The Jeep Renegade has made a name for itself as a capable and reliable subcompact SUV since its introduction in 2015. A key aspect of its performance lies in its transmission system, which seamlessly transmits power from the engine to the wheels. Ensuring that the transmission is running smoothly requires understanding the right transmission fluid type and capacity for your specific Renegade model.
The Jeep Renegade has seen two phases in its production span – the first generation from 2015-2018, and a facelifted version from 2019 onwards. The type of transmission system equipped in your Renegade depends on the model year and specific configuration:
- 2015-2018 Models (1st Gen): This generation came with two main types of transmissions: a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic. The choice of transmission typically depended on the trim level and the market region.
- 2019-Now Models (1st Gen Facelift): The facelifted models largely continue with the 9-speed automatic transmission, although some variants with a 6-speed manual transmission are still available.
Each type of transmission performs the vital function of managing the engine’s power and transmitting it to the drive wheels. To do this effectively, it relies heavily on transmission fluid. In the upcoming sections, we will delve into the details of the transmission fluid type and capacity for the Jeep Renegade.
Jeep Renegade Transmission Fluid Capacity And Transmission Fluid Type
Knowing the transmission fluid capacity of your Jeep Renegade is critical when changing or topping off the fluid. This ensures that your transmission has enough fluid to operate efficiently but not so much that it leads to frothing or leaks.
2015-2018 Jeep Renegade
The 6-speed manual transmission typically has a capacity of approximately 2 quarts. The 9-speed automatic transmission in these models usually holds around 6.3 quarts.
| Gearbox | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
|---|---|---|
| 9-speed automatic | Total fill: 6.3 quarts (6 liters) | Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF |
| 6-speed manual | 4 pints (2 quarts) | Mopar C Series Manual & Dual Dry Clutch |
2019-Present Jeep Renegade
Similar to the earlier models, the facelifted versions with a 9-speed automatic transmission have a fluid capacity of around 6.3 quarts.
| Gearbox | Fluid capacity | Fluid type |
|---|---|---|
| 9-speed automatic | Total fill: 6.3 quarts (6 liters) | Mopar ZF 8&9 Speed ATF |
These capacities represent the average volumes and might vary slightly based on specific model variations and operating conditions. Always consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic to ascertain the exact transmission fluid capacity for your specific Jeep Renegade model.
How Often to Change the Transmission Fluid
The recommended frequency for changing the transmission fluid in your Jeep Renegade largely depends on the transmission type and your driving habits.
As a general rule, for vehicles with automatic transmissions, the fluid should be changed approximately every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Manual transmissions can often go a bit longer before needing a fluid change, typically around every 100,000 miles. However, these intervals can vary depending on your driving habits.
For instance, if you frequently use your Renegade for towing or off-roading, or if you typically drive in severe conditions, you might need to change the transmission fluid more often.
For Jeep Renegade-specific model years:
- 2015-2018 Models (1st Gen): For these models, whether with a manual or a 9-speed automatic transmission, it’s generally recommended to change the transmission fluid every 60,000 miles for normal driving conditions. Under severe conditions, consider changing the fluid every 30,000 miles.
- 2019-Now Models (1st Gen Facelift): The recommended interval for these models with a 9-speed automatic transmission is also every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions and every 30,000 miles under severe conditions. If your vehicle has a 6-speed manual transmission, aim for a change every 100,000 miles, unless heavy-duty use suggests a more frequent change.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Always refer to your owner’s manual or consult with a professional mechanic to determine the optimal interval for changing the transmission fluid in your specific Jeep Renegade model.
Importance of Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid plays an indispensable role in the functioning and longevity of your Jeep Renegade’s transmission system. This vital fluid has multiple functions that all contribute to smooth vehicle operation.
- Lubrication: The primary role of transmission fluid is to lubricate. This prevents friction between the numerous moving parts inside your transmission, reducing wear and tear and extending component life.
- Heat Dissipation: Transmissions generate considerable heat during operation, especially under demanding driving conditions like towing or climbing steep grades. The transmission fluid helps absorb this heat and dissipate it, preventing the transmission from overheating and getting damaged.
- Power Transmission: In the case of automatic and CVT transmissions, the transmission fluid directly participates in power transmission from the engine to the drive wheels. It does this by generating the hydraulic pressure required for shifting gears.
- Cleanliness: Lastly, the transmission fluid also helps in keeping the transmission clean. It picks up and carries away debris and contaminants, which can otherwise accumulate and cause wear or clog the transmission.
Given these critical functions, maintaining the correct type and level of transmission fluid is absolutely essential for your Jeep Renegade’s transmission system’s health and performance.
How to Change the Transmission Fluid
Changing the transmission fluid in your Jeep Renegade is a technical process that requires careful attention to detail. While it’s a task that some experienced DIYers can handle, if you’re not comfortable with automotive maintenance, it’s best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic. Below are the general steps for changing transmission fluid:
- Gather Necessary Supplies: Before starting, ensure you have the correct type and amount of transmission fluid as per your model, a new transmission filter if required, a transmission fluid catch pan, a funnel, a socket set, and jack stands or ramps if needed.
- Prepare the Vehicle: Start by securing your vehicle on a flat surface. If you need additional space to work, safely elevate the vehicle using jack stands or ramps.
- Drain the Old Fluid: Position your catch pan beneath the transmission pan and carefully remove the drain plug, allowing the old fluid to flow out. Beware of the fluid, as it can be hot.
- Remove and Clean the Transmission Pan: After draining, you can remove the transmission pan entirely. This gives you access to clean it and replace the transmission filter if your vehicle has one.
- Replace the Transmission Filter: If your Jeep Renegade has a transmission filter, this is the time to replace it. These filters help maintain fluid quality and should be replaced with every fluid change.
- Reinstall the Transmission Pan: Once everything is clean, and the filter is replaced, you can reinstall the transmission pan. Ensure the pan and drain plug are secured properly to avoid leaks.
- Refill the Transmission Fluid: Using a funnel, add the new transmission fluid through the dipstick tube or dedicated fill port. Be sure not to overfill and check the fluid level as per your owner’s manual instructions.
- Check for Leaks: Start your vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new fluid, then check for any leaks. If you see any signs of leakage, switch off the vehicle and tighten any loose components.
Symptoms of Low Transmission Fluid
Low transmission fluid is a serious concern that can lead to transmission damage and reduce your Jeep Renegade’s performance. Here are common symptoms that indicate your vehicle may be running low on transmission fluid:
- Transmission Slipping: If your Renegade’s transmission slips between gears while driving or it feels like it’s struggling to stay in gear, this may indicate low fluid levels.
- Delayed Engagement: When you shift out of Park and into Drive, there might be a delay before the vehicle starts to move. This delay can indicate that your transmission isn’t getting enough fluid.
- Gear Shifting Problems: If your vehicle has difficulty shifting gears or if the shifts are not smooth, it could be due to low transmission fluid.
- Transmission Overheating: Transmission fluid helps to cool the transmission. If the fluid is low, it may not be able to do this effectively, leading to overheating.
- Noisy Transmission: If you hear grinding or squeaking sounds when your vehicle is shifting gears, it could be an indication that your transmission isn’t well-lubricated due to low fluid.
- Leaking Fluid: If you notice red fluid pooling beneath your vehicle, it’s likely that your transmission fluid is leaking. This needs to be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
- Transmission Warning Light: Many vehicles, including the Jeep Renegade, are equipped with a warning light that illuminates on the dashboard when the transmission fluid is low.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to check your transmission fluid level and consult a professional mechanic.
