Where the oil filter sits on a 2014 Wrangler

On a 2014 Jeep Wrangler, the oil filter is mounted vertically on the driver's side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head and behind the alternator. You'll find it tucked between the engine and the firewall — close enough to the frame that access is tight but manageable from above without removing the wheel or dropping the skid plate. The filter head points downward, and the canister itself is roughly four inches tall and two inches in diameter.

The exact position depends on which engine your Wrangler has. The 3.6-liter V6 (standard in 2014) and the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (added later in the generation) both use the same filter location, though the turbo engine sits slightly lower in the bay. If you have the older 3.8-liter V6 from earlier Wranglers, the filter is in the same general area but angled differently.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2014 Wrangler's oil filter is mounted vertically on the driver's side of the engine block, behind the alternator and close to the firewall.
  • You can reach the filter from above without removing wheels or the skid plate, though the space is confined and you may need a filter wrench with a swivel head.
  • The OEM Mopar filter part number is 68157291AA, and aftermarket equivalents include Fram PH8A, Motorcraft FL-400S, and Purolator PL14610.
  • Drain the old filter into a pan before removal, and hand-tighten the new filter until the rubber gasket contacts the head, then turn it three-quarters of a turn more.
  • Oil capacity for the 3.6-liter V6 is 5.5 quarts with a filter change; check your owner's manual if you have a different engine.

OEM and aftermarket filter options for the 3.6-liter V6

The factory Mopar filter for the 2014 Wrangler 3.6-liter is part number 68157291AA. This is a spin-on canister filter with a 3/4-inch-16 thread and a 65 PSI bypass valve. Mopar filters typically cost between $8 and $12 depending on where you buy them, and they meet Jeep's OEM specifications exactly.

Common aftermarket replacements that fit the same thread and bypass pressure include the Fram PH8A, Motorcraft FL-400S, Purolator PL14610, and Bosch 3330. All of these are widely stocked at auto parts stores and online retailers. Fram and Purolator filters usually run $5 to $8, while Motorcraft and Bosch are slightly higher. Any of these will work; the choice comes down to brand preference and availability. Do not use a filter rated for a different PSI bypass — the engine relies on that pressure setting to protect the oil galleries if the filter clogs.

Tools and supplies you'll need

You need an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter safely without stripping the canister or spilling oil everywhere. A standard cup-style wrench works, but because the filter sits close to the firewall, a swivel-head filter wrench or a strap wrench gives you more room to maneuver. A 3/8-inch drive ratchet with a 15-millimeter socket will also remove the drain plug on the 3.6-liter.

Gather a drain pan (at least 6-quart capacity), fresh oil (5.5 quarts of the grade specified in your owner's manual — typically 5W-20 or 5W-30), jack stands if you're raising the Wrangler, and rags or paper towels. Some people use an oil catch can or funnel to reduce spills. Wear gloves; old oil stains and the heat from a fresh drain are both unpleasant.

Step-by-step filter replacement

Start with the engine cold or only warm to the touch. Raise the Wrangler on jack stands if you need better access, though many owners work from above without lifting. Position your drain pan under the filter — old oil will pour out as you unscrew it, and the pan needs to catch both the filter oil and any that drips from the head.

Use your filter wrench to turn the old filter counterclockwise. Once it's loose enough to turn by hand, unscrew it the rest of the way and tip it into the drain pan. Wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine block with a clean rag to remove any old gasket material or debris. A small amount of old oil on the surface is fine; you're looking for loose particles and rubber bits.

Open the new filter and check that the rubber gasket is seated properly in the groove — it should be pliable and not cracked or dried out. explore a thin film of fresh oil to the gasket by running your finger around it. This helps the seal and makes removal easier next time. Screw the new filter onto the head by hand until the gasket contacts the mounting surface, then turn it an additional three-quarters of a turn. Do not use the wrench to tighten it; hand-tight plus three-quarters turn is the correct torque. Over-tightening will damage the gasket and make the filter nearly impossible to remove later.

Oil capacity and refilling after filter change

The 2014 Wrangler 3.6-liter V6 holds 5.5 quarts of oil when you change the filter. If you're only changing the filter without draining the pan, you'll add less — typically 0.5 to 1 quart — because some oil remains in the engine. Check your owner's manual for the exact capacity; it's printed on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb or in the back of the manual itself.

Pour the new oil slowly into the filler cap on top of the engine, then wait a minute for it to settle into the pan. Use the dipstick to check the level — pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again and read where the oil sits. The level should be between the minimum and maximum marks. Add oil in small amounts if you're below the minimum, and recheck after each addition. Do not overfill; excess oil can damage seals and cause leaks.

Disposal of the old filter and drain oil

Never pour used oil down a drain or into the ground. Most auto parts stores that sell oil and filters will take used oil and old filters for free — many require no receipt, and some offer a small discount on your next purchase if you bring in the old filter. Call ahead to confirm their policy; most major chains including AutoZone, O'Reilly, and Advance Auto Parts accept both.

If you don't have a nearby parts store, check with your city or county for a hazardous waste collection day. Many municipalities hold quarterly or annual collection events where you can drop off used oil at no cost. Some quick-lube shops and dealerships will also accept old oil if you ask, though they may charge a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the oil filter without draining the oil pan?

Yes. A filter-only change takes about 15 minutes and is useful between full oil changes. You'll lose roughly 0.5 to 1 quart of oil when you remove the filter, so add that amount of fresh oil afterward. Check the dipstick to confirm the level is correct before starting the engine.

What oil grade should I use in a 2014 Wrangler?

Jeep recommends 5W-20 or 5W-30 depending on your climate and driving conditions. Check the filler cap or your owner's manual for the exact grade. Using the wrong viscosity can affect fuel economy and engine protection, so match what Jeep specifies.

How often should I change the oil filter on a 2014 Wrangler?

Jeep's maintenance schedule calls for an oil and filter change every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. If you drive in severe conditions — towing, dusty terrain, or frequent short trips — change it every 5,000 miles instead. Check your owner's manual for the schedule that matches your driving.

Is the filter wrench necessary, or can I remove it by hand?

A wrench makes the job much easier and safer. Removing the filter by hand risks stripping the canister or burning your hands on hot oil. A swivel-head wrench is worth the $10 to $15 investment if you plan to change your own oil regularly.

What happens if I over-tighten the new filter?

Over-tightening crushes the rubber gasket and makes the filter nearly impossible to remove at the next change. It can also cause the filter to leak oil. Hand-tight plus three-quarters of a turn is the correct amount; the gasket will seal properly at that point.