What oil is recommended for a Dodge Grand Caravan?
For most Dodge Grand Caravan models, SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil (or a synthetic blend) is recommended. Always confirm the exact grade and capacity for your year and engine in the owner's manual or on the under-hood label.
Current-generation guidance: 3.6L Pentastar engine (2011–2020)
The most widely used setup in the Grand Caravan during its later years is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. Chrysler’s guidance for this engine centers on a specific viscosity, with a clear emphasis on modern oil formulations and service intervals.
Below is a concise reference for the most common Grand Caravan engine setup. Note: if your vehicle uses a different engine, check the owner's manual for the exact specification.
- Oil viscosity: SAE 5W-20
- Oil type: Synthetic or synthetic-blend motor oil
- Oil capacity: About 5 quarts (with filter)
- Oil specification: Oils should meet Chrysler MS-6395 (compatible with this engine’s requirements)
- Change interval: Usually guided by the vehicle’s oil life monitoring system, commonly up to about 7,500 miles under normal driving conditions
In summary, for the popular 3.6L Pentastar-powered Grand Caravan, the recommended oil is 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic-blend, with a roughly 5-quart capacity per change and intervals driven by the car’s oil-life monitor.
Older engines and how to verify the correct oil for your model
Earlier Dodge Grand Caravans used different V6 configurations, and some older model years may have alternate oil grades. Because specifications can vary by year and engine family, the safest course is to verify with official documents and labels on the vehicle.
To confirm the exact oil for your specific Grand Caravan, follow these steps:
- Consult the owner's manual for the recommended viscosity and specification for your engine and year.
- Check the oil fill cap or the under-hood sticker near the engine for grade and specification notes.
- Refer to the maintenance schedule or oil-life monitor guidance displayed in the vehicle’s instrument cluster.
- Use an oil that meets Chrysler MS-6395 (or the latest specification listed for your engine) and is appropriate for your climate and driving conditions.
Following these steps helps ensure you’re using the correct oil for your exact Grand Caravan configuration, especially if you own an older model with a non-Pentastar engine.
Maintenance tips and best practices
Regardless of engine year, consider these practical tips to maximize oil performance and engine longevity:
- Use quality brands that meet the specified 5W-20 viscosity and Chrysler MS-6395 standard.
- Prefer synthetic or synthetic-blend oils for better protection and longer service intervals when appropriate for your driving conditions.
- Replace the oil filter with a manufacturer-approved filter during every oil change.
- Follow the maintenance interval indicated by the oil life monitor or manual, adjusting for severe driving conditions (extreme heat, heavy towing, frequent short trips, etc.).
Sticking to the recommended oil grade and change intervals can help maintain engine performance and fuel efficiency, while supporting long-term reliability in a vehicle that has seen years of service.
Summary
The Dodge Grand Caravan’s most common and current recommendation centers on SAE 5W-20 motor oil, preferably synthetic or a synthetic blend, with a capacity around 5 quarts per change. Oils should meet Chrysler MS-6395 specifications, and change intervals are guided by the vehicle’s oil life monitor. For non-Pentastar or older engines, always check the owner’s manual and on-vehicle labels to confirm the exact grade and specification.
Maintaining the correct oil type and adhering to the recommended service intervals helps preserve engine health and performance across the Grand Caravan’s service life.
How much oil does a 3.6 Dodge Caravan take?
The oil capacity for a Dodge Grand Caravan with a 3.6L engine is 5.9 quarts (5.6 liters) when including the filter. It is recommended to use SAE 5W-20 motor oil, and after refilling, you should check the oil level to ensure it is correct.
- Oil capacity: 5.9 quarts (5.6 liters) with a filter change.
- Recommended oil viscosity: SAE 5W-20.
- After refilling: Always check the oil level to confirm it is correct.
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.
Can I use 5w30 in a Dodge Grand Caravan?
6 Liters Of German RAVENOL DXG 5w30 Motor Oil - Meets the Chrysler MS-6395 motor oil quality standard and viscosity required for the 3.6L Dodge Grand Caravan gasoline engine.
What kind of oil do I put in my Dodge Grand Caravan?
The correct oil for a Dodge Grand Caravan depends on the model year and engine, but most recent models (2011-2020) with the 3.6L engine use SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil. Older models with a 3.3L or 3.8L engine also typically use 5W-20, while the 4.0L V6 requires SAE 10W-30. Always check your owner's manual or the oil fill cap for the most accurate information.
Recommended oil by engine and model year
- 2011-2020 (3.6L engine): SAE 5W-20 is the most common recommendation. Some sources also list SAE 5W-30 as an acceptable alternative for this engine.
- 2008-2010 (3.3L or 3.8L engine): SAE 5W-20.
- 2008-2010 (4.0L engine): SAE 10W-30.
Important considerations
- Check the cap: The oil filler cap on the engine will have the correct viscosity printed on it. This is the most reliable indicator.
- Check the manual: Your owner's manual will have the definitive specifications for your specific vehicle.
- Full synthetic: Many sources recommend using full synthetic oil for better performance and engine protection.
