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Whats the best oil to run in a 5.7 Hemi?

The short answer is: use a full-synthetic 5W-20 oil that meets API SP and ILSAC GF-6 specifications, as called for by your owner’s manual. In very hot climates or under heavy towing, your manual may allow 5W-30. Always follow the exact viscosity and spec listed for your specific vehicle year and region.

What the manufacturer recommends

Official guidance comes from the owner’s manual and service literature. For most 5.7-liter Hemis, Chrysler/Fiat groups have historically recommended a 5W-20 full synthetic oil, with 5W-30 being an acceptable alternate in certain conditions if your manual allows it. Exact requirements can vary by model year, market, and whether the engine includes features like MDS (Multi-Displacement System) or variable valve timing. Always verify the exact specification for your VIN.

Key points drawn from the standard guidance are summarized below to help you quickly confirm the correct choice.

Viscosity: Most 5.7 Hemis call for 5W-20 as the baseline; 5W-30 may be used in hot climates or under certain load conditions if the manual permits it.

Oil type: Full synthetic is preferred for modern 5.7 Hemis, especially those with MDS and advanced emissions systems.

Spec compliance: Use oil that clearly lists API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) on the label.

Calibration: Always match the exact spec and viscosity printed in the owner’s manual or on the under-hood label for your vehicle year and region.

Bottom line: the manufacturer’s specification should drive your choice. If you’re unsure, start with 5W-20 full synthetic that meets API SP/GF-6 and consult a dealer or mechanic with your VIN for clarification.

Viscosity options and when to use them

Viscosity is the primary variable you’ll need to decide. Here’s how to think about the common options for a 5.7 Hemi:

5W-20 full synthetic: The default, widely recommended in ordinary climates and driving patterns. It offers good cold-start protection and fuel efficiency without sacrificing film strength under normal loads.

5W-30 full synthetic: A viable alternative in hot climates, when the manual allows it, or for heavy towing/working conditions. It provides a thicker oil film at operating temperature but may slightly affect cold-start performance and MPG.

0W-20 or lighter options: Some newer regional specifications or specific model years may call for a lighter viscosity. Always confirm with the manual before using a 0W-20 variant in a 5.7 Hemi.

Concluding guidance for viscosity: default to 5W-20 full synthetic unless your manual or dealer specifies 5W-30 for your usage scenario. Extreme heat, heavy towing, or high-mileage engines may warrant the alternate viscosity if permitted by the manufacturer.

Oil specifications and brands to look for

Beyond viscosity, you should ensure the oil meets the right industry specifications and comes from a reputable brand. Here’s how to evaluate your options.

API SP (or newer) certification on the bottle.

ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) compatibility on the label.

Full synthetic formulation from a reputable brand (Mopar, Pennzoil, Mobil 1, Castrol, Valvoline, etc.).

Brand-reliant notes: Mopar-branded oils are designed to meet Chrysler specifications; many mainstream brands also offer 5W-20 full synthetics that meet SP/GF-6.

Bottom line: choose a full-synthetic oil from a trusted brand that explicitly lists API SP and ILSAC GF-6 on the label, and ensure it matches the viscosity your manual requires.

Oil-change intervals and maintenance considerations

Interval recommendations depend on oil type, driving conditions, and the vehicle’s age. Here’s a practical framework for planning changes.

For typical daily driving with synthetic oil: many owners run between 5,000 and 7,500 miles (or 6–12 months), though some modern synthetic formulations and automaker guidance allow longer intervals. Always verify with the manual for your specific model year and driving profile.

For severe service (short trips, lots of city driving, extreme heat, towing, dusty environments): shorter intervals, often 3,000–5,000 miles or 3–6 months, depending on oil and conditions.

High-mileage engines (60,000 miles and up): consider a high-mileage synthetic with additives designed to reduce wear and consumption, but still adhere to the manual’s viscosity/spec guidance and dealer recommendations.

Concluding note: follow the owner’s manual for the exact interval and consider adjusting based on your climate, loads, and driving style. Using a quality synthetic with the correct spec can help extend drain intervals when conditions allow.

Common pitfalls to avoid

A few frequent missteps can undermine engine health or warranty coverage. Here are the ones to watch for.

Mixing oil types or viscosities outside the manual’s guidance. This can affect engine wear, emissions systems, and warranty coverage.

Using conventional oil when the manual requires synthetic. This can lead to accelerated wear under modern engine conditions.

Ignoring label specs (API SP, GF-6) in favor of a lower price or unknown compatibility. Always verify specs before purchase.

Final takeaway: stick to the OEM-specified viscosity and oil spec, choose a trusted synthetic brand, and adhere to recommended change intervals for best results.

Summary

For a 5.7 Hemi, the best oil is typically a 5W-20 full synthetic that meets API SP and ILSAC GF-6, unless your owner’s manual specifies otherwise. In hot climates or under heavy load, 5W-30 may be allowed if the manual permits it. Always confirm the exact viscosity and specifications for your year and region, choose a trusted brand, and follow the recommended change intervals. With proper oil and maintenance, the 5.7 Hemi can deliver reliable performance and longevity across a wide range of driving conditions.

How to avoid hemi tick?

To avoid "Hemi tick," change the oil and filter regularly (around every 5,000 miles) using high-quality synthetic oil, and minimize prolonged idling. For extra prevention, you can consider a high-flow oil pump or using a high-quality oil filter with a good anti-drain back valve.
Maintenance and driving habits

Perform regular oil changes: Adhere to a 5,000-mile interval and use high-quality synthetic oil to ensure proper lubrication.
Use a high-quality oil filter: Choose filters with good anti-drain back valves to help maintain oil pressure at startup.
Limit excessive idling: Avoid long periods of idling, as the oil pump may not provide sufficient lubrication at low RPMs.
Check oil level: Ensure the oil is filled to the top of the max line for better lubrication.

Potential upgrades

Install a high-flow oil pump: An upgraded oil pump, such as one from a Hellcat or 6.4L engine, can provide better oil pressure.
Upgrade to non-MDS lifters: Replacing the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters with non-MDS versions, like Hellcat lifters, can also prevent ticking.
Upgrade exhaust headers: Some ticks are caused by exhaust leaks from the manifold. Upgrading to aftermarket headers can be a solution for this specific issue.

What years to avoid for the 5.7 hemi?

The 2005 and 2006 Hemi-powered LX-platform cars, especially the Magnum, experienced significant issues with their 5.7s. The Magnums had a whopping seven recalls with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and had a nasty habit of stalling and hesitation after refueling.

What is the best oil for a 5.7 Hemi?

The best oil for a 5.7L Hemi engine is SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil, as recommended by the manufacturer. Some users and mechanics also recommend high-quality brands like Pennzoil Ultra Platinum or Castrol, and some suggest using 5W-30, especially for performance or heavy-towing applications, although it is critical to verify the correct viscosity for your specific engine year in your owner's manual.

Recommended oil

Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 is the standard recommendation, as it is required for the engine's Multi-Displacement System (MDS) to function correctly.
Type: Use a full synthetic oil for better protection and longevity. A synthetic blend can be a good option if a full synthetic is not preferred.

High-quality brands to consider
Pennzoil Ultra Platinum (5W-20), Amsoil Signature Series, Castrol full synthetic, and Kirkland Signature full synthetic.
Important considerations

Check your owner's manual: Always confirm the correct oil viscosity for your specific engine and year in your owner's manual. The oil cap on the engine will also often have the correct specification printed on it.
Oil weight for performance: While 5W-20 is standard, some drivers find that 5W-30 performs well, especially in hotter climates or when towing, though it may affect MDS function.
Oil filters: Pair your chosen oil with a high-quality oil filter, such as a Wix or Royal Purple, and change it at every oil change.
Maintenance intervals: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial. Even with the best oil, frequent changes are still recommended by many owners, often between 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Can I put 5W-30 oil in my 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.

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.