How to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket in a Jeep Grand Cherokee

Park the Grand Cherokee on a level surface, set the parking brake and block the rear tires to keep them from rolling. If there isn't clearance to crawl underneath, you'll need to jack up the front end and set it on a jack stand.

Crawl underneath the vehicle and locate the oil pan. Place a bucket under the pan and loosen the drain plug with a socket wrench. Let the old oil drain completely into the bucket before proceeding. Then replace the drain plug. Disconnect the exhaust pipe from the manifold and disconnect the exhaust hanger. Remove the starter and the bellhousing plate.

Unbolt the oil pan and carefully remove it. Scrape off the old gasket, working carefully to be sure it's completely removed. You may need to use a putty knife or something similar, but be careful not to scratch the surface of the pan.

Wipe out the oil pan with a clean rag or paper towel and clean the mating surface with solvent or engine cleaner. Rub a thin layer of oil on the mating surface to promote adhesion and attach the new gasket.

Reattach the oil pan and torque the bolts to specifications listed in the manual, working cross-wise. Replace the bellhousing plate and starter and reconnect the exhaust hanger and exhaust pipe. If you put the car on jacks, raise it up enough to remove the jack stand, then lower it and remove the jacks.

Fill the engine with about 4.5 qt. of clean motor oil, then check the level with a dipstick. Add more if necessary. Jeep Cherokees require between 4.5 and 5 qt. of oil.

Pour the old oil into an empty milk jug and take it to a garage or hazardous waste facility for proper disposal.