Maintaining the health of your 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4L requires precise attention to fluid specifications. This vehicle’s engine, identified by code [B] ED3 B, relies on specific oil viscosities and fluid capacities to operate efficiently under varying conditions. Using the correct lubricants not only ensures optimal engine performance but also helps extend the service life of critical components like the transmission, cooling system, and braking mechanisms.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides up to 25,000 miles of protection with superior resistance to wear and horsepower loss.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers extended protection for up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits effectively.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and oil consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features 99% filtration efficiency to capture small, wear-causing contaminants and reduce engine wear.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket filter option that offers significant improvements over standard OEM-branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix designed for up to 150,000 miles of corrosion protection.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option requiring mixing, offering protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Resists harsh conditions, elevated temperatures, and heavy towing.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Promotes smooth shifts while guarding against leaks and harmful sludge.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS responsiveness and stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
The 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4L is equipped with an engine that demands reliable lubrication. The total capacity for the oil change, including the filter, is 4.5 quarts. When performing a change, it is essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s torque specification of 30 ft/lbs for the oil drain plug to ensure a proper seal. The journey through proper maintenance begins with selecting the right viscosity. For this engine, a 5W-20 grade is specified for all temperature conditions. Whether you drive in extreme heat or freezing cold, AMSOIL synthetic oils maintain their viscosity, providing a protective film between moving parts that conventional oils cannot match.
Comprehensive Fluid Maintenance for the Journey 2.4L
Beyond engine oil, the longevity of your vehicle depends on the quality of fluids circulating through its various systems. The cooling system is particularly critical for the 2018 model. The vehicle utilizes a specific type of antifreeze. For models with the Three Zone cooling system, the capacity is 7.9 quarts when including the O Three Zone configuration, or 10 quarts when including the Three Zone configuration. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is formulated to exceed original equipment requirements, protecting all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It is a phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free formulation that is compatible with all other antifreeze colors. If you prefer to mix your own coolant, the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers a concentrated solution that provides protection up to 150,000 miles or five years.
The automatic transmission in the 2018 Dodge Journey also requires specific attention. The 4-speed 41TES transmission has a total fill capacity of 9.2 quarts, while the initial fill capacity is 4 quarts. Using the correct fluid is vital for preventing shudder and ensuring smooth operation. The AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures. It remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures, offering reserve protection during heavy use. Alternatively, the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance fluid that guards against leaks and promotes shudder-free shifts.
Braking systems must also remain reliable to ensure safety. The recommended AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid for the 2018 Dodge Journey meets the MS-4574 specification, often requiring DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid. This synthetic fluid exceeds the requirement, providing a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range which translates to excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. It resists moisture absorption better than conventional fluids, preventing the boiling point from dropping under heavy braking conditions.
For vehicle owners who engage in seasonal storage, protecting the engine from corrosion is a priority. The AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil is an effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components during periods of inactivity. It is ideal for outboard motors, lawnmowers, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and similar equipment. Additionally, fuel quality can degrade over time, especially with modern ethanol blends. AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive helps restore up to 14% horsepower and can restore GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after a single tank of treated fuel. This additive also improves fuel economy and helps prevent carbon buildup and pre-ignition knock, making it a valuable addition to the fuel system.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Dodge Journey occupies a unique space in the automotive market as a midsize crossover SUV that blends the utility of a minivan with the styling of a traditional SUV. Produced by Chrysler Group LLC, the Journey has long been a favorite among families who need to transport multiple passengers and cargo without the bulk of a full-size van. The model line, which traces its roots back to the mid-2000s, was designed to offer a flexible seating arrangement that could accommodate up to seven passengers. It is built on the Chrysler Group PT Cruiser platform, which was adapted to create a more modern and spacious interior environment.
When equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, the vehicle provides a balance of adequate power and reasonable fuel efficiency for daily commuting and highway driving. This engine option is known for its simplicity and reliability, though like many naturally aspirated engines of its era, it requires diligent maintenance to ensure it reaches its full potential lifespan. Owners of the Journey typically value its versatile interior, which features a split-folding third-row seat and a split-folding second row, allowing for a variety of cargo configurations. The rear seating is particularly popular for parents who need to carry child seats and young children simultaneously.
Despite its practicality, the 2018 Dodge Journey does face some common issues that can be mitigated with high-quality synthetic lubricants. One prevalent concern is the development of oil leaks, particularly from the front or rear main seals and valve cover gaskets as the vehicle ages. The synthetic oils and seal conditioners found in AMSOIL products are known to help reduce leakage by conditioning seals and maintaining better pressure stability than conventional oils. Another frequent issue reported by owners is excessive oil consumption or the “smoky” exhaust associated with valve guide wear, which can be exacerbated by oil thinning at high temperatures. Using a robust synthetic oil helps maintain film strength and reduces the likelihood of these consumption problems.
Furthermore, some owners have experienced transmission shudder or harsh shifting, often attributed to the breakdown of the factory fluid over time. This synthetic transmission fluid helps maintain the necessary friction characteristics for the clutch packs, reducing the likelihood of shudder and extending the life of the transmission. Additionally, the cooling system in the Journey can be prone to overheating if the coolant degrades or loses its corrosion inhibitors. This is particularly true in vehicles that are driven in extreme climates or used for towing. The AMSOIL antifreeze formulations are engineered to provide superior thermal stability and corrosion protection, helping to prevent overheating and the associated damage to the engine block and head gasket. By addressing these common areas of concern, owners can enjoy a more reliable and durable driving experience with their Journey.
In conclusion, the 2018 Dodge Journey 2.4L is a capable vehicle that rewards owners who prioritize quality maintenance. By selecting the right AMSOIL products for engine, transmission, cooling, and braking systems, drivers can ensure their vehicle performs at its best. Whether you are tackling a long road trip or navigating daily city traffic, the protection offered by synthetic fluids provides peace of mind and enhanced performance. Taking the time to replace fluids with top-tier synthetic alternatives is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your investment and keep your 2018 Dodge Journey running smoothly for years to come.