The oil filter location and part number depend on your Grand Cherokee's year and engine

Your Jeep Grand Cherokee's oil filter sits in different places depending on when it was built and what engine it has. On most models from 2011 onward, the filter is mounted vertically on top of the engine, near the front passenger side. On older Grand Cherokees (1999–2010), the filter is typically on the driver's side of the engine block, mounted horizontally. The exact location matters because you need to know where to reach it and what size wrench or filter socket to use.

Before you buy a replacement filter, confirm your model year and engine size. You can find this on your vehicle registration, in your owner's manual, or by looking at the engine block itself. Once you have that information, you can look up the correct filter part number — Mopar (Jeep's parts division) assigns different numbers to different generations, and using the wrong one wastes time and money.

Key Takeaways

  • The oil filter location changes between model years: 2011 and newer models have a vertical filter on top of the engine, while 1999–2010 models have a horizontal filter on the side of the engine block.
  • You need your model year and engine size to find the correct part number, which you can confirm from your registration or owner's manual.
  • Mopar filters are the manufacturer-recommended option, but aftermarket filters from Fram, Mobil 1, and Bosch also fit and work in Grand Cherokees.
  • The filter wrench size depends on your model year: older models typically need a 74 mm socket, while newer models use different sizes.
  • Changing the filter takes 10 to 20 minutes once you locate it and have the right tools.

Finding the correct Mopar part number for your year

Mopar assigns a specific part number to each generation and engine combination. For a 2011–2021 Grand Cherokee with a 3.6L V6 engine, the part number is typically 68157646AA. If you have a 2014–2021 model with a 3.0L diesel engine, the number is different: 68157646AB. For older models (1999–2010), numbers vary by year and engine, but common ones include 5012457AA for the 4.0L inline-six and 5012457AB for V8 engines.

The easiest way to confirm the exact number is to call a Jeep dealership parts department with your vehicle identification number (VIN). They can look it up in seconds. You can also search your model year and engine on Mopar's website or on parts retailers like RockAuto, AutoZone, or Amazon. Write down the part number before you order so you do not accidentally receive the wrong filter.

Aftermarket filters that fit your Grand Cherokee

You do not have to use a Mopar filter. Fram, Mobil 1, Bosch, and Wix all make filters that fit Grand Cherokees, and they cost less than the dealer option. The trade-off is that aftermarket filters may have different micron ratings (how small the particles they catch are) and different bypass valve settings. For routine oil changes, this difference is small enough that most owners do not notice it.

If you choose an aftermarket filter, search by your model year and engine size on the retailer's website. Most will show you a list of compatible filters and their prices. Fram Extra Guard and Mobil 1 Extended Performance are common choices for Grand Cherokees and are usually available at auto parts stores. Bosch filters tend to be pricier but have a reputation for longer service life. Pick whichever fits your budget and is in stock near you.

What size wrench or socket you need

The filter wrench size depends on your model year. On 2011 and newer Grand Cherokees with the vertical top-mounted filter, you typically need a 74 mm filter socket or wrench. On 1999–2010 models with the side-mounted horizontal filter, you usually need a 74 mm or 86 mm socket, depending on the specific year and engine. Some owners use an adjustable filter wrench instead of a socket, which works on any size but can slip if you turn it too hard.

Before you buy a wrench, check your owner's manual or call the dealership to confirm the size for your exact model. If you do not have a filter wrench at all, you can rent one from most auto parts stores for a few dollars, or buy a universal adjustable wrench for $10 to $20. Do not try to remove the filter by hand — it will be too tight and you risk burning your hands on hot oil.

How to locate the filter under the hood

Pop your hood and look at the engine from the front of the vehicle. On 2011 and newer models, scan the top of the engine near the front passenger side — you will see a cylindrical canister about the size of a soda can, usually black or silver. That is your filter. On older models, look at the side of the engine block (driver's side) for a similar canister mounted horizontally. If you cannot spot it, consult your owner's manual, which has a diagram of the engine bay with the filter labeled.

If your Grand Cherokee is still warm from driving, wait 10 to 15 minutes before touching anything. The oil and filter will be hot enough to burn you. Once the engine has cooled, you can safely reach the filter and begin the removal process.

Removal and installation steps

Place a drain pan or old towel under the filter to catch oil drips. Use your filter wrench or socket to turn the filter counterclockwise until it loosens, then unscrew it by hand the rest of the way. Some oil will spill — this is normal. Once the old filter is off, wipe the filter mounting surface (the threaded post on the engine) clean with a rag.

Take your new filter and coat the rubber gasket (the flat ring on top) lightly with fresh oil from your new oil bottle. This helps the gasket seal properly and makes removal easier next time. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the mounting surface, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Do not use the wrench to tighten it — hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

Start your engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off and wait a minute. Check under the vehicle for leaks around the filter. If you see drips, the filter may not be seated correctly — turn off the engine, let it cool, and tighten the filter another quarter turn by hand. Once you confirm there are no leaks, you are done.

Where to buy filters and typical costs

Mopar filters for Grand Cherokees typically cost $12 to $18 at a dealership or online retailer. Aftermarket filters from Fram, Mobil 1, or Bosch usually run $8 to $15. Auto parts stores like AutoZone, O'Reilly, and NAPA stock filters for most model years and can have them ready for pickup within an hour. Online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto often have lower prices but require shipping time.

If you are having the oil change done at a shop instead of doing it yourself, ask them what filter they use and whether you can bring your own. Some shops charge a small fee to install a customer-supplied filter, while others do it at no extra cost. Dealership service departments always use Mopar filters and include the cost in their oil change price, which is usually $60 to $100 depending on the model year and oil type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same filter on different model years of Grand Cherokee?

No. Mopar part numbers are specific to model year ranges and engine sizes. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks or improper oil flow. Always confirm your model year and engine size before ordering. If you are unsure, call a dealership parts department with your VIN.

How often should I change the oil filter?

Jeep recommends changing the oil filter every time you change the oil. For most Grand Cherokees, that is every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the model year and whether you use synthetic or conventional oil. Check your owner's manual for the exact interval for your vehicle.

What happens if I over-tighten the filter?

Over-tightening can crush the rubber gasket, which causes oil leaks. It also makes the filter very hard to remove next time. Hand-tight plus three-quarter turn is the correct amount — you should not need a wrench to tighten it, only to loosen it during the next change.

Is it safe to change the oil filter myself if I have never done it before?

Yes. The process is straightforward and takes 10 to 20 minutes. The main risks are burns from hot oil and spills on the ground. Let the engine cool first, use a drain pan, and wear old clothes. If you are uncomfortable, a shop can do it for $20 to $40 in labor.

Do I need to drain the oil before changing the filter?

No. You can change the filter alone without draining the oil. However, most owners change both at the same time since the engine is already warm and you have the tools out. If you are only changing the filter, the process is the same except you skip the drain plug step.