The 2018 Jeep Compass is the subcompact SUV that embodies classic Jeep exterior features while being strong enough to withstand the elements of the road less traveled. In order to keep your Compass running at its top performance level though, you’ll need to learn about its engine oil capacity.

Jeep has become known for those who encourage mud splattering, and enjoy getting their hands dirty. If this sounds like you, we have a way you can cut a recurring car expense by rolling up your sleeves and applying a little elbow grease.

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2018 Jeep Compass engine oil capacity

Before you dive in, we must cover exactly how much oil a 2018 Jeep Compass needs for a routine

oil and filter change

The 2018 Compass has a 2.4-liter V4 engine, with a capacity to hold 5.5 quarts of oil. 2.4-liter refers to the

engine displacement

, and must not be confused with its oil capacity. These numbers hold different meanings, so it’s crucial that you understand the distinction to avoid under-filling your engine.

Displacement is the calculation of one engine cylinder’s total volume of air and fuel swept in one engine cycle. Oil capacity, though, is the amount of oil the motor can hold to keep the engine clean and lubricated properly.

What kind of oil does a 2018 Jeep Compass need?

Now that you know how much oil your Compass needs, it’s time to go over the oil type. There will be an overwhelming amount of oil variations on the store shelves but fear not—you should only be looking for the Jeep recommended SAE 0W-20 fully synthetic motor oil.

Let’s break down this oil type even further. The “W” stands for winter, and the 0 in front of it means that this oil remains extremely thin and fast-flowing even under extremely cold conditions. Lastly, the 20 following the “W” represents the oil’s viscosity (or thickness) during normal operating temperatures. Note that Jeep recommends using synthetic over conventional oil, which justm means it's been manufactured and optimized for more intense usage.

At its most basic, you want an oil that remains thin enough to flow well during a cold-temperature start-up, while also remaining thin enough to minimize engine damage during standard operation.

The genuine article: If you want to do as Jeep suggests, pick up the

Mopar 0W-20 motor oil

MORE:

Ultimate Mobil 1 oil filter guide

How often to change oil on a 2018 Jeep Compass

Jeep recommends an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles as part of your

basic car maintenance schedule

. If you don’t drive frequently, you should aim to change your oil every six months to keep your engine lubricated with fresh oil, and avoid any sludge.

Having the oil changed regularly is one of the most important maintenance tasks that can help keep your vehicle on the road for many miles to come, so monitor your oil level regularly and keep note of its last oil change. You can also keep an eye out for these signs that your Compass is ready for an oil change:

Black or dark brown oil

Coarse or rough texture of the oil

Strange or unfamiliar noises coming from the engine

Smokey or burning odor from under the hood

Noticeable changes in your car’s performance

MORE:

How to change your oil and oil filter

Once you’re all ready to start changing your oil, begin by gathering these materials: socket wrench, drain pan, filter wrench, replacement filter, and a rag. And of course, don’t forget the SAE 0W-20 engine oil.

Start by parking your car on a level surface and warming the engine up to normal operating temperature. After the engine has run for a few minutes, turn it off,

open the hood of your car

, and follow these steps:

Go underneath the engine and remove the oil drain plug with the socket wrench, allowing the oil to drain out into the pan.

Use the filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter and let any excess oil drain out.

Clean the filter surface and screw in the new filter.

Reinstall the oil drain bolt and tighten it to 20 lb-ft of torque.

Pour the new oil into the engine and replace your fill cap.

And there you have it—you just saved yourself a trip to the repair shop and the bill that comes with it. Use your dipstick to confirm your engine has the correct amount of oil and then let the engine run while you look for any leaks.

After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.

Last but not least, the cleanup. You should never dump old and contaminated oil on the ground or in your garbage bin. Instead, pour the old oil into an unwanted sealed container and bring it to your local recycling center.

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Routine oil changes are just one way to keep your car on the road for many years—another is to use

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