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Overheating Concerns & Coolant Flush for 2019 Wrangler JL

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:24 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL Sahara

Hi Jeep fam,

I've got a 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL Sahara with the 3.6L Pentastar engine, just hit about 50,000 miles. Lately, I've noticed the temperature gauge creeping a bit higher than usual, especially when I'm stuck in traffic or on longer drives. It's not redlining, but it's making me nervous.

I'm thinking it might be time for a coolant flush. What's the recommended coolant type for these JLs? Is this a DIY-friendly job, or are there any tricky bits I should be aware of? Any specific brands or procedures you'd recommend to keep my Wrangler running cool?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:24 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

  1. Coolant Type: For your 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL, it's crucial to use the correct Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, which is typically purple/pink in color. This is different from the HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant used in older Jeeps. Mixing coolant types can lead to gelling and severe damage to your cooling system components.

  2. Why a Flush Might Be Needed: Higher temperatures could indicate a few things:

    • Degraded Coolant: Over time, coolant loses its anticorrosive and heat-transfer properties.
    • Clogged Radiator/Heater Core: Sediment can build up, restricting flow.
    • Thermostat Issues: A failing thermostat might not open fully, leading to overheating. A common OBD-II code for this is P0128 (Coolant Thermostat (Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature)), although your symptoms suggest it might be stuck partially closed or opening late.
    • Water Pump Failure: Leaks or reduced pumping efficiency.

  3. DIY Coolant Flush Steps (General):

    • Ensure the engine is cool. Drain the old coolant from the radiator drain cock and engine block drain plugs (if accessible).
    • Refill with distilled water and a cooling system cleaner, run the engine to operating temperature with the heater on high, then drain again. Repeat with distilled water until it runs clear.
    • Refill with the correct 50/50 mix of Mopar OAT coolant and distilled water.
    • Crucial Step: Bleeding Air: The Pentastar engine can be prone to air pockets. Run the engine with the radiator cap off (or reservoir cap, depending on system design) until the thermostat opens, squeezing hoses to help release air. Use a spill-free funnel to aid in this process. Drive the vehicle and recheck the coolant level after a few cycles.

  4. When to See a Shop: If you're consistently seeing high temperatures after a flush, or if you notice any leaks, bubbling in the coolant reservoir, or a check engine light with codes like P0128, it's best to have a professional diagnose the issue. They can perform pressure tests, check for exhaust gas in the coolant, and accurately pinpoint problems like a failing water pump, radiator, or head gasket.

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