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What oil does a 5.7 Hemi Magnum take?

The 5.7 Hemi Magnum typically uses 5W-20 synthetic motor oil as the standard specification, with 5W-30 permitted in hot climates or under severe service according to the owner's manual. Always verify the exact requirement for your year and model.


Core Requirements for the 5.7 Hemi Magnum


Engine oil specifications can shift across model years and markets. The following guidelines reflect common practice for many 5.7 Hemi engines, but the definitive source remains the vehicle’s owner's manual or dealership.


Before listing the typical options, note that the oil must meet Chrysler's approved specifications and be suitable for the engine's operating temperature range.



  • 5W-20 synthetic motor oil (standard for most modern 5.7 Hemi applications)

  • 5W-30 synthetic motor oil (acceptable in hot climates or during severe service if specified by the manual)

  • Oil meeting API SP or newer and ILSAC GF-6/GF-5 specifications; Chrysler MS-6395 is commonly cited as the OEM standard for these engines

  • Full synthetic oils are preferred for protection and lifespan; synthetic-blend acceptable if a full synthetic is unavailable


In summary, default to 5W-20 synthetic and ensure the oil meets the MS-6395/API SP/GF-6 standards; use 5W-30 only when your manual allows it and you operate in conditions that warrant the thicker grade.


Capacity and Change Intervals


Understanding the engine's capacity and the frequency of changes helps plan maintenance. Use the following as a general guide, but always confirm with your manual or dealer for your exact year, model and any on-board oil-life monitor recommendations.



  • Oil capacity: Approximately 7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter; some variants may vary slightly by year or configuration

  • Change interval: With synthetic oil and in normal driving, many models are designed to go longer between changes (often 7,500–10,000 miles or according to the oil life monitor); severe service or extreme conditions typically reduce intervals to about 3,000–5,000 miles

  • Filters: Use a quality oil filter (OEM Mopar or equivalent) designed for the 5.7 Hemi


Bottom line: Use the right oil quantity, follow the change interval recommended by the vehicle’s on-board system or manual, and select a filter that matches the engine’s specifications.


Year-by-Year Nuances


General guidance across model years


Since Chrysler updated oil specifications over time, the core advice remains: use 5W-20 synthetic as the baseline, with 5W-30 as an alternative only if the manual permits. Always consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for the exact spec for your year, trim, and climate.


Summary


For most 5.7 Hemi Magnum engines, 5W-20 synthetic motor oil is the standard. 5W-30 can be used in hot climates or under certain service conditions as allowed by the owner's manual. Oil must meet API SP and ILSAC GF-6/GF-5 specifications, often with Mopar MS-6395 as the OEM standard. The engine holds roughly 7 quarts of oil and you should follow the vehicle’s oil-life monitor or manual for change intervals, typically longer with synthetic oil and shorter under severe conditions. Always verify the exact specification for your year and model to avoid mismatches.

Can you put 5W-30 in a 5.7 Hemi?


You can use 5W-30 oil in a 5.7L Hemi, especially in older models or if you experience "hemi tick," as it can provide better lubrication for the lifters. However, the manufacturer typically recommends 5W-20 or 0W-20 for newer models, and using a different viscosity may affect the operation of the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) and the engine's performance or fuel economy. Always check your owner's manual or the oil cap to confirm the specific recommendation for your vehicle year to ensure you don't void your warranty or cause potential engine issues. 
Potential benefits of using 5W-30

  • Reduces "hemi tick": Some users report that switching to a 5W-30 oil has helped reduce or eliminate the clicking or ticking sound associated with the lifters, says Reddit users and JustAnswer.
  • Improved lubrication: The thicker oil at operating temperature can provide a more robust oil film for the valvetrain, particularly on older engines. 

Potential downsides of using 5W-30
  • MDS and lifter issues: Newer engines with MDS were designed with 5W-20 or 0W-20 in mind. Using a thicker oil can cause hesitation or improper operation of the system and its solenoids. 
  • Reduced fuel economy: Thicker oil can lead to slightly reduced fuel economy compared to the manufacturer's recommended thinner oil. 
  • Warranty concerns: Using an oil not specified in your owner's manual could potentially void your engine's warranty. 

Recommendation
  • For newer vehicles (under warranty): Stick with the manufacturer's specified oil viscosity (usually 5W-20 or 0W-20) found on the oil cap and in the owner's manual. 
  • For older vehicles or those out of warranty: Using a high-quality 5W-30 synthetic oil is a popular and often effective solution for reducing "hemi tick". 
  • If you're unsure: Check your owner's manual or oil cap for the specific recommendation. When in doubt, especially if under warranty, it is always safest to use the oil type specified by the manufacturer. 



What oil does a Dodge Magnum take?


Mobil 1 – Extended Performance 5W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Prevents Leaks, 5 Quart (Part No. 15020)



What oil is recommended for a 5.7 Hemi?


The recommended oil for a 5.7L Hemi engine is SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil, which meets the manufacturer's MS-6395 specification. However, newer models may use SAE 0W-20, so always check the owner's manual or the oil filler cap for the exact recommendation for your specific vehicle year and model. 
Key recommendations

  • Oil weight: Most 5.7L Hemi engines require 5W-20. Some newer models, like the 2025 Dodge Durango, have switched to 0W-20. Always verify this information for your specific vehicle. 
  • Oil type: Use full synthetic oil for the best protection. 
  • Specification: Ensure the oil meets the manufacturer's standard, such as the MS-6395 specification. 
  • Verification: The best way to know for sure is to check your vehicle's owner's manual or the oil filler cap, which will state the correct oil viscosity. 
  • For high-performance Hemi engines: Some high-performance Hemi engines may have different recommendations, such as 0W-40, so consult the specific manual for those engines. 



How much oil does a 5.7 Hemi Magnum take?


7 quarts
7 quarts (with filter).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.