How much oil does a 2.2 liter engine hold?
The typical oil capacity for a 2.2-liter inline-four is about 4.5 quarts (roughly 4.3 liters) with a new filter; exact figures vary by specific engine family and model. Always check your owner’s manual for the precise specification.
What the number means
Oil capacity indicates the total amount of oil required to fill the engine from empty and reach the full mark on the dipstick after a complete oil change. Some sources quote the capacity with or without the filter, and design differences between manufacturers can shift the true figure slightly. Knowing the exact capacity helps ensure you don’t underfill or overfill the engine, which can affect lubrication and pressure.
Typical capacities by popular 2.2L engine families
The following ranges cover common 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines used in a variety of vehicles. Always verify with your specific model and year, as configurations and filters can change.
- GM Ecotec 2.2L (Cavalier, Sunfire, Ion, etc.): approximately 4.5 to 4.8 quarts (about 4.3 to 4.5 liters) with the filter installed.
- Ford Duratec 2.2L (Focus, Contour-era models): around 4.7 to 5.0 quarts (roughly 4.4 to 4.7 liters) with the filter installed.
- Chrysler/Jeep 2.2L World Engine and related variants: typically about 4.5 to 5.0 quarts (about 4.3 to 4.7 liters) with the filter installed.
In practice, the exact capacity depends on the specific engine variant, filter type, and whether the quoted figure includes the filter. Always confirm with the official specification for your vehicle.
Oil capacity in liters and quarts
Quick conversion reference: 1 quart equals 0.946 liters. Therefore, 4.5 quarts ≈ 4.26 liters and 5.0 quarts ≈ 4.73 liters. This helps when cross-checking metric service data or manuals published in liters.
How to confirm the exact figure for your vehicle
Consult the owner’s manual, manufacturer website, or a trusted repair database. Look up the exact oil capacity for your engine code (for example, 2.2L Ecotec or 2.2 Duratec) and note whether the specification is “with filter” or “without filter.” If in doubt, contact a dealer or a qualified mechanic.
Practical tips for oil changes
When performing an oil change, add oil up to the stated capacity, run the engine, recheck the dipstick, and top off to the full mark if needed. If you notice low oil pressure or leaks after filling, seek professional advice to avoid engine damage.
Summary
For most 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines, plan on about 4.5 quarts (roughly 4.3 liters) of oil with a new filter, with a typical range spanning roughly 4.5 to 5.0 quarts depending on the exact engine family and filter setup. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle to ensure proper lubrication and performance.
