The 2022 Dodge Charger equipped with the powerful 6.4L HEMI V8 is a machine built for performance, combining muscular styling with the raw power of an 8-cylinder engine. To keep this high-output engine running smoothly and to ensure the longevity of its complex drivetrain, using the correct synthetic lubricants is essential. The factory-fill conventions often prioritize meeting baseline OEM standards, but AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-40 100% Synthetic Motor Oil and other AMSOIL formulations are engineered to exceed these requirements, providing superior protection against the high heat and stress generated by the HEMI V8 and its associated 8-speed automatic transmission. Proper fluid selection ensures better thermal stability, reduced wear, and extended drain intervals for owners who demand the best from their vehicle.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-40 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The primary recommendation for this HEMI engine, offering 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear while supporting up to 25,000-mile intervals. It features a 7-quart capacity.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Designed with greater capacity for contaminants and lower restriction than competing filters to maximize engine life and maintain oil flow.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium alternative featuring advanced media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded filters for those preferring a different brand.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Essential for the 8HP70 transmission, withstanding heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions. A full fill requires 9 quarts.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective synthetic option that protects against wear and ensures smooth shifting for daily driving conditions.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Recommended for the front limited-slip differential (175 FIA), providing advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway while containing friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Specifically formulated for the rear axles (195, 220, 230, and 230 LSD models), offering excellent thermal control and reduced operating temperatures for extended gear life.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation providing protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, compatible with all cooling system metals and hoses.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, superior to standard Mopar fluid.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks and resists heat, ensuring quiet operation and strong anti-wear protection.
Understanding the specific needs of the 2022 Dodge Charger’s drivetrain is crucial for maintenance. The engine oil capacity for the 6.4L V8 is 7.0 quarts when changing the filter. The 8HP70 automatic transmission has a total fill capacity of 9 quarts, a significant amount that benefits greatly from a fluid with the extreme shear stability and friction control found in synthetic transmission fluids. For the cooling system, the capacity is 15.2 quarts, requiring a robust antifreeze that prevents corrosion without the need for phosphate or silicate additives that can plug narrow coolant passages over time. Differential fills vary by axle model, ranging from 1.3 pints for the front 175 FIA to 2.3 pints for the rear 220 or 230 axles, all requiring specific GL-5 rated synthetic gear lubes like AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85.
AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are designed to handle the thermal extremes of high-performance driving, whether that involves a track day, towing a trailer, or navigating a long commute in stop-and-go traffic. The viscosity of 0W-40 provides a thick oil film at operating temperatures to protect piston rings and cylinder walls, while still flowing easily at startup to reduce wear during cold starts. The oil filters included in the maintenance plan are engineered for high efficiency, capturing microscopic wear particles that contribute to engine sludge and premature component failure. By choosing AMSOIL, owners can maintain peak performance and reduce the frequency of oil changes compared to conventional oil intervals, saving time and money in the long run.
Vehicle Background and Performance
The 2022 Dodge Charger represents the pinnacle of American muscle cars, offering a blend of four-door practicality and track-ready performance. The model has a long-standing reputation in the automotive market, originating as a sedan that redefined the segment by providing rear-wheel-drive dynamics and V8 power in a package capable of carrying passengers and cargo. The Charger is built on the CD6 platform, a rear-wheel-drive architecture shared with the Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300, designed to deliver balanced handling and a low center of gravity despite its substantial size.
The 6.4-liter HEMI V8, identified by engine code [J] ESG J in this specific configuration, is a naturally aspirated powerhouse. This engine is renowned for its robust construction and high horsepower output, which typically ranges from 485 to 500 horsepower depending on the specific trim level such as the GT or R/T. It produces torque figures that provide immediate acceleration and a deep, throaty exhaust note that enthusiasts cherish. The engine features variable valve timing (VVT) and a high-flow cylinder head design that enhances breathing for maximum power delivery across the RPM range.
Owners of the 2022 Charger appreciate the vehicle for its versatility. Unlike pure sports cars that sacrifice comfort for speed, the Charger offers a refined ride quality suitable for daily driving while retaining the ability to out-accelerate many supercars at the drag strip. The interior is spacious, with comfortable seating for five adults and a large trunk, making it a practical choice for families who refuse to compromise on performance. The exterior design is muscular and aggressive, with wide stances and distinctive LED lighting that ensure the car stands out on the road.
The powertrain is managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission, the 8HP70, which is known for its quick shift times and smooth operation. This transmission pairs with the HEMI to deliver power efficiently to the rear wheels. The drivetrain often includes an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) in higher trims, which actively monitors wheel slip and distributes torque to maintain traction, enhancing stability during hard cornering or in adverse weather conditions. The chassis is tuned for a dynamic driving experience, featuring a fully independent suspension setup with available adaptive damping systems that adjust to driving modes like Sport, Track, and Snow/Ice.
While the 2022 Dodge Charger is a durable vehicle, there are common issues that owners often encounter, particularly with the high-performance variants. One frequent concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common problem in direct injection engines. The direct injection process, while efficient, can lead to deposits forming on the back of the intake valves over time, potentially affecting throttle response and fuel economy. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver gasoline additive is highly recommended as a proactive solution to help clean and prevent this carbon buildup, maintaining injector flow rates and engine cleanliness.
Another area of concern for the HEMI V8 is heat management under severe driving conditions. The engine operates at high temperatures, and if the cooling system is not optimized, it can lead to premature degradation of standard coolants. Owners may experience boiling over or hose degradation faster than expected during spirited driving. Switching to a premium synthetic coolant, such as AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant, can mitigate this by offering superior heat transfer and corrosion protection, extending the life of the radiator and hoses.
A third common problem is the potential for transmission shudder or harsh shifting, especially as the vehicle accumulates miles. The factory fluid, while adequate for new vehicles, may not provide the same level of friction control and wear protection as a premium synthetic alternative under heavy load or frequent stop-and-go conditions. Owners report that upgrading to a high-quality synthetic transmission fluid like AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid can result in noticeably smoother shifts and reduced heat generation within the transmission, protecting the torque converter and clutch packs.
Finally, the differential gears in performance trims, particularly those with limited-slip differentials, can suffer from wear or whining noises if the lubricant breaks down. The constant friction from the limited-slip clutch packs generates significant heat, which can degrade conventional gear oils. Owners may experience clutch chatter or premature wear of the differential gears. Using a synthetic AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube specifically formulated with advanced friction modifiers for limited-slip applications ensures that the differential operates quietly and smoothly, preventing wear and maintaining the integrity of the clutch packs over the life of the vehicle.
Maintenance of the 2022 Dodge Charger with the 6.4L HEMI V8 is straightforward when using the correct synthetic lubricants. The vehicle benefits significantly from the extended service intervals offered by AMSOIL products, allowing owners to spend less time in the shop and more time driving. The combination of high-performance motor oil, durable filters, and robust fluids ensures that the car retains its power and responsiveness for years to come. Whether the car is used for daily commuting or weekend autocross events, the right fluids provide the necessary protection to keep the vehicle in top condition.