Where is the oil filter in a 2016 Chevy Cruze?

The oil filter on most 2016 Cruze models sits on the engine block toward the passenger side, just above the oil pan, and is accessible from underneath once you’ve removed the underbody shield.

Across the 2016 Cruze lineup, GM offered a couple of gasoline engines—the 1.4L turbo and the 1.8L I4—and both place the filter in a similar general area, though access can vary with engine orientation and protective splash shields. This guide explains where to look and how to access the filter for a routine oil change, with practical steps and safety notes.

Engine variants and filter placement

1.4L turbo (LUV) engine

To locate and access the oil filter on the 1.4L turbo engine, begin from underneath the car. The filter is mounted on the side of the engine block near the front (passenger side) and is shielded by the underbody plastic. You’ll typically need to remove the front undertray or splash shield to gain a clear path to the filter.

Steps to locate and access the filter on this engine:

1. Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and let the engine cool.


2. Raise the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands; remove the front underbody shield if present.


3. Slide under the car and locate the oil filter on the passenger-side front area of the engine block, near the oil pan.


4. Place an oil drain pan beneath the filter, then use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter counterclockwise.


5. Carefully remove the old filter, allowing residual oil to drain into the pan; wipe the mounting surface clean.


6. Install the new filter with a new gasket, hand-tight, then give it a final gentle turn according to the filter’s instructions (do not over-tighten).


7. Reinstall the underbody shield, lower the car, and refill with fresh oil to the proper level. Start the engine and check for leaks after a brief idle.

Concluding note: After replacing the filter, it’s important to verify oil level and look for any signs of leakage around the filter seam and the undertray area.

1.8L I4 engine

The 1.8L engine version typically places the oil filter in a similar front-side location on the engine block, accessible from underneath once shields are removed. Local access can vary slightly by assembly and trim, but the general approach is the same as for the 1.4L turbo: remove the protective shield, access the filter from the side/front, and replace it with care.

Steps to locate and access the filter on this engine:

1. Park safely, cool the engine, and raise the car with stands; remove the front shield if equipped.


2. Get under the vehicle and locate the oil filter on the engine block, near the front-right area (passenger side) above the oil pan.


3. Place a drain pan underneath and loosen the filter with the appropriate wrench, allowing oil to drain.


4. Remove the old filter, clean the mounting surface, and install a new filter with a fresh gasket.


5. Reinstall the shield, lower the car, and top off the engine oil to the correct level. Run the engine briefly and inspect for leaks.

Concluding note: If you’re unsure which engine you have, consult your vehicle’s VIN or owner’s manual to confirm the exact engine code and filter type before replacement.

What you’ll need and safety tips

Before you begin, gather the basics: the correct oil filter for your engine, the appropriate grade of engine oil, a drain pan, a filter wrench, rags, and safety equipment such as gloves and eye protection. Always work on a cool engine and secure the car on a flat surface with proper supports. If you’re unsure about access points or location due to shields or trim, consult the owner’s manual or a service manual for your specific VIN.

Summary

On a 2016 Chevy Cruze, the oil filter is generally located on the passenger-side front area of the engine block, just above the oil pan, and is accessible from underneath once the underbody shield is removed. Engine variants (1.4L turbo and 1.8L) share a similar placement, with the exact access point depending on how the shields are arranged. Following the outlined steps will help you locate, remove, and replace the filter safely and effectively, along with a check of oil level and leaks after the job.