Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil level every time you get fuel.
The engine oil dipstick is located in the engine compartment on the driver side of the vehicle.
In order to get an accurate reading, the engine should be at normal operating temperature, so that the oil is warm, and the vehicle must be on level ground.
- If the engine is at normal operating temperature and the oil is warm, turn off the engine and allow at least five minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
- Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or a cloth, then push it back in all the way.
- Remove the dipstick again, keeping the tip down, and check the oil level.
If the engine has not been run long enough to bring it up to normal operating temperature and the oil is cool, turn off the engine and allow 30 minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
When to Add Engine Oil
Notice: Do not add too much oil. Keep the oil level between the ADD (C) and FULL (B) marks on the dipstick. Under normal engine operation, the engine oil level can increase above the FULL (B) mark as a result of DPF regeneration. A small increase in the oil level is normal. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level reaches the wider portion (A) on the dipstick, the engine oil must be changed as soon as possible or the engine could be damaged.
If the oil is below the ADD mark on the dipstick, add at least one quart/liter of the recommended oil.
This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications .
Add oil at the engine oil fill cap in the engine compartment. Install and fully tighten the fill cap when you are through.
Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
Look for three things:
| • | CJ-4 |
| Oils designated as API CJ-4 are required for your vehicle. The CJ-4 designation can appear either alone or in combination with other American Petroleum Institute (API) designations, such as API CJ-4/SL. These letters show API levels of quality. |
Notice: Use only engine oils that have the designation CJ-4 for the diesel engine. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.
| • | SAE 10W-40 |
| As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 10W-40 is best for your vehicle. When it is very cold, below 0°F (-18°C), you should use SAE 5W-40 to improve cold starting. |
| These numbers on the oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30 or SAE 20W-50. |
This doughnut-shaped logo (symbol) is used on most oil containers to help you select the correct oil. It means that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute.
Look for this on the oil container, and use only those oils that display this logo.
Engine Oil Additives
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the API service symbol are all you need for good performance and engine protection.
When to Change Engine Oil (Vehicles Without the Engine Oil Life System)
Change the engine oil and filter every 15,000 miles (24 000 km), or every 12 months, or every 750 hours of engine operation, whichever occurs first. See Scheduled Maintenance .
