2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee - Complete Fluid Specifications

As an ASE-certified master technician, I've compiled this comprehensive fluid specification guide for your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Using the correct fluids is paramount for the longevity and performance of your vehicle. Always verify these specifications with your owner's manual or an authorized Jeep service center, as specific trims or engines may have slight variations.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	5W-20 meeting FCA Material Standard MS-6395 (gasoline)	6.0 - 7.0 quarts (depending on engine)
Engine Coolant	OAT (Organic Additive Technology), Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) (if previous generation formula) MS-90032 for OAT, MS-9769 for HOAT	Approximately 13-14 quarts (varies by engine)
Transmission Fluid	ZF 8-speed automatic: Mopar ZF 8-speed ATF or equivalent meeting MS-9602, Chrysler 6-speed automatic: Mopar ATF+4® Automatic Transmission Fluid meeting MS-9602	Approximately 8.7 - 9.0 liters (ZF 8-speed wet fill with filter change), 4.7 liters (ZF 8-speed drain and refill), Varies by transmission type and service performed
Transfer Case (Single Speed)	Mopar NV245/247/249 Transfer Case Fluid (MS-10216)	1.5 - 2.0 quarts
Transfer Case (Two Speed - Quadra-Trac II/Quadra-Drive II)	Mopar NV246/247/249 transfer case fluid (MS-10216)	1.8 - 2.2 quarts
Front Differential	Varies by axle/trim. Generally 75W-85 or 75W-90, API GL-5. Refer to owner's manual. Limited-slip models may require friction modifier (MS-10111).	Approximately 1.0 - 1.2 liters
Rear Differential	Varies by axle/trim. Generally 75W-85 or 75W-90, API GL-5. Limited-slip models may require friction modifier (MS-10111).	Approximately 1.0 - 1.5 liters
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Mopar recommends DOT 3, but DOT 4 can be used if compatible)	As needed (check reservoir regularly)
Power Steering Fluid	Mopar MS-5931 (Power Steering Fluid +4)	As needed
Washer Fluid	Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate or equivalent	Approximately 1 gallon
DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)	ISO 22241-1 certified, API-certified (for EcoDiesel)	8.5 gallons (EcoDiesel)

Engine Oil

For gasoline engines in the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the recommended engine oil is 5W-20 that meets FCA Material Standard MS-6395. Some earlier models may have specified 5W-30; always check your owner's manual for the exact requirement for your specific engine (e.g., 3.6L Pentastar V6, 5.7L HEMI V8). Using oil that does not meet the MS-6395 standard can lead to premature engine wear and potential warranty issues.

Capacity:

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: Approximately 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
• 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters)
• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Refer to owner's manual for specific oil type (often a low-SAPS 5W-30 or 5W-40 meeting MS-11106 or equivalent) and capacity.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Engine oil and filter should typically be changed every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or sooner if operating under severe conditions (e.g., frequent towing, extreme temperatures, dusty environments). Always use a high-quality oil filter. Never mix different oil viscosities or types unless specified, and ensure the oil carries the correct FCA certification mark.

Engine Coolant

The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee primarily uses OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, specifically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula (typically purple/pink in color, though color is not a definitive indicator). This coolant meets FCA Material Standard MS-90032. It is crucial not to mix OAT coolant with HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) coolants, as this can lead to gel formation, corrosion, and severe cooling system damage.

Some earlier Jeep models used HOAT coolant (orange/pink), which met MS-9769. If there's any doubt about the coolant previously used, a complete system flush is recommended before refilling with the specified OAT coolant.

Capacity: Approximately 13-14 quarts (varies slightly by engine and cooling system configuration).

Intervals and Pitfalls: The factory-fill OAT coolant is designed for extended service intervals, often up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. However, regular inspection of coolant levels and condition is advised. If topping off, use only the specified OAT coolant diluted with distilled water (50/50 mix typically). Never use tap water as minerals can cause deposits and corrosion.

Transmission Fluid

Your 2017 Grand Cherokee will likely be equipped with either a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission or, in some earlier production runs/specific trims, potentially a Chrysler 6-speed automatic.

• ZF 8-speed automatic transmissions: These require a specific fluid, typically Mopar ZF 8-speed ATF or an equivalent fluid meeting MS-9602. These transmissions are sensitive to fluid type; using incorrect fluid can cause shifting problems, premature wear, and costly damage. Do not use universal ATFs or fluids not explicitly approved by ZF or Mopar for this transmission.

• Chrysler 6-speed automatic transmissions (if applicable): These require Mopar ATF+4® Automatic Transmission Fluid, which meets MS-9602. Again, avoid "universal" ATFs that claim to be compatible without explicit MS-9602 certification.

Capacity:

• ZF 8-speed (wet fill with filter change): Approximately 8.7 - 9.0 liters
• ZF 8-speed (drain and refill): Approximately 4.7 liters
• Capacities vary significantly by transmission type and the extent of the service (drain and refill vs. full overhaul). Always consult the service manual for precise figures.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Transmission fluid is often considered "lifetime" by some manufacturers, but for optimal longevity, particularly under heavy use, service intervals of 60,000 to 100,000 miles are often recommended. A "drain and fill" primarily replaces only a portion of the fluid; a full flush may require specialized equipment and should ideally be performed by a qualified technician.

Transfer Case Fluid

Your Grand Cherokee's transfer case fluid depends on the type of 4WD/AWD system.

• Single Speed Transfer Case (e.g., Quadra-Trac I®): Requires Mopar Transfer Case Fluid (MS-10216)
• Two Speed Transfer Case (e.g., Quadra-Trac II®/Quadra-Drive II®): Requires Mopar Transfer Case Fluid (MS-10216)

Capacity:

• Single Speed: Approximately 1.5 - 2.0 quarts
• Two Speed: Approximately 1.8 - 2.2 quarts

Intervals and Pitfalls: Refer to your owner's manual for specific intervals, often around 30,000 to 60,000 miles, especially if frequently engaging 4WD or towing.

Differential Fluid (Front and Rear)

Differential fluid specifications can vary based on the axle type and whether your vehicle is equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD).

• General Recommendation: Typically, a 75W-85 or 75W-90, API GL-5 gear oil is specified for both front and rear differentials. Always verify the exact weight and type for your specific axle in your owner's manual.
• Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD): If your Grand Cherokee is equipped with a limited-slip differential, a friction modifier (Mopar MS-10111 or equivalent) must be added to the gear oil or use a fluid that is already formulated with LSD additives. Failing to do so can cause chatter or noise from the differential.

Capacity:

• Front Differential: Approximately 1.0 - 1.2 liters
• Rear Differential: Approximately 1.0 - 1.5 liters

Intervals and Pitfalls: Differential fluid changes are often recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, particularly for vehicles that tow or are frequently driven off-road. Check for leaks regularly.

Brake Fluid

The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee typically uses DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. While DOT 3 is commonly specified, DOT 4 can be used if it is explicitly compatible and you are performing a full system flush. Do not use DOT 5 fluid, which is silicone-based and incompatible with ABS systems and seals designed for glycol-based fluids. Always use fluid from a sealed container, as brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), which degrades its performance.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Brake fluid should be flushed and replaced every 2-3 years, or as specified by the manufacturer. Moisture absorption lowers the fluid's boiling point, which can lead to brake fade under heavy braking, and can also contribute to corrosion within the brake system.

Power Steering Fluid

For models with hydraulic power steering (some trims may have electric power steering), use Mopar MS-5931 (Power Steering Fluid +4®). Do not use generic power steering fluids that do not meet this specification.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Power steering fluid does not typically have a strict replacement interval but should be inspected for clarity and level. If it appears dark or dirty, a flush may be warranted.

Washer Fluid

Use a high-quality Mopar Windshield Washer Concentrate or equivalent all-season washer fluid. In colder climates, ensure the fluid has adequate freeze protection.

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

If your Grand Cherokee is equipped with the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine, it requires Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). The DEF used must be ISO 22241-1 certified and API-certified. This ensures the fluid meets the purity standards necessary for proper operation of the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. Using non-compliant DEF can damage the SCR system and lead to costly repairs.

Capacity: The DEF tank capacity for the EcoDiesel is approximately 8.5 gallons (32.2 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: The DEF tank will need to be refilled as indicated by the vehicle's warning system. Do not overfill the tank. Store DEF in a cool, dry place and be mindful of its expiration date.

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