How-to · Elgin CDJR · Streamwood, IL
Dodge Charger Fuel Tank Size and Fuel Type
How many gallons does the new Dodge Charger hold, and does it need premium? Here is what the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual lists for the approximate fuel capacity of gasoline models, the octane each 3.0L engine is designed for, the ethanol limit, and how capless refueling works.
17.5 gal2026 gasoline models (approximate)
87 octane2026 3.0L Standard Output
91+ required2026 3.0L High Output
E15 max2026: no E-85
The short answer
The 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual lists an approximate fuel capacity of 17.5 gallons (66 L) for gasoline models. The 3.0L Standard Output engine is designed for 87 octane regular, and the manual recommends 91 octane or higher for optimum performance. The 3.0L High Output engine requires premium unleaded 91 octane or higher. Charger Daytona models have no fuel entry in the chart. Do not use E-85 or ethanol blends greater than 15%.
Dodge Charger fuel tank size
The Fluid Capacities charts in the manual cover gasoline and Daytona models:
| Model | Fuel (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Gasoline models (3.0L engine) | 17.5 gal (66 L) |
| Daytona models | No fuel listed (the chart lists the cooling system and electric drive modules) |
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Fluid Capacities, page 292), read October 29, 2026. This manual covers the current Charger two-door and four-door. Earlier Charger generations have their own manuals and can differ; check yours.
What gas a Dodge Charger takes, by engine
Octane ratings in the manual use the (R+M)/2 method. The manual lists fuel by engine:
| Engine | Fuel selection in the 2026 manual |
|---|---|
| 3.0L Standard Output | 87 octane, 0-15% ethanol (do not use E-85). The manufacturer recommends 91 octane or higher for optimum performance; the manual says the increase in performance is most noticeable in hot weather or under heavy load conditions such as towing. |
| 3.0L High Output | 91 octane or higher, 0-15% ethanol (do not use E-85). Premium gasoline of 91 octane or higher is required in this engine. |
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Fuel Requirements, page 287; Fluids And Lubricants: Fuel Selection, page 291), read October 29, 2026.
The manual adds that a light knocking sound while using fuel of the required octane is not a cause for concern, but a heavy knocking sound means you should see a dealer immediately. Using gasoline with an octane number lower than recommended can cause engine failure and may void the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Ethanol, additives and gasoline quality
The 2026 manual says not to use E-85, gasoline containing methanol, or gasoline containing more than 15% ethanol (E-15), and to watch pump labels, which should clearly say if a fuel contains more than 15% ethanol. Using those blends may cause starting and drivability problems, damage critical fuel system components, cause emissions to exceed the applicable standard and/or turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light.
It recommends gasolines with detergents, corrosion and stability additives, TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline when available, and reformulated gasoline. It does not recommend fuel additives sold as octane enhancers, recommends gasoline without MMT, and says indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning agents should be avoided. If you notice hard starting, stalling or hesitation, it suggests trying another brand of gasoline before considering service.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Fuel Requirements; Reformulated Gasoline; Materials Added To Fuel; Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends; MMT In Gasoline; Fuel System Cautions, pages 287 to 289), read October 29, 2026.
How to refuel a Dodge Charger
Gasoline models have no fuel filler cap to remove: the fuel nozzle opens flapper doors inside the filler pipe. The manual's steps:
- Open the fuel filler door by pushing on the outer edge of the door near the center to unlatch it, then use a finger to rotate the door to the full open position.
- Insert the fuel nozzle fully into the filler pipe; the nozzle opens and holds the flapper doors while refueling. Only the correct size nozzle opens the latches that let the flapper doors open.
- Fill the vehicle. When the nozzle clicks or shuts off, the tank is full.
- Wait five seconds before removing the nozzle to let fuel drain from it.
- Remove the nozzle and close the fuel door, pushing on the outer edge near the center to engage the latch.
The manual also warns never to add fuel with the engine running, not to top off the tank after filling, and to always place portable fuel containers on the ground while filling them.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Refueling The Vehicle, page 156), read October 29, 2026.
When the low fuel light comes on
Per the 2026 manual, the Low Fuel Warning Light turns on and a chime sounds when the fuel level reaches approximately 2 gallons (7.5 L). The light stays on until fuel is added.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Low Fuel Warning Light, page 103), read October 29, 2026.
Charger service at Elgin CDJR
Our Mopar service department services every Dodge, wherever it was bought, including routine maintenance, Express Lane oil changes, brakes, tires, batteries, recalls and warranty repairs. If your Charger knocks heavily, runs poorly after a fill-up, has a fuel door that will not open or latch, or shows a check engine light, schedule a visit and tell us what you are seeing.
Our service department is open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Elgin CDJR is at 1500 W. Lake St. in Streamwood. Get directions.
Schedule service online, or see our Dodge service center page.
Dodge Charger fuel tank and fuel FAQ
How many gallons does a Dodge Charger hold?
The 2026 Dodge Charger manual lists approximately 17.5 gallons (66 L) for gasoline models with the 3.0L engine.
Does the Charger Daytona have a gas tank?
The 2026 manual's Fluid Capacities chart for Daytona models lists no fuel, only the cooling system and electric drive modules. The 17.5-gallon figure is for gasoline models.
Does a Dodge Charger need premium gas?
It depends on the engine. Per the 2026 manual, the 3.0L Standard Output engine is designed for 87 octane, with 91 or higher recommended for optimum performance; the 3.0L High Output engine requires 91 octane or higher.
Can I put E85 in a Dodge Charger?
No. The 2026 manual says not to use E-85 or ethanol blends greater than 15%; gasoline with up to 15% ethanol (E-15) can be used.
Where is the gas cap on a Dodge Charger?
Gasoline models have no cap to remove. Per the 2026 manual, the fuel nozzle opens flapper doors inside the filler pipe when it is inserted fully.
When does the Charger low fuel light come on?
Per the 2026 manual, when about 2 gallons of fuel remain. A chime sounds and the light stays on until fuel is added.
Questions about your Charger?
Book a visit with the Mopar service department at Elgin CDJR in Streamwood.
Sources
Fuel capacity, fuel requirements and refueling steps are from the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual, read on October 29, 2026; other model years can differ, so check your own manual. Our services, address and hours are from our own website, checked the same day. Photo is illustrative.