2018 Dodge Journey 2.4 oil capacity and type are crucial details for any owner looking to perform routine maintenance or simply understand what keeps their vehicle running smoothly. The Dodge Journey, especially with its reliable 2.4L “TigerShark” engine, depends heavily on the correct oil specifications for optimal performance, longevity, and fuel efficiency. Understanding these specifics isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about providing your engine with the precise care it needs to handle daily commutes, family road trips, and everything in between.
The Vital Role of Engine Oil in Your Journey
Engine oil is often called the lifeblood of your vehicle, and for good reason. It performs several critical functions that ensure your 2.4L engine operates effectively:
1. Lubrication: It creates a thin film between moving metal parts, reducing friction and preventing wear. Without proper lubrication, components would grind against each other, leading to catastrophic engine failure.
2. Cooling: As it circulates, oil absorbs heat generated by combustion and friction, carrying it away from critical components like pistons and bearings.
3. Cleaning: Engine oil contains detergents that help suspend contaminants like dirt, sludge, and combustion byproducts, preventing them from accumulating and forming deposits. These contaminants are then carried to the oil filter.
4. Sealing: Oil helps create a seal between the piston rings and cylinder walls, which is essential for maintaining proper compression and power output.
5. Corrosion Protection: Additives in the oil protect internal engine components from rust and corrosion, especially during periods of inactivity.
Using the wrong oil type or an insufficient amount can compromise these functions, leading to increased wear, reduced performance, and potentially costly repairs down the road.
Understanding the 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4 Oil Capacity
For the 2018 Dodge Journey equipped with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, the specified oil capacity is 4.5 U.S. Quarts (4.3 Liters). This measurement typically includes the amount needed to fill a new oil filter.
It’s important to note that while this is the official capacity, you should always verify the oil level using your engine’s dipstick after adding oil. Here’s a quick guide:
1. Warm up the engine: Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature.
2. Park on a level surface: Turn off the engine and wait about 5-10 minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.
3. Locate and clean the dipstick: Pull out the yellow or orange loop-handled dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
4. Reinsert and check: Push the dipstick fully back into its tube, then pull it out again and observe the oil level. It should fall between the “MIN” and “MAX” (or “ADD” and “FULL”) marks.
Always add oil gradually, checking the dipstick frequently, to avoid overfilling, which can also cause engine problems like aeration of the oil or increased pressure.
Recommended Oil Type for Your 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4
The 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4 oil type is explicitly detailed in the owner’s manual to ensure proper lubrication and compliance with warranty requirements. For the 2.4L engine, the manufacturer recommends:
Viscosity Grade: SAE 5W-20
Standards/Certification: API Certified and meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.
Let’s break down what these specifications mean:
SAE 5W-20 Explained
SAE: Stands for Society of Automotive Engineers, which defines the viscosity grades.
5W: The “W” stands for “winter.” The number preceding the “W” (5) indicates the oil’s viscosity (how easily it flows) at low temperatures. A lower number means the oil is thinner at cold temperatures, allowing for quicker engine starts and better lubrication during cold starts.
20: This number indicates the oil’s viscosity at higher, operating temperatures. A higher number means thicker oil at operating temperatures. For the 2.4L engine, 20 is the recommended hot viscosity, optimized for fuel economy and proper protection.
API Certification and Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395
API Certified: This means the oil meets the latest performance standards set by the American Petroleum Institute. Look for the “starburst” symbol on the oil container, indicating it meets current engine protection and fuel economy requirements. The current API service category is typically SN PLUS or SP, which offer enhanced protection against issues like low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) common in some modern engines.
Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395: This is a specific manufacturer standard that Chrysler (and Dodge) requires. It indicates that the oil has passed additional tests and meets the unique performance and protection needs of their engines. Always look for this specification on the oil bottle.
Conventional vs. Synthetic vs. Blends
While the owner’s manual for the 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4 typically specifies a conventional or synthetic blend oil meeting the MS-6395 standard, many owners opt for full synthetic oil.
Conventional Oil: Derived from crude oil, it’s the most basic and least expensive.
Synthetic Blend Oil: A mix of conventional and synthetic oils, offering some benefits of synthetic at a lower cost.
Full Synthetic Oil: Man-made and engineered to provide superior protection, performance, and longevity. It offers better resistance to temperature extremes, less breakdown over time, and can improve engine cleanliness.
Given the modest additional cost and the enhanced protection, many mechanics and enthusiasts recommend using a full synthetic 5W-20 oil that meets the MS-6395 standard for the 2.4L engine. This can provide better long-term protection and potentially allow for longer oil change intervals, depending on driving conditions.
Oil Change Interval for the 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4
Dodge recommends an oil change interval of up to 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, when using the specified oil (SAE 5W-20, API certified, MS-6395) under normal operating conditions.
However, certain “severe duty” conditions may require more frequent oil changes, typically every 4,000 to 5,000 miles (6,500 to 8,000 km) or 6 months. Severe duty includes:
Frequent short trips (less than 10 miles/16 km).
Driving in extremely hot or cold temperatures.
Extensive idling or stop-and-go driving.
Towing or carrying heavy loads.
Driving in dusty or muddy conditions.
Always consult your owner’s manual and consider your personal driving habits when determining the most appropriate oil change schedule. The vehicle’s onboard oil life monitoring system, if equipped, can also provide guidance on when an oil change is due.
Conclusion
Maintaining your 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4 with the correct oil capacity and type is fundamental to its health and performance. Using 4.5 quarts of SAE 5W-20 oil that is API Certified and meets Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395 will ensure your engine receives the precise lubrication, cooling, and protection it needs. Regular checks of your oil level and adhering to the recommended oil change intervals, adjusted for your driving conditions, will help you get many years and miles of reliable service from your Dodge Journey. Don’t underestimate the power of proper maintenance—it’s the easiest way to safeguard your investment.
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Source:
Dodge Journey Owner’s Manual (2018 Model Year)*