The 2017 Grand Cherokee oil capacity and type are crucial details for any owner looking to perform routine maintenance or simply understand their vehicle’s needs. Proper engine oil selection and maintaining the correct oil level are paramount for the longevity, performance, and efficiency of your beloved Grand Cherokee, preventing costly engine wear and ensuring your warranty remains intact. This guide will walk you through the specifics for each engine option available in the 2017 model year, helping you make informed decisions for your vehicle’s care.
Why Engine Oil Matters for Your Grand Cherokee
Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth understanding why engine oil is so important. Engine oil serves multiple vital functions:
Lubrication: It reduces friction between moving parts, preventing wear and tear.
Cooling: It helps dissipate heat away from critical engine components.
Cleaning: It carries away dirt, sludge, and contaminants, keeping the engine interior clean.
Sealing: It helps seal the gaps between piston rings and cylinder walls.
Corrosion Protection: It protects engine parts from rust and corrosion.
Using the wrong type or an insufficient amount of oil can compromise these functions, leading to reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, and ultimately, severe engine damage.
2017 Grand Cherokee Oil Capacity by Engine Type
The 2017 Grand Cherokee offered a range of powerful and efficient engine options, each with its own specific oil capacity and recommended oil type. It’s essential to identify your vehicle’s engine before purchasing oil. You can usually find this information on a sticker under the hood, in your owner’s manual, or by checking your VIN.
3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 was the standard engine for most 2017 Grand Cherokee models, offering a great balance of power and fuel efficiency.
Oil Capacity: Approximately 6 quarts (5.7 liters)
Recommended Oil Type: SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic engine oil.
MOPAR Specification: Look for oil that meets or exceeds Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395. This specification is critical, as it ensures the oil has the correct additives and properties for your Pentastar engine.
Oil Filter: Always use a high-quality filter, preferably a MOPAR original equipment filter or an equivalent that meets OEM specifications.
Drain Plug Torque: Consult your owner’s manual for the precise torque specification, typically around 20 ft-lbs (27 Nm), to avoid overtightening or stripping.
5.7L HEMI V8 Engine
For those seeking more power, the 5.7L HEMI V8 was a popular choice, known for its robust performance.
Oil Capacity: Approximately 7 quarts (6.6 liters)
Recommended Oil Type: SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic engine oil.
MOPAR Specification: Ensure the oil meets or exceeds Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.
Oil Filter: As with the V6, a high-quality filter, ideally MOPAR, is recommended.
Drain Plug Torque: Refer to your owner’s manual; typically around 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
6.4L SRT HEMI V8 Engine
The high-performance SRT model featured the formidable 6.4L HEMI V8, requiring a specific oil type to handle its extreme demands.
Oil Capacity: Approximately 7 quarts (6.6 liters)
Recommended Oil Type: SAE 0W-40 Full Synthetic engine oil.
MOPAR Specification: This engine has a very specific requirement: oil that meets or exceeds Chrysler Material Standard MS-12633. Using any other specification can lead to engine damage and void your warranty.
Oil Filter: Only use filters specifically designed for SRT applications, often MOPAR or other performance-grade filters.
Drain Plug Torque: Consult your owner’s manual, often around 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Engine
The EcoDiesel offered impressive torque and fuel economy, but it has unique oil requirements due to its diesel nature and emissions systems.
Oil Capacity: Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)
Recommended Oil Type: SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic engine oil, specifically formulated for diesel engines and compatible with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF). This often means “low-ash” or “low-SAPS” (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oil.
MOPAR Specification: The oil must meet or exceed Chrysler Material Standard MS-10902 and ACEA C3. The ACEA C3 rating is crucial for DPF longevity.
Oil Filter: Diesel engines require robust oil filtration. Use a MOPAR or equivalent filter designed for the EcoDiesel.
Drain Plug Torque: Refer to your owner’s manual; torque specs can vary.
Choosing the Right Oil Type for Your 2017 Grand Cherokee
Beyond just viscosity (e.g., 5W-20), paying close attention to the specifications is vital:
Viscosity (e.g., 5W-20): This refers to the oil’s thickness at different temperatures. The “W” stands for winter, indicating its performance in cold weather. Always use the recommended viscosity for your engine.
API Service Rating: Look for the “starburst” symbol on the oil container, indicating it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s current standards for gasoline engines (e.g., API SN, SP). For diesels, look for ratings like API CJ-4 or CK-4.
ACEA Rating (for EcoDiesel): The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) provides specific sequences (like C3) for certain engine types, particularly important for diesels with DPFs.
MOPAR Material Standards (MS-XXXX): This is arguably the most important detail. These are Chrysler’s proprietary specifications, developed to ensure the oil performs optimally with their engine designs and materials. Using an oil that explicitly states it meets the relevant MS-standard for your engine is non-negotiable for proper function and warranty compliance.
Always opt for full synthetic oil as specified for all 2017 Grand Cherokee engines. Synthetic oils offer superior protection, stability, and performance compared to conventional oils, especially under demanding conditions.
When to Change Your Oil
The 2017 Grand Cherokee features an advanced Engine Oil Change Indicator System (also known as the EVIC system). This system monitors various operating conditions (such as temperature, mileage, and engine RPM) to determine when an oil change is necessary.
Follow the Indicator: The general recommendation is to follow the warning message on your vehicle’s instrument cluster.
Maximum Interval: Even if the indicator hasn’t triggered, MOPAR recommends changing the oil at least once a year or every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first, for normal driving conditions.
Severe Duty: If you frequently drive in dusty conditions, tow heavily, make short trips in extreme cold, or do extensive idling, you may need more frequent oil changes, potentially every 4,000 miles (6,500 km) or 6 months.
DIY vs. Professional Service
Changing your oil can be a rewarding DIY task, but it requires the right tools, knowledge, and safe practices. If you’re comfortable working under your vehicle, have a torque wrench, and can properly dispose of used oil, it’s certainly doable.
However, if you’re unsure, lack the tools, or prefer convenience, a certified MOPAR service center or a reputable independent mechanic is your best bet. They have the correct tools, MOPAR-approved parts, and expertise to ensure the job is done right, protecting your investment and maintaining your warranty.
Conclusion
Understanding the correct 2017 Grand Cherokee oil capacity and type is a cornerstone of responsible vehicle ownership. By using the specified full synthetic oil that meets the precise MOPAR material standards for your engine, you ensure optimal lubrication, protect against wear, and maintain your vehicle’s performance and value for years to come. When in doubt, always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date specifications, or speak with a certified technician.
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Source:
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owner’s Manual
MOPAR Service Information