Choosing the right oil for your Dodge is more than just grabbing any bottle from the shelf. Every engine is designed to work with a specific type of oil, viscosity, and certification to ensure it runs smoothly.
Dodge recommends full-synthetic oil, such as SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20, that meets Mopar specifications. Popular choices include Mopar SAE 5W-20, Pennzoil Platinum, or Mobil 1 0W-40 for performance Dodge engines.
In this guide, we’ll break down what oil Dodge recommends, why it matters, and how to keep your engine healthy.
Why Dodge Lists Specs—Not Just A Brand
Oil isn’t one-size-fits-all. Dodge/Chrysler engineering pins requirements to internal standards:
- MS-6395 — the baseline spec for most Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram gasoline engines. You’ll see it in the owner’s manuals, next to the viscosity specifications for 3.6L and 5.7L engines.
- MS-12633 — the heavier-duty 0W-40 spec written for SRT 6.4/6.2 HEMI engines. Manuals explicitly recommend this spec (and often name Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-40) for best protection.
Those specs cover things API “SN/SN Plus/SP” alone doesn’t—volatility limits, deposit control, additive chemistry that plays nice with Mopar hardware, and (for MS-12633) high-temperature/high-shear demands of SRT engines.
Gasoline Models: The Ms-6395 Guide (0w-20 / 5w-20 / 5w-30)
Most non-SRT Dodge gasoline engines want MS-6395 oil. Viscosity depends on engine and year:
- 3.6L Pentastar: many later models specify 0W-20; earlier years often 5W-20.
- 5.7L HEMI: 5W-20 (critical for proper operation of cylinder deactivation/MDS).
- Some older V6/V8s: may list 5W-30 under MS-6395.
All of the above are spelled out in Dodge owner’s manuals and user guides, right down to naming Mopar, Pennzoil, or Shell Helix as examples that meet the spec.
Why 5W-20 for the 5.7 HEMI? The hydraulic lifters and MDS solenoids are tuned for it; thicker oil can upset the system. Manuals for Challenger explicitly warn that 5W-20 is required on 5.7L vehicles with Fuel Saver/MDS.
Srt Engines: Why 0w-40 Ms-12633 Matters
The 6.4L (392) HEMI and 6.2L supercharged HEMI run hotter, with higher piston speeds and more load. Dodge’s SRT manuals specify a full-synthetic 0W-40 oil meeting MS-12633—and they call out Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-40 by name or equivalent Mopar oil that meets this specification. If the bottle doesn’t say MS-12633, it’s not approved, even if it’s 0W-40.
This is not about brand loyalty; it’s about additive chemistry and high-temperature protection. MS-12633 oils are blended for SRT heat loads, track sessions, and shearing forces.
The “Dodge Vs. Ram” Note (So You Don’t Mix Guidance)
Chrysler split the branding years ago: Ram is the truck brand; Dodge covers cars/SUVs. If you’re looking for oil for a Ram 1500, check the Ram manual for your specific year and engine.
That said, the underlying specs are the same family (MS-6395 for most gas engines, MS-126330W-40 for SRT-flavored HEMIs) across the Mopar portfolio. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the oil cap’s printing for viscosity recommendations.
Table: Common Dodge Models & The Oil Dodge Recommends
Always verify by model year and engine code; the following summarizes what Dodge itself publishes in its manuals.
| Model | Engine | Typical Viscosity | Required Spec | Notes |
| Charger | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 0W-20 or 5W-20 | MS-6395 | Year-dependent; check cap/manual. |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5W-20 | MS-6395 | Needed for proper MDS operation. | |
| 6.4L (392) SRT | 0W-40 | MS-12633 | Manual names Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-40 or equivalent meeting MS-12633. | |
| 6.2L Hellcat | 0W-40 | MS-12633 | Same requirement as 392. | |
| Challenger | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 5W-20 | MS-6395 | Many years list 5W-20; check cap. |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5W-20 | MS-6395 | 5W-20 is mandatory on 5.7L with MDS. | |
| 6.4L (392) / 6.2L SRT | 0W-40 | MS-12633 | Manual calls MS-12633 explicitly. | |
| Durango | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 0W-20 | MS-6395 | User guide lists 0W-20 MS-6395. |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5W-20 | MS-6395 | User guide lists 5W-20 MS-6395. | |
| Older Dodge (e.g., Grand Caravan, Journey) | V6 | 5W-20 (often) | MS-6395 | Manuals back to mid-2010s show MS-6395. Check by year. |
Oil Change Intervals, Oil Life Monitor, And What Dodge Actually Says
Dodge uses an oil life monitor that tracks engine operating conditions, not just mileage. The owner’s materials note that change intervals vary with driving style and conditions, and they set maximum limits (for many model years): do not exceed 10,000 miles/16,000 km, 12 months, or 350 engine hours, whichever comes first. Severe duty (lots of idling, dusty use, towing, short trips) can trigger changes as early as 3,500–4,000 miles.
Bottom line: follow the dash reminder, but if you hardly drive or idle a lot, don’t stretch beyond the manual’s time/hour cap.
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Brand Picking: What To Look For On The Bottle (And What Not To Do)
What matters most:
- Correct viscosity (as indicated on your filler cap/manual).
- Correct Mopar spec (MS-6395 or MS-12633 as required).
- API certification appropriate to your year (SN/SN Plus/SP).
Many major brands produce oils that meet MS-6395; for MS-12633, the pool is smaller, but it’s listed on the label when approved. If a bottle claims “for SRT engines” but doesn’t print MS-12633, treat it as marketing fluff and move on. Dodge manuals explicitly call for MS-12633 on 6.4/6.2 SRT.
Avoid: thickening “just because it’s hot where I live,” mixing in aftermarket additives, or using European-spec 0W-40 that lacks MS-12633 on an SRT, and then expecting warranty acceptance.
Common Mistakes And Myths (So You Don’t Burn Money Or Hardware)
- “Any full-synthetic 0W-40 is fine for a 392.”
- Not necessarily. SRT manuals require MS-12633. Choose a bottle that states it meets it.
- “5W-30 will protect my 5.7 HEMI better than 5W-20.”
- The manuals specify 5W-20 because the engine’s MDS is tuned for that viscosity. Thicker oil can affect MDS operation and isn’t recommended.
- “API rating is enough; specs are optional.”
- Dodge adds extra requirements (deposit control, volatility, compatibility) via MS-6395/MS-12633 that go beyond API alone.
- “Oil life monitors are just timers.”
- Mopar’s system is duty-cycle based. Cold starts, idle time, and load matter. The manual also sets absolute caps even if the monitor hasn’t tripped.
What oil does Dodge recommend 2022
For 2022 Dodge vehicles, most engines use 0W-20 or 5W-20 full-synthetic oil that meets Chrysler’s MS-6395 spec. SRT models, such as the 6.4L and 6.2L HEMI, require 0W-40 MS-12633 synthetic oil. Always check your owner’s manual and the oil cap for exact guidance.
What oil does Dodge recommend 2021
The 2021 Dodge lineup mostly calls for 0W-20 or 5W-20 synthetic oil meeting MS-6395. Performance engines, such as the 392 HEMI or Hellcat, need 0W-40 oil that meets MS-12633. Dodge stresses the use of only oils that list the correct Mopar specification on the bottle.
5.7 HEMI oil type and capacity
The 5.7L HEMI engine requires 5W-20 full-synthetic oil meeting MS-6395 to keep the MDS system working right. Its typical oil capacity is about 7 quarts with a filter change. Always refer to your manual, as capacity may vary slightly by model and year.
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Best oil for Ram 1500 HEMI
The best oil for a Ram 1500 HEMI is 5W-20 full-synthetic oil that meets MS-6395. For SRT or high-output HEMIs, 0W-40 MS-12633 is required. Choosing the correct Mopar-approved oil ensures smooth performance, better fuel economy, and keeps your engine warranty protected.
Ram 1500 5.7 oil type
The Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI needs 5W-20 synthetic oil that meets Chrysler’s MS-6395 specification. This oil helps the engine’s MDS technology work properly. Using thicker oils may cause performance issues, so stick to the recommended viscosity and certified oil standard.
Dodge RAM 1500 oil type
Most Dodge Ram 1500 gasoline engines require 0W-20 or 5W-20 synthetic oil that meets the MS-6395 standard. The exact type depends on your engine and model year. Performance versions may require 0W-40 MS-12633. Always check the owner’s manual or the oil cap for the correct details.
Ram 1500 5.7 oil capacity
The Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI usually holds about 7 quarts of oil when changing the filter. This capacity is standard across most model years. Always measure carefully and check your dipstick after filling to ensure the level is correct for your truck.
Best oil for 5.7 Hemi
A 5.7 Hemi usually works best with full-synthetic 5W-20 or 5W-30, depending on model year. Many owners prefer brands like Pennzoil Platinum or Mobil 1 for cleaner performance and strong protection, especially in hot weather or heavy-duty driving.
Dodge Charger Oil Type
Most Dodge Chargers use full-synthetic oil. V6 models often need 0W-20, while V8 models may require 5W-20 or 5W-30. Always check the owner’s manual for the exact grade, because oil type changes by engine and model year.
Best Oil brand for Hemi engines
Hemi owners commonly trust Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, and Valvoline full-synthetic oils. These brands provide excellent cleaning power and high-heat protection. Pennzoil is even factory-fill for many Mopar engines, making it a popular and safe choice.
Best oil for Dodge Charger V6
Most Charger V6 engines use full-synthetic 0W-20 for best performance and fuel economy. Oils like Pennzoil Platinum, Mobil 1, or Valvoline Advanced Synthetic keep the 3.6L Pentastar engine clean, smooth, and protected during daily driving.
Best engine oil to run for 5.7 155k miles
For a 5.7 Hemi with 155k miles, many owners choose full-synthetic 5W-30 for slightly thicker protection. High-mileage formulas from Mobil 1, Valvoline, or Pennzoil help reduce wear, soften seals, and keep the engine cleaner as it ages.
5.7 Hemi 5W-20 and 5W-30 oil
Both oils are used depending on year and driving style. 5W-20 is factory-recommended for fuel economy, while 5W-30 offers stronger high-temperature protection. Older or higher-mileage Hemis often run smoother with 5W-30, especially in hot climates or towing situations.
What oil do you guys use?
Most people use full-synthetic oil because it protects the engine better, lasts longer, and handles heat well. Popular choices include Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, Valvoline, and Castrol. The best one depends on your vehicle’s recommended viscosity and mileage.
What Is the Best Oil Type for Your Vehicle?
The best oil is always the one listed in your owner’s manual. It tells you the correct viscosity and spec. Full-synthetic oil is usually recommended because it protects better, reduces wear, and handles temperature changes more effectively.
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What is the best oil to use in a Dodge RAM 5.7 engine?
Most Ram 5.7 engines use 5W-20 full-synthetic oil, but some years allow 5W-30. Many owners prefer Pennzoil Platinum or Mobil 1 for strong protection when towing or driving in hot conditions. Always follow your Ram’s manual first.
What oil viscosity is best for Dodge Ram 1500?
Most modern Ram 1500 gas engines use 0W-20 or 5W-20, depending on engine type. Older or high-mileage trucks may benefit from 5W-30 for stronger protection. Check your engine label or manual to confirm the correct viscosity.
What oil is best for 5.7 Hemi (2011 if that matters) to avoid a lifter tick/failure?
For a 2011 5.7 Hemi, many owners use full-synthetic 5W-30 to help reduce lifter noise. High-quality oils like Mobil 1 or Pennzoil Platinum provide better film strength. Keeping oil changes regular also helps prevent lifter problems.
FAQs
1. What brand of oil does Dodge recommend?
2. Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in my Dodge?
3. Does a Dodge Ram 1500 need synthetic oil?
4. What oil does Mopar recommend?
5. What oil do Dodge dealerships use?
6. Why does Ram recommend Pennzoil?
7. What is the #1 engine oil?
8. Can I use 5W-20 instead of 0W-20?
9. Is Valvoline suitable for a Dodge Charger?
10. What is the highest rated engine oil?
Conclusion
Choosing the right oil for your Dodge isn’t just about brand—it’s about meeting the correct Mopar specifications (MS-6395 or MS-12633) and viscosity listed in your owner’s manual. Whether it’s a Pentastar V6 requiring 0W-20, a 5.7 HEMI needing 5W-20, or an SRT HEMI demanding 0W-40, adhering to Dodge’s recommendations ensures peak performance, optimal fuel efficiency, and engine protection. Always check your oil cap and manual before buying, and remember—using the right certified oil today saves you from costly repairs tomorrow.