2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Capacity, Filter & Specs

The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee takes between 5.9 quarts and 8.2 quarts of engine oil depending on the specific engine under the hood, with the most popular 3.6L Pentastar V6 requiring exactly 5.9 quarts of 0W-20 oil. As an ASE-certified master technician, I regularly service the WK2 generation Grand Cherokee, and using the correct oil viscosity, capacity, and filter is critical to keeping these engines running smoothly for years to come.

Quick Answer: 3.6L V6 Specifications

If you have the standard 3.6L V6 engine, here is everything you need to know for your next oil change:

• Oil Capacity: 5.9 quarts (5.6 liters) with filter replacement.
• Recommended Weight: 0W-20.
• Oil Specification: API SP / ILSAC GF-6A, MS-6395 certified.
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: Mopar MO-349 (Part # 68191349AC).
• Popular Aftermarket Filters: Fram CH11665, Wix WL10010, Mobil 1 M1C-461A.

(Note: If you have a V8 or Diesel model, see the capacity table below for your specific requirements).

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2018 Grand Cherokee was offered with five different engine options, ranging from the efficient EcoDiesel to the monstrous Trackhawk. Here is the breakdown for each:

Always verify your engine type by checking the emissions label under the hood or your owner's manual before purchasing supplies.

Oil Change Interval

Jeep uses an automatic Oil Life Indicator system that adjusts to your driving habits, but as a rule of thumb:

• Normal Duty: Change the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, or every 12 months—whichever comes first. Do not exceed 10,000 miles or 1 year.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in dusty conditions, or idle extensively, reduce your interval to every 5,000 miles or 6 months.

Drain Plug Torque

• 3.6L V6: 20 ft-lbs (27 Nm).
• 5.7L / 6.4L / 6.2L V8: 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
• 3.0L EcoDiesel: 24 ft-lbs (32 Nm).

Always inspect the drain plug seal or gasket. For models utilizing an integrated rubber seal on the drain plug, replace the entire plug if the rubber is torn or flattened.

How to Change the Oil

1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and safely raise the front end using ramps or a jack and jack stands.
2. Drain the Old Oil: Locate the 13mm drain plug on the oil pan. Position a catch pan underneath, remove the plug, and let the oil drain completely.
3. Replace the Filter:
   • For the 3.6L V6 and 3.0L EcoDiesel: Open the hood and locate the cartridge filter housing on top of the engine. Use a 24mm socket (V6) to unscrew the cap. Swap the paper cartridge and the rubber O-ring (lubricate the new O-ring with fresh oil). Torque the cap to 18 ft-lbs.
   • For the V8s: The spin-on filter is located underneath. Remove the old filter, lubricate the rubber gasket on the new filter with clean oil, and install it hand-tight (usually 3/4 to 1 full turn after gasket contact).
4. Reinstall Drain Plug: Thread the drain plug back in by hand to prevent cross-threading, then torque to spec.
5. Refill and Check: Fill the engine with the correct amount of oil. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds to fill the filter, and check for leaks. Turn off the engine, wait 5 minutes, and verify the oil level on the dipstick.
6. Reset the Oil Light: Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position (engine off). Slowly depress the accelerator pedal to the floor three times within 10 seconds. Turn the ignition off.

Common Issues / Tips

For the 2018 WK2 generation, the most common issue I see in the shop involves the 3.6L V6 oil filter housing. The factory housing is made of plastic and is notoriously prone to cracking if the filter cap is overtightened. Never use an impact wrench or excessive force on the 24mm filter cap. If you notice oil pooling in the valley of the V6 engine, a cracked oil cooler/filter housing is the likely culprit.

Additionally, the HEMI V8 engines are known to develop the "HEMI tick." Using high-quality synthetic oil and sticking to strict change intervals can help keep the lifters and camshaft well-lubricated to mitigate premature wear.

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