Answer
Sep 02, 2025 - 11:40 AM
Changing the transmission filter and pan on a Jeep Grand Cherokee is a pretty doable job, just a bit messy if it’s your first time. The steps might vary slightly depending on your model year and if you’ve got the 5-speed or 8-speed trans, but here’s the general process:
- Get the Jeep up level and safely supported — ramps or jack stands work fine.
- Place a big drain pan under the transmission pan — there's no drain plug on most models, so you'll be loosening the bolts around the pan and letting the fluid drain out slowly. Start from one corner and work your way around.
- Once drained, remove the pan completely and watch out — it still might have some fluid hiding in it.
- You’ll see the transmission filter right there — usually held in with a couple bolts or just pressed in depending on the model. Pull it out gently and expect more fluid to drip.
- Install the new filter (make sure the O-ring comes out with the old one if yours uses one), then clean the pan and mating surfaces really well. No leftover gasket or RTV bits.
- Install the new pan gasket (or RTV if that’s what your model calls for), and torque the bolts to spec evenly.
- Refill with the proper ATF — make sure you're using the right fluid type for your transmission. You’ll usually add it through the dipstick tube or a fill plug on the side.
- Start the engine and cycle through the gears to help fluid circulate, then check the level again and top off as needed.
If you’re not sure about torque specs, fluid type, or if your model needs a scan tool for final fill (some newer ones do), the service manual for your exact year/model will have everything step-by-step.
Feel free to reach out to us with more details about the Grand Cherokee you're working with (e.g. model year, transmission type, etc.) so we can assist you further ✌🏻
