2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fluid Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (3.6L V6)	SAE 5W-20, API SN, Chrysler MS-6395	6 quarts
Engine Oil (5.7L V8)	SAE 5W-20, API SN, Chrysler MS-6395	7 quarts
Engine Oil (3.0L Diesel)	SAE 5W-30, API CJ-4, Chrysler MS-11106	10.5 quarts
Engine Coolant	Mopar OAT (purple), MS-12106	14.5 - 15.5 quarts
Transmission Fluid (8-speed)	Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF, ATF+4 is NOT compatible	9-10 quarts (service fill)
Transfer Case	Mopar ATF+4, MS-9602	2 quarts
Front Differential	SAE 75W-85 GL-5	1.75 quarts
Rear Differential	SAE 75W-90 GL-5	2.5 quarts
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	Electric Power Steering (EPS) - no fluid	N/A
Washer Fluid	-35°F all-season	1 gallon
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	API certified ISO 22241	8 gallons

Engine Oil

For 2016, the Grand Cherokee came with three engine options, each with a specific oil requirement. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 5.7L HEMI V8 both specify SAE 5W-20 viscosity grade oil meeting API Service Donut "SN" and Chrysler's MS-6395 specification. For the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6, you must use a diesel-specific SAE 5W-30 oil that meets API CJ-4 and Chrysler's MS-11106 spec. Using the wrong oil can lead to premature engine wear, and in the case of the EcoDiesel, can damage the emissions system.

Oil change intervals are best determined by the vehicle’s oil life monitoring system, but a good rule of thumb is every 5,000-7,500 miles for the gasoline engines and 10,000 miles for the diesel, or annually, whichever comes first.

Engine Coolant

The 2016 Grand Cherokee uses a specific Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, which is purple in color and meets Chrysler specification MS-12106. It is crucial to not mix this with other coolant types, such as the older orange or pink HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolants used in previous generation Chrysler vehicles. Mixing coolant chemistries can cause it to gel, leading to blockages in the radiator and heater core, and can cause corrosion. The system holds approximately 14.5 to 15.5 quarts, and it is recommended to use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. The service interval for the factory fill is 10 years or 150,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid

The 8-speed automatic transmission in the 2016 Grand Cherokee is a sophisticated unit that requires a very specific fluid: Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF. A common and costly mistake is to use ATF+4, which is the incorrect fluid for this transmission. Using anything other than the specified ZF fluid can cause shift problems, overheating, and ultimately, transmission failure. This is not a simple drain and fill; a complete fluid exchange requires a special machine and procedure. Service intervals vary, but a fluid and filter change every 60,000 miles is a good practice for longevity.

Transfer Case Fluid

For 4WD models, the transfer case requires Mopar ATF+4, meeting Chrysler specification MS-9602. This is a different fluid than the one used in the main transmission. The capacity is approximately 2 quarts. A common pitfall is neglecting to service the transfer case at all. The fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on use, especially if you frequently use 4WD or tow.

Differential Fluid

The front and rear differentials also have specific fluid requirements. The front differential takes SAE 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil. The rear differential specifies SAE 75W-90 GL-5. If your Grand Cherokee is equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD), a friction modifier additive must be added to the gear oil to prevent chattering or binding during turns. Some gear oils come with the additive already included. Always verify if the fluid you are using is compatible with an LSD if your vehicle requires it. The service interval is typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.

Brake Fluid

All 2016 Grand Cherokee models use DOT 3 brake fluid. DOT 4 can be used as a substitute as it has a higher boiling point, but DOT 3 is the factory recommendation. Never use DOT 5, which is silicone-based and not compatible with the system. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to a soft pedal and corrosion in the brake lines and calipers. A brake fluid flush is recommended every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS). This system uses an electric motor to assist with steering effort, and therefore, does not use any power steering fluid. There is no reservoir to check or top off.

Washer Fluid

This is the simplest fluid on the vehicle. Any quality all-season windshield washer fluid will work. Look for a fluid with a low freezing point, such as -35°F, to prevent freezing in the winter. The reservoir typically holds about one gallon.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

For the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine, you must use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) that is API certified to ISO 22241 standards. This is a non-hazardous solution of urea and de-ionized water that is injected into the exhaust stream to reduce NOx emissions. The DEF tank holds approximately 8 gallons, and the vehicle will provide warnings when the level is low. It is critical to never let the DEF tank run empty, as the vehicle will enter a "limp mode" and may not restart until the tank is refilled.

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