The Chrysler 392 HEMI is a 6,407 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2023. It features a pushrod valvetrain with two valves per cylinder and variable valve timing (VVT), delivering substantial power outputs for performance applications. In standard form it produced 347–350 kW (470–485 PS) and 637–644 Nm of torque, prioritising high — revving performance and throttle response.
Fitted primarily to the Dodge Challenger, Charger, and Jeep G…
Production years 2011–2023 meet US Tier 2 Bin 5 standards for North America; European models meet Euro 5 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
The Chrysler 392 HEMI is a 6,407 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and SUVs (2011-2023). It combines a robust pushrod valvetrain with variable valve timing to deliver high horsepower and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet US Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances brute force with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,407 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, OHV, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 103.9 mm × 94.6 mm | |
Power output | 347–350 kW (470–485 PS) | |
Torque | 637–644 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | US Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free) | |
Oil type | SAE 5W‑20 (synthetic) | |
Dry weight | 235 kg |
The Chrysler 392 HEMI was used across Dodge and Jeep performance platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations for intake and exhaust routing. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
The 392 HEMI's primary reliability risk is failure of the oil cooler lines, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or performance-driven examples. Chrysler service data indicates a significant number of failures occurring beyond 80,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite lifter tick as a secondary concern. Neglecting the oil cooler line inspection and using incorrect oil can lead to expensive engine damage.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (2011-2023) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 392 HEMI is generally robust and can be very reliable long-term with proper maintenance. Its main weaknesses are the oil cooler lines and potential lifter issues. Addressing these proactively and adhering strictly to the 5W-20 synthetic oil change schedule are critical for ensuring longevity and avoiding major repairs.
The most critical and common issue is oil cooler line failure. Other frequent problems include lifter tick or failure, exhaust manifold bolt breakage, and plastic thermostat housing leaks. These are well-documented in Chrysler service bulletins and forums.
While branded as Chrysler, this engine was used in Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT 392/Scat Pack models (2015-2023) and the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT (2012-2021). It was the naturally aspirated flagship V8 before the supercharged Hellcat variants.
Yes, the 392 HEMI responds very well to tuning. Simple modifications like a cold air intake, cat-back exhaust, and an ECU tune can yield 20-40 additional horsepower. More extensive builds with camshafts and cylinder head work can produce significantly more power, as the engine has strong internals.
Fuel economy is poor by modern standards. Expect around 17–20 L/100km (14–12 mpg US) in combined city/highway driving. Highway cruising can yield 13–14 L/100km (18–17 mpg US), while aggressive city driving will be much higher, around 22+ L/100km (10 mpg US).
No. The Chrysler 392 HEMI is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare), the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal engine damage. This is a design characteristic of many pushrod V8 engines.
Chrysler mandates the use of SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil meeting the MS-6395 specification. Using the correct oil is crucial for protecting the variable valve timing system and preventing lifter wear. Extended oil change intervals or incorrect oil can lead to premature engine wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.