The 2017 Jeep Compass underwent a bit of an identity crisis—it was fully redesigned midway through the 2017 model year! The remodel offered vast improvements to its drive quality and interior. Despite this mid-year redesign, the Compass’ engine oil capacity remains the same for both versions at 5.5 quarts.

Whether it was an attack of conscience for putting out a subpar vehicle or a caution-to-the-wind strategy devised to improve sales numbers, the 2017 Jeep Compass carries a fractured lineup of trims. You’ll know you’re driving the redesigned version if the words “All New” precede the trim level—experts advise against investing in an “old” 2017 Compass.

Luckily, the confusion doesn’t affect the 2017 Jeep Compass engine oil capacity, but if you’ve still got questions, we have answers. Here, we’ll review not only the Compass’ engine oil capacity, but also what types of oil are suitable and how often you should be changing the oil.

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2017 Jeep Compass engine oil capacity

The 2017 Jeep Compass utilizes a 2-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Each “All New” trim is equipped with the 2.4-liter option.

If you’re wondering how the slight variation in engine size affects its oil capacity—it doesn’t. All versions of the 2017 Jeep Compass will have an engine oil capacity of 5.5 quarts.

You should always fill your engine oil to the exact specifications indicated in your owner’s manual. Overfilling your vehicle’s engine with oil could cause costly—and avoidable—engine damage.

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What kind of oil does a 2017 Jeep Compass need?

So we know the 2017 compass takes 5.5 quarts of oil, but what type of oil should you use?

According to the 2017 Jeep Compass owner’s manual, the recommended oil type for the engine is

SAE 0W-20 fully synthetic motor oil

. But what do these numbers and letters actually mean?

“SAE” stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. This organization has been around since 1905 and is responsible for making sure oil classifications are standard worldwide. Thanks to the SAE, the numbers used to denote engine oil’s viscosity are the same all over the globe.

If you aren’t familiar with the term “viscosity,” that’s just a fancy way of describing how thick the engine oil is. And that W? Well, that just stands for “winter.”

When you put all of that together, 0W-20 means that the oil can handle very cold temperatures—like 0°F, for example. The “20” indicates that the oil will keep its thin viscosity in super hot temperatures as well—up to 212°F.

If your Jeep Compass is getting on in miles—think 80,000 or more—you may want to opt for an oil that’s made especially for high-mileage vehicles. Options that are suitable for a 2017 Jeep Compass include:

Castrol EDGE® High Mileage 5W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil

Mobil 1 Extended Performance High Mileage 5W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil

Full synthetic oil is a top choice for your Jeep because it’s known to last longer and flow more easily through the engine than a conventional or synthetic blend motor oil.

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How often to change the oil on a 2017 Jeep Compass

The 2017 Jeep Compass owner’s manual recommends changing your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles to keep your vehicle at peak performance. Of course, you’re going to want to check your oil regularly to make sure the level and consistency are what they should be.

Your oil level should not be lower than the range indicated on the dipstick. If it is, you’ll need to top it off with the same type of oil that’s in the engine already.

It’s also key to observe the color and consistency of the oil. Clean oil is amber-colored like tea and should have a translucent quality to it. Oil that is dark brown, black, sludgy, or gritty needs to be changed immediately.

You should also pay attention to how your engine behaves while you drive. Clunking sounds or smoky smells emitting from the engine are a surefire sign that your Jeep needs maintenance right away.

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How to change your oil and oil filter

You could save quite a bit of money if you change your Compass’ oil on your own. If you’re ready to take a crack at it, start by gathering these crucial supplies:

Rubber gloves

Eye protection

Funnel

Oil drain pan

Socket set

Oil filter wrench

Replacement oil filter

Replacement crush washer (if applicable)

At least 5.5 quarts of engine oil

After you’ve set up your workspace and parked your Compass on a level surface, you can change the oil by following these steps:

Locate the 13mm oil drain plug underneath the vehicle. It will be toward the front of the Jeep.

Position your oil drain pan below the drain plug and use the socket wrench to loosen it by turning it counterclockwise.

Remove the oil drain plug manually and allow the oil to drain into the pan.

Wipe the drain plug before refastening it. If your drain plug comes with a crush washer, this should also be replaced every time the oil is changed.

Manually refasten the oil drain plug, then carefully tighten it with the socket wrench. Take care not to tighten it too tightly because it will strip the threads of the oil plug.

Locate the oil filter. It’s positioned just in front of the oil drain plug.

Position your drain pan below the filter and loosen the filter by turning it counterclockwise. Make sure the o-ring has been removed as well.

Add a small amount of clean oil to the new oil filter and coat the new o-ring before installing it by hand.

Pop your Jeep’s hood, remove the engine oil cap, and fill the engine with 5.5 quarts of oil.

It’s a good habit to run your engine for a few minutes after changing the oil. Then, use your dipstick to check the oil level. If the level is where it’s supposed to be, you’re good to go!

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