Understanding the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee oil capacity is essential for proper vehicle maintenance and longevity. This specific model year, part of the renowned WK2 platform, requires a precise amount of lubricant to ensure the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 or the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 operates at peak efficiency. The oil sump on these vehicles holds a significant volume, and knowing the exact capacity prevents under-filling, which causes damage, or over-filling, which leads to pressure issues and seal failure.
Factory Fill Specifications by Engine
Factory specifications vary depending on the powertrain installed in the 2018 Grand Cherokee. The base model comes equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, which has a total oil capacity of approximately 6.4 quarts when including the filter. For the more robust 5.7-liter HEMI V8, found in models like the Limited and Overland trims, the capacity increases to roughly 6.8 quarts. Always refer to the specific engine in your vehicle, as performance variants like the SRT8 utilize a different 6.4-liter HEMI unit with its own distinct requirements.
Pentastar V6 (3.6L) Details
The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is the workhorse of the 2018 lineup, valued for its balance of power and fuel efficiency. When performing an oil change on this variant, you will typically need 4.5 to 5 quarts of 5W-20 synthetic blend oil to refill the new filter and crankcase. The total system capacity of 6.4 quarts includes the oil filter housing and the passages within the engine block, ensuring that the lubrication system is completely topped off during standard maintenance procedures.
HEMI V6 and V8 Capacities
For drivers who opted for the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, the oil capacity is slightly higher due to the larger displacement and increased internal volume. This engine usually requires between 5.5 and 6 quarts of 5W-20 oil for a filter change, contributing to the total system capacity of approximately 6.8 quarts. If you own the SRT model with the 6.4-liter HEMI, the oil capacity jumps to around 7 quarts, reflecting the needs of the high-performance components designed for track-inspired driving.
Why Accurate Capacity Matters
Maintaining the correct oil level is not just about preventing the engine light from coming on; it is a critical factor in the thermal management and longevity of the 2018 Grand Cherokee. Too little oil results in inadequate lubrication, leading to increased friction, overheating, and potential catastrophic engine failure. Conversely, overfilling the crankcase introduces air into the oil system, creating foam that reduces lubrication effectiveness and can cause pressure fluctuations that damage seals and gaskets.
Tools and Best Practices for Changing Oil
When tackling an oil change on your 2018 Jeep, having the right tools ensures you hit the exact capacity without guesswork. You will need a socket set that fits the 15mm oil drain plug, a 13mm socket for the factory oil filter, and a drain pan capable of holding at least 8 quarts. It is recommended to warm up the engine for a few minutes before draining, as this suspends contaminants and allows the oil to flow out completely, ensuring you can accurately measure the refill amount.
