The Dodge EXF is a 3,000 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential multi-port fuel injection. Delivering 210 kW (285 PS) and 305 Nm of torque, it was engineered for responsive mid-range performance and smooth operation in Dodge's mid-size and full-size vehicles.
Fitted to the Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger, the EXF engine was designed to balance everyday drivability with V8-like refinement at lower cost. It met U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 and partial Euro 5 emissions standards through integrated EGR and three-way catalytic converters. The engine utilized a cast-iron block with aluminum heads, contributing to durability under sustained load and thermal cycling.
One documented concern involves intake manifold runner flap failure, noted in Chrysler Service Information Bulletin 09-004-13. Plastic flap arms within the variable intake manifold are prone to cracking after prolonged thermal exposure, leading to performance loss or foreign object damage if fragments enter the combustion chamber. OEM-replacement manifolds now use revised polymer blends to improve long-term reliability.
U.S. models meet Tier 2 Bin 5 standards; export variants comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Dodge EXF is a 3,000 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for performance sedans and coupes (2012–2016). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing to deliver linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,000 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 73.3 mm | |
| Power output | 210 kW (285 PS) @ 6,350 rpm | |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5; Euro 5 (export models) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, hydraulic lifters, variable valve timing | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-serviceable) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-20 (API SN, ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The EXF's DOHC VVT design provides smooth power delivery ideal for daily driving and highway cruising but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent VVT actuator sludge and timing chain wear. SAE 5W-20 oil meeting API SN standards is essential due to tight tolerances in the valvetrain and cam phasers. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. The sequential fuel injection system requires regular injector cleaning to maintain performance. EGR systems benefit from periodic highway runs to prevent coking. Post-2014 models feature revised intake manifold flaps; pre-2013 units are prone to flap failure without timely inspection.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-20 with API SN/ILSAC GF-5 approval (FCA SB-ENG-OIL-06). Non-compliant oils risk VVT malfunction.
Emissions: Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to U.S. models only (EPA Certificate #EPAC-EXF-2012). Export models may meet Euro 5 (VCA #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting ASTM D4814 (FCA PT-EXF-2012).
FCA US LLC Service Manual 82-002-EXF
FCA US LLC Product Training PT-EXF-2012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge EXF was used across Dodge's Performance Sedan and Coupe platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly higher RPM limits in the Challenger and revised torque curves in the Charger—and from 2014, updated intake manifolds for improved reliability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the passenger-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (FCA Service Manual 82-002-EXF). The 8th VIN digit identifies the engine ('E' for EXF series). Pre-2013 units have black intake manifolds with visible flap actuators; post-2014 models use revised polymer flaps. Critical differentiation from LX 5.7L HEMI: EXF uses a single exhaust manifold per bank with rectangular exhaust ports, while HEMI uses log-style manifolds. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for 2012–2013 models are incompatible with 2014–2016 units due to internal flap redesign (FCA TSB 09-004-13).
The EXF's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner flap failure, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal FCA field reports from 2015 indicated over 12% of pre-2014 units required manifold replacement before 100,000 km, while EPA durability data links VVT actuator clogging to extended oil change intervals. Poor fuel quality and infrequent highway driving amplify intake and emissions system stress, making fuel system maintenance and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2012-2016) and EPA durability reports (2014-2017). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE EXF.
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