2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK Oil Type and Capacity (3.6L V6)

Written by

in

Quick answer: the 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L V6 takes 6 qt (5.6 L) of oil with a filter change. The manuals specify SAE 5W-20 from 2013 and SAE 5W-30 in 2012, API Certified and meeting MS-6395.

EngineOil capacity (with filter)Oil type
3.6L Pentastar V66 qt (5.6 L)5W-20 (2013–2018); 5W-30 (2012)
Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited (JK). Source: FCA owner’s manuals (links below).

2012 uses a different grade. The 2012 manual lists 5W-30; from 2013 the manuals list 5W-20 for the same capacity.

Oil capacity by year

Model yearOil capacityOil type
20126 qt (5.6 L)5W-30
20136 qt (5.6 L)5W-20
20146 qt (5.6 L)5W-20
20156 qt (5.6 L)5W-20
20166 qt (5.6 L)5W-20
20176 qt (5.6 L)5W-20
20186 qt (5.6 L)5W-20
2018 = Wrangler JK.

We read the fluid capacities table and the engine fluids section of every manual listed under Sources.

Recommended oil type

API Certified SAE 5W-20 meeting FCA Material Standard MS-6395 (2013–2018 manuals); the 2012 manual lists SAE 5W-30. The manuals also say to check the grade printed on the oil filler cap.

How to reset the oil change light on the 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK

See also: Oil life reset by brand.

Most of these owner’s manuals describe two ways to reset the oil change indicator after an oil change: in the instrument cluster display, go to the Oil Life item and confirm Reset; or, with the ignition in ON/RUN and the engine off, fully press the accelerator pedal slowly three times within 10 seconds, then turn the ignition off. Check your manual for the exact menu on your model.

Oil change tips

  • Buy a 5-quart jug plus one quart.
  • The capacity is approximate. After refilling, run the engine briefly, turn it off, wait a few minutes and check that the level is in the safe range on the dipstick before adding more.

Sources and how we checked

All capacities and oil grades on this page come from the owner’s manuals published by FCA US (Stellantis) on Mopar’s official owner site (“Technical Specifications”: fluid capacities and engine fluids and lubricants):

If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.

Last checked: October 26, 2026.

FAQ

How much oil does a Jeep Wrangler JK take?

6 qt (5.6 L) with a filter change for the 3.6L V6.

What oil does a 2013–2018 Wrangler use?

API Certified SAE 5W-20 meeting MS-6395.

What oil does a 2012 Wrangler use?

The 2012 manual lists SAE 5W-30.

Is a 5-quart jug enough?

No, the 3.6L takes 6 quarts.

How do I reset the oil light on a Wrangler?

With the ignition ON (engine off), press the accelerator fully and slowly three times within 10 seconds, or use the Oil Life menu in the cluster.

Newer Wrangler? See the 2018–2025 Jeep Wrangler JL.