Maintaining the correct lubrication schedule is essential for the longevity and performance of your 2008 Chrysler 300. The vehicle’s 5.7-liter V8 engine is designed to run efficiently, but it relies heavily on high-quality synthetic fluids to withstand the stresses of modern driving, from stop-and-go city traffic to long-distance highway cruising. Using the specified viscosities and fluid types ensures that critical components like the engine, transmission, and differential are protected against wear, sludge, and extreme temperatures.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice for unmatched protection against wear and horsepower loss, offering extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides a robust balance of cleaning power and durability, guaranteeing protection for up to 20,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent option for those seeking a cost-effective full-synthetic solution that fights sludge and deposits effectively.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated with enhanced detergents and anti-wear additives for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to help reduce sludge and consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Engineered with 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns, this filter provides greater capacity for contaminants than competing brands and supports extended service life.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed, phosphate- and silicate-free formulation designed to protect all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Delivers exceptional resistance to wear and oxidation, maintaining fluidity in sub-zero temperatures while handling heavy towing and elevated heat.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A versatile synthetic fluid that promotes smooth shifts and guards against leaks and harmful sludge buildup.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for limited-slip differentials, this fluid controls thermal runaway and contains friction modifiers to protect against rust and corrosion.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Formulated for rear axles requiring higher viscosity, it offers long-lasting protection and reduced operating temperatures for severe service.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS responsiveness and a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent braking performance.
Engine Oil and Filtration Specifications
The heart of your 2008 Chrysler 300 is its 5.7-liter V8 engine, which requires a specific viscosity to maintain proper oil film strength under load. AMSOIL recommends using 5W-20 full synthetic motor oil for all temperature conditions. The total oil capacity for the 5.7L engine, including the filter change, is 7.0 quarts. It is crucial to refill to the specified amount and check the oil level after the refill to ensure optimal lubrication. The drain plug should be torqued to 20 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage to the aluminum pan threads.
When selecting an oil, the Signature Series 5W-20 offers the highest level of protection, boasting up to 25,000 miles of service life in personal vehicles. It contains a unique chemistry designed to resist viscosity breakdown and provide superior horsepower retention. For owners who prefer a slightly lower price point without sacrificing synthetic benefits, the Extended-Life 5W-20 series is an excellent choice, offering up to 20,000 miles of protection. If your vehicle has accumulated significant mileage, the High-Mileage 5W-20 variant includes seal conditioners and boosters to reduce consumption and sludge in older engines.
Filtration is just as critical as the oil itself. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO11) is engineered to provide 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns, capturing fine contaminants that can cause accelerated wear. It features a higher capacity for small particles compared to many aftermarket filters, ensuring the engine stays clean during extended drain intervals. For those who prefer an OEM-branded filter, the WIX Oil Filter (57899) is also compatible and offers premium media that improves upon original equipment specifications.
Transmission and Differential Fluids
The 2008 Chrysler 300 5.7L is equipped with an automatic transmission that requires a specialized fluid to handle the demands of shifting and torque conversion. The recommended fluid is a Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid. The total fill capacity for the 5-speed NAG1 transmission is 8.1 quarts, with an initial fill capacity of 5.3 quarts. To ensure the smooth operation of your transmission and prevent shudder, the AMSOIL Signature Series ATF is highly recommended. This fluid remains stable in extreme cold and resists oxidation, which is vital for the longevity of seals and internal components.
For the differential, specific gear lubes are required based on the axle configuration. The front differential (175mm FIA) requires a capacity of 1.3 pints. For this application, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 is ideal, as it contains friction modifiers specifically for limited-slip differentials and helps control operating temperatures. The rear axle options vary by unit, with capacities ranging from 2.5 to 3.4 pints depending on whether it is a 198mm or 215mm unit. All rear axles in this configuration utilize AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140. This high-viscosity synthetic lube is designed to withstand heavy loads and provides a durable film to protect gears from wear and pitting, even under severe driving conditions.
Cooling and Brake Systems
The cooling system for the 5.7L HEMI engine requires a significant volume of fluid to prevent overheating. The system capacity is 14.7 quarts. The recommended choice is the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant. This is a pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol formulation that is free of phosphates, nitrates, and silicates, making it safe for all cooling system metals and hoses. It offers protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years, significantly extending the service interval compared to conventional coolants.
For the braking system, the vehicle specifies a hydraulic AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid meeting MS-4574 standards. This fluid is the optimal replacement, featuring a high boiling point and stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, which ensures consistent pedal feel and responsiveness for your ABS and traction control systems. Using a synthetic fluid also helps prevent the absorption of moisture from the atmosphere, which can lead to internal corrosion and lower boiling points over time.
In addition to the primary fluids, maintaining air quality is vital for engine efficiency. The WIX Air Filter is a recommended option for this vehicle, offering improved media that captures dust and debris more effectively than standard OEM filters. For vehicles with high mileage or those used for towing, the AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is an essential additive. It helps clean fuel injectors, restore horsepower, and reduce carbon buildup, ensuring the engine runs at peak efficiency.
About the Vehicle
The 2008 Chrysler 300 stands as a testament to American automotive design from the mid-2000s, blending executive styling with substantial performance capabilities. Part of the LD platform, which also underpinned the Dodge Charger and Magnum, the 300 offered a striking rear-wheel-drive (or all-wheel-drive) layout that differentiated it from many of its sedan rivals at the time. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8, designated by engine code [H] K, was a standout powerplant known for its impressive torque and relatively lightweight construction compared to older V8s.
Owners of this model year often appreciate the car’s driving dynamics, which prioritize a smooth, comfortable ride without sacrificing the ability to accelerate with authority. The interior was designed with a focus on luxury, featuring spacious seating and a cabin that effectively dampens road noise. While the 2008 model introduced various updates over the previous years, the 5.7L variant remained a favorite for those seeking a balance of utility and power. It was a popular choice for families who needed the cargo space and towing capability of a larger platform but preferred the sedan silhouette. The vehicle’s reputation for robust engineering and the availability of aftermarket support have kept it relevant in the automotive community, making it a desirable candidate for maintenance programs that emphasize longevity and performance.
Additional Protection and Maintenance
To ensure your 2008 Chrysler 300 remains in peak condition, utilizing the complete range of AMSOIL protective products is advisable. For seasonal storage, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer prevents fuel degradation and varnish buildup, keeping your tank fresh for up to 12 months. During winter or long periods of inactivity, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to coat internal components and prevent rust. For general vehicle care, products like AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector offer a long-lasting barrier against corrosion for undercarriage components, while AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner ensures that maintenance tasks are performed with a clean, residue-free surface.