Maintaining the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 5.7-liter V8 engine requires specific attention to its lubrication needs. This powerful 360-horsepower engine, known as the HEMI, is the heart of the vehicle and demands high-performance synthetic lubricants to handle extreme temperatures, towing loads, and the stress of daily driving. Using the correct fluids not only ensures peak performance but also extends the service life of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. AMSOIL offers a comprehensive line of premium lubricants designed to exceed manufacturer specifications for this specific vehicle.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier protection choice for this V8, offering extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles and superior wear resistance. This formula fights horsepower loss and provides exceptional cleaning power.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent alternative for those seeking up to 20,000 miles of protection. It features a unique formula that enhances engine cleanliness and helps maintain smooth operation over the long term.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Engineered to outperform conventional oils and provide a solid foundation for engine maintenance. It is highly effective at fighting sludge and deposits while protecting critical turbocharger components.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles. This blend includes a boosted detergent package and enhanced anti-wear additives to reduce sludge and help older engines perform better.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – A premium filtration solution that captures 99 percent of contaminants down to 20 microns. It features greater capacity for small wear-causing particles and helps reduce engine wear compared to standard filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – A high-quality OEM replacement filter featuring premium media that offers improvements over standard factory-branded options, ensuring reliable protection during oil changes.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A long-lasting, ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation designed to exceed OEM requirements. It protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant that requires mixing with water. This phosphate-, nitrite-, and silicate-free formula provides excellent protection against corrosion and is suitable for heavy-duty applications as well.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Ideal for the 8HP70 transmission in this vehicle. It withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A top-tier option for maintaining smooth shifts and protecting the transmission against wear and sludge buildup under severe driving conditions.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Essential for the front and rear differentials and transfer cases requiring synthetic oil. It controls thermal runaway, protects against rust, and contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring safe and reliable braking performance.
The lubrication needs of the 5.7L HEMI engine in the 2016 Grand Cherokee are specific, and choosing the right oil viscosity is critical for optimal engine health. The manufacturer specification calls for 5W-20 viscosity, and the total fluid capacity with a filter change is approximately 7.0 quarts. When performing an oil change, it is important to respect the torque specification of 25 foot-pounds for the oil drain plug to prevent stripping the threads. After refilling, the oil level should always be checked to ensure it is within the safe operating range.
Transmission health is equally vital for this vehicle, which comes equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP70). While the total fill capacity for a complete flush is around 8.8 quarts, topping off or performing a standard drain and fill requires careful measurement. For transfer cases, capacities vary based on the specific model code, ranging from roughly 1.1 pints to 4 pints. Using a multi-vehicle synthetic automatic transmission fluid like the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle ATF is often recommended for the transfer case to ensure compatibility with Mopar specifications.
The cooling system is a key area of maintenance, with the 2016 Grand Cherokee requiring roughly 15.4 to 16.1 quarts of coolant depending on the specific configuration. AMSOIL‘s ethylene glycol-based coolants offer up to 150,000 miles of protection, which significantly reduces the frequency of maintenance intervals. For the differential and transfer case, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 is the recommended synthetic lubricant. It provides advanced protection against wear and rust, helping to reduce operating temperatures and extend the life of seals and equipment. This fluid is particularly beneficial for limited-slip differentials due to its friction modifiers.
About the Vehicle
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee stands as a testament to the enduring popularity of the mid-size SUV segment. Built on the WK2 platform, which has served as the backbone for the model since 2011, this vehicle represents a significant step forward in combining luxury, off-road capability, and family hauling utility. The 2016 model year brought subtle updates and refinements, solidifying its reputation as a versatile companion for both highway cruising and rugged adventures.
At the heart of the 2016 Grand Cherokee’s performance is the availability of the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. This powerhouse is known for its robust torque output, making it a favorite among owners who prioritize towing capacity and acceleration. The engine’s ability to deliver power smoothly and reliably has made it a staple of the American automotive landscape. When paired with the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers seamless shifts that enhance the driving experience, whether navigating city traffic or towing a boat up a mountain pass.
Owners of this vehicle often appreciate its refined interior and advanced technology features, which were on par with European luxury rivals during this period. The Grand Cherokee was designed to compete in a crowded market, offering a unique blend of a traditional SUV body style with car-like handling and comfort. Its 4×4 systems, including the Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive II options, allow for confident performance in various weather and terrain conditions. The 2016 model continued to build on the brand’s heritage of off-road prowess while refining the on-road dynamics to appeal to a broader audience. This balance of rugged capability and everyday usability is what makes the 2016 Grand Cherokee a enduring favorite, capable of serving as a daily driver that can handle almost anything its owner throws at it.
Beyond the engine and drivetrain, maintaining the braking system is crucial for safety. The 2016 Grand Cherokee relies on high-quality brake fluid to maintain pedal feel and system responsiveness. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid is designed to withstand the heat and stress of aggressive driving while protecting the system from moisture absorption. Proper fluid maintenance ensures that the ABS and traction control systems function as intended, contributing to overall vehicle safety. Additionally, for seasonal storage or long periods of inactivity, specialized additives like AMSOIL P.i.® can help restore lost horsepower and keep the fuel system clean, ensuring the vehicle is ready to run at peak efficiency whenever it is needed.