Ever feel that familiar dread creeping in when your Jeep’s “Oil Change Due” light illuminates? For many of us, especially those who push our rigs on the trails, dealership visits for routine maintenance can be a hassle and a hit to the wallet. But what if you could tackle this essential task yourself, gaining confidence, saving cash, and ensuring your beloved 2017 Grand Cherokee gets the exact care it deserves?
At FatBoysOffroad, we believe every owner should feel empowered to maintain their vehicle. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change, transforming a daunting chore into a satisfying DIY project. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right fluids to safety protocols, ensuring your V6 Pentastar or V8 HEMI engine stays healthy for countless adventures.
By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to perform your own oil change, understanding why it’s crucial, what tools you’ll need, and how to do it safely and effectively. Get ready to wrench!
Why Regular Oil Changes are Critical for Your Grand Cherokee (Especially Off-Road)
Your Jeep Grand Cherokee is a workhorse, whether it’s commuting or conquering challenging terrain. The engine oil is its lifeblood, reducing friction, cooling components, and cleaning away harmful contaminants. Neglecting this vital fluid can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Longevity and Performance
Fresh engine oil maintains optimal lubrication, preventing premature wear on critical components like pistons, camshafts, and bearings. Over time, oil breaks down, losing its viscosity and ability to protect. Regular changes ensure your engine runs smoothly, efficiently, and delivers consistent power.
For the 2017 Grand Cherokee, especially those with the robust Pentastar V6 or powerful HEMI V8, sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals is paramount. High-quality synthetic oil is often specified, offering superior protection across a wider temperature range.
Protecting Your Investment on the Trail
Off-roading puts immense stress on your vehicle. Dust, dirt, water crossings, and extreme temperatures can accelerate oil degradation. An engine working harder in low-range gearing or climbing steep inclines generates more heat, further taxing the oil’s protective properties.
A fresh oil charge means better heat dissipation and superior protection against wear, even when you’re pushing your Jeep to its limits. This proactive maintenance helps safeguard your investment, keeping you on the trail and out of the repair shop.
Gathering Your Gear: Essential Tools and Supplies for a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Change
Before you dive in, having all your tools and supplies ready will make the process smooth and efficient. Don’t skimp on quality; your engine deserves the best.
The Right Oil for Your Pentastar or HEMI
Consult your owner’s manual for the precise oil specification. For most 2017 Grand Cherokees:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: Typically requires 5W-20 full synthetic oil, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification. You’ll need about 6 quarts.
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Also usually takes 5W-20 full synthetic oil, meeting Chrysler MS-6395. This engine requires approximately 7 quarts.
- 6.4L SRT HEMI V8: Often specifies 0W-40 full synthetic oil, meeting Chrysler MS-12633. This beast takes around 7 quarts.
Always double-check your specific engine and manual. Using the correct viscosity and specification is crucial for engine health.
Filter Choices and Other Necessities
Beyond the oil, you’ll need a few other items:
- Oil Filter: For the V6 Pentastar, you’ll typically use a cartridge-style filter (e.g., Mopar 68191349AB). HEMI engines often use a spin-on canister filter (e.g., Mopar 04892339AA).
- Oil Filter Wrench: A cap-style wrench for the V6 or a strap/claw wrench for the V8 canister filter.
- Drain Plug Washer/Gasket: It’s good practice to replace this crush washer with every oil change to prevent leaks.
- Drain Pan: Large enough to hold all the old oil (at least 8 quarts capacity).
- Funnel: To neatly pour new oil into the engine.
- Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For inevitable spills and clean-up.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from oil and grime.
Safety First: Jack Stands and Personal Protection
Safety is non-negotiable when working under a vehicle. Gather these items:
- Floor Jack: A sturdy, hydraulic jack capable of lifting your Grand Cherokee.
- Jack Stands: Absolutely essential. NEVER rely solely on a jack. Use at least two, properly rated for your vehicle’s weight.
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling while lifted.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from drips and debris.
- Creeper (Optional): Makes sliding under the Jeep much more comfortable.
- Torque Wrench: For tightening the drain plug and oil filter to specification.
Step-by-Step: Performing Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Change
Now that you have everything, let’s get to work! Take your time and follow these steps carefully.
Prepping Your Jeep and Workspace
- Warm Up the Engine: Drive your Jeep for 5-10 minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature. Warm oil flows more easily, ensuring a more complete drain.
- Park on a Level Surface: This is critical for safety and to ensure an accurate oil level reading later. Engage the parking brake.
- Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (if lifting the front) or front wheels (if lifting the rear, though typically you only lift the front for an oil change).
- Lift the Vehicle Safely: Use your floor jack to lift the front of the Jeep. Consult your owner’s manual for proper jack points.
- Secure with Jack Stands: Once lifted, place jack stands under sturdy frame points or designated support areas. Gently lower the Jeep onto the stands, ensuring they are stable. Give the Jeep a gentle nudge to confirm stability.
- Open the Hood: Locate and remove the oil filler cap. This allows air to enter, facilitating a faster and more complete drain.
Draining the Old Oil
- Locate the Drain Plug: Slide under the front of your Jeep (or use your creeper). The oil pan is typically towards the front, and the drain plug is a large bolt on the lowest part of the pan.
- Position the Drain Pan: Place your large drain pan directly under the drain plug. Make sure it’s centered and has enough capacity.
- Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct wrench (often 13mm or 1/2 inch for Grand Cherokees), loosen the drain plug. Once loose, carefully unscrew it by hand. Be prepared for the hot oil to come out quickly.
- Allow to Drain Completely: Let the oil drain for at least 15-20 minutes, or until it slows to a trickle. This ensures maximum old oil removal.
- Inspect and Replace Washer: While the oil drains, inspect the drain plug and replace the crush washer/gasket if necessary.
- Reinstall Drain Plug: Once drained, clean the area around the drain hole. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specified torque (consult your manual, typically around 20-25 ft-lbs). Do not overtighten, as this can strip the threads.
Replacing the Oil Filter
The location and type of oil filter vary between the V6 and V8 engines in a 2017 Grand Cherokee.
For 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engines:
- Locate the Filter Housing: The V6 uses a cartridge-style filter located on top of the engine, near the front, usually under a plastic engine cover.
- Remove the Housing Cap: Use your cap-style oil filter wrench (often 24mm or 15/16 inch) to unscrew the plastic filter housing cap. Be gentle.
- Remove Old Filter and O-Rings: Pull out the old filter element. Carefully remove the old large O-ring from the cap and any smaller O-rings from the filter stem.
- Install New O-Rings and Filter: Lubricate the new O-rings with a little fresh oil and install them onto the cap. Insert the new filter element into the housing or onto the cap, ensuring it’s seated correctly.
- Reinstall Filter Housing: Screw the cap back onto the housing by hand until snug, then use your wrench to tighten it to the specified torque (often 18 ft-lbs). Do not overtighten the plastic cap.
For 5.7L/6.4L HEMI V8 Engines:
- Locate the Filter: The V8 uses a spin-on canister filter, typically located on the side of the engine block, often accessible from under the vehicle near the oil pan.
- Position Drain Pan: Place your drain pan directly under the oil filter, as some oil will spill out when removed.
- Remove Old Filter: Use your strap or claw-style oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Once loose, unscrew it by hand. Be careful, as it will be full of oil.
- Prepare New Filter: Apply a thin film of fresh oil to the rubber gasket of the new spin-on filter.
- Install New Filter: Screw the new filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block. Then, tighten it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn by hand. Do NOT overtighten with a wrench.
Adding Fresh Engine Oil
- Place Funnel: Insert your funnel into the oil filler neck on top of the engine.
- Pour New Oil: Slowly pour the recommended amount of fresh, specified engine oil into the engine. Start with slightly less than the full capacity (e.g., 5.5 quarts for a V6, 6.5 for a V8).
- Check Dipstick: Remove the funnel and replace the oil filler cap. 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.
- Add as Needed: Add small amounts of oil (1/4 to 1/2 quart at a time) and recheck the dipstick until the level is within the “safe” or “full” range. Do not overfill.
Final Checks and Resetting the Oil Life Monitor
- Lower the Jeep: Carefully lift the Jeep off the jack stands with your floor jack, then fully lower it to the ground. Remove wheel chocks.
- Start the Engine: Start your Grand Cherokee and let it run for a minute or two. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. The oil pressure light should turn off quickly.
- Recheck Oil Level: Turn off the engine and wait 5-10 minutes for the oil to settle. Recheck the dipstick one final time. Adjust if necessary.
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Reset Oil Life Monitor: This is an important step after any 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change.
- Turn the ignition to the “RUN” position (without starting the engine).
- Press the accelerator pedal slowly three times within 10 seconds.
- Turn the ignition to the “OFF” position.
- If successful, the “Oil Change Due” message should be gone when you next start the vehicle.
Pro Tips for Off-Roaders: Maintaining Your Jeep’s Engine Health
For those who frequently hit the trails, there are extra considerations to keep your Grand Cherokee running strong.
Post-Adventure Checks and Early Changes
If you’ve had a particularly dusty, muddy, or water-intensive off-road trip, consider an early oil change. Fine dust can bypass air filters, and water can contaminate oil through various means. It’s cheap insurance against accelerated engine wear.
Always inspect your oil level and condition after a tough outing. Look for milky coloration (water contamination) or excessive grit. If you suspect issues, don’t hesitate to change the oil sooner than scheduled.
What to Do with Used Oil
Never pour used engine oil down the drain or into the environment. It’s a hazardous waste. Most auto parts stores, quick-lube shops, and municipal recycling centers accept used oil for free. Store it in a clean, sealed container (like the empty new oil bottles) until you can dispose of it properly.
Proper disposal is not just good for the environment; it’s part of being a responsible vehicle owner and a respectful member of the off-road community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Change
What type of oil is best for my 2017 Grand Cherokee?
Always refer to your owner’s manual. Most 2017 Grand Cherokees (V6 Pentastar and V8 HEMI) require 5W-20 full synthetic oil meeting the Chrysler MS-6395 specification. SRT models with the 6.4L HEMI typically use 0W-40 full synthetic meeting MS-12633. Full synthetic oil offers superior protection and longevity.
How often should I change the oil in my 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The owner’s manual is your primary guide, but generally, for synthetic oil, the interval is 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently tow, drive in extreme temperatures, or engage in heavy off-roading, shorter intervals (e.g., 5,000-7,500 miles) are highly recommended.
Do I need to replace the drain plug gasket every time?
Yes, it’s highly recommended. The drain plug crush washer creates a seal to prevent leaks. It’s designed to be crushed once, so reusing an old one increases the risk of a slow leak.
What if I accidentally overfill the oil?
Overfilling can be as damaging as underfilling. Excess oil can cause aeration, leading to reduced lubrication and potential damage to seals and gaskets. If you’ve significantly overfilled, you’ll need to drain some oil out. You can do this by slightly loosening the drain plug or using an oil extractor pump.
Can I use an oil extractor instead of draining from below?
For some vehicles, oil extractors that pull oil through the dipstick tube can be convenient. However, for a thorough 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change, especially after off-road adventures, draining from the pan ensures that heavier contaminants and sludge at the bottom of the pan are removed. It’s generally the preferred method for DIYers.
Changing your own oil is more than just maintenance; it’s a connection to your vehicle, a way to understand its needs, and a source of genuine satisfaction. By following this guide, you’ve not only saved money but also ensured your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is ready for its next adventure, no matter how rugged the trail.
Keep those engines purring, those tires gripping, and those off-road memories stacking up. Stay safe and stay comfortable out there!
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