The oil filter on a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude sits on the passenger side of the engine block near the front by the oil pan. The exact layout depends on the engine: a 2.4L Tigershark I4 uses a traditional spin-on filter, while a 3.2L Pentastar V6 uses a cartridge-style filter inside a side housing.
Engine options and oil filter location
This section covers where to look for the filter depending on which engine your Cherokee Latitude has.
2.4L Tigershark I4
The 2.4L engine typically uses a conventional spin-on oil filter mounted on the passenger side of the engine block, toward the front. Access may be easier from beneath the vehicle once the front splash shield is removed.
- Location: passenger side of the engine block, near the front and oil pan
- Accessible from: underneath the vehicle with the splash shield removed
- Filter type: traditional spin-on oil filter
Note: Variations can occur by production batch or trim; always verify by visually inspecting the engine side for a round filter canister or a filter housing.
3.2L Pentastar V6
The 3.2L engine uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a side-mounted filter assembly on the same general area as the 2.4L. Access may require working from the wheel well or beneath the vehicle, and you may encounter a plastic shield that must be removed.
- Location: side of the engine block on the passenger side, near the timing cover and oil pan
- Accessible from: beneath the vehicle or via wheel well access after shield removal
- Filter type: cartridge-style filter inside a housing
Because the 3.2L uses a cartridge in a housing, you’ll replace the cartridge (not a traditional spin-on canister) during service.
Step-by-step guide to access and replace the oil filter
Below is a practical guide to locating and replacing the oil filter on a 2016 Cherokee Latitude, covering both engine options. Gather the right tools, ensure a safe workspace, and refer to the owner’s manual for exact specifications.
- Prepare the vehicle: park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and if needed, lift the vehicle and support with jack stands. Let the engine cool before starting.
- Gain access: remove the front engine splash shield or inner fender panels to expose the filter area on the engine’s passenger side.
- Identify the filter type: determine whether you have a spin-on filter (2.4L) or a cartridge filter within a housing (3.2L).
- For 2.4L (spin-on): place a drain pan beneath the filter, unscrew the filter counterclockwise by hand (or with a filter wrench if needed), and let the oil drain fully. Have rags ready for spills.
- For 3.2L (cartridge): unlock and open the filter housing, remove the old cartridge, dispose of it properly, and prepare the new cartridge for installation.
- Install the new filter: lubricate the gasket with a small amount of fresh oil, thread the spin-on filter on hand-tight, or install the new cartridge in its housing per the service instructions. Do not overtighten.
- Replace the drain plug (if applicable) and refill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil specified in the manual. Start the engine and check for leaks around the filter and drain plug.
- Reinstall any shields, lower the vehicle, and clean up any spills. Properly dispose of the used oil and filter following local regulations.
Torque specifications and exact steps can vary by engine and model year; consult the factory service manual or a qualified tech for precise guidance.
Safety considerations and tips
Working under a vehicle or on the engine carries risk. Use appropriate safety gear, ensure the vehicle is securely supported, and never rely on a jack alone to hold up the car. If you’re unsure about the filter type or access path for your exact engine variant, seek help from a professional mechanic or consult the owner’s manual.
Summary
For a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, locate the oil filter on the passenger side of the engine block near the front by the oil pan. The 2.4L Tigershark uses a spin-on filter, while the 3.2L Pentastar uses a cartridge-style filter in a side housing. Access usually requires removing the front splash shield and may involve work from beneath the vehicle or through the wheel well. Always follow the vehicle’s manual for specific steps, and consider professional service if you’re not comfortable performing an oil change yourself.