W-20 option isn’t available or climate conditions warrant it.
How to confirm the right oil for your specific car
To ensure you use the correct oil, follow these checks before purchasing or performing an oil change:
- Consult the owner's manual or the service sticker in the engine bay for the recommended viscosity (0W-20 or 5W-20) and specification (Mopar MS-6395 or API SN/ILSAC GF-5).
- Identify your exact engine by checking the engine code or VIN, since the 3.6L Pentastar and the 5.7L Hemi have different oil requirements.
- Note the oil capacity for your engine: roughly 5 quarts for the 3.6L model and about 7 quarts for the 5.7L model, both with a filter change.
Always use a synthetic oil that meets Mopar MS-6395 specification or the API SN/ILSAC GF-5 standard, and prefer the weight your manual lists (0W-20 likely, with 5W-20 as an acceptable alternative in some climates).
Practical tips for maintenance
Regular oil changes based on mileage or time, using the correct weight and specification, help keep the SXT’s engine performing reliably. If you’re unsure about which engine your car has, or if you inherited a used vehicle, a quick check with a dealer or a trusted mechanic can confirm the exact oil requirements.
Summary
For the typical Dodge Charger SXT, aim for synthetic oil in the 0W-20 or 5W-20 range, following the exact specification and capacity listed in your owner’s manual. The 3.6L Pentastar is the most common engine in SXT models, but some configurations may use the 5.7L Hemi, which requires the corresponding oil grade. When in doubt, verify with the manual or a dealer to ensure you’re using the correct oil for your year and engine.
