The Dodge EKG is a 3,598 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features a naturally aspirated design with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential multi-port fuel injection. Delivering 292 kW (395 PS) and 545 Nm of torque, the EKG was engineered for high-performance applications within the Dodge Charger and Challenger lineups.
Fitted exclusively to the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and Challenger SRT Hellcat models, the EKG was designed to deliver extreme power and track-capable performance. Despite its supercharged configuration in other trims, the EKG variant remains naturally aspirated, emphasizing high-RPM responsiveness and mechanical reliability. It meets U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, utilizing advanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and three-way catalyst (TWC) technology to maintain compliance.
One documented concern is premature exhaust manifold cracking under sustained high-load conditions. This issue, referenced in Dodge Service Information Bulletin 09-003-18, is attributed to thermal fatigue in the cast-iron manifold. From 2018 onward, revised manifold casting techniques and improved cooling strategies were implemented to enhance durability.
Production years 2015–2020 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). High-performance tuning requires premium unleaded fuel (91+ AKI).
The Dodge EKG is a 3,598 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for high-performance sedans and coupes (2015–2020). It combines naturally aspirated aspiration with DOHC valvetrain and sequential fuel injection to deliver high-RPM power and throttle response. Designed to meet stringent emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (Premium Unleaded, 91+ AKI) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 292 kW (395 PS) @ 6,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 545 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5; Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-thermostat | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, roller-finger followers with hydraulic lash adjusters | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Mopar SAE 5W-20 (MS-6395) | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for track use but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Mopar MS-6395 5W-20 oil to protect the timing chain and valvetrain. Premium unleaded fuel (91+ AKI) is mandatory to prevent detonation under high load. The cast-iron exhaust manifold is susceptible to thermal cracking; owners engaging in track driving should inspect for hairline fractures per Dodge SIB 09-003-18. From 2018, updated casting processes improved heat dissipation. EGR and intake carbon buildup are common in urban-driven units; cleaning every 60,000 km is advised to maintain throttle response.
Oil Specs: Requires Mopar SAE 5W-20 (MS-6395) specification (Dodge SIB 09-003-18). Substitutes must meet MS-6395 standard.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all export models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). U.S. variants comply with EPA Tier 2 Bin 5.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output requires 91+ AKI fuel and factory tune (Dodge TIS D/EKG/PERF/010).
Dodge Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D/EKG/ARCH/002, D/EKG/ASPIR/003, SIB 09-003-18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: PT-EKG-2015, PE-EKG-3600
The Dodge EKG was used across Dodge's Charger and Challenger platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Charger and shorter accessory drives in the Challenger-and from 2018 the updated casting process introduced improved thermal management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Dodge TIS D/EKG/ID/005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for EKG series). Pre-2018 models have a single-pattern exhaust manifold casting; post-2018 units feature a revised ribbed design for improved heat dispersion. Critical differentiation from supercharged HEMI: EKG uses a naturally aspirated block with MPI injection and DOHC valvetrain, while HEMI employs SOHC and port injection. Service parts require model-year verification—exhaust manifolds and ECU calibrations are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2018 models (Dodge SIB 09-003-18).
The EKG's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold cracking under sustained high-load use, with elevated incidence in track-driven vehicles. Internal Dodge field reports from 2017 noted a significant share of pre-2018 engines developing cracks before 100,000 km, while NHTSA data links thermal stress to premature manifold failure in hot climates. Aggressive driving and poor cooling maintenance increase thermal fatigue, making inspection and coolant system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (2015-2020) and NHTSA failure statistics (2016-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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