2022 Wrangler Rubicon Coolant Flush - What Type & How Often?

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Diana O. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:28 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

Hey Jeep fam! I've got a 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (JL) with the 3.6L engine, and I'm wondering about the coolant system. I'm approaching 30,000 miles and want to make sure I'm staying on top of all the maintenance.

What's the recommended coolant type for these newer Wranglers? I know some vehicles are very particular about OAT vs. HOAT, and I don't want to mix the wrong stuff. Also, what's the general consensus on when to perform a coolant flush? The manual gives a long interval, but I'm curious if off-roading or hotter climates change that.

Any advice on DIY flushing or if it's better left to a professional? Thanks!

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ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Maintaining your coolant system is vital for your 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon's longevity, especially with off-road use. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Recommended Coolant Type: For your 2022 Jeep Wrangler JL with the 3.6L Pentastar engine, you must use OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Specifically, look for Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula, which is purple in color. It's crucial not to mix OAT coolant with HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or any other coolant type, as this can lead to chemical reactions, gel formation, and severe damage to your cooling system components.

  2. Coolant Flush Interval: The factory recommendation for your JL is typically 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. This extended interval is due to the long-life OAT coolant. However, if you frequently engage in heavy-duty use like towing, prolonged idling, or extensive off-roading in extreme temperatures, or if you live in a very hot climate, it's wise to inspect your coolant more frequently and consider a flush closer to the 5-year/75,000-mile mark. Always check the coolant level and condition (clarity, presence of particles) regularly.

  3. DIY Flushing vs. Professional: A full coolant flush can be a bit more involved than an oil change due to the need to properly bleed air from the system and dispose of old coolant responsibly. While it's possible for a DIY enthusiast, it requires specific steps to ensure all old coolant is removed and no air pockets remain, which can cause overheating.

    • DIY Steps (Brief):
      1. Ensure the engine is cool.
      2. Drain the old coolant from the radiator and engine block (if equipped with a block drain).
      3. Refill with distilled water and run the engine with the heater on to flush out remaining old coolant.
      4. Drain the flush water.
      5. Refill with the correct 50/50 OAT coolant mixture.
      6. Bleed the system thoroughly by running the engine with the radiator cap off (or using a spill-free funnel) until no more air bubbles appear.

When to See a Shop: If you're not confident in bleeding the system properly, don't have access to proper disposal for old coolant, or if you notice any signs of overheating, persistent low coolant levels, or unusual coolant color/smell, it's best to have a professional shop perform the flush. They have specialized equipment to ensure a complete flush and proper system bleed.