2018 Charger R/T Coolant Flush - What type and how often?

Hello Chris M.,

Performing a coolant flush is excellent preventative maintenance for your 2018 Dodge Charger R/T. Here's what you need to know:

1. Coolant Type: For your 2018 Dodge Charger, you absolutely need OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Specifically, Mopar recommends their Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula, which is a purple-colored OAT coolant. The Mopar part number is typically 68163848AB (concentrate) or 68163849AB (pre-diluted 50/50). Using any other type of coolant (like HOAT or traditional green) can lead to severe corrosion and damage to your cooling system components due to chemical incompatibility.

2. Service Interval: The factory recommendation for the first coolant change on your vehicle with the OAT coolant is typically 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, many enthusiasts and mechanics recommend a slightly earlier interval, especially if you drive in extreme conditions or want to be extra cautious. At 60,000 miles, you're well within the recommended window, but it's not strictly overdue yet. It's a good time to consider it if you plan to keep the car long-term.

3. DIY Tips & Bleeding:

   • Safety First: Ensure the engine is completely cool before starting. Wear appropriate eye protection and gloves.
   • Draining: Locate the radiator drain plug (petcock) at the bottom of the radiator. Open it carefully and allow the coolant to drain into a suitable container. You may also need to remove a lower radiator hose for a more complete drain. Remember to properly dispose of old coolant.
   • Flushing (Optional but Recommended): After draining, you can refill with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on high for a few minutes, then drain again. Repeat until the water runs clear. This helps remove old coolant and contaminants. Do NOT use tap water for the final fill.
   • Refilling: Close the drain plug/reconnect hoses. Slowly fill the system with the correct 50/50 OAT coolant mixture through the radiator fill neck or reservoir. Use a spill-free funnel to help prevent air pockets.
   • Bleeding Air: This is crucial. Start the engine with the radiator cap off (or reservoir cap if filling there) and the heater on full blast. Allow the engine to warm up to operating temperature. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses repeatedly to help dislodge air bubbles. You'll see bubbles rise to the top. Keep topping off the coolant as the level drops. Once the thermostat opens, the coolant level will drop more significantly. Continue this process until no more bubbles appear and the coolant level stabilizes. Drive the car, let it cool, and recheck the coolant level in the reservoir, topping off as needed over the next few drive cycles.

When to See a Shop: If you encounter persistent air pockets, notice any leaks during the process, or if the system doesn't seem to be holding temperature correctly after the flush, it's best to take it to a professional. They have specialized vacuum fill tools that can quickly and effectively remove all air from the system, ensuring proper cooling system function.