The 2018 Dodge Durango equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar V-6 engine demands lubricants that can withstand modern engine stresses while maximizing fuel efficiency and longevity. Proper fluid selection is critical for this specific powertrain, as it operates under varying conditions ranging from daily commuting to heavy towing and hauling. Using the correct viscosity and quality of oil ensures that the variable valve timing system and turbocharger, where applicable, receive adequate protection. Furthermore, the Durango’s complex powertrain components, including its automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive systems, require specialized fluids to maintain shift quality and durability. Neglecting these specific lubrication requirements can lead to premature wear, reduced performance, and costly repairs.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides the highest level of engine protection for up to 25,000 miles or one year, offering superior performance in extreme temperatures and reducing horsepower loss.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent choice for extended drain intervals up to 20,000 miles, featuring enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother and protecting against low-speed pre-ignition.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers a high-quality synthetic formulation that effectively fights sludge and deposits, ideal for those seeking OEM-level protection at a more accessible price point.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically designed for engines with over 75,000 miles, featuring a boosted detergent package and seal conditioners to reduce leaks and sludge while restoring performance.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99 percent filtration efficiency at 20 microns, allowing lower restriction for better lubrication and greater capacity to trap wear-causing contaminants for longer service intervals.
- WIX Oil Filter – Features premium media that offers significant improvements over standard original equipment manufacturer branded filters, ensuring reliable filtration for your Durango’s engine.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that provides protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, compatible with all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions, providing reserve protection during heavy use.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway for front and rear differentials, containing friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and reducing operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Offers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring reliable braking performance in any weather.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, while providing strong anti-wear protection and excellent performance in both high and low temperatures.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after one tank, improving fuel economy and helping prevent carbon buildup in gasoline direct injection engines.
The 2018 Dodge Durango’s 3.6L V-6 engine, often referred to as the Pentastar, is renowned for its balance of power and efficiency. However, like any internal combustion engine, it relies heavily on the quality of the fluids circulating within its system. The engine requires a specific amount of lubricant to ensure all moving parts, from the camshafts to the pistons, are adequately covered and cooled. For this specific vehicle, the manufacturer specifies a 0W-20 viscosity grade, which is crucial for the variable valve timing system to operate correctly. The oil capacity is 5.9 quarts when the filter is replaced, a figure that serves as a guideline, though drivers should always verify the oil level via the dipstick after refilling to ensure precision.
Beyond the engine, the transmission plays a pivotal role in the Durango’s driving experience. This model typically features the 8HP50 eight-speed automatic transmission. While the total fill capacity for this transmission can reach 8.8 quarts during a complete flush, regular maintenance requires specific fluid that meets stringent durability standards. Standard transmission fluids can break down under the heat of towing or hauling, leading to shuddering and harsh shifts. Switching to a high-quality synthetic automatic transmission fluid like the AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid can provide a buffer against these stresses, maintaining fluidity in freezing temperatures and preventing thermal degradation during summer driving or when pulling trailers.
The drivetrain components, including the transfer case and differentials, are equally vital, especially for those who engage in four-wheel-drive activities. The Durango’s transfer case requires a small amount of lubricant, often measured in pints, which is susceptible to shearing if the wrong gear lube is used. Synthetic gear lubes like AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 offer superior thermal stability and wear protection compared to conventional oils, extending the life of gears and bearings. Similarly, the front and rear differentials, whether GL-5 rated for front or rear applications, benefit from synthetic formulations that resist rust and corrosion while maintaining a stable viscosity across wide temperature swings.
Cooling system maintenance is another area where synthetic fluids excel. The Durango’s cooling system capacity varies slightly depending on the configuration, ranging from approximately 10.5 to 11 quarts. A high-performance antifreeze and coolant mixture is essential to prevent overheating, which can warp engine heads and compromise the gaskets. AMSOIL’s OAT-based coolants are phosphate, nitrite, and silicate-free, reducing the risk of deposit buildup and protecting all metals, gaskets, and hoses in the system for up to 150,000 miles or five years. This extended service interval reduces maintenance costs and ensures the engine operates at optimal temperatures year-round.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Dodge Durango represents the third generation of this full-size SUV, a vehicle that has carved out a unique position in the market by combining SUV utility with sports car handling and powerful engine options. Introduced to the American market in 2011, the Durango quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most versatile family vehicles available. By 2018, the model had solidified its place as a robust, capable SUV that appeals to a wide demographic, from families needing to transport three rows of passengers to enthusiasts looking for a platform they can modify for performance or off-road use.
The 3.6L Pentastar V-6 engine is the standard powerplant for many 2018 Durango trims, known for its smooth power delivery and respectable fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. It produces around 295 horsepower, providing sufficient thrust for highway merging and overtaking, while still being paired with a modern eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly. For those requiring more power, the Durango offers a 5.7L HEMI V-8 and a performance-oriented 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque mild hybrid technology, as well as the high-output 6.4L HEMI V-8 in the SRT models. However, the 3.6L variant remains a popular choice for its balance of capability and efficiency.
Owners of the 2018 Dodge Durango often cite its practicality as the primary reason for ownership. It offers a spacious interior with plenty of cargo room, even with the third row in use. The available four-wheel-drive system provides confidence in adverse weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for drivers in regions with heavy snow or rain. The vehicle’s platform, based on the Ram pickup truck architecture, lends it a sense of durability and ruggedness that is often missing in crossover SUVs.
While the 2018 Durango is generally a reliable vehicle, there are common issues that owners have reported over the years. One frequent problem involves the engine oil filter housing gasket, which can leak and cause oil to drip onto the hot exhaust components, creating a burning smell and potential fire hazard. Using high-quality synthetic oil and premium filters can help mitigate the stress on this gasket and extend its life. Another common concern is the air intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuators, which can fail and trigger check engine lights or poor idle quality. Ensuring the cooling system is functioning perfectly with high-performance coolant can help reduce thermal stress on these components. Additionally, some owners have experienced issues with the transmission shifting roughly or “shuddering” during low-speed driving, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. This can often be resolved or significantly improved by using a high-quality synthetic transmission fluid that maintains its viscosity better under varying load conditions. Finally, for vehicles equipped with the 3.6L engine, carbon buildup on the intake valves is a known issue, especially in gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines. This can lead to reduced fuel economy and power. Regular use of a high-quality fuel system cleaner like AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help keep the injectors and valves clean, preventing carbon accumulation and maintaining engine performance.
Proper maintenance is the key to keeping this capable SUV running smoothly for hundreds of thousands of miles. By adhering to the recommended fluid specifications and upgrading to premium synthetic lubricants, owners can protect their investment against wear and tear. Whether you are driving on the highway, navigating city streets, or venturing off-road, the right fluids ensure that every component of your 2018 Dodge Durango operates at its best.