Choosing the right air filter for your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is crucial for maintaining engine performance, fuel efficiency, and cabin air quality. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, replacing, and maintaining your Jeep's air filtration systems.

Understanding Your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee's Air Filtration System

Your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee utilizes two separate air filtration systems that serve distinct but equally important functions. The engine air filter protects your vehicle's engine by preventing harmful contaminants from entering the combustion chambers, while the cabin air filter ensures the air inside your vehicle remains clean and free of pollutants .

The engine air filter is positioned in the engine bay and functions as the first line of defense against external particles that could damage your engine. A clean air filter allows optimal airflow to the engine, which is essential for proper combustion. When this filter becomes clogged, it can lead to reduced power, decreased acceleration, and lower fuel efficiency. In severe cases, a severely restricted air filter can even cause engine damage due to an improperly balanced air-fuel mixture .

The cabin air filter, typically located behind the glove compartment, is responsible for cleaning the air that enters your vehicle's interior through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This filter traps contaminants such as pollen, dust, smog, mold spores, and other airborne particles before they can circulate inside your cabin. This is particularly important for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, as it significantly improves the air quality within the vehicle .

Regular maintenance of both air filters is essential for preserving your Jeep's performance and ensuring a healthy environment for you and your passengers. According to Jeep's service recommendations, you should replace your engine air filter and cabin air filter every 10,000 miles in extreme conditions and every 15,000-30,000 miles under normal driving conditions .

Types of Air Filters for Your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

When it comes time to replace your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee's air filters, you'll encounter several options varying in material, technology, and performance characteristics. Understanding these differences will help you select the best filter for your specific needs and driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Options

​OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Filters:​​ These filters are made by Mopar and are designed to meet the exact specifications of your Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Mopar Engine Air Filter (Part Number: 4861756AA) fits 3.6L, 5.7L, and 6.4L engines and is engineered to provide optimal filtration and airflow for your specific vehicle . OEM filters typically cost between 20-45, offering reliable performance with the assurance of perfect compatibility .

​High-Performance Air Filters:​​ Brands like K&N offer reusable air filters that can enhance your vehicle's performance. The K&N 33 Series Panel Air Filter (Part Number: 33-2457) is a direct replacement option that uses cotton gauze filtration media and is designed to increase airflow while maintaining effective filtration. These filters are washable and reusable, with a lifespan of up to 50,000 miles before cleaning is required under normal highway driving conditions .

For those seeking even greater performance gains, complete cold air intake systems like the K&N 63 Series AirCharger can increase horsepower by up to 17 hp and torque by up to 15.45 lbs./ft. These systems replace the entire air intake assembly with a high-flow air filter and a custom-designed intake tube to maximize airflow to the engine .

​Standard Aftermarket Filters:​​ Companies like FRAM, WIX, and Bosch offer high-quality replacement filters at competitive prices. The FRAM Extra Guard CA10755 provides up to 12 months or 12,000 miles of protection and is compatible with various Jeep Grand Cherokee models . WIX filters feature enhanced cellulose media that effectively captures contaminants while maintaining good airflow .

Cabin Air Filter Options

​Particulate Filters:​​ These basic cabin air filters effectively remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from the air entering your vehicle's cabin. They provide essential protection for individuals with allergies or sensitivity to airborne irritants .

​Activated Carbon Filters:​​ Upgraded options like the A-Premium Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon or the CARORY Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon add a layer of activated charcoal to the filtration system. This additional component effectively traps and neutralizes odors, gases, and other harmful pollutants that standard particulate filters cannot capture .

​HEPA Filters:​​ High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, such as the Bosch 6040C HEPA Cabin Air Filter, offer the highest level of filtration available for cabin air. These filters can capture extremely fine particles, including many bacteria and viruses, providing superior air quality for vehicle occupants .

When to Replace Your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Air Filters

Recognizing the signs of a dirty or clogged air filter can help you maintain optimal performance and avoid potential damage to your vehicle's systems. While following the manufacturer's recommended replacement intervals is important, being aware of these symptoms will help you identify when your filters need attention before serious issues develop.

Signs Your Engine Air Filter Needs Replacement

• ​Decreased Fuel Efficiency:​​ A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing it to work harder and burn more fuel. If you notice you're filling up the gas tank more frequently than usual, a dirty air filter could be the culprit .

• ​Reduced Engine Performance:​​ Your Jeep may experience a noticeable decrease in acceleration and power. You might find that the vehicle feels sluggish, especially when climbing hills or passing other vehicles .

• ​Unusual Engine Sounds:​​ In severe cases of restriction, you may hear strange noises such as coughing or popping sounds from the engine compartment. The engine might also misfire or hesitate during acceleration .

• ​Check Engine Light:​​ In some vehicles, a severely restricted air filter can trigger the check engine light due to incorrect air-fuel ratios or sensor readings .

• ​Black Smoke from Exhaust:​​ An overly rich air-fuel mixture (too much fuel, not enough air) can cause black smoke to emanate from the exhaust system .

• ​Dirty Air Filter Appearance:​​ A visual inspection can reveal a filter clogged with dirt, debris, or insects. A clean filter appears white or off-white, while a dirty filter looks dark and clogged with particulate matter .

Signs Your Cabin Air Filter Needs Replacement

• ​Reduced Airflow from Vents:​​ If you notice decreased airflow from your HVAC system even when set to the highest fan speed, a clogged cabin air filter may be restricting air passage .

• ​Unpleasant Odors:​​ A musty or moldy smell when you turn on your air conditioning or heating system often indicates a dirty cabin air filter that may have accumulated moisture and developed mildew or bacteria .

• ​Increased Noise from HVAC System:​​ A whistling or rattling sound coming from the vents can signal that air is struggling to pass through a clogged filter .

• ​Persistent Allergy Symptoms:​​ If you or your passengers experience increased sneezing, watery eyes, or other allergy symptoms while riding in the vehicle, it could be due to a saturated cabin air filter that's no longer effectively filtering airborne allergens .

• ​Excessive Dust on Dashboard:​​ If you notice dust accumulating on your dashboard and interior surfaces more quickly than usual, your cabin air filter may need replacement .

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Replacing the air filters in your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a straightforward maintenance task that most owners can perform themselves with minimal tools. Below you'll find detailed instructions for replacing both the engine air filter and cabin air filter.

Replacing the Engine Air Filter

1. ​Purchase the Correct Replacement Filter:​​ Ensure you have the proper replacement filter for your specific engine size. The Mopar OEM part number 4861756AA fits 3.6L, 5.7L, and 6.4L engines in the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee .

2. ​Locate the Air Filter Housing:​​ Open the hood and find the air filter housing, which is a black plastic box typically situated near the front of the engine compartment.

3. ​Open the Housing:​​ Release the clips or loosen the screws that secure the housing cover. Some models may have wing nuts that can be removed by hand.

4. ​Remove the Old Filter:​​ Carefully lift out the old air filter, noting its orientation for proper installation of the new one.

5. ​Clean the Housing:​​ Before installing the new filter, use a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth to remove any debris, leaves, or dirt from the housing interior.

6. ​Install the New Filter:​​ Place the new filter in the housing, ensuring it's properly seated and oriented the same way as the old one.

7. ​Reassemble the Housing:​​ Replace the cover and secure all clips, screws, or wing nuts. Make sure the housing is sealed properly to prevent unfiltered air from entering the engine.

Replacing the Cabin Air Filter

The cabin air filter in the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is located behind the glove compartment. Follow these steps for replacement:

1. ​Empty the Glove Box:​​ Remove all items from your glove box to provide clear access to the filter housing .

2. ​Detach the Glove Box:​​

   • Open the glove box completely.
   • Locate the damper arm on the right side of the glove box and gently detach it by squeezing the end and pulling it free .
   • Press inward on both sides of the glove box to clear the stoppers, allowing the glove box to swing down further .

3. ​Locate the Filter Access Panel:​​ Behind the glove box, you'll see a rectangular plastic cover that houses the cabin air filter .

4. ​Remove the Access Panel:​​ The panel is typically held in place by clips or tabs. Gently pry it open using a flathead screwdriver or plastic trim tool, being careful not to break the clips .

5. ​Remove the Old Filter:​​ Slide out the old cabin air filter, noting the direction of the airflow arrow printed on its frame .

6. ​Clean the Filter Housing:​​ Use a vacuum or damp cloth to clean any debris from the housing before installing the new filter .

7. ​Install the New Filter:​​ Slide the new filter into place, ensuring the airflow arrow points in the correct direction (typically toward the interior of the vehicle) .

8. ​Reassemble the Components:​​ Replace the access panel, then reposition the glove box and reconnect the damper arm .

9. ​Test the HVAC System:​​ Turn on your vehicle and test the heating and air conditioning to ensure proper airflow .

Cost Considerations for Air Filter Replacement

The cost of replacing your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee's air filters varies depending on the type of filter you select and whether you perform the replacement yourself or have it done by a professional.

​Engine Air Filter Costs:​​

• OEM Mopar Engine Air Filter (Part Number: 4861756AA): approximately 28-33
• Standard aftermarket filters (FRAM, WIX): 20-45
• High-performance filters (K&N): 50-70
• Professional installation: adds 30-60 to the cost of the filter

​Cabin Air Filter Costs:​​

• Standard particulate filters: 15-25
• Activated carbon filters: 25-35
• HEPA filters (Bosch): 30-45
• Professional installation: typically adds 20-40 to the filter cost

While dealerships may charge premium prices for both parts and labor, replacing your air filters yourself can result in significant savings. The process requires minimal mechanical skill and can be completed in under 30 minutes for both filters .

Benefits of Regular Air Filter Maintenance

Maintaining a regular replacement schedule for your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee's air filters provides numerous benefits that extend beyond basic vehicle maintenance:

​Improved Engine Performance and Longevity:​​ A clean engine air filter ensures optimal airflow to the engine, promoting efficient combustion. This results in better acceleration, consistent power delivery, and reduced strain on engine components. Over time, this preventative maintenance can extend the life of your engine and help avoid costly repairs .

​Enhanced Fuel Efficiency:​​ When your engine receives the proper air-fuel mixture, it operates more efficiently. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve fuel economy by up to 10%, saving you money at the gas pump over time .

​Superior Cabin Air Quality:​​ A fresh cabin air filter effectively removes airborne contaminants from the air entering your vehicle's interior. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. It also reduces exposure to unpleasant odors and potentially harmful pollutants .

​Optimal HVAC System Performance:​​ A clean cabin air filter allows unrestricted airflow through your heating and cooling system. This means your system doesn't have to work as hard to heat or cool the interior, reducing strain on the blower motor and potentially extending its lifespan .

​Prevention of Costly Repairs:​​ Regular air filter replacement is a relatively inexpensive maintenance task that can help you avoid more significant expenses down the road. A clogged engine air filter can lead to damaged sensors or even engine issues, while a neglected cabin air filter can result in HVAC system problems .

Frequently Asked Questions

​How often should I replace the air filters in my 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee?​​
The general recommendation is to replace your engine air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or every 10,000 miles in severe conditions (dusty environments, frequent stop-and-go driving). Cabin air filters should typically be replaced every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually. However, always consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations tailored to your vehicle .

​Can I clean and reuse my engine air filter?​​
Some high-performance filters, like those from K&N and Sprint Filter, are designed to be cleaned and reused. These filters typically have a million-mile warranty and can be cleaned every 100,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions. Standard paper filters, however, are not designed to be cleaned and should be replaced when dirty .

​What is the difference between a standard cabin air filter and an activated carbon filter?​​
Standard particulate filters effectively remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. Activated carbon filters include an additional layer of activated charcoal that absorbs odors, gases, and other pollutants that standard filters cannot capture. This results in cleaner, fresher air inside your vehicle .

​Will a high-performance air filter really improve my Jeep's horsepower?​​
High-performance air filters and cold air intake systems can increase horsepower, typically in the range of 5-20 horsepower for most applications. For example, the K&N 63 Series AirCharger is claimed to increase horsepower by up to 17 hp and torque by up to 15.45 lbs./ft. The actual gains may vary depending on your specific vehicle and driving conditions .

​Is it necessary to use OEM filters, or are aftermarket brands just as good?​​
While OEM filters are designed specifically for your vehicle and guarantee perfect fitment and performance, many aftermarket brands offer comparable or even superior quality. Reputable aftermarket brands like K&N, FRAM, WIX, and Bosch produce high-quality filters that may offer advantages such as longer service intervals or enhanced performance. The key is to select a reputable brand that meets or exceeds OEM specifications .

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee's air filters is essential for preserving engine performance, ensuring fuel efficiency, and maintaining high-quality air inside your cabin. By understanding the different filter options available, recognizing when replacement is needed, and following proper replacement procedures, you can protect your investment and enjoy a better driving experience.

Whether you opt for OEM filters or choose aftermarket alternatives, regular inspection and replacement of both your engine air filter and cabin air filter will help keep your Jeep running at its best for years to come. With the information provided in this guide, you're now equipped to make informed decisions about the air filtration system in your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee.