Quick answer: Change Oil on a 2015–2018 Volkswagen Jetta is rated Moderate and takes about 45 minutes. You'll need 8 tools for this job, and parts cost about $42. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil (0W-20 full synthetic, VW 508 00) |
— |
$30.00 |
|
| Oil Filter |
— |
$10.00 |
|
| Drain Plug Washer |
— |
$2.00 |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Prepare the Vehicle
The 2015–2018 Jetta S spans two engines: 2015–2016 have the 2.0L, 2017–2018 have the 1.4T. The 1.4T takes 4.2 quarts of 0W-20 meeting VW 508 00; for the 2.0L, check your owner's manual for fill and viscosity. Both use a spin-on filter under the engine.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I've learned: two engines, two specs — know which Jetta you have before you buy anything. The 1.4T wants 4.2 quarts of VW 508 00 0W-20, and the 2.0L is a different animal. I never guess here.
2
Lift and Secure the Vehicle
Set the parking brake and chock the wheels. Lift the front at the pinch-weld points and support the Jetta on jack stands — never work under the jack alone. The drain plug and spin-on filter are both reached from underneath.
3
Drain the Old Oil
Remove the oil fill cap to vent the crankcase. Slide the drain pan under the oil pan, remove the drain plug, and drain fully. Inspect the plug and its seal, and wipe the pan flange clean.
4
Replace the Oil Filter
Unscrew the old spin-on filter and confirm its gasket came off with it. Wipe the mounting surface, coat the new filter's gasket with fresh oil, thread it on by hand until seated, and tighten per the box instructions.
5
Reinstall the Drain Plug
Reinstall the drain plug to your manual's specification and lower the vehicle to level ground. For the 1.4T, pour in 4.2 quarts of VW 508 00 0W-20; for the 2.0L, fill per the manual. Check the dipstick and bring the level to the full mark.
6
Add New Oil and Verify
Start the engine briefly, shut it off, and inspect the filter and plug for leaks. Recheck the level after a short drive. Reset the service reminder through the instrument cluster, then recycle the used oil and filter.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Not using the correct oil type and viscosity, leading to engine damage
- • Over-tightening the oil filter, causing leaks
- • Failing to replace the drain plug washer, resulting in leaks
