Dodge Charger · Elgin CDJR · Streamwood, IL
Dodge Charger Transmission Fluid
What transmission fluid does a Dodge Charger use, and does it ever need changing? The 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual answers both for the current Charger, which comes as a gasoline model with a 3.0L engine and automatic transmission, or as the electric Daytona with electric drive modules. Here is what the manual says.
ATF 818automatic transmission fluid, gasoline models
ATF+eelectric drive module fluid, Daytona
No dipsticklevel is checked by a dealer with service tools
Not routinefluid and filter changes under normal conditions
The short answer
For gasoline Charger models, the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual says to use only Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 818, or equivalent. For the Charger Daytona's electric drive modules (EDM), it recommends Mopar ATF+e meeting Material Standard MS-A1465, with an EDM capacity of 2.75 qt (2.6 L). The automatic transmission has no dipstick, and routine fluid and filter changes are not required under normal operating conditions; the manual says to change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.) or the transmission is disassembled for any reason.
Which transmission fluid the Charger uses
The manual's fluids and lubricants tables list these:
| Charger model | Component | Fluid in the owner's manual |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline models (3.0L engines) | Automatic transmission | Use only Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 818, or equivalent |
| Daytona models | Electric Drive Module(s) (EDM) | Mopar ATF+e (Automatic Transmission Fluid) meeting Material Standard MS-A1465 (recommended); capacity 2.75 qt (2.6 L) |
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (publication 105085_26_LB, edition E2; Fluids And Lubricants, pages 289 to 291; Fluid Capacities, page 292), read November 4, 2026. The manual says failure to use the proper fluid may affect the function or performance of your transmission, and the gasoline-model capacity table does not list a transmission fill amount. For engine oil, see our Dodge Charger oil type and capacity guide.
Checking the transmission fluid level
There is nothing for the owner to check under the hood. The 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual says the fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require adjustment under normal operating conditions. Routine fluid level checks are not required, so the transmission has no dipstick, and an authorized dealer can check the fluid level using special service tools.
If you notice fluid leakage or a transmission malfunction, the manual says to visit an authorized dealer immediately to have the fluid level checked, because operating the vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Automatic Transmission, Fluid Level Check, page 248), read November 4, 2026.
When to change Charger transmission fluid
Under normal operating conditions, the manual says the fluid installed at the factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life of the vehicle, and routine fluid and filter changes are not required.
It lists two cases where the fluid and filter should be changed: if the fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for any reason. Whenever fluid is added or changed, the manual says to use only the manufacturer recommended fluid and to maintain it at the correct level.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Fluid And Filter Changes; Selection Of Lubricant, page 248), read November 4, 2026.
What not to put in the transmission
The manual is specific about what to avoid:
No additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any special additives in the transmission, because ATF is an engineered product whose performance may be impaired by supplemental additives.
No sealers
Avoid transmission sealers, as they may adversely affect seals.
No chemical flushes
Do not use chemical flushes, as the chemicals can damage transmission components, and the manual says such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
No other fluid
Using a fluid other than the manufacturer recommended fluid may cause deterioration in shift quality and/or torque converter shudder.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Automatic Transmission, Special Additives and Selection Of Lubricant, page 248), read November 4, 2026.
Transmission temperature warning light
Some Chargers have a Transmission Temperature Warning Light. The manual says it warns of a high transmission fluid temperature, which may occur with strenuous usage such as trailer towing. If it turns on, stop the vehicle and run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL, until the light turns off. For other dashboard lights, see our Dodge Charger warning lights guide.
From the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Transmission Temperature Warning Light, pages 101 to 102), read November 4, 2026.
Dodge Charger service at Elgin CDJR
If you see a fluid leak under your Charger, the shifting feels different, or the transmission temperature light comes on, our Dodge service center can check the transmission fluid level. Schedule service or see our service specials.
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., and is closed Sunday. Elgin CDJR is at 1500 W. Lake St. in Streamwood. Get directions.
Dodge Charger transmission fluid FAQ
What transmission fluid does a Dodge Charger take?
For 2026 gasoline Charger models, the owner's manual says to use only Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 818, or equivalent. For the Charger Daytona's electric drive modules, it recommends Mopar ATF+e meeting MS-A1465.
Does the Dodge Charger have a transmission dipstick?
No. The 2026 manual says routine fluid level checks are not required, so the transmission has no dipstick, and an authorized dealer can check the level using special service tools.
How often should Charger transmission fluid be changed?
Under normal operating conditions, the 2026 manual says routine fluid and filter changes are not required. Change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.) or the transmission is disassembled.
Can I add a transmission additive or do a flush?
The manual strongly recommends against special additives and says not to use chemical flushes or transmission sealers.
How much fluid do the Charger Daytona drive modules hold?
The 2026 manual lists 2.75 qt (2.6 L) for the electric drive module(s).
What are your service hours?
Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are closed Sunday.
Transmission leak or shifting concern?
Schedule Dodge service at Elgin CDJR, 1500 W. Lake St. in Streamwood.
Sources
Fluid types, capacities and service guidance are from the 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (publication 105085_26_LB, edition E2), read November 4, 2026. Other model years and earlier Charger generations may use different transmissions and fluids, so check the manual for your vehicle. Our address and service hours are from our own website, checked the same day.
- 2026 Dodge Charger Owner's Manual (Automatic Transmission; Fluids And Lubricants; Fluid Capacities; Transmission Temperature Warning Light), Dodge / Mopar, read November 4, 2026
- Dodge Service Center in Streamwood: services and service hours, Elgin CDJR
- Home page: address, Elgin CDJR