Jeep Compass Oil Change Guide (& Best Engine Oils)

Regular oil changes are undeniably a fundamental aspect of Jeep Compass maintenance — not to mention a great way to keep serious vehicle issues at bay. This comprehensive guide underscores this fact, aiming to help you save on potential repair costs while maintaining your SUV’s longevity and optimal performance.

Here are the 12 steps on how to change the oil on your Jeep Compass:

1. Organize your gear and essentials.
2. Follow safety protocols.
3. Bring the engine to operating temperature.
4. Set up the drain pan.
5. Remove the oil filter and empty the old oil.
6. Install the replacement filter.
7. Replace the drain plug.
8. Fill the reservoir with fresh oil.
9. Check your oil levels.
10. Replace components and reset the oil meter.
11. Properly discard old engine oil.
12. Clean up and log maintenance.

In addition to the above process, I’ll throw in oil-changing tips and engine oil recommendations for your Jeep Compass. Let’s learn more about performing a well-executed and timely oil change.

How to Change Oil on a Jeep Compass

1. Organize Your Gear and Essentials.

As with any other off-road vehicle, the initial step in performing maintenance is to ensure you have all the necessary tools on hand. For Jeep Compass oil changes, you’ll need the items listed below:

• Owner’s manual
• A socket or wrench set with an extension and ratchet for removing the drain plug or oil filter
  • TIP: For 2017 to 2022 Jeep Compass models, a 13-mm socket with a 3/8″ drive ratchet is recommended.
• Compatible Torx and hex bits or Allen keys
  • TIP: Check the vehicle’s Torx and hex fasteners on the undercarriage, interior, brake, and engine components to determine the precise Torx sizes you need to use.
• An oil filter wrench or tool like a Lisle 63600 oil filter wrench (view on Amazon) or its equivalent
• Used oil catch container or drain pan
• Funnel with a hose attachment for pouring new oil into the engine without spilling
• Engine oil — 5.5 U.S. quarts of SAE 5W-20 engine oil or an equivalent, OEM-recommended variant
• Oil filter — Compatible options: K&N HP-1017, Fram XG10060, Wix 57060XP, Purolator PL12222 (view on Amazon), ACDelco PF48E, and Mobil 1 M1-113A (view on Amazon)
• Copper or aluminum oil drain plug washer
• Oil filter O-ring or gasket
• Safety Gear — rubber gloves, safety glasses, and other protective clothing or equipment
• Ramps and wheel chocks for lifting and stabilizing the vehicle
• Absorbent rags or towels for cleaning up dirt and spills
• Marked, non-reactive oil container for proper disposal of old engine oil
  • TIP: Oil containers may be plastic, provided they are non-corrosive, like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or a similar plastic material.

2. Follow Safety Protocols.

Once all necessary tools are ready, don safety gear and prepare your vehicle on a level surface. Activate the emergency/parking brake and secure wheel chocks on both rear tires of your SUV to prevent unintended movement. Open the hood, turn the oil fill cap counterclockwise, and lift the dipstick slightly to aid drainage while preventing a vacuum from forming.

Sufficient air circulation and a Class B fire extinguisher (view on Amazon) nearby are essential for any automotive maintenance task, including oil changes on a Jeep Compass. This safety measure is crucial when working in a home garage or an enclosed environment. So, ensure you have one on hand as you perform this procedure.

3. Bring the Engine to Operating Temperature.

Warm it up to near operating temperature for 5—10 minutes to facilitate suspension of contaminants within the old oil and expedite drainage. This is especially helpful in reducing oil viscosity when performing oil changes in colder weather.

You can take your Jeep for a quick spin or idle the engine throughout this warm-up period. Subsequently, drive the SUV onto a level surface, engage “PARK,” and turn off the ignition.

4. Set Up the Drain Pan.

Locate your vehicle’s oil drain bolt and filter access openings under the engine cover or skid plate. For 2017 to 2022 Jeep Compass models, they’re typically closer to the front of the engine bay. Meanwhile, other model years have theirs concealed by a ‘trap door’ that needs to be pulled to access the oil drain plug.

Once you’ve figured out these openings, position the catch container or oil drain pan under the drain bolt. A Neiko 20762A Oil Drain Pan | 2 Gallon (8L) Capacity (view on Amazon) would suffice in catching old oil (further details in step #5).

5. Remove the Oil Filter and Empty the Old Oil.

Using a suitable socket or oil wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain bolt. Allow old engine oil to drain completely from the filter and receptacle for a few minutes, ensuring that contaminants — along with the drain plug’s gasket or washer — come out with the oil. Make sure to inspect the condition of the gaskets and washers and replace them as needed.

After that, use an oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. When performing this step, attach the wrench to a short extension bar and the 3/8″ drive ratchet. While doing so, pay mind to the tip of the drain plug. This magnetic part is a diagnostic tool — helping to catch fine metallic bits and bobs. These collected particles can provide insights into the wear and tear of internal engine components.

6. Install the Replacement Filter.

At this stage of the oil change process, you should have already successfully removed the oil filter using your oil wrench. However, if the oil filter proves stubborn, you may need to utilize oil filter wrench pliers — particularly those with serrated jaws — for improved grip. This method usually works alongside an oil filter strap wrench (though, in most cases, the latter isn’t necessary).

Next, clean the sealing surface with a dry, absorbent cloth or rag while checking for signs of corrosion. If superficial, sand off the affected areas with 180 to 320 fine-grit sandpaper. Follow this up with a thin coat of clean oil to the rubber gasket (top of the oil filter) to strengthen the seal later on.

Once the old filter is removed, proceed with putting the replacement filter in place. Apply fresh oil to the new filter’s rubber O-ring. Ensure no residue from the old O-ring remains on the engine. Screw on the new filter clockwise until the O-ring contacts the engine. Then, tighten the filter an extra 1/2 to 3/4 turn, avoiding over-tightening.

7. Replace the Drain Plug.

Once you’ve completed steps #1 to #6, clean the oil drain plug, its gasket or washer, and the drain plug threads. Inspect the gasket or washer and replace it if worn or damaged. Then, reinstall the drain plug. Rotate it in the reverse direction of the initial removal, tightening it to spec with a socket wrench.

8. Fill the Reservoir with Fresh Oil.

You’re ready to fill your oil reservoir with new engine oil. But before doing so, wipe any spills on any surface. You’d also need to repeat this clean-up after completing this step.

Begin filling your engine with new oil by inserting a funnel into the oil fill opening and pouring fresh SAE 5W-20 oil. Start with 2—3 U.S. quarts of oil, gradually working your way from there until just under your Jeep’s 5.5 U.S. quarts (5.2 L) capacity. Temporarily replace the filler cap and push down the dipstick when finished.

In case you’re wondering why I didn’t suggest maximizing your vehicle’s oil capacity — well, we’re aiming to avoid potential risks like increased oil consumption, higher oil pressure, seal and catalytic converter damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and issues like oil aeration and foaming. Ultimately, the goal of adhering to this Jeep Compass oil change guide is to preserve engine performance.

9. Check Your Oil Levels.

Next, turn on your Jeep’s engine and let it run for 5—10 seconds. Like the warm-up process, this aids in distributing oil throughout the engine and coating moving parts. It also helps determine whether or not you need to put more oil in your Jeep Compass.

Turn off the engine and wait 5–10 minutes for the oil to cool and settle down. After which, check oil levels using the dipstick within the cross-hatched area of your reservoir (this is where you see the minimum and maximum oil level lines). Should you need to add more oil, do so, but don’t exceed your SUV’s 5.5 U.S. quarts maximum capacity.

10. Replace Components and Reset the Oil Meter.

We’re in the last few steps of this Jeep Compass oil change guide. By now, you should have successfully drained old oil, cleaned relevant parts, and filled the reservoir with fresh engine oil. Now, replace the dipstick and securely tighten the oil filler cap.

What I’m about to reiterate isn’t necessary every time you change the oil in your Jeep. However, it’s worth having this knowledge in your arsenal. Although some SUVs automatically reset their indicators during an oil change, that may not always be the case for your vehicle (especially if it’s secondhand).

To reset the oil life meter of your SUV, follow the steps outlined in my other post on Jeep Compass Reset Oil Change Light (or revert to your owner’s manual for specific instructions):

11. Properly Discard Old Engine Oil.

Once you’ve filled your vehicle’s oil reservoir and sealed drain plugs and openings, transfer collected oil from the drain pan to a container (preferably made of HDPE or non-corrosive, non-reactive metal). Ensure the container is sealed, leak-proof, properly labeled with “Recycled Oil” or “Used Engine Oil,” and has no visible damage.

Bring your used engine oil to a disposal facility or recycling center. It’s best to research this information before performing an oil change to ensure you adhere to local regulations on proper oil disposal.

Some service stations may require you to call in advance and confirm a drop-off schedule with them. Others, like the Alberta Recycling Management Authority, have a City landfill Throw ‘n’ Go program where you can dispose of up to 20 L of household chemicals per week (engine oil included).

12. Clean Up and Log Maintenance.

Finally, you’ve reached the final step in this Jeep Compass oil change guide. It’s now time to tidy up your garage or workspace. Do the same for your vehicle, wiping it down and checking for oil seepage.

If no issues are found, record the oil change performed in your Jeep’s service records. Follow up with inspections, keeping an eye out for oil drops in your parking spot or garage over the next few days to detect potential leaks.

By following the abovementioned steps, you can successfully change the oil on your Jeep Compass, ensuring proper maintenance and longevity of its power mill.

The Servicing and Maintenance section of the 2017 Jeep Compass with the 2.4 L Tigershark MultiAir I4 engine mentions oil change intervals every 3,500 miles (5,600 km). This may be necessitated much earlier if you frequently drive on the highway. However, this recommendation may differ depending on your SUV’s specific model year and trim package.

Recommended Oil Change Intervals

While the interval of 3,500 miles (5,600 km) may be true for 2017 models featuring the 2.4 L Tigershark MultiAir I4 engine, this is just one variant among the Jeep Compass’ numerous trim packages.

Throughout its production, the vehicle has seen 9 transmission versions and 11 engine configurations (sans hybrid and electric models). Naturally, these powertrains will have different oil requirements and schedules for oil changes:

(Powertrain information courtesy of Wikipedia)

1st Generation Jeep Compass (MK49; 2006–2016)

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3 to 6 months

• Gasoline: SAE 5W-20 
  • 2.0 L World I4
  • 2.4 L World I4 
• Diesel: SAE 5W-30 or SAE 5W-40 (depending on climate) 
  • 2.0 L EA188 I4 turbo
  • 2.2 L OM651 I4 turbo 
• Transmission
  • 5-speed Magna T355 manual 
  • 6-speed Aisin BG6 manual 
  • 6-speed Hyundai 6F24 automatic
  • CVT Jatco JF011E automatic
• Trims
  • 2007–2010: Sport, Limited
  • 2011–2016: Sport, Latitude, Limited

2nd Generation Jeep Compass (MP/552; 2017–present)

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually

• Gasoline: SAE 0W-20 or SAE 5W-30
  • 1.3 L GSE T4 I4 turbo
  • 1.4 L FIRE MultiAir I4 turbo
  • 2.0 L Tigershark I4
  • 2.0 L GME I4 turbo
  • 2.4 L Tigershark I4
  • 2.4 L Tigershark MultiAir I4
• Gasoline Plug-in Hybrid: SAE 0W-20 or SAE 5W-30
  • 1.3 L GSE T4 I4 turbo (PHEV)
• Diesel: SAE 5W-30
  • 1.6 L Multijet II I4 turbo
  • 2.0 L Multijet II I4 turbo
• Electric motor 45 kW (60 hp; 61 PS) FCA eMotor (4xe): N/A
• Transmission
  • 6-speed FPT C635 manual
  • 6-speed FPT C635 dual-clutch automatic
  • 6-speed Aisin TF-60SN torque converter automatic (4xe)
  • 7-speed FPT C725 dual-clutch automatic
  • 8-speed Hyundai 8F30 torque converter automatic
  • 9-speed ZF 948TE torque converter automatic
  • Hybrid drivetrain PHEV (4xe)
• Trims
  • 2017–present: Sport, Latitude, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk
  • 2019–present: Upland
  • 2020–present: High Altitude
  • 2021–present: 80th Anniversary Edition
  • 2021–present: 4xe — Plug-in Hybrid variant
  • 2021–present: S
  • 2022–present: Latitude Lux

Collectively, Jeep Compass models require either SAE 5W-20, 5W-30, or SAE 5W-40 engine oil at the frequencies specified above. Trusted sources online also point out that oil change intervals hinge on whether conventional or synthetic oils are used. However, the latter isn’t the sole determinant of an SUV’s oil requirements. There are other factors at play affecting the schedule needs of vehicles — with some speeding up the oil change frequency:

• Use of poor-quality, out-of-spec engine oil and fuel additives
• Extreme off-roading applications, like muddying or water fording
• High-mileage vehicles
• Severe driving conditions, like towing or stop-and-go traffic
• Frequent oil leaks
• Unusual noises or reduced engine performance
• Following engine servicing or repairs
• Oil darkening and other indications of contamination or degradation

Oil change intervals can vary based on these factors, as well as powertrain configuration and climate — and not just for Jeep Compass trims. Refer to your owner’s manual for the most accurate and model-specific information.

How Much Does an Oil Change Cost?

According to Repair Pal, professional Jeep Compass oil changes typically cost between $132 and $142 — sans parts, taxes, and other fees. If you’re skilled in automotive maintenance, you’ll only incur engine oil and filter expenses, averaging from $8 to $135. However, expect price fluctuations when changing the oil on your SUV. Total costs may be dictated by your choice of engine oil and the need to replace damaged components.

Best Engine Oils for Jeep Compass

No singular “best engine oil” exists for any SUV (let alone a Jeep Compass). The effectiveness of engine oils can depend on factors such as model year, engine type, and OEM specifications for a given vehicle. This is why it’s best to refer to your owner’s manual for the OEM-recommended oil viscosity and specifications.

Nonetheless, here are seven reputable engine oil brands and their top products that Jeep Compass owners commonly trust:

• Mobil 1 (view on Amazon)
• Castrol Edge High Mileage 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil — 1 Quart, Black
• Pennzoil Platinum (view on Amazon)
• Valvoline SynPower
• Royal Purple (view on Amazon)
• Amsoil Signature Series
• Shell Rotella T6 (for diesel engines)

Before selecting, consider specific requirements outlined in your owner’s manual and any applicable warranties. Additionally, check for the latest information on these engine oils, as product formulations and recommendations can change over time.

Changing the Oil on Your Jeep Compass

With this Jeep Compass oil change guide at your fingertips, you can confidently take charge of your vehicle’s maintenance, promoting longevity and reliability. Follow these steps, observe safety measures, and enjoy a smoother ride with your Jeep Compass!