What type of oil does a Dodge Stratus take?
The Dodge Stratus typically requires 5W-30 motor oil, though the exact grade can vary by engine and climate. Always verify the specification for your specific year and engine using the owner's manual or the under-hood label.
Identifying the correct oil for your Stratus
Because the Stratus offered more than one engine across its production run, the oil you use depends on your engine code and the climate where you drive. The following guidance covers the most common configurations and how to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle.
Common engines and typical oil guidance
The Stratus was equipped with at least two main engines during its production: a 2.4L inline-4 and a 2.7L V6. The oil grade most often recommended for these engines is 5W-30, with some climate or mileage conditions allowing 10W-30. Verify the exact requirement for your model year and engine to avoid using the wrong grade.
- 2.4L inline-4: Usually calls for 5W-30 with an API rating of SM or newer; in warmer climates or older manual specifications, 10W-30 might be listed. Confirm for your specific year and engine.
- 2.7L V6: Typically uses 5W-30 with an API rating of SM or newer; climate and mileage considerations can influence whether a 10W-30 is acceptable. Always check your manual for the exact spec.
Conclusion: While 5W-30 is the standard starting point for most Stratus engines, the precise grade can vary by engine and environment. Always verify with your exact model’s documentation before purchasing oil.
How to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle
To ensure you’re using the correct oil for your Dodge Stratus, locate the exact engine type and year, then cross-check with official documentation or the label under the hood. Use these steps to confirm the right viscosity and specification for your car.
- Check the owner’s manual for the official viscosity and API rating recommended by Chrysler for your specific year and engine.
- Inspect the engine information sticker under the hood; it often lists the recommended oil grade and specs.
- Identify your engine code (2.4L or 2.7L) by inspecting the badge on the engine or referencing the VIN for your build to confirm the precise spec.
- When in doubt, contact a Dodge dealer or consult Mopar’s official service resources for the exact oil specification approved for your vehicle.
By following these steps, you can ensure you’re using the correct oil grade and meeting the car’s health and warranty considerations.
Details about oil viscosity and standards
Viscosity grades like 5W-30 describe how the oil behaves at cold start and operating temperature. Modern Stratus engines generally require an API service rating that is at least SM or newer and should be compatible with ILSAC specifications such as GF-5 or GF-6, depending on the model year and manual. If you’re unsure, use a conventional 5W-30 or a synthetic-blend that meets API SN (or newer) and ILSAC requirements meeting your region’s availability and your manual’s guidance.
Summary: For most Dodge Stratus cars, 5W-30 is the standard recommendation, with occasional allowances for 10W-30 in certain climates or older manuals. Confirm the exact specification for your year and engine to be precise.
Summary
The Dodge Stratus generally takes 5W-30 motor oil, though the exact grade can differ by engine (2.4L vs 2.7L) and climate. Always verify with the owner’s manual or the under-hood label for your specific vehicle, and use the oil that matches the recommended API and ILSAC standards. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity help protect the engine and maintain performance.
