What kind of transmission fluid does a 2016 Dodge Challenger take?
The 2016 Challenger uses different transmission fluids depending on which transmission you have: the 8-speed automatic requires Mopar ATF+4, while the 6-speed manual Tremec TR-6060 uses a manual transmission fluid such as Tremec MTF or a high-quality 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil.
Transmission options in the 2016 Challenger
Automatic 8-speed (ZF 8HP70)
For the 8-speed automatic, the official specification from FCA/Chrysler centers on a single fluid option. Use the following fluid for the 8HP70 transmission:
- Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Plus Four)
Note: Always double-check the owner’s manual or a dealer service bulletin for your exact VIN, as guidance can vary by model year or specific vehicle configuration.
Manual 6-speed Tremec TR-6060
The 6-speed manual in the Challenger uses a different fluid type from the automatic. The recommended options are:
- Tremec MTF (manual transmission fluid) designed for the TR-6060
- Alternatively, a high-quality 75W-90 GL-4 synthetic gear oil can be used if approved by Tremec/FCA for your vehicle
As with the automatic, confirm with the owner’s manual or a dealership if you plan to use a substitute fluid, since Tremec and FCA provide specific guidance for your exact transmission code and production date.
Practical tips for fluid changes
When preparing to change transmission fluid, ensure you select the correct specification for your transmission type and model year. Using the wrong fluid can affect shifting performance and long-term reliability. If you’re unsure which transmission your Challenger has, you can:
- Check the vehicle’s VIN and window sticker for the original transmission code
- Refer to the owner’s manual under the maintenance or fluids section
- Ask a Dodge/FCA service advisor to confirm the correct fluid for your exact car
Having the right fluid is essential for performance and longevity, particularly in high-performance variants of the Challenger.
Summary
In short, a 2016 Dodge Challenger with an 8-speed automatic uses Mopar ATF+4, while a 6-speed manual Tremec TR-6060 typically requires Tremec MTF or a high-quality 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil. Always verify with your owner's manual or a Chrysler dealer to ensure you have the exact specification for your vehicle’s transmission code and production date.
What transmission fluid for 6R140?
The correct fluid for a 6R140 transmission is MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid, such as the Motorcraft XT-10-QLVC fluid. Using any other fluid can damage the transmission. Always use a genuine or high-quality fluid that meets the MERCON LV specification.
This video shows the process of changing the fluid in a 6R140 transmission: 55sFordTechMakulocoYouTube · Apr 17, 2017
- Specific Fluid: Use MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid, specified as Motorcraft XT-10-QLVC.
- Why it's important: Ford specifically requires this fluid for the 6R140 transmission to ensure proper operation and prevent damage.
- Other fluids: Do not use other fluids, such as DEXRON III/MERCON, as they are not compatible and can cause damage, according to the Ford service manual and parts suppliers.
What transmission fluid does Dodge recommend?
The correct Dodge transmission fluid depends on your vehicle's specific transmission, but ATF+4 is the most common recommendation for many Chrysler/Dodge automatic transmissions, while other models require fluids like ZF Lifeguardfluid8 for 8-speed transmissions or Aisin T-IV/JWS 3309 for certain Aisin transmissions. Always check your owner's manual or a parts list for the precise fluid type and OEM part number for your vehicle.
Common transmission fluid types for Dodge vehicles
- ATF+4: This is the standard fluid for many Chrysler and Dodge automatic transmissions, including 5-speed models. It is a full synthetic fluid that is also backward-compatible for vehicles that originally used ATF+, ATF+2, or ATF+3.
- ZF Lifeguardfluid8: Specifically required for Dodge models equipped with the 8-speed automatic transmission, such as some Challenger and Charger models.
- Aisin T-IV / JWS 3309: This fluid is used in Dodge and Ram trucks with 6-speed Aisin automatic transmissions, such as the AS68RC, AS66RC, or AS69RC.
- Dexron VI: While not the primary fluid for most Dodge vehicles, this is a modern, full-synthetic fluid that can be used in older models that specified Dexron III, and is a modern alternative for many other transmissions.
How to find the right fluid for your vehicle
- Consult your owner's manual: The most reliable way to determine the correct fluid is to check your owner's manual, which will specify the exact type and any necessary OEM part numbers.
- Identify the transmission type: Knowing your vehicle's specific transmission (e.g., 5-speed automatic, 8-speed, 6-speed Aisin) will help narrow down the options.
- Look for the specification: The manual will also state the official specification required (e.g., MS-9602 for ATF+4).
What happens if you use ATF instead of CVT fluid?
Putting automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a continuously variable transmission (CVT) can cause serious damage, including slipping, excessive wear, poor performance, and eventual failure. This is because CVT fluid has specific friction-modifying properties crucial for the belt and pulleys to grip properly, while ATF has different characteristics and can cause the belt to slip. If you mistakenly use ATF, you should immediately have the transmission professionally flushed and refilled with the correct CVT fluid to prevent long-term damage.
This video explains what happens when you put ATF in a CVT transmission: 40sCounty Office LawYouTube · Oct 26, 2024
Why this is a problem
- Wrong friction: CVT fluid is engineered with specific friction modifiers to ensure the belt grips the pulleys. ATF contains different additives that reduce friction, causing the belt to slip.
- Slipping and wear: This slipping leads to inefficient power transfer, poor performance, and significant wear on the transmission's internal components.
- Incorrect viscosity: CVT fluid is formulated to maintain a consistent viscosity across a wider temperature range than ATF, which is essential for the continuous operation of the transmission.
- Damage progression: You may not notice the damage immediately, but the transmission will degrade over time, potentially leading to a complete failure.
What to do if this happens
- Stop driving immediately: Do not continue to drive the vehicle, as this will worsen the damage.
- Get a professional flush: A complete transmission flush is necessary to remove all traces of the incorrect fluid.
- Refill with the correct fluid: After the flush, refill the transmission with the exact CVT fluid specified by the manufacturer.
- Consider a professional check: A qualified mechanic should inspect the transmission to assess for any existing damage.
This video explains what to do if you put ATF in a CVT transmission: 51sKDF channelYouTube · Sep 7, 2022
What kind of transmission fluid does a 2016 Challenger take?
The correct Dodge Challenger transmission fluid can be identified as Mopar 8&9 Speed ATF or equivalent, also known by Chrysler Mopar 68218925AA, 68218925AB, 68339073AA, 668157995AA, or 68157995AB transmission fluid part numbers.
