Home FAQ

What transmission does my Dodge Charger have?

The Dodge Charger is a popular muscle car that has been around for decades. Depending on the model year and trim level, your Dodge Charger may be equipped with one of several different transmission options. The most common transmissions found in Dodge Chargers are automatic transmissions, though some models may also offer manual or dual-clutch transmissions.

Automatic Transmissions in Dodge Chargers

The majority of Dodge Chargers come standard with an automatic transmission. The specific automatic transmission model can vary depending on the engine and model year of the vehicle. Some of the common automatic transmissions found in Dodge Chargers include:

8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission

5-speed automatic transmission

6-speed automatic transmission

The 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic is one of the most advanced and widely used transmissions in modern Dodge Chargers. It provides smooth, responsive shifting and helps improve fuel efficiency compared to older 5- or 6-speed automatics.

Manual and Dual-Clutch Transmissions

While automatic transmissions are the norm, some Dodge Charger models may also be available with a manual or dual-clutch transmission option. These include:

6-speed manual transmission

8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

The manual transmission option is typically found in high-performance Charger models, such as the Dodge Charger Scat Pack or Hellcat. The dual-clutch automatic is an advanced transmission that provides the responsiveness of a manual with the convenience of an automatic.

To determine the specific transmission in your Dodge Charger, you can check the vehicle's information sticker, owner's manual, or consult with a Dodge dealer or mechanic. Knowing the transmission type can be helpful for maintenance, repairs, and understanding the vehicle's capabilities.

Do all chargers have the same transmission?

Instead, a twin-turbo inline six engine with 420 or 550 horsepower is available. Both feature standard all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission called the Sixpack models. A third version of the car, the Charger Daytona, features an all-electric powertrain.

What kind of transmission does a Dodge Charger have?

The base engine was a 318 cu in (5.2 L) V8 with a three-speed manual transmission, while automatic and floor-mounted manual transmissions were optional.

How to identify a Dodge transmission?

To identify a Dodge transmission, check the driver's side door placard for a "TR" code, the owner's manual for transmission specs, or look for a stamped code or tag directly on the transmission housing. Other methods include using a VIN decoder or, for specific models, looking for physical characteristics like the type of electrical connectors or specific casting numbers on the transmission.
This video explains how to identify Dodge Cummins automatic transmissions based on their physical characteristics: 47sPower DrivenYouTube · Mar 5, 2019
Method 1: Check vehicle information

Driver's side door placard: Open the driver's side door and look for a sticker, often white, with a list of codes. Find the code next to "TR" (for transmission) and use it to identify the transmission model.
Owner's manual: Check the "specifications" section of your vehicle's owner's manual, which should list the transmission type.
VIN decoder: Enter your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into an online VIN decoder. The fourth through eighth digits can often provide information on the transmission type.

Method 2: Inspect the transmission
This video explains how to find a transmission tag on a vehicle: 59sPowertrain Products IncYouTube · Dec 4, 2020

Look for a code on the housing: Check the transmission's metal case for a stamped code or a sticker/tag, especially on the side or near the bell housing.
Identify physical features:
- Connectors: Look at the electrical connectors. For example, the 48RE has a large, 5-pin connector, while the 47RH has a three-pin neutral safety switch.
- Casting numbers: Check for specific casting numbers, such as "238-2" on the bell housing, which is common on 47RH models.
- Tail housing: Note the length of the tail housing. A longer tail housing on some models indicates a four-wheel drive version.

Method 3: Use specialized resources

Transmission sales code chart: Use a Mopar transmission sales code chart, available online, to decode the information from the door placard or other official sources.
Contact a dealership or mechanic: A professional can help identify the transmission by cross-referencing your VIN or the codes found on the vehicle with their official databases.

This video explains how to identify a specific type of transmission based on its valve body: 1msaneautoYouTube · Feb 23, 2025

How do I identify what transmission I have?

You can identify your transmission by checking your owner's manual, the label on the driver's side door, or by looking for a stamped code on the transmission itself. Other methods include using your VIN number with an online decoder, or inspecting the shape of the transmission oil pan.
1. Check your documentation and vehicle labels

Owner's manual: This is the most straightforward method. Look for the "specifications" section, which should list your vehicle's transmission type.
Driver's side door label: Open the driver's door to find a white label on the door jamb or the edge of the door itself. Look for a "TR" symbol next to a number code, which indicates the transmission.
Build sheet/window sticker: If you have the original build sheet or window sticker, it will contain the transmission model.

2. Inspect the transmission directly

Look for a tag or stamp: The transmission housing often has a metal tag or a stamped code. You may need to look under the hood or safely get under the vehicle to find it.
Use the code: Once you find the code, you can search for it online (e.g., "transmission [code]") or contact a dealership or auto parts store to identify the model.
Examine the oil pan: The shape of the transmission's oil pan can be a clue, especially on older vehicles. A manual transmission often has a distinct, flatter, or more irregular-shaped pan than an automatic.

3. Use your VIN

VIN decoder: Use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with an online decoder tool. Websites that decode VINs can often tell you the factory-installed transmission.
Dealership: Call your car's dealership with your VIN. They can look up your vehicle's original specifications and tell you what transmission it has.

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.