What type of oil does a Dodge Challenger take?
Most Dodge Challengers use synthetic motor oil, but the exact viscosity and specification depend on the engine and model year. Common choices are 5W-20 or 5W-30 for many engines, and 5W-40 for the higher-performance variants like the Hellcat. Always consult the owner's manual and the under-hood label for the precise requirement for your car.
To understand which oil your Challenger needs, you must know your engine type and year. The Challenger has used several engines during its run: the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 5.7L Hemi V8, the 6.4L Hemi (392), and the supercharged 6.2L Hellcat family. Each engine has its own recommended viscosity and specification. The owner's manual and any under-hood information label provide the exact requirement for your vehicle. The guidance below reflects common practices across model years, but variations exist by year and market; verify with your manual.
Engine-specific oil requirements
3.6L Pentastar V6
Overview: The 3.6L Pentastar in Challenger models generally uses full synthetic oil. Exact viscosity depends on year, climate, and vehicle configuration.
- Common viscosities: 5W-20 or 5W-30 (synthetic).
- Notes: Use the oil that meets API SN Plus (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 or newer per the manual.
In short, check your manual for the precise grade and specification for your 3.6L Challenger.
5.7L Hemi V8
Overview: The 5.7L Hemi typically uses synthetic oil. Most recent Challenger manuals specify 5W-20 or 5W-30 depending on year and climate.
- Common viscosities: 5W-20 or 5W-30 (synthetic).
- Notes: Always confirm API SN Plus or newer and the ILSAC GF-6 spec if listed in the manual.
Always follow the manual’s exact grade for your 5.7L Challenger.
6.4L Hemi (392)
Overview: The 6.4L Hemi typically uses a heavier viscosity synthetic oil; many owners report 5W-40 as the standard for this high-output engine, though year-specific guidance may vary.
- Typical viscosity: 5W-40 (synthetic).
- Notes: Confirm API SN Plus or newer and the latest ILSAC spec via the manual.
Verify the exact specification in your model’s manual or under-hood label.
6.2L Supercharged Hemi (Hellcat/Redeye)
Overview: The Hellcat family requires a high-performance synthetic oil to handle the boosted system. The standard recommendation is 5W-40 synthetic, with specific approvals in the manual.
- Typical viscosity: 5W-40 (synthetic).
- Notes: Use the exact specification listed by Dodge for your year; some models also call for additional specs (API SN Plus or newer).
Conclusion: For Hellcat and Redeye engines, stick with 5W-40 synthetic as indicated by the manual.
How to verify the exact oil spec for your Challenger
To ensure you’re using the correct oil, consult your vehicle’s official sources. The most reliable references are the owner's manual and the under-hood information label located in the engine bay. If you’re ever unsure, call a Dodge dealer or a qualified technician for the exact specification for your year and trim.
As a practical step, you can also bring a sample of your current oil specification (grade and API spec) to a service center to confirm compatibility with your engine’s requirements.
Summary
Oil type for a Dodge Challenger depends on the engine and year. Typical guidance is 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic for the 3.6L and 5.7L engines, 5W-40 for the 6.4L and Hellcat variants, with exact specifications confirmed by the owner’s manual or the under-hood label. Always verify the precise grade and spec for your specific model to ensure proper lubrication and warranty compliance.
