What kind of oil goes in a Dodge Dart?
The Dodge Dart generally uses synthetic engine oil in the 5W-20 to 5W-30 range, depending on the engine and year. Always check the owner’s manual or the under-hood label for the exact specification.
Engine options and oil requirements
The Dart lineup included two main gasoline engines during its production run: the 2.4L Tigershark I4 and the 1.4L MultiAir Turbo. Each has its own oil guidelines, so the right choice varies by model year and engine.
2.4L Tigershark I4 (2013–2016)
Oil recommendations for this engine typically fall within the 5W-20 to 5W-30 range, and both synthetic-blend and full-synthetic oils are acceptable depending on climate and driving conditions. Always follow the spec listed in the manual and on the cap/dipstick.
- 5W-20 synthetic-blend or full synthetic oil (API SN/ILSAC GF-5 or newer)
- 5W-30 synthetic oil (when the manual specifies it for your region or driving conditions)
In practice, most owners use a 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic during regular service intervals, with the exact grade tied to your climate and the manual’s guidance.
1.4L MultiAir Turbo (2013–2016)
This turbocharged engine generally requires a higher-quality synthetic oil, commonly 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on the market and the owner’s manual. Using the recommended grade helps with turbo stability and emission controls.
- 5W-30 full synthetic oil
- 5W-40 full synthetic oil (if specified by the manual or for hot climates)
Always confirm the exact grade for your Dart’s year and market, as turbo applications can differ by region and model year.
How to ensure you’re using the right oil
To avoid missteps, rely on official documentation and labels. The best practice is to follow the exact specification printed in the owner’s manual and on the hood/engine bay sticker, which specify the correct viscosity, API service level, and any regional requirements.
Practical maintenance tips
- Use a high-quality motor oil that meets or exceeds the API service classification recommended by Chrysler/Fiat for the Dart’s engine.
- Consider synthetic oil for longer drain intervals and better protection under load, unless your manual calls for a conventional or synthetic-blend oil.
- Check the oil level regularly and change the filter with every oil change to maintain engine health.
Common questions in brief
For the two engines covered above, the most important step is to verify the exact grade in the manual, since small differences by year or market can change the recommended viscosity. In general, 5W-20 and 5W-30 cover most Dart models, with 5W-40 as an alternative for turbo engines in certain regions.
Summary
The Dodge Dart’s oil needs vary by engine and year, but most versions run on synthetic oils in the 5W-20 to 5W-30 range, with turbo models sometimes calling for 5W-30 or 5W-40. Always rely on the official manual or under-hood labeling to confirm the exact grade, capacity, and service intervals for your specific Dart configuration.
