Where the oil filter sits on a 2016 Jeep Cherokee
On a 2016 Jeep Cherokee, the oil filter is mounted on the driver's side of the engine, below the intake manifold and tucked behind the engine block. You will need to get under the vehicle or use a ramp to reach it comfortably — it is not visible from above without removing other parts first. The filter sits vertically, so oil will drain downward when you loosen it.
The exact position depends on which engine your Cherokee has. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder and the 3.2-liter V6 both place the filter in the same general area, but the V6 version sits slightly lower and may require more maneuvering to access. If you are unsure which engine you have, check your owner's manual or look at the engine block itself — the displacement is usually stamped on the side.
Key Takeaways
- The oil filter on a 2016 Jeep Cherokee is located on the driver's side of the engine, below the intake manifold, and requires getting under the vehicle to reach it.
- You will need a filter wrench, a drain pan, and the correct replacement filter — the 2.4L engine uses a different filter than the 3.2L V6.
- The filter housing is a cartridge-style design, meaning you remove the cap and replace the filter element inside rather than unscrewing a spin-on filter.
- Draining the old oil before removing the filter prevents spilling oil across the engine bay and makes cleanup easier.
- After installation, run the engine for a few seconds and check underneath for leaks before driving.
What filter type and size your Cherokee needs
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee uses a cartridge-style oil filter, not the spin-on type found on many other vehicles. This means the filter is housed inside a plastic or metal cap that you unscrew from the top of the engine, and you replace only the filter element inside — not the entire assembly. This design is less common than spin-on filters, so it is worth confirming before you buy a replacement.
For the 2.4-liter engine, the filter part number is 68157291AA. For the 3.2-liter V6, use 68157291AA as well — both engines share the same filter. Mopar is the Jeep factory brand, but Fram, Bosch, and other major manufacturers make compatible replacements. The filter costs between $8 and $15 depending on the brand and where you purchase it.
Tools and materials you will need
Gather these items before you start: a filter wrench sized for the cartridge cap (usually 74mm or 86mm, depending on engine size), a drain pan large enough to hold at least 5 quarts, a new filter element, fresh oil in the correct grade and quantity, jack stands or ramps, and a socket set or wrench to remove the drain plug. You may also want a rag or old towel to wipe your hands and catch drips.
The filter wrench is essential — the cap is tight and difficult to turn by hand, especially if it has not been removed in a while. A strap wrench works if you do not have a cartridge-specific wrench, but it is slower and more likely to slip. Do not attempt to remove the cap without a wrench; you risk stripping the plastic threads or injuring your hand.
Step-by-step removal and installation
Start by warming the engine for 30 seconds — warm oil flows faster and drains more completely. Shut off the engine and let it cool for two minutes so you do not burn yourself. Raise the vehicle on jack stands or drive it onto ramps, then locate the drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Place your drain pan underneath and unscrew the plug by hand or with a wrench. Let the oil drain completely, which takes five to ten minutes.
While the oil drains, locate the filter cap on top of the engine. Position your drain pan underneath it as well — some oil will spill when you open it. Use your filter wrench to turn the cap counterclockwise and unscrew it fully. Lift the cap straight up; the old filter element will come out with it. Empty any remaining oil from the cap into the drain pan, then wipe the inside of the cap clean with a rag.
Insert the new filter element into the cap, making sure it seats fully at the bottom. Screw the cap back onto the engine by hand first, then tighten it with the wrench — snug but not over-tight, as the plastic threads can crack. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to 20 foot-pounds if you have a torque wrench, or hand-tight plus a quarter turn if you do not.
Lower the vehicle back to the ground. Add the correct amount of fresh oil through the filler cap on top of the engine — check your owner's manual for the exact quantity, as it varies by engine size. Start the engine and let it run for 10 to 15 seconds, then turn it off and wait two minutes. Check the oil level on the dipstick and top up if needed. Look underneath the vehicle for any leaks around the drain plug and filter cap before driving.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most frequent error is forgetting to replace the rubber seal inside the filter cap. This seal wears out and hardens over time, and reusing it often causes leaks. Always install a new seal with each filter change — most replacement filters include one, or you can purchase them separately for a few dollars.
Another mistake is over-tightening the filter cap. The plastic threads on the housing are not as strong as metal, and turning the wrench too hard can crack the cap or strip the threads. Tighten until you feel resistance, then turn an additional half turn — no more. If the cap was previously over-tightened, the threads may already be damaged, and you may need to replace the entire filter housing.
Do not reuse the old drain plug if it has a crush washer — these washers deform when tightened and cannot seal properly a second time. Most drain plugs come with a new washer, but if yours does not, purchase one separately. A leaking drain plug is one of the most common sources of slow oil loss.
Oil grade and capacity for your 2016 Cherokee
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee with the 2.4-liter engine requires 0W-20 synthetic or conventional oil. The 3.2-liter V6 uses 5W-30. Check your owner's manual or the inside of the fuel door for a label confirming which grade your specific vehicle needs — using the wrong grade can affect fuel economy and engine wear.
The 2.4-liter engine holds approximately 5.5 quarts of oil with a filter change. The 3.2-liter V6 holds about 6 quarts. These are approximate figures; always check the dipstick after adding oil to confirm you are at the correct level. Overfilling can damage the engine, and underfilling can cause inadequate lubrication.
When to change your oil filter
Jeep recommends changing the oil and filter every 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or every 3,000 miles if you drive in severe conditions — frequent short trips, towing, or dusty environments. Many owners change the filter every other oil change if they use synthetic oil, since synthetic lasts longer. Check your owner's manual for Jeep's specific recommendation for your driving habits.
The filter itself does not wear out in the traditional sense, but it accumulates dirt and debris over time and becomes less effective at trapping contaminants. Changing it on schedule keeps your engine cleaner and extends its life. If you go significantly over the recommended interval, the filter may become clogged enough to trigger the oil pressure warning light on your dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the oil filter without draining the oil first?
Technically yes, but it is messy. Oil will spill from the filter housing when you open it, so you will end up with oil on the engine and ground regardless. Draining the oil first means you catch most of it in a pan, making cleanup faster and preventing oil from pooling under your vehicle.
What should I do with the old oil and filter?
Take used oil and the old filter to a recycling center, auto parts store, or quick-lube shop — most accept them for free. Do not pour oil down the drain or throw it in the trash. Many retailers that sell oil, including Walmart and AutoZone, have collection bins near the entrance.
Is the filter wrench absolutely necessary?
Yes, unless you have very strong hands and the cap is not stuck. A strap wrench or adjustable wrench can work in a pinch, but a cartridge filter wrench is designed for the job and costs $10 to $20. Trying to force the cap without proper tools risks stripping the threads or breaking the plastic housing.
How do I know if my filter is installed correctly?
After installation, run the engine for 10 to 15 seconds and check for leaks around the cap and drain plug. If oil drips, turn off the engine, let it cool, and tighten the cap or plug a bit more. If leaking continues after a second attempt, the seal or threads may be damaged and you may need professional help.
Can I use a different brand of filter than Mopar?
Yes. Fram, Bosch, Purolator, and other major brands make filters that fit the 2016 Cherokee and meet the same performance standards. Confirm the part number matches your engine size before purchasing. Aftermarket filters are usually less expensive than Mopar originals and work just as well.