Hey there, fellow gearheads and trail explorers! Ever wondered if you could tackle one of the most fundamental maintenance tasks for your beloved 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee yourself? You’re in the right place. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge and confidence to keep your rig running strong, whether you’re commuting to work or conquering the Rubicon.
A proper 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change isn’t just about prolonging engine life; it’s about maintaining peak performance, fuel efficiency, and ensuring reliability when you’re miles from anywhere. We’re here to guide you through every step, transforming what might seem daunting into a straightforward, rewarding DIY project. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the expert insights, tool recommendations, and step-by-step instructions to perform this critical service like a pro. Let’s get that engine humming!
Why a DIY 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Change is a Smart Move
Taking on your own oil changes offers significant benefits beyond just saving a few bucks. It gives you a deeper understanding of your vehicle and allows for a personal inspection of critical undercarriage components.
You gain control over the quality of materials used, from the specific oil viscosity to the brand of filter. This is especially important for off-road enthusiasts who often push their vehicles harder and demand superior protection.
Plus, there’s immense satisfaction in knowing you’ve personally cared for your ride. It builds confidence for future maintenance and troubleshooting, making you a more self-reliant owner.
Understanding Your Grand Cherokee’s Oil Needs
The 2019 Grand Cherokee comes with various engine options, each with specific oil requirements. Most models, especially the V6 and Hemi V8s, typically call for a synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact oil type and capacity. This information is crucial for selecting the correct oil that will protect your engine under all conditions, from daily driving to extreme off-road adventures.
Modern engines, like those in your Grand Cherokee, rely heavily on precise oil formulations to reduce friction, dissipate heat, and maintain internal cleanliness. Using the wrong oil can lead to premature wear and decreased performance.
Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Tools and Supplies
Before you get started, ensure you have everything on hand. Nothing is worse than being halfway through a job and realizing you’re missing a crucial tool or part.
Having the right gear makes the job smoother, safer, and more efficient. Think of it as preparing your camp before a big expedition – proper planning prevents poor performance.
What You’ll Need
- New Engine Oil: Check your owner’s manual for the correct type and amount. For most 2019 Grand Cherokees, this will be 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend, often requiring 6 to 7 quarts depending on the engine.
- New Oil Filter: Always replace the filter with the oil. A high-quality filter is essential for trapping contaminants.
- Oil Filter Wrench: A cap-style wrench designed for your specific filter (usually 76mm with 14 flutes for canister filters) is ideal.
- Socket Wrench Set: You’ll need a socket for the drain plug, typically 13mm or 1/2 inch.
- Drain Pan: Large enough to hold all the old oil (at least 8 quarts capacity).
- Funnel: Makes refilling the oil reservoir much cleaner.
- Rags or Shop Towels: For inevitable spills and clean-up.
- Jack and Jack Stands OR Ramps: Essential for safely raising the vehicle.
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves and eye protection are non-negotiable.
Choosing the Right Oil and Filter
For your Grand Cherokee, especially if it sees off-road action, investing in a high-quality synthetic oil is highly recommended. Synthetic oils offer superior protection against heat breakdown, sludge formation, and wear.
Look for oils that meet or exceed Chrysler’s material standards (MS-6395 for gasoline engines). When it comes to the oil filter, stick with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Mopar filters or reputable aftermarket brands like Wix, Mann, or Fram Ultra Synthetic.
A good filter is just as vital as good oil; it’s the guardian keeping abrasive particles away from your engine’s delicate internals.
Safety First: Preparing Your Grand Cherokee for Service
Safety is paramount when working under any vehicle. A lapse in judgment here can have severe consequences. Always prioritize stability and personal protection.
Before you even think about crawling under your Jeep, take a moment to double-check your setup. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a rule of thumb for any experienced mechanic or off-roader.
Secure the Vehicle
- Park on Level Ground: Ensure your Grand Cherokee is on a flat, stable surface. This prevents accidental rolling and provides a safe working environment.
- Engage Parking Brake: Always activate the parking brake firmly.
- Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels if you’re lifting the front, or in front of the front wheels if lifting the rear.
- Warm Up the Engine (Briefly): Run the engine for 5-10 minutes. Warm oil drains more completely and quickly, carrying away more contaminants. However, don’t make it too hot to handle.
Lifting Your Jeep Safely
You’ll need clearance to access the drain plug and oil filter. There are two primary safe methods for lifting:
Using Ramps
Drive the front wheels of your Grand Cherokee onto sturdy automotive ramps. Ensure the ramps are properly positioned and the vehicle is centered. This is often the easiest and safest method for oil changes, as the vehicle remains on its wheels.
Using a Jack and Jack Stands
If using a floor jack, locate the proper lifting points on your Grand Cherokee’s frame (refer to your owner’s manual). Lift the front of the vehicle slowly and then immediately place sturdy jack stands under the frame rails at designated support points.
Once on the stands, gently lower the jack until the vehicle rests securely on the stands. Give the vehicle a slight shake to confirm stability before you ever go underneath. Never rely solely on a jack to support the vehicle.
Personal Protection
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashing oil or debris. Work gloves will protect your hands from hot oil, sharp edges, and chemicals. Long sleeves and pants are also advisable.
Step-by-Step Guide: Performing Your 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Change
Now that your Jeep is safely secured and you have all your tools, it’s time to get your hands a little dirty. Follow these steps carefully for a successful 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change.
Take your time and double-check each step. Rushing through can lead to mistakes, spills, or worse, damage to your vehicle.
1. Locate and Remove the Drain Plug
With your Grand Cherokee safely elevated, slide your drain pan beneath the oil pan. The oil pan is a large, flat metal reservoir at the bottom of the engine. The drain plug is a bolt usually located on the lowest point of the oil pan.
Using your socket wrench, loosen the drain plug. Once loose, finish unscrewing it by hand. Be prepared for the oil to come out quickly and sometimes quite hot. Position the drain pan to catch the initial gush.
Allow the oil to drain completely. This can take 10-15 minutes. While it’s draining, inspect the drain plug and its washer. If the washer looks flattened or damaged, replace it. Many new oil filters come with a fresh drain plug washer.
2. Replace the Oil Filter
While the oil is draining, locate the oil filter. On many 2019 Grand Cherokees, particularly those with the V6 Pentastar engine, the oil filter is a cartridge-style filter located on top of the engine, often near the front, covered by a plastic housing.
For cartridge filters: Use your cap-style oil filter wrench to loosen the plastic housing. Unscrew it completely and carefully lift it out. Remove the old filter element and replace it with the new one. Ensure the new O-rings (which usually come with the new filter) are properly seated on the filter housing before re-installing.
For spin-on filters (less common on 2019 models but good to know): Position your drain pan underneath the filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. Once loose, unscrew it by hand. Be ready for some residual oil to spill. Before installing the new spin-on filter, apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter. This helps create a good seal. Hand-tighten the new filter until snug, then give it an additional quarter to half-turn with the wrench as specified by the filter manufacturer.
3. Reinstall the Drain Plug
Once the old oil has finished draining, clean the area around the drain plug opening. Reinstall the drain plug with a new washer (if applicable). Hand-tighten it first to avoid cross-threading, then use your socket wrench to snug it down.
Do not overtighten the drain plug! It can strip the threads on the oil pan, leading to a much bigger problem. Refer to your owner’s manual or a service guide for the specific torque specification, but generally, it’s a firm snugging, not extreme force.
4. Refill with New Engine Oil
With the drain plug secure and the new filter in place, you can now lower your Grand Cherokee safely back to the ground. This ensures an accurate oil level reading.
Open the hood and remove the oil filler cap (usually marked with an oil can symbol). Place your funnel into the filler neck. Carefully pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine. Pour slowly to avoid air pockets and spills.
After pouring in most of the oil (e.g., 6 of 7 quarts), wait a few minutes for the oil to settle in the pan. Reinstall the oil filler cap.
5. Check Oil Level and Inspect for Leaks
Start the engine and let it run for about a minute. This allows the new oil to circulate and fill the new filter. While the engine is running, quickly check under the vehicle for any leaks around the drain plug or oil filter.
Shut off the engine and wait another 5-10 minutes for the oil to drain back into the pan. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again to check the oil level. It should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks.
Add small amounts of oil as needed until the level is correct. Do not overfill! Overfilling can cause engine damage.
6. Reset the Oil Change Indicator
After completing the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change, you’ll need to reset the oil change indicator light on your dashboard.
The exact procedure varies slightly but generally involves turning the ignition to the “ON” position (without starting the engine), fully depressing the accelerator pedal three times within 10 seconds, and then turning the ignition off. Consult your owner’s manual for the precise steps for your specific trim level.
Post-Change Checks and Common Troubleshooting
Your work isn’t done just because the new oil is in. A few final checks ensure everything is perfect and you’re ready for the road or trail.
Even seasoned pros make quick checks after a service. It’s a habit that prevents headaches down the line.
Final Inspection
- Double-Check for Leaks: Take a final look under the vehicle. Any drips around the drain plug or filter area need immediate attention. Tighten slightly if needed, but again, do not overtighten.
- Proper Oil Level: Confirm the oil level is still correct after your first drive.
- Tool & Debris Cleanup: Ensure all tools, rags, and the old oil filter are removed from under the hood and around the vehicle.
- Dispose of Old Oil: Properly dispose of the old engine oil. Most auto parts stores and service stations accept used motor oil for recycling. Never pour it down a drain or dispose of it in regular trash.
What if the Oil Light Stays On?
If your oil pressure warning light remains on after an oil change, stop driving immediately. This indicates a serious issue that could lead to catastrophic engine damage.
First, recheck your oil level. Ensure it’s not too low or, critically, too high. Next, confirm the oil filter is properly installed and not leaking. If everything seems correct and the light persists, it could indicate a faulty oil pressure sensor or a more severe internal engine problem. In this rare scenario, it’s best to have your Jeep towed to a trusted mechanic.
Advanced Tips for the Off-Road Enthusiast
For those who frequently take their 2019 Grand Cherokee off the beaten path, your oil change routine might need a little extra consideration.
Off-roading puts unique stresses on an engine, and proactive maintenance is key to long-term reliability in rugged conditions.
Consider Shorter Intervals for Severe Service
If your Grand Cherokee regularly tackles dusty trails, extreme temperatures, or heavy towing, consider shortening your oil change intervals. While your owner’s manual might suggest 10,000 miles for normal driving, severe service conditions can warrant changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
This proactive approach helps mitigate the accelerated breakdown of oil and filter clogging that can occur in demanding environments.
Engine Skid Plates and Access
Many off-road-prepped Grand Cherokees have aftermarket skid plates. These are great for protection but can sometimes complicate oil changes by blocking access to the drain plug or filter.
Familiarize yourself with how to remove or access these plates before you start. Some might have access holes, while others require partial or full removal. A little pre-planning here saves a lot of frustration.
Magnetic Drain Plugs
Consider upgrading to a magnetic drain plug. These plugs have a strong magnet that attracts and holds ferrous metal particles circulating in your engine oil.
While your oil filter does most of the heavy lifting, a magnetic drain plug acts as an additional line of defense, trapping tiny metal fragments that might otherwise cause wear. Inspecting the magnet at each oil change can also give you an early warning sign of potential internal engine issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Oil Changes
We get a lot of questions from our community. Here are some of the most common ones regarding your Grand Cherokee’s oil service.
How often should I change the oil in my 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
For most 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokees under normal driving conditions, the manufacturer recommends an oil change every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently tow, drive in extreme temperatures, or engage in off-roading, consider shortening this interval to 5,000-7,500 miles for optimal engine health.
What type of oil does a 2019 Grand Cherokee take?
Most 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee models (including the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L Hemi V8) require SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30 full synthetic or synthetic blend oil, meeting Chrysler material standard MS-6395. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification for your specific engine, as variations can exist.
Can I use conventional oil in my 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
It’s generally not recommended. Modern Grand Cherokee engines are designed for the specific properties of synthetic or synthetic blend oils, which offer better protection against wear, sludge, and heat breakdown. Using conventional oil might not meet the manufacturer’s specifications and could void your warranty or lead to premature engine wear.
Where is the oil filter located on a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
For the popular 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, the oil filter is a cartridge-style filter located on top of the engine, usually towards the front, beneath a plastic housing. For 5.7L Hemi V8 models, the filter is typically a traditional spin-on canister located on the side of the engine block, accessible from underneath the vehicle.
What tools do I need for a DIY oil change on my Grand Cherokee?
You’ll need new engine oil, a new oil filter, an oil filter wrench (cap-style for cartridge filters), a socket wrench with the correct size socket for your drain plug (typically 13mm or 1/2 inch), a drain pan, a funnel, rags, wheel chocks, and a method to safely lift the vehicle (ramps or a jack with jack stands). Don’t forget safety glasses and gloves!
Conclusion: Your Jeep, Your Hands, Your Adventure
Performing a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil change yourself is more than just a maintenance task; it’s an investment in your vehicle’s longevity and your own mechanical prowess. By following this guide, you’ve not only saved money but gained invaluable knowledge and confidence in caring for your rig.
Remember, regular maintenance is the bedrock of reliable performance, especially when you’re counting on your Grand Cherokee to take you to remote campsites or through challenging trails. Keep up with your service schedule, pay attention to the details, and always prioritize safety.
You’ve got this! Now go enjoy the open road and the wild trails, knowing your Jeep’s heart is well-oiled and ready for anything. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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