3.6L V6 Engine Complete Assembly for 2021-2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee L

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right engine shows up:

• Confirm the 8th digit of the VIN is 'G' (3.6L Pentastar V6).
• Confirm the 6th digit of the VIN matches the body/wheelbase configuration (H or K for 2021 WL; G, H, or Y for 2022-2025 116.7" WB; J or K for 2022-2025 121.7" WB).
• Verify drivetrain type (2WD vs 4x4).

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Camshaft Phaser Lock & Timing Chain Holder Kit (Miller/Mopar 10200A, 10202, and 10369A)
• Engine Lifting Brackets (Miller/Mopar 10242B)
• Diagnostic Scan Tool (wiTECH 2.0 or equivalent)

Budget for these consumables at install:

• 5.0 to 6.0 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395
• New OEM Mopar oil filter cartridge
• Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 50/50 Pre-Diluted Coolant meeting MS-12106
• 6 new spark plugs (Mopar/NGK Laser Iridium recommended)
• Upper and lower intake plenum gaskets
• Exhaust manifold gaskets
• Thermostat gaskets
• R-1234yf refrigerant for A/C system recharge
• PCV Valve
• New OEM Torque-to-Yield (TTY) harmonic balancer and camshaft phaser bolts (if loosened)

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Relearn and Immobilizer Key Relearn

A cam/crank relearn is mandatory to synchronize the PCM with the new sensors. Additionally, because 2015+ Chrysler/Jeep vehicles have a security-locked PCM, the vehicle's immobilizer system must be re-married to the engine computer.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• EGR Cooler Obstruction: The metal EGR cooler on the back of the cylinder head is extremely close to the firewall. Unbolt its brackets to allow wiggle room before lowering the engine.
• Fragile Plastic Oil Filter Adapter Housing: The plastic housing in the engine valley cracks easily if bumped or if the cap is overtightened beyond 18 ft-lbs (25 Nm).
• Torque-to-Yield (TTY) Bolts: Harmonic balancer and camshaft phaser bolts are stretch fasteners and must be replaced if loosened.
• 4x4 Front Axle Alignment: The front axle intermediate shaft passes through a bracket adjacent to the oil pan. Align carefully to avoid cracking the aluminum oil pan or differential housing.
• Oil System Priming: Critical to prime the oiling system before first start to prevent bearing damage.
• Metal Debris from Previous Failure: If the old engine failed mechanically, the oil cooler and lines must be thoroughly cleaned or replaced to prevent debris from destroying the new engine.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Reusing a damaged, warped, or cracked plastic valley oil filter housing instead of replacing or upgrading it.
• Overtightening the oil filter cap beyond the strict 18 ft-lbs specification.
• Pinching the engine wiring harness or sensor wires against the firewall or bellhousing during installation.
• Using universal green or HOAT coolant instead of Mopar OAT coolant, which creates a clogging gel.
• Reusing old spark plugs and ignition coils.
• Skipping the mandatory PCM/Immobilizer and Crank Relearn procedures.
• Not cleaning or replacing the oil cooler after a catastrophic mechanical engine failure.
• Attempting to install this Grand Cherokee-specific engine into other models like a Durango or Pacifica.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every engine of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: