2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Type And Capacity

You love your 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, whether it’s your daily commuter, your trusty tow vehicle, or your weekend warrior hitting the trails. But let’s be honest: keeping it running strong means giving it the right care, and few things are as crucial as using the correct engine oil.

Guessing about oil types or capacities can lead to serious engine issues, costing you time, money, and peace of mind. We agree that navigating the world of oil specifications can feel like a maze, especially with different engine options.

That’s why we promise to cut through the confusion. This comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know about your 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil type and capacity, ensuring you choose the right fluids and follow the best practices for a healthy engine.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand specific engine requirements, gather the right tools, and master the DIY oil change process, helping you maintain your Jeep’s performance and longevity, whether on asphalt or off-road.

Table of Contents

Understanding Your 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Type and Capacity Needs

Getting the oil right for your Grand Cherokee isn’t just about avoiding a check engine light. It’s about protecting one of the most vital components of your vehicle: the engine itself.

Using the wrong oil, or an insufficient amount, can lead to premature wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even catastrophic engine failure. This is especially true for a versatile vehicle like the Grand Cherokee, which might face demanding conditions.

Chrysler, like all manufacturers, specifies particular oil types and capacities for a reason. These specifications are based on extensive engineering and testing to ensure optimal lubrication, cooling, and protection for your specific engine design.

For your 2014 model, this means understanding not just the viscosity but also the specific API and Chrysler material standards.

Why Correct Oil Viscosity Matters

Viscosity refers to an oil’s resistance to flow. An oil with a lower viscosity (e.g., 0W) flows more easily at cold temperatures, providing quicker lubrication during startup. A higher viscosity (e.g., 20 or 40) maintains better film strength at higher operating temperatures.

Using the wrong viscosity can result in inadequate lubrication, leading to increased friction and heat. This can cause accelerated wear on critical engine components over time.

Decoding Oil Standards: API, ILSAC, and Chrysler MS-Numbers

Beyond viscosity, oil manufacturers adhere to specific industry standards. The American Petroleum Institute (API) sets performance standards, indicated by “SN,” “SP,” etc. Higher letters signify newer and more stringent standards.

The International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) also provides standards, often seen as “GF-5” or “GF-6.” These indicate energy-conserving properties.

Crucially for your Jeep, Chrysler often specifies its own material standards, denoted by “MS-XXXX.” For example, the Pentastar V6 might require oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395. Always verify these specific manufacturer requirements in your owner’s manual.

Decoding Engine Options: V6 vs. V8 Oil Specifications

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee was offered with several robust engine options, and each has its own unique oil requirements. Knowing which engine powers your WK2 is the first step to selecting the correct oil.

Always refer to your owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as specifications can sometimes have minor revisions or regional differences.

The 3.6L Pentastar V6: Your Daily Driver’s Choice

This popular engine is known for its balance of power and efficiency, found in countless Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. For the 3.6L Pentastar V6 in your 2014 Grand Cherokee, the specifications are quite clear.

Recommended Oil Type: Full synthetic or a high-quality synthetic blend is generally preferred, especially for longevity and performance.
Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 is the standard recommendation. In extremely cold climates, some manuals might allow for 0W-20, but 5W-20 is the primary choice.
API/ILSAC Standard: Look for oils that meet API SN or higher (e.g., SP) and ILSAC GF-5 or higher (e.g., GF-6).
Chrysler Material Standard: Most importantly, the oil must meet Chrysler MS-6395. This is a critical specification for Pentastar engines.
Oil Capacity: The 3.6L Pentastar V6 typically holds approximately 6 quarts (5.7 liters) of engine oil when performing an oil and filter change.

Always double-check the dipstick after adding oil to ensure you’re at the proper level. Remember, overfilling can be just as detrimental as underfilling.

The 5.7L HEMI V8: Powerhouse Requirements

For those who crave more power, the legendary 5.7L HEMI V8 delivers. This engine also has specific needs to ensure its multi-displacement system (MDS) operates correctly and to handle the extra horsepower.

Recommended Oil Type: Full synthetic or a high-quality synthetic blend is recommended.
Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 is also the primary recommendation for the 5.7L HEMI.
API/ILSAC Standard: Look for oils that meet API SN or higher (e.g., SP) and ILSAC GF-5 or higher (e.g., GF-6).
Chrysler Material Standard: Like the Pentastar, the oil must meet Chrysler MS-6395. This standard is crucial for the proper function of the HEMI’s valvetrain and MDS.
Oil Capacity: The 5.7L HEMI V8 typically requires about 7 quarts (6.6 liters) of engine oil with a filter change.

The correct oil is vital for the MDS system to seamlessly switch between 4-cylinder and 8-cylinder modes, optimizing fuel economy.

The 6.4L SRT HEMI V8: High-Performance Demands

If you own the SRT version, you know it’s a different beast entirely. The high-performance 6.4L HEMI has even more specific and robust oil requirements to withstand extreme conditions.

Recommended Oil Type: Full synthetic oil is mandatory for the 6.4L SRT HEMI.
Viscosity: SAE 0W-40 is the specified viscosity for this high-revving engine.
API Standard: Look for oils that meet API SN or higher (e.g., SP). ILSAC standards are less common for 0W-40 oils.
Chrysler Material Standard: Critically, the oil must meet Chrysler MS-12633. This is a very specific standard for SRT engines and cannot be substituted.
Oil Capacity: The 6.4L SRT HEMI V8 typically holds around 7 quarts (6.6 liters) of engine oil with a filter change.

Using any other oil in an SRT model can void your warranty and severely impact engine performance and longevity. Always stick to MS-12633.

The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Diesel-Specific Considerations

For those with the fuel-efficient 3.0L EcoDiesel V6, your oil requirements are distinct from gasoline engines due to the nature of diesel combustion and emissions systems.

Recommended Oil Type: Full synthetic diesel engine oil is essential.
Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 is the specified viscosity.
API Standard: Look for diesel engine oils that meet API CJ-4 or CK-4. These classifications are specific to diesel engines.
Chrysler Material Standard: The oil must meet Chrysler MS-11106. This is vital for the proper operation of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and other emissions components. Using non-compliant oil can damage your DPF.
Oil Capacity: The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 requires a substantial amount, typically around 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) of engine oil with a filter change.

Diesel engines generate more soot, and their oils contain specific additives to handle this. The MS-11106 standard ensures compatibility with the DPF, which traps soot. Using gasoline engine oil or a non-compliant diesel oil will lead to DPF clogging and costly repairs.

Essential Tools and Materials for a DIY Oil Change

Performing an oil change on your 2014 Grand Cherokee is a straightforward task for most DIYers, but having the right tools and materials makes all the difference. Don’t start the job without everything on this list.

Tools You’ll Need

Socket Wrench Set: You’ll need the correct size socket for your oil drain plug. This is usually a 13mm or 16mm.
Oil Filter Wrench: Depending on your engine, this could be a cap-style wrench (for canister filters) or a strap-style wrench (for spin-on filters). The 3.6L Pentastar uses a cartridge filter, requiring a specific cap wrench (often 24mm or 27mm).
Drain Pan: A pan large enough to hold your full oil capacity, plus a little extra, to prevent spills.
Funnel: Essential for cleanly refilling the engine with fresh oil.
Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely critical for safely lifting your vehicle and securing it. Never rely solely on a jack.
Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling while lifted.
Torque Wrench: For tightening the drain plug and oil filter to specification. This prevents leaks and over-tightening damage.

Materials to Have on Hand

New Engine Oil: The correct 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil type and capacity as detailed above for your specific engine.
New Oil Filter: Ensure it’s the correct filter for your specific engine and year. High-quality filters are always a good investment.
New Drain Plug Crush Washer (Optional but Recommended): For some drain plugs, a new washer ensures a leak-free seal. Check your owner’s manual or local auto parts store.
Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning up spills.
Gloves: Protect your hands from hot oil and chemicals.
Old Oil Container: For transporting used oil to a recycling center.

Having these items ready before you start will make the process much smoother and safer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Grand Cherokee’s Engine Oil

Now that you have your oil, filter, and tools, it’s time to get your hands a little dirty. Follow these steps carefully to perform a successful oil change on your 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Safety First: Prepping Your Workspace

Safety is paramount when working under any vehicle. Do not skip these crucial steps.

Park on Level Ground: Ensure your Jeep is on a flat, stable surface.
Engage Parking Brake: Always set the parking brake firmly.
Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels if you’re lifting the front, or vice versa.
Lift and Secure: Use your jack to lift the front of the vehicle. Position jack stands securely under the frame rails or designated jack points. Gently lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Give it a slight shake to confirm stability.
Wear Safety Gear: Put on your gloves and safety glasses.

A warm engine allows oil to drain more easily, so ideally, drive your Jeep for a few minutes before starting, but not so long that the exhaust components are scalding hot.

Draining the Old Oil

This is where things get messy, so be prepared.

Locate Drain Plug: Position your large drain pan directly under the oil pan drain plug.
Remove Drain Plug: Using your socket wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug. Be ready for oil to start flowing immediately once it’s loose.
Allow to Drain Completely: Let the oil drain for at least 10-15 minutes. The slower the drip, the more old oil you’re removing.
Inspect and Replace Washer: While the oil drains, inspect the drain plug and replace the crush washer if necessary.
Reinstall Drain Plug: Once draining stops, clean the area around the drain plug. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specified torque using your torque wrench (check your manual for the exact spec, typically around 20-25 ft-lbs).

Avoid overtightening the drain plug, as this can strip the threads on the oil pan, leading to a much more expensive repair.

Replacing the Oil Filter

The location and type of oil filter vary by engine. Most 2014 Grand Cherokees with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 use a cartridge-style filter located on top of the engine, making it easier to access.

Locate Oil Filter: For the Pentastar V6, it’s typically on top of the engine, near the front. For HEMI or EcoDiesel engines, it might be underneath, accessible from below.
Remove Old Filter: Use your oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for a small amount of oil to drip out, especially with spin-on filters.
Clean Filter Housing/Area: Wipe down the filter housing (for cartridge filters) or the mounting surface (for spin-on filters) to ensure a clean seal.
Prepare New Filter: For spin-on filters, apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket. For cartridge filters, ensure the new O-rings are in place on the filter housing cap.
Install New Filter: Install the new oil filter. For cartridge filters, hand-tighten the cap, then use the filter wrench to tighten to the specified torque (usually around 18-20 ft-lbs for Pentastar). For spin-on filters, hand-tighten until snug, then give it an additional quarter to half turn with the wrench.

Never overtighten the oil filter; this can damage the gasket and lead to leaks.

Refilling with Fresh Oil

Now for the clean stuff!

Lower Vehicle: Carefully raise the vehicle off the jack stands, remove the stands, and then fully lower the vehicle to level ground. This is important for an accurate oil level reading.
Add New Oil: Remove the oil filler cap. Place your funnel in the filler neck. Begin pouring in the new oil, starting with a quantity slightly less than your engine’s full capacity (e.g., 5 quarts for a 6-quart engine).
Check Dipstick: Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then remove it again to check the oil level.
Top Off Gradually: Add small amounts of oil (e.g., half a quart at a time), rechecking the dipstick after each addition, until the oil level registers between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks.
Replace Filler Cap: Once the level is correct, securely replace the oil filler cap.

It’s always better to add oil slowly and check frequently than to overfill and have to drain some out.

Final Checks and Disposal

You’re almost done!

Start Engine: Start your Jeep’s engine. The oil pressure light should turn off within a few seconds. Let the engine run for a minute or two, then turn it off.
Check for Leaks: Look underneath the vehicle for any signs of fresh oil leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
Final Dipstick Check: After a few minutes, recheck the oil level on the dipstick. It should still be in the safe range. Adjust if necessary.
Dispose of Old Oil: Pour the old engine oil from your drain pan into a sealed container. Take it to an automotive recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used oil for proper disposal. Never pour it down a drain or on the ground.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully changed the oil in your 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee!

Advanced Tips and Common Pitfalls for Grand Cherokee Oil Maintenance

Beyond the basic steps, there are always ways to refine your maintenance routine and avoid common issues. As experienced off-roaders and DIY mechanics, we’ve learned a few things over the years that can help keep your Grand Cherokee running smoothly.

Choosing the Right Oil Beyond Viscosity

While viscosity and manufacturer standards (like the critical Chrysler MS-6395 or MS-12633) are paramount, the brand and specific formulation of oil can also play a role.

Full Synthetic Advantage: For your 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, especially if you tow, off-road, or live in extreme climates, a full synthetic oil is almost always the superior choice. It offers better thermal stability, reduced friction, and longer lasting protection compared to conventional or synthetic blend oils.
Reputable Brands: Stick with well-known, reputable oil brands. They invest heavily in R&D to meet and often exceed industry standards.
High-Quality Filters: Don’t skimp on the oil filter. A premium filter offers better filtration efficiency and capacity, protecting your engine from contaminants more effectively. Brands like Mopar, Wix, Mann, or Bosch are generally excellent choices.

Consider the conditions your Jeep operates in. Frequent short trips, heavy towing, or dusty off-road adventures put more stress on the oil.

Understanding Oil Change Intervals

Your owner’s manual provides recommended oil change intervals, often around 10,000 miles or 12 months for “normal” driving conditions. However, “normal” driving might not apply to everyone.

Severe Duty Conditions: If you regularly engage in off-roading, heavy towing, extensive idling, driving in dusty environments, or frequent short trips in extreme temperatures, your Jeep is operating under severe duty.
Adjusted Intervals: Under severe duty, it’s wise to shorten your oil change interval significantly, often to 5,000 miles or 6 months. This is a small price to pay for extended engine life.
Oil Life Monitoring System (OLM): Your Grand Cherokee has an OLM. While useful, it’s an estimation. For severe duty, it’s best to use the mileage/time interval as your primary guide, rather than relying solely on the OLM.

For off-road enthusiasts, checking your oil frequently, especially after a tough trail, is a good habit. Dust, water, and extreme angles can sometimes affect oil levels or introduce contaminants.

Troubleshooting Common Oil-Related Issues

Even with proper maintenance, issues can arise. Here’s what to look for:

Low Oil Pressure Light: If this light comes on, stop driving immediately and check your oil level. Low oil pressure can quickly lead to severe engine damage. If the level is fine, it could indicate a faulty sensor or a more serious internal issue.
Oil Leaks: Puddles under your Jeep are a red flag. Common leak spots include the oil pan gasket, valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, or the drain plug. Address leaks promptly to prevent low oil levels.
Excessive Oil Consumption: If you’re frequently topping off between changes, your engine might be burning or leaking oil internally. This could indicate worn piston rings, valve seals, or other internal wear.
Check Engine Light: Sometimes, an oil-related issue (like an incorrect oil pressure reading) can trigger a check engine light. Have the codes read to pinpoint the problem.

For persistent issues or anything beyond a simple top-off, it’s always best to consult with a qualified mechanic. Don’t let small problems escalate into major repairs.

Oil Change Intervals and Monitoring for Off-Roaders

Off-roading puts unique stresses on your vehicle, and your engine oil is no exception. While the recommended 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil type and capacity remains the same, your maintenance schedule might need an adjustment.

Standard oil change intervals, typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, are designed for average road conditions. Off-roading, however, falls squarely into the “severe duty” category.

Why Off-Roading Changes Your Oil Schedule

Increased Engine Load: Climbing steep inclines, navigating challenging terrain, and running at lower speeds in higher gears puts more strain on your engine, increasing oil temperatures and breaking down additives faster.
Dust and Contaminants: Dusty trails can introduce more particulate matter into the engine, even with a good air filter. While the oil filter catches most of it, the oil itself can become contaminated more quickly.
Extreme Angles: Operating at extreme angles can temporarily starve the oil pump, even if only for a second, putting stress on the oil’s lubricating properties.
Water Crossings: Although rare, water intrusion into the engine oil is a catastrophic event. Frequent checks after water crossings are vital.

For these reasons, off-road enthusiasts should consider changing their oil more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to reduce the interval to 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Proactive Monitoring is Key

Beyond scheduled changes, active monitoring is crucial for off-roaders.

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.