The 2018 Dodge Durango equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 (Engine Code EZH) is a robust vehicle known for its substantial towing capacity and strong acceleration. However, the demands placed on this powerful engine, especially when hauling loads or navigating varying climates, require a lubrication system that can withstand extreme stress. Proper fluid selection is critical to maintaining the longevity of the powertrain, ensuring smooth transmission shifts, and protecting vital cooling components from overheating. Using high-quality synthetic lubricants specifically formulated for these requirements can significantly reduce wear and keep the vehicle performing at its peak.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate protection for the 5.7L engine, offering superior performance in extreme temperatures and extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides a balance of cleaning power and engine protection, ideal for drivers seeking 20,000 miles of protection with enhanced fuel economy.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A factory-authorized option that outperforms conventional oils, fighting sludge and deposits while meeting OEM specifications.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring seal conditioners to reduce oil consumption and boost detergents for cleaner engines.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns with greater capacity for contaminants, ensuring the synthetic oil stays clean longer.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium media filter that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters, ensuring reliable flow and filtration.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed for the 8HP70 transmission, this fluid withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Protects against wear and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts in the 8-speed transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the front and rear differentials, offering advanced protection against rust, corrosion, and thermal runaway in demanding applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
Why Synthetic Fluids Matter for the 5.7L HEMI
The 5.7L HEMI V-8 is an impressive powerplant, but its performance capabilities come with high thermal loads. Conventional mineral oils can break down under the extreme heat generated by a high-output V-8, especially during heavy towing or spirited driving. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are engineered to resist thermal breakdown and evaporation far better than conventional oils. The 5W-20 viscosity grade is the factory specification for this engine, providing excellent cold-start protection and maintaining the correct film strength at operating temperatures.
When performing an oil change, the total capacity for the 5.7L engine is 7.0 quarts when the AMSOIL Oil Filter is replaced. It is crucial to add the correct amount of oil and verify the level after the refill, ensuring the oil level is within the safe operating range. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 20 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage to the pan threads. Selecting the right oil filter is equally important. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K50) is designed to handle the high volume of oil flow in this engine while trapping microscopic wear particles that contribute to long-term degradation.
For those who prefer established brand names alongside their synthetic oil, the WIX Oil Filter (57060) is also an excellent choice, offering premium media that outperforms many standard OEM filters. Proper filtration ensures that the contaminants removed from the engine stay out of circulation, protecting bearings, camshafts, and piston rings.
Transmission and Drivetrain Protection
The 2018 Durango typically comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP70). This complex gearbox requires a fluid that can maintain its viscosity under heavy load and prevent sludge buildup that can lead to costly shifting issues. The total fill capacity for this transmission is 8.8 quarts. AMSOIL’s fuel-efficient synthetic transmission fluids are formulated to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and challenging terrain. They remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring quick shift response even in winter conditions.
The drivetrain also includes differentials that require specific lubrication. Whether it is the front 195FIA FE differential requiring 1.7 pints of 75W-85, or the rear 195RIA differential needing 1.9 pints, the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the recommended solution. This gear lube contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and helps reduce operating temperatures, extending the life of seals and gears.
Cooling System and Brake Fluid
Maintaining the cooling system is vital for the longevity of the HEMI engine. The cooling system capacity is approximately 15.4 to 16.1 quarts depending on the specific configuration (with or without an oil-to-coolant heat exchanger). AMSOIL offers two primary antifreeze options: the Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, which is a pre-mixed formulation providing protection up to 150,000 miles, and the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant, a concentrated option for those who prefer mixing. Both are engineered to exceed OEM requirements for corrosion protection.
Brake fluid is another often-overlooked component. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid offers superior resistance to moisture absorption and boiling points, ensuring consistent braking performance even after repeated hard stops. Additionally, for vehicles with power steering systems, AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks and reduces friction for quieter operation.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Dodge Durango represents the peak of the second-generation platform, which began production in 2011. Positioned as a mid-size to full-size SUV, it occupies a unique market space by combining the rugged capability of a truck-based platform with the comfort and convenience of a family hauler. The model is particularly renowned for its versatility, offering three rows of seating and a variety of engine options, with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 being a popular choice for those needing significant towing power.
Powered by the renowned HEMI V-8, this vehicle delivers substantial horsepower and torque, making it a favorite for towing trailers, boats, or campers. The 5.7L engine is known for its smooth power delivery and reliability, provided it receives proper maintenance. The Durango’s platform, built on the LX architecture shared with the Dodge Charger and Jeep Grand Cherokee, offers a solid driving dynamic with responsive handling that belies its size.
Owners of the 2018 Durango often cite its spacious interior and powerful performance as key selling points. It serves as a reliable workhorse for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. However, like any vehicle with high-performance demands, it faces specific issues that can be mitigated with premium lubricants. One common challenge is oil consumption or sludge formation in the engine, particularly in high-mileage examples or those subjected to severe driving conditions. Using a high-mileage synthetic oil with enhanced detergents and seal conditioners can help mitigate these issues, keeping internal components clean and seals supple.
Another frequent concern involves transmission shudder or harsh shifting, which can occur if the fluid breaks down under heat. The 8HP70 transmission is robust but sensitive to fluid degradation. Switching to a high-performance synthetic transmission fluid can resolve shudder issues and ensure smoother gear transitions. Additionally, the cooling system on these vehicles is critical due to the engine’s heat output. Antifreeze can become acidic over time, leading to corrosion in the radiator and heater core. Regular replacement with high-quality OAT antifreeze prevents this corrosion and maintains optimal heat transfer. Finally, brake fluid hygroscopicity can lead to reduced braking performance and ABS pump failure over time. Switching to a synthetic brake fluid with higher boiling points can restore confidence in the braking system and prevent costly pump failures. By addressing these common problems with the right fluids, owners can extend the life of their Durango and maintain its impressive performance characteristics.
Fuel System and Vehicle Care
To keep the 5.7L HEMI running efficiently, fuel system maintenance is also important. Carbon buildup in the intake valves and fuel injectors, common in modern direct injection engines, can lead to rough idling and reduced fuel economy. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is a fuel additive designed to restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate and clean combustion chambers, helping to restore lost horsepower and improve fuel economy.
For seasonal storage or long periods of inactivity, using AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup. Engine fogging oil can be used to coat internal components during storage, providing a protective barrier against rust and corrosion. Regular vehicle care products, such as silicone spray for rubber seals and heavy-duty degreasers for the engine bay, help maintain the overall condition of the vehicle, ensuring that all components function smoothly. Whether it is for cleaning wheels, detailing the interior, or protecting exterior paint, the comprehensive range of AMSOIL products supports a maintenance regimen that keeps the 2018 Dodge Durango in top condition for years to come.