2018 Jeep Cherokee Oil Capacity, Filter & Specs

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee takes 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) of 0W-20 oil for the 2.4L engine, and 5.9 quarts (5.6 liters) of 5W-20 oil for the 3.2L V6 engine. Knowing the exact oil capacity, filter part numbers, and viscosity recommendations is critical for keeping your Jeep running smoothly on and off the road.

As an ASE-certified master technician, I always recommend sticking to the manufacturer’s oil specs to protect your engine’s internal components and maintain your warranty. Below is the complete oil change cheat sheet for the 2018 Jeep Cherokee.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 5.5 quarts (2.4L 4-cylinder) / 5.9 quarts (3.2L V6)
• Recommended Weight: 0W-20 (2.4L) / 5W-20 (3.2L)
• Oil Specification: FCA Material Standard MS-6395 (API Certified)
• Oil Filter (2.4L Engine): Mopar MO-339 (68193039AA) | Fram CH11665 | Wix WL10010
• Oil Filter (3.2L Engine): Mopar MO-349 (68191349AA) | Fram CH11665 | Wix WL10010 (Note: The 2.4L and 3.2L in this generation often share the same cartridge filter, but always verify fitment with your specific trim).

Capacity by engine option

Note: Always verify your oil level on the dipstick after a fresh oil change and a brief engine run.

Oil change interval

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with an Automatic Oil Change Indicator System that calculates oil life based on your driving conditions. However, here are the general guidelines to follow:

• Normal Duty: Follow the dashboard oil life monitor. Under ideal conditions, this can stretch up to 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first). Never exceed 10,000 miles or 1 year.
• Severe Duty: If you drive in stop-and-go traffic, tow a trailer, idle extensively, or drive in dusty/off-road environments, you should change your oil every 4,000 to 5,000 miles. Many mechanics (including myself) recommend a 5,000-mile interval for maximum engine longevity, regardless of what the monitor says.

Drain plug torque

• Drain Plug Torque: 20 ft-lbs (27 Nm)
• Crush Washer Note: The drain plug on the Jeep Cherokee typically uses a rubber O-ring style seal built into the plug. If the rubber is torn, flattened, or leaking, you must replace the entire drain plug. Do not overtighten, as stripping the aluminum oil pan will result in an expensive repair.

How to change the oil

1. Warm up the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain faster and suspend contaminants.
2. Lift and support: Safely raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Remove the filter: Open the hood and locate the top-mounted cartridge oil filter housing. Use a 24mm socket to loosen the cap. Pull the cap up, remove the old filter element, and snap in the new one. Replace the O-ring on the cap and lubricate it with fresh oil. Torque the cap to 18 ft-lbs (25 Nm).
4. Drain the oil: Underneath the vehicle, remove the 13mm drain plug. Allow all the oil to drain into a catch pan.
5. Reinstall drain plug: Clean the drain plug and reinstall it. Torque to 20 ft-lbs.
6. Refill the engine: Pour the correct amount of specified oil into the engine.
7. Check the level: Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds. Turn it off, wait 5 minutes, and check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is at the "FULL" mark. Check for leaks under the vehicle.
8. Reset the oil light: Turn the ignition to the ON position (without starting the engine). Fully press the gas pedal to the floor three times within 10 seconds. Turn the ignition off.

Common issues / tips

• Top-Mounted Filter Mess: Because the oil filter is a top-mounted cartridge, removing it can sometimes cause oil to drip down the side of the engine block. A good trick is to loosen the cap slightly before you drain the oil pan; this allows the oil trapped in the filter housing to drain down into the pan before you pull the filter out completely.
• 2.4L Oil Consumption: The 2.4L Tigershark engine is known for occasionally consuming oil between changes. It is highly recommended to check your oil level on the dipstick every 1,000 miles and top it off if necessary to prevent engine starvation.
• O-Ring Placement: When replacing the O-ring on the plastic filter cap, ensure it sits securely in the designated groove, not pushed all the way to the bottom lip. Improper placement will cause a massive oil leak upon startup.

Need an oil change? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.