Engine Complete Assembly for 2014-2018 Jeep Wrangler

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

• Verify the 8th digit of the VIN is 'G'.
• For 2018 models, verify the 6th digit of the VIN is 'W' (JK body style) and not 'X' (JL body style).
• For 2018 models, confirm door handles have a push-button to open (JK) rather than a pull-out grip (JL).
• Verify the current oil filter housing cap style (smooth top for 2014+; protruding hex nut indicates potential older retrofit).

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

Special tools this job needs:

• Engine hoist and load leveler
• E-Torx socket set (E10, E12, E14, E16)
• Fuel line disconnect tools
• Torque wrench (low-inch-pound and high-foot-pound)
• Camshaft phaser locking tools (Miller Tool 10200A, 10202, or 10322)

Budget for these consumables at install:

• 6 quarts of OE-spec 5W-20 or 5W-30 engine oil
• New cartridge-style oil filter (2014+ style with nipple, Mopar 68191349AC)
• Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 50/50 Pre-Mixed Coolant (MS-12106 spec)
• Upper and lower intake manifold gaskets (plenum gaskets)
• Thermostat housing gasket
• Exhaust manifold gaskets
• Valve cover gaskets
• Rear main seal
• 6 new iridium spark plugs (gap 0.043")
• PCV valve

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

What’s involved: Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor relearn / Cam-Crank Correlation Relearn / Security Key Re-marriage

Sources differ on exact requirements: Arm 1 notes a Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor relearn is required using a bidirectional scan tool, while Arm 2 notes a proxy configuration alignment or security key re-marriage may be necessary. A dealer-level scan tool (like wiTECH) or high-end bidirectional tool is required.

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

• Oil Filter Housing/Cooler Torque Specs: The plastic housing is notorious for cracking if over-torqued. Torque spec is strictly 106 in-lbs (12 N-m).
• Intake Manifold Bolts: Must be torqued in sequence to 106 in-lbs (12 N-m).
• Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Relearn: Must perform a Cam/Crank Correlation Relearn to prevent flashing check engine light or misfire codes.
• Coolant Bleeding: System easily traps air. Must use a spill-free funnel or vacuum refilling tool and open the bleed screw on the thermostat housing.
• Manual Transmission Pilot Bearing: Must install a new pilot bearing in the crankshaft if equipped with a manual transmission.
• Ground Straps: Ensure all engine and chassis ground straps are clean, secure, and correctly reinstalled.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Ordering for a 2018 Wrangler JL: 2018 was a split year. This engine only fits the JK body style, not the JL body style which uses a different engine with cooled EGR and VVL.
• Using the Wrong Oil Filter: Installing a 2012-2013 style filter without the bottom nipple into a 2014+ housing bypasses the valve and causes zero oil pressure.
• Mixing Coolants: Mixing older HOAT (orange) with the required OAT (purple) coolant creates a gel-like sludge that clogs the cooling system.
• Over-tightening the Oil Cap or Housing: Cracking the plastic housing by exceeding torque specs during installation or oil changes.
• Reusing Intake Gaskets: Reusing old rubber gaskets leads to vacuum leaks and lean codes.
• Reusing the Old Oil Cooler: Failing to replace the failure-prone plastic oil cooler assembly while the engine is out.
• Improper ECU/Security Sync: Assuming the engine is plug-and-play without performing the necessary security relearn or configuration procedures.

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: