This blog post is about helping you understand Dodge Charger gearbox oil. If you’re the proud owner of this famous American muscle, you should know all about its gearbox. Your Dodge Charger represents power, speed, and prestige. Taking care of its gearbox is important for maintaining its famous status on the road.
We’ll learn everything we need to know about Dodge Charger transmission fluid in this in-depth guide. We want to give you the information and knowledge you need to ensure your Dodge Charger gearbox works well and swiftly.
Whether you’re a new Charger owner or a seasoned fan, this blog post has useful information for you. Let’s talk about everything you need to know about Dodge Charger ATF, from what it does to how to care for and maintain it.
Dodge Charger Transmission System: Exposed
The transmission system is a key part of any vehicle, including the Dodge Charger. In simple terms, it transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move forward or reverse smoothly. It’s worth noting that Dodge Chargers predominantly come equipped with automatic transmissions, with only a limited number of Hellcat models offering manual transmission options.
With its advanced technology, the Dodge Charger’s automatic transmission delivers seamless gear changes, enhancing performance and ride comfort. Its intelligent transmission control software and robust hardware components work in tandem to provide smooth, well-timed gear changes that optimize performance and fuel efficiency.
The transmission is intelligently designed to adapt to different driving conditions. It aims to give the best balance of efficiency and responsive acceleration. It plays a key role in delivering a fun and powerful driving experience on the road.
The Dodge Charger Transmission Fluid’s Secret
The ATF used in Dodge Chargers’ automatic transmissions isn’t just any lubricant; it’s a specially designed product made to meet the specific needs of an automatic transmission system. This special fluid is crucial to the transmission’s performance and longevity.
The ATF ensures that every shift goes smoothly, every gear is properly oiled, and the whole system works at its best. Keeping everything in balance makes driving more enjoyable, and the gearbox lasts longer, protecting your Dodge Charger investment. These are its main jobs:
Ensure smooth valve operation — The fluid is designed to allow the transmission valves to open and close smoothly, preventing sticking or jerky valve movements.
Minimize brake band friction — The fluid reduces friction between the brake bands and transmission drums during gear shifts, enabling smooth and precise gear changes.
Facilitate torque converter function — The torque converter is a crucial part that transfers power from the engine to the transmission. This fluid allows the torque converter to operate efficiently.
Provide effective gear lubrication — Proper lubrication of the gears is essential to prevent premature wear and tear. This fluid lubricates and protects the gear teeth for longer transmission life.
In addition to these core functions, the ATF helps dissipate heat generated during operation, protects against corrosion and sludge buildup, and maintains transmission seals and gaskets. Without proper transmission fluid, gear shifts may feel rough. This can cause a subpar driving experience and potential damage to the transmission components.
Types of Dodge Charger ATF
In the present day, only automatic gears are available for Dodge Chargers. The 6th and 7th generation Chargers, in particular, come with various automatic transmissions, such as 4-speed, 5-speed, and 8-speed models. On the other hand, Dodge Charger buyers usually choose the 5-speed and 8-speed automatic transmissions.
Correct ATF is needed for Dodge Chargers with automatic transmissions to work properly. ATF is used to keep things moving smoothly and as a hydraulic fluid. It makes shifting gears smooth and keeps gearbox parts from wearing out. If you have an automatic gearbox, Dodge generally suggests MOPAR® ZF 8&9 Speed ATF or MOPAR® ATF+4. This depends on the type of transmission installed on the vehicle.
5-Speed Automatic Transmission Fluid Guide
The Dodge Charger’s 5-speed automatic gearbox was also known as the W5A580 NAG 1 (5G-Tronic). Mercedes-Benz created it when Daimler and Chrysler worked together. This type of gearbox was introduced in 2006 and used until 2020. It was the main choice for automatic transmissions until 2011. The 5-speed gearbox makes shifting gears easy and reliable.
However, it lost some appeal when the 8-speed gearbox came out in 2012. From that point until 2020, the 5-speed gearbox was mostly bought for fleet Chargers, like police cars and taxis. Even though it wasn’t used as much, it was a popular choice for Charger vehicles because it was durable and could handle harsh circumstances. Below are the part numbers of the ATF that Dodge Charger’s 5-speed automatic transmissions use:
| Transmission Fluid Type | Part Number | Capacity |
| MOPAR® ATF+4 | 68218057AC | 5.3 quarts (Service Fill) 8.1 quarts (Overhaul Fill) |
| Motul Multi ATF | 105784 (1L) | |
| ACDelco Dexron VI | 10-9243 (1L) | |
| Fuchs Titan ATF 4400 | 800357045 (1L) |
8-Speed Automatic Transmission Fluid Guide
The Dodge Charger’s 8-speed automatic gearbox has been called the 845RE, the 850RE, the 8HP70, and the 8HP90 in different types over the years. It was made by the German gearbox company ZF Friedrichshafen AG. It’s a much more advanced gearbox that was added to some Dodge Charger models in 2012 and continued until 2020. It became the best choice for Charger fans because of its accuracy and efficiency.
The 8-speed gearbox quickly became popular after it was first offered as an option in 2012. It slowly replaced the 5-speed model because it was faster and more efficient. This gearbox raised the level of driving pleasure in the Charger by making gear changes smoother and improving gear ratios. Below are the part numbers of the ATF that Dodge Charger’s 8-speed automatic transmissions use:
| Transmission Fluid Type | Part Number | Capacity |
| MOPAR® ZF 8&9 Speed ATF | 68218925AB | 9.72 quarts (845RE Overhaul Fill) 9.0 quarts (8HP70 Overhaul Fill) 9.17 quarts (8HP90 Overhaul Fill) |
| Motul Multi ATF | 105784 (1L) | |
| Motul ATF VI | 105774 (1L) | |
| ACDelco Dexron VI | 10-9243 (1L) | |
| ZF LifeGuard 8 | S671090312 (1L) | |
| ZF LifeGuard 9 | AA01500001 (1L) |
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Signs That Your Dodge Charger Needs Transmission Fluid Service
To understand the need for Dodge Charger transmission fluid fully, you must be aware of these signs that your Charger shows. This usually happens when it faces transmission issues or the ATF is due for replacement. Here are some common signs that indicate potential ATF issues in your Dodge Charger:
Slipping Gears
One of the most common signs of low or degraded transmission fluid is slipping gears. You may notice your Dodge Charger struggling to shift smoothly or slipping out of gear suddenly. It indicates a lack of proper lubrication.
Unusual Noises
Strange noises such as whining, grinding, or clunking from your Charger’s transmission could signal fluid-related issues. These noises may indicate worn components. This happens due to insufficient lubrication or contamination.
Transmission Overheating
Overheating is a clear indicator of transmission issues. Similarly, low or old transmission fluid can lead to excessive heat buildup. Keep an eye on your Dodge Charger’s temperature gauge. If you notice it’s running hotter than usual, it’s time to check the transmission fluid.
Dashboard Warning Lights
Many modern vehicles (including Chargers) have dashboard warning lights. These lights illuminate when the car detects an issue with the transmission system. This can refer to problems such as low transmission fluid levels, overheating, or mechanical issues with the transmission system.
How often do you change the transmission fluid in the Dodge Charger?
Although Dodge states that the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is meant for the vehicle’s lifetime, it is recommended to be changed every 50,000 to 75,000 miles for the first 8 years. Opt for ATF flush at 50,000 miles in case of severe driving conditions.
Changing the fluid at this interval will not harm the transmission if the service is performed correctly and the ATF level is maintained properly. These transmissions are highly sensitive to the ATF level and may not function properly if the level is incorrect. Find out more about the importance of ATF flushes and filters in our article.
Dodge Charger Transmission Fluid Change DIY
Now is the time for the Dodge Charger transmission fluid change. Performing transmission fluid change on a Dodge Charger can be a bit involving. However, it’s doable with the right tools and instructions. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
Safety First
- Park your Charger on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- If you’re using ramps, carefully drive the car onto them.
- If using a jack and jack stands, lift the front and rear of the car and secure it on the stands.
- Work in a ventilated area.
- Wear your PPE, such as working gloves and goggles, to protect yourself when you come into contact with ATF.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Jack and jack stands or ramps
- Ratchet and socket set
- Allen bit socket set
- OBD-II scanner
- Drain pan
- ATF filling tool
- Fresh ATF
- New transmission filter
- Gasket or sealant
Step-by-step guide
Locate the transmission fluid pan — The transmission oil pan is underneath the vehicle, towards the rear. It’s a flat metal pan attached to the transmission.
Drain the fluid — Place the drain pan underneath the transmission oil pan. Use a socket or wrench to remove the bolts securing the pan to the transmission. Loosen them gradually and allow the fluid to drain into the pan. Be careful, as the fluid may be hot.
Remove the transmission pan—Once the fluid has drained, remove the remaining bolts and carefully lower the pan. If it’s stuck, you may need to pry it loose gently.
Change the filter — For Chargers equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission, the filter is a standalone component attached to the valve body, requiring replacement whenever the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is changed. On the other hand, Chargers with an 8-speed automatic transmission feature a filter integrated into the plastic transmission oil pan, which also necessitates replacement during ATF changes.
Clean the pan and magnets — Thoroughly clean the transmission pan, removing any old gasket material or residue. Also, remove and clean any magnets attached to the pan.
Install the transmission pan — Place the new gasket on the mating surface of the transmission pan. Carefully position the pan back onto the transmission and hand-tighten the bolts. Then, torque them in a crisscross pattern to 7.5 ft. lb (10 Nm) for the plastic oil pan and 9 ft. lb (12 Nm) for the steel oil pan.
Refill with fluid — Prefill the transmission using an ATF filling tool on the ATF filler plug. The process of correcting the ATF level is discussed in the next steps.
Record Maintenance — Record the Dodge Charger transmission fluid level inspection and any fluid additions or changes for future reference.
How to Check Dodge Charger Transmission Fluid Level
After conducting a fluid change on your Dodge Charger, ensuring the transmission fluid levels are in check is crucial. This process might seem straightforward, but it demands careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you smoothly check your transmission fluid:
Step 1 — Connect the OBD-II scanner and look for the ATF temperature value.
Step 2 — Start the engine.
Step 3 — Check the transmission fluid temperature. It should be between 30 and 50 degrees Celsius. If the temperature is below 30 degrees Celsius, allow the engine to warm up. If the temperature exceeds 50 degrees Celsius, allow the engine to cool down.
Step 4 — Rev up and maintain the engine speed at 2000 rpm to fill the torque converter.
Step 5 — Check the transmission fluid temperature again and continue to step 5 if the reading is within 30-50 degrees Celsius range.
Step 6 — Select the gear positions P (park), R (reverse), N (neutral), and D (drive), and manually shift to D1 and D2. Hold each gear for approximately 10 seconds.
Step 7 — Verify that the transmission fluid temperature is between 30 and 50 degrees Celsius.
Step 8 — Open the oil filler plug and check if the ATF runs out of the filling hole.
Step 9 — If no oil is running out, fill the ATF until it overflows out of the filling hole.
Step 10 — If oil is running out, wait until ATF trickles from the filling hole, then close the oil fill screw plug.
Additional notes:
- The ATF level checking procedure is done while the engine idles. Failure to do so may result in a low ATF level.
- If the fluid level is too low, the transmission will be damaged.
- If the fluid level is too high, excessive oil will leak from the transmission through the overflow when heated.
Is it normal for my Dodge Charger’s transmission fluid to change color over time?
Yes, it’s normal for Dodge Charger transmission fluid to darken in color. Over time, it ages and accumulates contaminants. However, if the fluid becomes extremely dark or has a burnt smell, it may indicate that the transmission fluid is overdue for a change. Similarly, it can also indicate an issue with the transmission that needs to be addressed.
Tips for Maintaining Transmission Health
Performing a transmission fluid change isn’t the ultimate job to keep the transmission health well-maintained; it needs regular maintenance. Follow these tips to maintain the health of the Dodge Charger transmission.
Avoid Leaks
The automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is a closed loop. This means that the fluid level should remain constant over time. However, any leaks in the system can cause the ATF level to drop. To avoid this, regularly inspect for any ATF fluid leaks. An ATF leak is a clear indicator of a decreasing ATF level that needs to be addressed.
Use High-Quality Transmission Fluid
Invest in high-quality transmission fluid that meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s specifications for your Charger’s transmission type. Quality automatic transmission fluid helps protect against friction, heat, and wear, allowing for smooth operation and extended transmission life.
Avoid Overloading and Overheating
Avoid overloading your Dodge Charger or towing beyond its recommended capacity. This excessive load can strain the transmission. Also, prolonged driving in extreme heat conditions should be reduced to prevent overheating transmission. It can accelerate fluid degradation and component wear.
Practice Gentle Driving Habits
Adopt smooth and gentle driving habits to reduce stress on the transmission. Avoid consistently performing abrupt acceleration, sudden braking, and aggressive shifting. These actions can cause unnecessary wear and strain on transmission components.
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