Challenger Transmission Fluid: What to Use and When to Change It

Automatic: TorqueFlite 8HP70/8HP90

The Challenger's 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF-sourced, used in Scat Pack and Hellcat models) uses ATF+4 fluid. Earlier 5-speed automatics also use ATF+4.

Fluid spec: Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent meeting MS-9602 spec)

Do not use: Dexron/Mercon, Type F, or generic "universal" ATF

Change interval:

• Normal driving: Every 60,000 miles
• Track use or towing: Every 30,000 miles
• Performance driving (frequent hard launches): Every 15,000–20,000 miles

Manual: Tremec TR-6060

The 6-speed manual in Scat Pack and Challenger R/T uses MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid):

• Mopar spec: MS-9224
• Recommended fluids: Mopar MTF, Royal Purple Synchromax, Amsoil MTF

Change interval: Every 30,000–45,000 miles, more frequently with track use.

Signs You Need New Transmission Fluid

• Harsh or delayed shifts (automatic)
• Difficulty engaging gears, especially in cold weather (manual)
• Burnt smell from the fluid (check dipstick on automatics)
• Slipping between gears

Drain and Fill vs Flush

Drain and fill: Remove the drain plug, drain 4–5 quarts (about 30–40% of total), reinstall, add new fluid. Easy DIY, but doesn't replace all fluid.

Full flush: Requires a flush machine — exchanges all 9–10 quarts. More complete, but necessary only if fluid is severely degraded.

For routine maintenance, two consecutive drain-and-fills (drive 500 miles between) achieves approximately the same result as a full flush.

Pan Drop Service (Automatic)

For the most thorough automatic service:

1. Drop the transmission pan
2. Clean pan of metallic debris (some is normal; excessive or large flakes is not)
3. Replace filter
4. Reinstall pan with new gasket
5. Fill with fresh ATF+4

This service is recommended every other fluid change on high-mileage or track-driven cars.