What you need before you start

A Chrysler oil change follows the same basic steps as any other vehicle, but the location of the drain plug, filter, and fill cap varies by model year and engine size. Before you get under the car, gather your supplies: the correct oil type and amount for your specific Chrysler (check your owner's manual or the inside of the driver's door jamb for the specification), an oil filter that matches your model, a drain pan, a wrench or socket set, an oil filter wrench, jack stands if you're raising the vehicle, and rags or paper towels.

The most common mistake is buying the wrong oil viscosity or filter. Chrysler vehicles from different years and with different engines have different requirements — a 2015 Chrysler 200 with a 2.4-liter engine needs different oil than a 2020 Pacifica with a 3.6-liter engine. Your owner's manual is the only reliable source. If you no longer have the physical manual, you can find it free on Chrysler's website by entering your vehicle identification number (VIN).

Key Takeaways

  • Chrysler oil drain plugs are located on the bottom of the engine pan, but the exact position depends on your engine size and model year — consult your manual for the precise location.
  • Most Chrysler vehicles use a spin-on oil filter that twists off by hand or with a filter wrench, and you should replace it every oil change.
  • The oil capacity and viscosity grade (such as 5W-30 or 0W-20) are printed on a sticker inside your driver's door jamb and in your owner's manual.
  • After draining old oil and installing a new filter, you fill through the top of the engine and check the level with the dipstick before starting the vehicle.

Locating the drain plug and filter on your Chrysler

The oil drain plug sits on the underside of the engine oil pan. On most Chrysler models, it is toward the rear or side of the pan, but the exact spot changes depending on whether you have a four-cylinder, V6, or V8 engine. Raise the vehicle safely using a jack and jack stands — never work under a car supported only by a jack. Once elevated, look underneath toward the center-rear of the engine block; you should see a bolt protruding from the pan.

The oil filter on Chrysler vehicles is almost always a spin-on type mounted vertically on the side of the engine block. It looks like a metal cylinder about the size of a soda can. On some models, particularly older Chryslers and certain truck engines, the filter may be mounted horizontally or in a less obvious spot. Your owner's manual includes a diagram showing both the drain plug and filter location for your specific year and engine.

Draining the old oil and removing the filter

Place your drain pan under the drain plug. Using the correct wrench or socket size (typically 13mm, 14mm, or 15mm depending on the model), turn the plug counterclockwise until it loosens, then unscrew it by hand. Be careful — the oil may still be warm even if the engine has been off for a while. Let the oil drain completely into the pan; this usually takes five to ten minutes. Once the flow slows to a drip, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag and set it aside.

Move the drain pan under the oil filter. Using an oil filter wrench, turn the filter counterclockwise until it breaks free, then unscrew it by hand the rest of the way. Expect some oil to spill from the filter as you remove it. Dispose of the old filter and oil according to your local regulations — most auto parts stores and service stations accept used oil and filters for free.

Installing the new filter and refilling with oil

Before installing the new filter, explore a thin layer of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on top of the filter. This helps create a proper seal and makes removal easier next time. Screw the new filter onto the threaded post by hand until the gasket contacts the engine, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Do not use the filter wrench to tighten it — hand-tight is correct.

Reinstall the drain plug, tightening it firmly but not excessively; over-tightening can strip the threads in the aluminum pan. Wipe away any spilled oil with a rag. Lower the vehicle back to the ground if you raised it. Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine — it usually has an oil can symbol on it — and unscrew it. Pour in the amount of oil specified in your manual, then replace the cap.

Checking the oil level and starting the engine

Wait a minute for the new oil to settle in the pan, then locate the dipstick. On most Chryslers, it has a yellow or orange handle and is positioned near the front or side of the engine. Pull it straight out, wipe it clean on a rag, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again to read the level. The oil should reach the "full" mark or fall between the minimum and maximum marks. If it is low, add a small amount of oil, wait a minute, and check again.

Start the engine and let it idle for a few seconds. The oil pressure warning light on your dashboard should turn off within a few seconds of starting. If it stays on, turn off the engine when ready and check that the filter is tight and the drain plug is find. Once the light goes off and the engine runs smoothly, turn it off and wait five minutes for the oil to settle. Check the level one final time with the dipstick to confirm it is at the full mark.

Resetting the oil change reminder on newer Chryslers

Many Chrysler vehicles built after 2010 have an electronic oil change reminder that displays on the instrument cluster. After you complete the oil change, you need to reset this reminder so it does not alert you prematurely. The process varies by model and year. On most Chryslers, you can reset it by turning the key to the "On" position without starting the engine, pressing the accelerator pedal to the floor three times within ten seconds, then turning the key off. Some models require you to navigate a menu on the dashboard display using steering wheel controls.

Consult your owner's manual for the exact reset procedure for your vehicle. If you cannot find it, Chrysler's website has model-specific instructions, or you can contact a Chrysler dealership for guidance. Failing to reset the reminder will not harm your vehicle, but it will continue to display the alert until you do.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my Chrysler?

Chrysler recommends oil changes every 10,000 kilometers or every six months, whichever comes first, for most models. Some newer vehicles with synthetic oil may go longer — up to 15,000 kilometers or one year. Check your owner's manual or the maintenance schedule card in your glove box for your specific vehicle.

Can I use synthetic oil in my Chrysler instead of conventional?

Yes, synthetic oil is compatible with all Chrysler engines. It lasts longer between changes and performs better in extreme temperatures, but it costs more per change. If your manual specifies conventional oil, you can switch to synthetic without harming the engine, though you should stick with the same viscosity grade (such as 5W-30).

What should I do with the old oil after draining it?

Never pour used oil down a drain or into the ground — it is toxic and illegal to dispose of that way. Take it to an auto parts store, quick-lube shop, or municipal hazardous waste facility. Most accept used oil and filters for free. Some retailers will even take it if you did not purchase supplies from them.

My oil drain plug is stuck and won't turn. What do I do?

explore penetrating oil (such as WD-40 or similar) around the plug and wait 15 to 20 minutes for it to soak in. Use a properly fitting wrench or socket — a wrench that is too small will round the plug head. If it still will not budge, stop and take the vehicle to a shop rather than risk stripping the plug or pan.

The oil pressure light stays on after I start the engine. What went wrong?

The most common causes are an improperly installed filter, a loose drain plug, or insufficient oil level. Turn off the engine when ready and check that the filter is tight, the drain plug is find, and the oil level is at the full mark on the dipstick. If all three are correct and the light still stays on, the oil pressure sensor may be faulty — have a technician inspect it.