Ensuring your 2008 Jeep Commander with the 3.7L 6-cylinder engine receives the correct lubricants is essential for maintaining peak performance and longevity. Proper fluid selection protects vital engine components from wear, ensures smooth transmission shifting, and optimizes braking safety. Below is a comprehensive guide to the recommended synthetic lubricants, filters, and fluids that exceed OEM standards for this specific vehicle.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 3.7L engine, AMSOIL recommends using 5W-20 viscosity motor oil. The following products provide superior protection and cleaning capabilities tailored for this vehicle’s needs:
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers the highest level of engine protection, reducing horsepower loss and wear up to 25,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended protection with superior cleaning power for up to 20,000 miles between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent choice that outperforms conventional oils, fighting sludge and deposits while meeting original equipment mileage standards.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines over 75,000 miles with enhanced detergents to reduce sludge and improve performance.
Pairing your oil change with a high-quality filter is critical for contaminant removal. We recommend the AMSOIL Oil Filter, which offers 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns and greater capacity for small contaminants, or the WIX Oil Filter for premium OEM-level media performance. For even higher media efficiency, the WIX XP Oil Filter is also available.
Transmission and Drivetrain Lubricants
The automatic transmission in your Commander requires a fluid that can withstand the rigors of towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain. Standard conventional fluids may break down under these conditions, leading to premature wear. AMSOIL synthetic transmission fluids remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures and provide reserve protection during heavy use.
For the 545RFE and W5A580 automatic transmissions, you can choose between the AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid or the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid. Both fluids resist harmful sludge, guard against leaks, and promote smooth, shudder-free shifts. For vehicles with manual transmissions, no specific AMSOIL product is currently recommended in the fitment guide. For these transmissions, consider using a WIX Transmission Filter to ensure optimal filtration.
Differential and transfer case lubrication is equally important for a 4WD vehicle like the Commander. The front and rear differentials require a high-performance AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube to handle the stress of off-road driving and towing. It controls thermal runaway, protects against rust and corrosion, and helps reduce operating temperatures. This fluid also contains friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip differentials, ensuring smooth operation and long life for seals and equipment.
For the transfer case, the NV140 requires a specific capacity of fluid, while the NV245 has different requirements. For the NV245, the AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil is recommended due to its ability to reduce the need for seasonal changeouts and provide excellent hot and cold-weather protection. Both the AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid and the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid are also suitable for the NV140 transfer case.
Cooling System and Brake Fluid
A well-maintained cooling system is vital to prevent overheating, especially if you plan to use the Commander for hauling or off-roading. The capacity for the cooling system is 10 quarts. You can fill the system with AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant. This unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years. It is ethylene glycol-based, pre-mixed 50/50, and is free of phosphates, nitrates, nitrites, silicates, borates, and amines, ensuring compatibility with all antifreeze colors.
Alternatively, for a concentrated option that requires mixing with distilled or high-quality water, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers exceptional protection. This formulation greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion and is safe for heavy-duty applications up to 1,000,000 miles.
Brake performance is non-negotiable for safety. The 2008 Commander uses DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid. To ensure optimal brake responsiveness and ABS reliability, the AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is the recommended upgrade. It provides stable viscosity over a wide temperature range and offers excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems.
Filters and Airflow
Airflow is critical for engine efficiency and fuel economy. The WIX Air Filter is recommended to ensure the engine breathes freely. Using a premium filter improves performance by allowing better airflow while capturing contaminants that could damage internal engine components. Complement this with the AMSOIL Oil Filter for complete protection.
Additional Protective Fluids and Additives
To maintain peak fuel economy and engine cleanliness, consider using AMSOIL fuel additives. The AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can restore up to 14% horsepower and clean fuel injectors, particularly beneficial for engines with direct injection technology. For seasonal storage or long periods of inactivity, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish, gum, and ethanol corrosion. Additionally, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides a highly effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components during storage.
Power steering systems in the Commander can benefit from the same high-performance fluid used in the transmission. Using AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid or the OE version ensures the power steering system remains responsive and protected against wear and temperature extremes.
About the Vehicle
The 2008 Jeep Commander is a full-size SUV that shares its platform with the widely respected Jeep Grand Cherokee. Built on the popular KJ and WJ architecture, this vehicle was designed to offer a balance of rugged off-road capability and on-road comfort. The 3.7L Power Tech V6 engine, which powers the model in question, is known for its durability and smooth operation, delivering adequate power for daily driving and light towing tasks. It is a staple for owners who need a versatile family hauler that can handle rough terrain when the need arises.
As a mid-size to large SUV, the Commander features a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers, making it a popular choice for large families. The four-wheel-drive systems, including the Quadra-Drive II in some configurations, provide excellent traction and stability in challenging conditions. While the 3.7L engine may not offer the same horsepower as the larger V8 options found in the lineup, it remains a reliable workhorse for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and mechanical longevity over peak power. The vehicle’s reputation relies heavily on its robust 4×4 capabilities and the versatility of its platform, which allows it to adapt to both city commuting and weekend adventures. Proper maintenance, especially with high-quality synthetic lubricants, ensures that this capable SUV continues to serve owners well beyond its initial design years.