The 2018 Dodge Challenger equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine is a powerful muscle car that combines classic styling with modern performance. To keep this vehicle running smoothly and to protect its engine from the rigors of daily driving or spirited performance, using the correct high-quality lubricants is essential. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are formulated to withstand extreme temperatures, reduce wear, and extend service intervals, ensuring your Challenger delivers peak performance for years to come.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides unsurpassed engine protection with up to 25,000 miles of guaranteed service life, featuring advanced additives to reduce horsepower loss and wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers extended-life protection for up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother and longer.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An OEM-mileage oil that fights sludge and deposits while offering robust protection comparable to original equipment specifications.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and help engines perform better with boosted detergents.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Offers 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns and lower restriction to keep engine parts lubricated, with greater capacity for small contaminants.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium OEM-style filter providing improved media efficiency and reliable filtration for standard mileage intervals.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that protects cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant that greatly surpasses standards for corrosion protection, ideal for those who prefer to mix their own solution.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to protect against wear and promote smooth, shudder-free shifts for automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A versatile fluid that offers premium protection for a wide range of automatic transmission applications.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides excellent cold-weather performance and guards against leaks for multi-vehicle applications.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway for front and rear differentials requiring GL-5 rating.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Engineered for extended service life, offering high-load protection and improved seal life.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – A heavy-duty option for extreme load conditions, featuring friction modifiers for limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Specifically recommended for rear standard differentials requiring 75W-85 viscosity with GL-5 rating.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of the 2018 Dodge Challenger’s 3.6L V6 engine. This engine, part of the renowned Pentastar family, is designed to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. However, like any internal combustion engine, it is subject to heat, friction, and contamination. Conventional oils break down faster under the extreme thermal stress generated by the Challenger, leading to sludge buildup and accelerated wear. Switching to AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil, AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil, AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil, or AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil ensures that the engine remains properly lubricated even during rapid acceleration, cold starts, and long highway cruises. The 5.9-quart capacity (with filter) must be filled with the correct viscosity, 5W-20, to maintain optimal clearance and protection, paired with a high-efficiency AMSOIL Oil Filter or WIX Oil Filter.
The transmission and differential systems also require specific attention. The 845RE automatic transmission in this model is a robust 8-speed unit that benefits significantly from synthetic fluids that resist oxidation and maintain viscosity under load. Similarly, the front and rear differentials, whether the 175FIA or 195RIA models, are subject to high torque loads. Using the correct AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube, AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube, or AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube depending on the specific axle, prevents wear and helps manage heat, extending the life of the gears and bearings. The cooling system, holding 11.1 quarts, also plays a critical role in maintaining the engine’s operating temperature, and AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant or AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offer superior corrosion protection compared to standard coolants.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Dodge Challenger represents the continuation of a legacy that blends vintage muscle car aesthetics with contemporary automotive engineering. Released as part of the third generation of the Challenger, the 2018 model year is widely regarded as one of the most refined iterations of the platform. It is built on the LH platform, a rear-wheel-drive architecture shared with the Charger, designed to provide a driving experience that feels both substantial and agile. The vehicle is known for its aggressive styling cues, including the iconic split grille and distinctive taillights, which have remained largely consistent since the model’s reintroduction in 2008.
Powering the 2018 Challenger is a range of engine options, but the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is a standout for daily drivers and enthusiasts who prioritize a balance of capability and efficiency. This engine produces roughly 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, providing ample acceleration for highway merging and passing while maintaining reasonable fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. The V6 is paired with either a traditional 5-speed automatic or the modern 8-speed automatic transmission, both of which contribute to a smooth and responsive driving character. Owners often appreciate the Challenger’s comfortable interior, which features supportive seats and a dashboard layout that prioritizes driver-focused controls.
Despite its durability, the 3.6L Pentastar engine, like any complex machine, can face specific issues over time. One common concern among Challenger owners is oil consumption, particularly in models that have accumulated significant mileage. The oil can sometimes be drawn past piston rings, leading to low oil levels between changes. Using a high-quality synthetic oil like AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil can help mitigate this by providing better seal conditioning and superior film strength. Another potential issue is the buildup of carbon deposits in the intake valves and combustion chamber, a common trait in direct injection and port injection systems of this era. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver gasoline additive is an excellent solution to help clean fuel injectors and restore lost horsepower, addressing carbon buildup before it affects performance. AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor can also help lubricate these fuel system components.
Torque converter shudder is another problem that can afflict Challengers with the 8-speed transmission. This shudder typically manifests as a vibration during light acceleration in higher gears and is often caused by fluid degradation or clutch wear. Regular fluid changes using a high-performance synthetic automatic transmission fluid like AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, or AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid can prevent this shudder and ensure the transmission shifts smoothly without hesitation. Finally, the cooling system is a critical component that requires vigilance. Over time, corrosion can develop in the radiator and water pump, leading to overheating. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is formulated to protect all metal components within the cooling system, preventing rust and scaling that could compromise the engine’s temperature regulation. By addressing these common areas of concern with premium lubricants, owners can significantly enhance the longevity and reliability of their 2018 Dodge Challenger.
Whether you are tackling the highway for a long commute or heading out for a weekend drive, maintaining your 2018 Dodge Challenger with the right fluids is crucial. The combination of engine oil, filters, transmission fluid, and gear lubes creates a protective barrier against wear, ensuring that the vehicle performs exactly as intended. With AMSOIL’s extensive range of synthetic products, you can tailor your maintenance schedule to your driving habits, enjoying extended intervals without sacrificing protection. From the engine bay to the differential, every component deserves the best, and AMSOIL delivers the industry-leading performance needed to keep your Challenger on the road.