Keeping your 2015 Chrysler 200 running smoothly for years to come often comes down to the simplest forms of maintenance, and few things are more fundamental than a regular oil change. It’s the lifeblood of your car’s engine, reducing friction, managing temperature, and keeping internal components clean. For a modern, technologically advanced engine like the one in your 200, using the correct oil isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a requirement for optimal performance and longevity.
You might be wondering what makes the 2015 model so specific. This generation of the Chrysler 200 featured two different and sophisticated engine options, each with its own precise needs. Using the wrong oil type or viscosity can affect everything from your fuel economy to the engine’s internal health. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the right oil, how much to use, and the simple steps to change it yourself, empowering you to take great care of your vehicle.
Finding the Right Oil for Your Chrysler 200’s Engine
The single most important factor in choosing your oil is knowing which engine sits under the hood. The 2015 Chrysler 200 was available with two engines, and they have different requirements.
For the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir I4 engine, the recommended oil is SAE 0W-20. This is a full-synthetic oil that flows easily at cold temperatures for quick engine protection on startup while maintaining its protective viscosity when the engine is hot. Using 0W-20 is essential for this engine to achieve its rated fuel economy and performance.
For the more powerful 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, the recommendation shifts to SAE 5W-20. This, too, should be a high-quality full-synthetic oil. The V6 is a robust and proven engine, and using the specified 5W-20 oil ensures it remains that way for the long haul.
Why Full-Synthetic Oil is the Best Choice
You’ll notice that for both engines, full-synthetic oil is the standard. Modern engines like those in the Chrysler 200 are built with tighter tolerances and operate under higher pressures and temperatures. Full-synthetic oil is engineered to handle these demanding conditions far better than conventional oil.
It provides superior lubrication, which reduces wear on critical components. It also does a better job of resisting thermal breakdown, meaning it lasts longer and maintains its protective qualities throughout your oil change interval. Additionally, full-synthetic oils typically have better detergent properties, helping to keep sludge and deposits from forming inside your engine. While it might cost a little more upfront, it’s an investment in your engine’s health that pays off over time.
How Much Oil Does Your 200 Need?
Knowing the oil capacity prevents you from overfilling or underfilling, both of which can cause problems. The capacity varies between the two engines.
- 2.4L I4 Engine: This engine has an oil capacity of 5 quarts (including the filter).
- 3.6L V6 Engine: The V6 requires 6 quarts of oil (including the filter).
It’s always a good practice to have an extra quart on hand. After changing the oil and filter, start the engine, let it run for a minute, and then shut it off. Wait another minute or two for the oil to settle back into the pan, then check the dipstick. Add small amounts of oil as needed to bring the level to the full mark.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil
If you’re comfortable with basic tools, changing the oil in your Chrysler 200 can be a rewarding and cost-effective task. Always ensure your car is on a level surface, the parking brake is firmly set, and the engine is cool.
First, gather your supplies: the correct amount and type of full-synthetic oil, a new oil filter (a Mopar filter is always a safe bet), a wrench for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, gloves, and safety glasses.
Locate the oil drain plug under the engine on the oil pan. Place your drain pan underneath and carefully loosen the plug with your wrench, finishing by hand. Be ready for the oil to flow out quickly. Once the stream slows to a drip, you can remove the oil filter. It may be a bit messy, so have your drain pan positioned to catch the residual oil from the filter housing. Wipe the filter mounting surface clean before installing the new one. It’s recommended to apply a thin film of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before screwing it on by hand until it’s snug.
Once the old filter is off and the new one is on, reinstall and tighten the drain plug. Now you can add the fresh oil through the oil fill cap on the top of the engine. Pour in the recommended amount, replace the fill cap, and start the engine. Let it run for about a minute while you look under the car for any leaks around the filter or drain plug. Finally, turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and check the dipstick to confirm the oil level is correct.
When to Change Your Oil and Reset the System
The 2015 Chrysler 200 is equipped with an intelligent Oil Change Indicator system. This system doesn’t just count miles; it monitors your driving habits, engine temperatures, and other conditions to determine when an oil change is needed. For most drivers, this will be somewhere between 7,500 and 10,000 miles. The best practice is to trust this system, but also check your oil level manually at least once a month.
After an oil change, you’ll need to reset the indicator. With the ignition in the “ON” position (engine off), slowly press the accelerator pedal to the floor three times within 10 seconds. Turn the ignition off and then start the engine to verify the “Oil Change Required” message is no longer displayed.
Final Thoughts on Keeping Your Engine Protected
Taking care of your 2015 Chrysler 200 with the correct oil is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment. Remember to always use full-synthetic SAE 0W-20 for the 2.4L I4 engine or full-synthetic SAE 5W-20 for the 3.6L V6. Keep an eye on the oil level between changes and always reset the maintenance light to keep an accurate schedule. Whether you choose to do it yourself or have a professional handle it, consistent and correct oil changes are the key to a smooth, reliable, and long-lasting driving experience.