On a 2017 Jeep Renegade, the oil filter is located in a black plastic cartridge housing on the engine’s passenger side, typically accessible from above once the engine cover is removed. Some trims or setups may require a brief underside approach if a splash shield or skid plate is fitted.
This article explains where to look in the engine bay, how to access and replace the cartridge-style filter (the common setup for the Renegade’s two main engines), and what tools you’ll typically need. The Renegade offered two popular engines in 2017—the 2.4L Tigershark I4 and the 1.4L MultiAir II Turbo—and while the exact housing shape can vary, the filter is installed in a side-mounted cartridge canister rather than a traditional spin-on canister.
Engine options and filter type
The two common engines used in the 2017 Renegade place the oil filter in a side-mounted cartridge housing on the engine block, usually on the passenger side. This is not a classic spin-on filter; you access and replace the cartridge inside a black plastic canister. Exact appearance and access can vary by trim and market, but the general location remains the same for these engines.
Where to look in the engine bay
To confirm the filter’s location quickly, scan these typical spots in the engine bay and you’ll likely find the housing:
- Passenger-side of the engine block, toward the front or middle section, near where the timing cover and valve area converge.
- A black plastic oil-filter housing mounted to the side of the engine; look for a round or square-cap cap that can be turned with a tool.
- Under a small shield or cover in some trims, which may necessitate removing a plastic splash shield to access from below.
Once you locate the housing, you’re ready to plan the replacement. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact oil type, capacity, and service interval for your specific model and engine.
How to access and replace the cartridge-style filter
If you’re performing a DIY oil change, here are the typical steps to access and replace the cartridge filter. Always follow the service manual for your exact configuration.
- Warm up the engine, park on a level surface, and engage the parking brake. Remove the engine cover if your Renegade has one.
- Place a drain pan underneath the oil pan and remove the oil filler cap to vent pressure. If your model has a drain plug, remove it to drain the engine oil completely.
- Locate the oil-filter housing on the passenger side of the engine and use the appropriate tool to loosen and remove the housing cap. Carefully lift out the used cartridge and set it aside.
- Clean the inside of the housing and inspect for any debris. Install the new cartridge according to the housing’s orientation and reseal the cap with a new O-ring if included.
- Reinstall the housing cap and tighten to the specified torque. Refill the engine with the recommended oil type and amount for your engine.
- Start the engine, check for leaks around the filter housing, and check the oil level with the dipstick. Top up if necessary and dispose of the old oil and filter at a proper recycling facility.
If you can’t locate the filter or your vehicle has a different variant, refer to the official service manual or contact a Jeep dealer for precise instructions tailored to your VIN and market. The general approach above covers the most common 2017 Renegade configurations.
Safety, disposal, and maintenance notes
Always work with the engine cool and secure the vehicle properly. Use gloves and eye protection as needed. Used oil and the old filter must be disposed of at an approved facility in accordance with local regulations. Keeping a regular oil-change schedule helps protect the engine, especially in variable climates and driving conditions.
Summary
The oil filter on a 2017 Jeep Renegade is typically housed in a black plastic cartridge canister on the engine’s passenger side, accessible from above after removing the engine cover (or underside in some trims). There are two common engine options for this year, but both generally share this cartridge-style filter location. If you’re changing it yourself, prepare the right tool for the housing cap, have replacement oil and cartridge ready, drain old oil, replace the filter, and recheck for leaks after starting the engine.