The exact location of the oil filter on a 2016 Chevy Cruze depends on which engine your car has. If your Cruze uses the 1.4L turbo engine, the oil filter is a cartridge inside a housing on the passenger side of the engine block. If your Cruze has the 1.8L engine, the filter is a traditional spin-on type mounted on the front-right side of the engine. Access may require removing a splash shield or lifting the car for clearance.
Engine options and where they hide the filter
In 2016, the Cruze offered two gasoline engines in many markets. Knowing which engine you have determines where to look for the filter and how to change it.
1.4L turbo engine: oil filter location
For the 1.4L turbo engine, GM uses a cartridge-style filter mounted in a housing on the passenger side of the engine block. It is not located in the oil pan. Access is usually easiest from beneath the car with the front splash shield removed, though some models permit access from above after removing certain engine covers.
Before you start: what you’ll need
- New oil filter cartridge designed for the 1.4L turbo Cruze
- Appropriate O-rings
- Correct grade engine oil for your model
- Basic hand tools, a drain pan, and safety gear
To complete the change, unscrew the housing cap, replace the cartridge and O-rings, re-seat the cap, refill the engine with oil, and check for leaks.
1.8L engine: oil filter location
On the 1.8L engine, the oil filter is a traditional spin-on type located on the front-right side of the engine, near the radiator and oil cooler lines. This location is typically accessible from the engine bay with the hood up, sometimes easier with the front of the car raised for clearance.
Before you start: what you’ll need
- New spin-on oil filter compatible with the 1.8L Cruze
- Proper-grade engine oil and a drain pan
- Oil filter wrench and basic hand tools
To replace, loosen and remove the old filter, wipe the mounting surface, install the new filter hand-tight, pour in fresh oil, and check for leaks.
How to confirm which engine you have
If you're unsure which engine is in your Cruze, check the owner’s manual, the under-hood label, or use the VIN to look up the engine code. The engine code will tell you whether you have the 1.4L turbo or the 1.8L, which in turn indicates the correct oil filter type and replacement procedure.
Safety and maintenance notes
Always work on a cool engine, secure the vehicle on level ground, and use proper jacking/stands if you lift the car. Dispose of used oil and the old filter according to local regulations, and replace any O-rings or seals with new ones specified for your engine.
Summary
Key takeaway: The 2016 Chevy Cruze has two possible oil-filter configurations. The 1.4L turbo uses a cartridge-style filter mounted on the passenger side of the engine block, while the 1.8L uses a spin-on filter on the front-right side of the engine. Verify your engine type before purchasing parts and follow proper safety procedures when servicing the oil system.