An affordable midsize crossover SUV from Dodge, the 2010 Journey has a minivan-style interior with the perfect crash test scores to match. If you want to keep your Journey in good shape, though, it’s important to know how much engine oil it takes.

It can get tiresome dealing with all of your vehicle’s dings, dents, and maintenance issues because they never seem to end. You know how it goes—you finally get around to replacing that wonky headlight only to realize that one of the tail lights has stopped working. After a while, the costs and time start to add up. One great way to save on both is to perform your own oil change.

If you’re not sure how to do that, don’t worry one bit.

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Dodge Journey insurance costs

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2010 Dodge Journey engine oil capacity

Let’s get right down to it: how much engine oil does a 2010 Dodge Journey need?

The Journey’s 3.5L engine has an oil capacity of 4.5 quarts or 4.3 liters. Before we proceed, it’s important to note that

engine displacement

is different from oil capacity. Don’t assume that these measurements are interchangeable because they aren’t.

Displacement is the amount of oil that the engine’s cylinders require to function properly, while the oil capacity is the amount that you need to use to complete a proper oil change.

MORE: How much should an oil change cost?

What kind of oil does a 2010 Dodge Journey need?

Now that you know how much oil you need, it’s time to discuss what kind of oil you’ll have to use. You can’t just buy the first jug you see at the auto parts store because different engines require different kinds of oil to work properly. For the Journey, Dodge recommends that you use SAE 5W-20 oil.

The name of the oil you need actually tells us a lot about the oil itself. The numbers reference the oil’s viscosity or thickness and the W stands for winter. The 5 tells us that the oil maintains a low viscosity in extreme cold, while the 20 indicates that it stays thin at very high temperatures, as well.

Essentially, this oil will perform well whether it’s hot, cold, or in-between, and the low viscosity means less wear and tear on your engine.

The manufacturer recommendation: For the best result according to the manufacturer, use

MOPAR® SAE 5W-20 Engine Oil

MORE:

Ultimate FRAM oil filter guide

How often to change oil on a 2010 Dodge Journey

Now that you’re suitably familiar with the oil that your Journey needs, there’s not much left to do other than changing your oil.

Regular oil needs to be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. The Journey can take synthetic, though, so that number increases to between 7,500 to 10,000 miles.

That doesn’t seem too hard to remember, but it’s still very important to check your oil regularly. Checking once a month or every second time you get gas would be a good way to do it.

When you check, take note of the level of oil, and keep an eye out for these signs indicating it’s time for an oil change:

The engine starts making strange noises

You smell something unusual, like oil, smoke, or burning

You notice changes in your vehicle’s performance

MORE:

The most common problems with Dodge

Jerry sends free alerts to keep your car up-to-date so you can avoid costly repairs

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How to change your oil and oil filter

It’s officially time to change your oil, so let’s get started. First, you’ll need a socket wrench, drain pan,and a filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. You’ll also need a new filter as well as five quarts of 5W-20 oil.

Start by letting the engine run for a short time to warm up the oil a little bit. Five minutes should be plenty. After that, turn off the engine and follow these steps:

Remove the oil fill cap

Remove the oil drain bolt and washer and let the old oil leak into the drain pan

Remove the old oil filter and keep letting the oil drain

Put on the new filter

Use a new washer to replace the old drain bolt and tighten it to 29 lb-ft

Refill the engine with your new oil and replace the fill cap

After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.

Remember to use the dipstick to make sure you’ve added enough oil to the engine. Then, let the vehicle idle for several minutes and keep an eye out for any leaks. If you did everything right,

your car's oil pressure light

should switch off after a few minutes.

Last, but certainly not least, is cleanup. Never, under any circumstances, pour the dirty oil on the ground or throw it in the trash. Always put the dirty oil in a sealed container and bring it to the nearest recycling center.

MORE:

Essential car tools and supplies

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done. Keeping up with preventative maintenance on your 2010 Journey will keep it humming down the road for years to come. Plus, it will help you save time and cut down on

Dodge car insurance costs

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