Where to find the oil filter on your 2015 Wrangler

On a 2015 Jeep Wrangler, the oil filter sits on the driver's side of the engine, mounted vertically on the engine block itself. You'll find it below and slightly behind the engine, tucked between the block and the frame rail. The exact position depends on whether you have a 3.6-liter V6 engine (the standard for that year) or the less common 2.0-liter turbo, but both mount the filter in roughly the same area on the driver's side.

The filter is easier to access if you remove the plastic undertray that protects the underside of the engine. This tray is held on by several plastic clips and bolts — you don't need special tools to remove it, just a few minutes and a socket wrench. Once it's off, you'll have clear access to the filter housing without contorting yourself under the vehicle.

Key Takeaways

  • The oil filter on a 2015 Wrangler is mounted vertically on the driver's side of the engine block, below the main engine area.
  • Removing the plastic undertray gives you much better access and takes only a few minutes with basic tools.
  • A 2015 Wrangler with the 3.6-liter V6 uses a Mopar filter part number 68157291AA or equivalent aftermarket filters rated for that engine.
  • The filter housing requires a 74-millimeter socket or filter wrench to remove, and you'll need a new crush washer for the drain plug when you drain the old oil.
  • Jeep recommends an oil change interval of 10,000 miles for 2015 Wranglers, though some owners change it sooner depending on driving conditions.

What filter size and type your 2015 Wrangler needs

The 2015 Jeep Wrangler with a 3.6-liter V6 engine uses a cartridge-style oil filter, not a spin-on filter. This means the filter element sits inside a plastic or metal housing on top of the engine, and you replace just the filter media inside rather than the whole canister. The Mopar part number for the original filter is 68157291AA, though many aftermarket filters work as well — look for filters labeled as compatible with the 2015 Wrangler 3.6L.

If you have the 2.0-liter turbo (less common in 2015 but possible), that engine uses a different filter housing, so confirm your engine size before ordering. Check your owner's manual or look at the engine itself — the 3.6L is noticeably larger and has a different intake manifold shape than the 2.0L turbo.

When you buy a replacement filter, you'll also need a new crush washer for the oil drain plug. This is a small metal washer that seals the drain plug hole. Jeep part number 6506457AA is the correct washer, and it costs just a few dollars. Using the same washer twice can cause slow oil leaks, so don't skip this step.

Tools and supplies you'll need

To change the oil filter on your 2015 Wrangler, gather a 74-millimeter socket (or a filter wrench if you prefer), a ratchet, a drain pan for old oil, and the new filter with its crush washer. You'll also want jack stands and a jack if you're removing the undertray, since you need to lift the vehicle slightly to access it safely. A socket wrench set will handle the undertray bolts.

Have some clean rags or paper towels on hand — the filter housing will drip oil when you open it, and you'll want to wipe the sealing surface clean before installing the new filter. If you're also draining the oil (which you should do at the same time), you'll need the correct oil type and amount for your Wrangler. The 2015 Wrangler 3.6L holds about 6 quarts of oil, and Jeep recommends 5W-20 synthetic or conventional oil.

Step-by-step filter replacement process

Start by warming the engine for a minute or two — warm oil flows more freely and drains more completely. Turn off the engine and let it cool just enough that you can touch the filter housing without burning yourself. Lift the vehicle with a jack and find it on jack stands, then remove the plastic undertray by unbolting the clips and bolts holding it in place.

Position your drain pan under the filter housing. Use your 74-millimeter socket and ratchet to turn the filter housing counterclockwise until it comes free — it will be hand-tight, so you shouldn't need to force it. As you unscrew it, oil will begin to drip, so work slowly and let it drain into the pan. Once the housing is off, remove the old filter element from inside and discard it.

Wipe the sealing surface on the engine block with a clean rag to remove any old oil residue or debris. This ensures a good seal with the new filter. Insert the new filter element into the housing, then screw the housing back onto the block by hand until the rubber seal on the housing contacts the engine block. Tighten it another three-quarters of a turn with your socket — snug but not over-tight, since over-tightening can damage the seal.

If you're also changing the oil, drain it from the pan underneath the engine, replace the crush washer on the drain plug, and reinstall the plug. Add the correct amount of new oil, start the engine, and let it run for a few seconds to circulate the new oil through the filter. Check the level on the dipstick after a minute, add more if needed, and you're done.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most frequent error is over-tightening the filter housing. The rubber seal on the housing is designed to compress slightly when hand-tightened, and that's all the pressure it needs. If you use a wrench to tighten it further, you can damage the seal and cause leaks. Hand-tight plus three-quarters of a turn is the target — if you're not sure, err on the side of loose rather than tight.

Another common problem is forgetting to replace the crush washer on the oil drain plug. This washer is a one-time-use item that creates a seal between the plug and the pan. Reusing the old washer often leads to slow drips that you won't notice until oil has leaked onto your driveway. It costs almost nothing, so always buy a new one when you change the oil.

Don't skip cleaning the sealing surface on the engine block before installing the new filter. Old oil residue or metal particles can prevent a good seal, and you'll end up with leaks. A quick wipe with a clean rag takes 30 seconds and prevents headaches later.

How often to change the filter

Jeep recommends changing the oil filter every 10,000 miles on a 2015 Wrangler, which is the same interval as the oil itself. If you drive in severe conditions — towing, dusty terrain, frequent short trips, or extreme heat — some owners change it every 5,000 miles instead. Check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your driving habits.

Many Wrangler owners who use their vehicles off-road or in dusty environments change the filter more often than the standard interval, since dust and debris can clog the filter faster. If you're doing a lot of trail driving or desert work, consider shortening the interval to 5,000 miles or checking the filter condition at 7,500 miles to see if it needs replacement sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change just the filter without draining the oil?

Yes, you can change the filter alone without draining the oil. However, most people change both at the same time since you're already under the vehicle and the filter housing is open. If you're only changing the filter, the process is identical — just skip the drain plug step and don't add new oil at the end.

What happens if I over-tighten the filter housing?

Over-tightening can compress the rubber seal too much, which damages it and causes oil leaks. The seal is designed to work with hand-tight plus a small amount of wrench pressure. If you've already over-tightened it, you may need to replace the housing gasket or the entire housing if the seal is damaged beyond repair.

Is the 74-millimeter socket the only tool that works?

A 74-millimeter socket is the correct size, but a filter wrench designed for cartridge-style filters also works. Some people use a strap wrench or oil filter pliers if they don't have the socket. The socket is usually the easiest option because it fits the housing precisely and doesn't slip.

Do I need to prime the new filter before installing it?

No, priming the filter (filling it with oil before installation) is not necessary for a cartridge-style filter like the one on your Wrangler. The filter will fill with oil once the engine starts and the oil pump circulates oil through it. Just install the dry filter and let the engine do the work.

Where do I dispose of the old oil and filter?

Most auto parts stores accept used oil and filters for free, even if you didn't buy them there. Some accept them with a small core charge. Check with your local store or search for "oil recycling near me" to find a location. Never pour old oil down the drain or into the ground — it's harmful to the environment and illegal in most places.