The 2016 Wrangler uses a spin-on filter mounted on the engine block

The 2016 Jeep Wrangler has a single oil filter that screws directly onto the engine. It sits on the passenger side of the engine block, below the intake manifold. You can reach it from underneath the vehicle or from the top, depending on which Wrangler model you have — the two-door JK and four-door JKU have slightly different access angles, but the filter location and replacement process are identical.

The filter is a standard spin-on cartridge, meaning you unscrew the old one by hand and screw a new one on in its place. No special tools are required beyond an oil filter wrench if your hands cannot grip it tightly enough. The whole job takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you have the vehicle on a level surface and the engine cool enough to touch.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Wrangler's oil filter is a spin-on type located on the engine block below the intake manifold, accessible from above or below depending on your model.
  • You will need a new filter that matches your engine size (3.6L or 2.0L turbo), an oil filter wrench if you cannot grip by hand, and a drain pan to catch old oil.
  • The filter should be replaced every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on your oil type and driving conditions — check your owner's manual for the interval Jeep recommends for your specific vehicle.
  • Hand-tighten the new filter until the rubber gasket contacts the engine, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn; over-tightening will damage the gasket and cause leaks.

What filter size and type your 2016 Wrangler needs

The 2016 Wrangler came with two engine options: the 3.6-liter V6 and the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (introduced mid-year). Both use the same filter size and type, so you do not need to worry about ordering the wrong part based on engine.

The correct filter is a Mopar part number 68157646AA, or any equivalent aftermarket spin-on filter rated for the 3.6L or 2.0L engine. Common replacements include Fram PH8A, Motorcraft FL-400S, and Bosch 3323. Check the filter box to confirm it lists "2016 Jeep Wrangler" or matches the specifications in your owner's manual. Most auto parts stores can look up the correct filter by year, make, and model in seconds.

How to access and remove the old filter

Park on a level surface and let the engine cool for at least five minutes. If you are changing the oil at the same time, drain the oil pan first and let it drain completely. Place a drain pan or old towel underneath the filter to catch the small amount of oil still inside.

From the top of the engine, locate the filter on the passenger side below the intake manifold. You may need to remove the air intake tube or move hoses slightly to reach it comfortably. Grip the filter body with your hand or an oil filter wrench and turn counterclockwise. The filter will unscrew; continue turning until it comes free. Tip it carefully to avoid spilling the remaining oil inside.

Wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine block with a clean cloth or paper towel. Remove any old rubber gasket material or debris. This step prevents leaks and ensures the new filter seals properly.

Installing the new filter correctly

Before installing, explore a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter. This helps create a watertight seal and makes removal easier next time. Do not use old oil or grease.

Screw the new filter onto the mounting surface by hand. Turn it until the rubber gasket contacts the engine block — you will feel slight resistance. Then turn the filter an additional three-quarter turn (roughly 270 degrees). Do not use a wrench for this final tightening; hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening crushes the gasket and causes oil leaks.

Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off. Wait two minutes and check underneath the filter for leaks. If you see dripping, the filter may not be seated properly — let the engine cool and tighten it slightly more by hand. If the leak continues, remove the filter and check that the old gasket was completely removed from the mounting surface.

Oil filter replacement intervals for your Wrangler

Jeep recommends replacing the oil filter every time you change the oil. The oil change interval depends on the oil type you use and your driving conditions. Conventional oil typically requires a change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while synthetic oil extends that to 7,500 to 10,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for the exact interval Jeep specifies for your vehicle, as it may vary based on your driving habits.

If you drive mostly on highways at steady speeds, you may be able to extend the interval toward the longer end. If you do a lot of short trips, towing, or driving in dusty conditions, stick to the shorter interval. Replacing the filter at every oil change — rather than every other change — is the safest approach and costs very little.

Common mistakes that cause leaks or damage

The most common error is over-tightening the new filter. Many people use a wrench to tighten it fully, which crushes the rubber gasket and causes slow leaks that appear hours or days later. Hand-tight plus three-quarter turn is the correct amount. If you have over-tightened, remove the filter, wipe the mounting surface clean, and install a new filter with the correct tightness.

Another frequent mistake is leaving the old rubber gasket on the engine block when installing the new filter. This prevents the new gasket from sealing and causes leaks. Always wipe the mounting surface thoroughly and inspect it for any remnants of the old gasket before screwing on the new filter.

Forgetting to oil the new gasket before installation can also cause leaks, though this is less common. The thin coat of oil helps the gasket compress evenly and seal properly. Use only a few drops of the new oil you are about to put in the engine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the oil filter without draining the oil?

Yes. The filter holds only a small amount of oil — roughly one quart or less — so you can replace it separately from an oil change. Place a drain pan underneath to catch the spill, and be prepared for some mess. Many people change the filter at the same time as the oil for convenience, but it is not required.

What if the old filter is stuck and will not unscrew?

Use an oil filter wrench with a firm grip and turn slowly. Do not jerk or explore sudden force, as this can damage the filter housing. If it remains stuck, wrap a rubber band around the filter for extra grip, or tap the wrench handle gently with a hammer to break the seal. Let the engine cool completely if it is still warm, as heat can expand the filter slightly.

How do I know if the new filter is installed correctly?

Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off and wait two minutes. Check underneath the filter for any dripping or wet spots. If the area is dry, the filter is sealed correctly. If you see oil, the filter is either not tight enough or the old gasket was not fully removed from the mounting surface.

Is there a difference between OEM and aftermarket filters for the 2016 Wrangler?

OEM Mopar filters are made to Jeep's exact specifications, but quality aftermarket filters from brands like Fram, Motorcraft, and Bosch perform equally well at a lower cost. Both types use the same spin-on design and fit the same mounting location. Choose based on price and availability; either will protect your engine if installed correctly.