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Coolant Leak on 2020 Wrangler JL - Where to Check First?

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Laura J. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:28 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon

Hi Jeepers,

I've got a problem with my 2020 Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon (3.6L Pentastar) – I've noticed a small puddle of coolant on my garage floor a couple of times this week, usually after the engine has cooled down. I can also smell a faint sweet odor when the engine is warm. The temperature gauge seems normal most of the time, but I did see it creep up a bit higher than usual once on a long drive.

I'm hoping it's something simple like a hose. What are the most common places for a coolant leak on these JLs? I want to try and locate it myself before taking it to the dealer. Any specific areas I should focus on checking first?

Thanks for any tips!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:28 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Coolant leaks on any vehicle, including your 2020 Jeep Wrangler JL, should be addressed promptly to prevent overheating and potential engine damage. The sweet smell and puddles are classic signs. Here are the most common areas to inspect for leaks on a JL with the 3.6L Pentastar engine:

  1. Radiator: Check the top and bottom tanks, as well as the core, for any visible cracks, wet spots, or residue. The plastic end tanks are common failure points over time.
  2. Radiator Hoses: Inspect the upper and lower radiator hoses, and all smaller heater hoses, for cracks, bulges, or leaks at their connection points to the engine, radiator, and heater core. Pay close attention to the clamps.
  3. Water Pump: The water pump is located on the front of the engine. Look for coolant weeping from the weep hole or around the pump's housing. A failing water pump often starts with a slow leak.
  4. Thermostat Housing: The thermostat housing, usually made of plastic, can crack or warp, leading to leaks. Check around the housing and the hose connection.
  5. Oil Cooler/Filter Housing: On the 3.6L Pentastar, the oil cooler and filter housing assembly, located under the intake manifold, is a known failure point. It contains coolant passages and can develop leaks that drip down the back of the engine. This is a more involved repair.
  6. Heater Core (less common for puddles): While less likely to cause puddles on the ground, a leaking heater core would cause a sweet smell inside the cabin and potentially wet floorboards.

Diagnostic Steps:

  • Visual Inspection: With the engine cold, carefully inspect all the areas mentioned above. Look for colored residue (usually pink/orange for OAT coolant) or wet spots.
  • Pressure Test: The most effective way to find a leak is to perform a cooling system pressure test. A pressure tester attaches to the radiator cap opening and pressurizes the system, making leaks more apparent. You can rent or buy these tools.

When to See a Shop:

If you can't locate the leak yourself, or if it appears to be coming from a more complex area like the oil cooler/filter housing, it's best to take your Wrangler to a qualified mechanic. They have specialized tools and experience to diagnose and repair these issues correctly, ensuring the proper coolant (OAT Mopar HOAT or equivalent) is used and the system is bled correctly.

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