Jeep Wrangler needs Major Engine Work at only 40,000 miles! | 3.6 Pentastar Issue

I had this Jeep Wrangler Sport come into the shop this week for a check engine light. I pulled the code with my scanner and it was P0302 Cylinder 2 misfire.
The customer had taken this jeep to another shop previously and paid to have a tune-up done (new coil packs, new spark plugs). And still wound up with the same misfire code. In this video, I explore other possible issues and I'm surprised by what I found. Especially because this jeep is only 3 years old with about 40,000 miles!
Tools In The VIdeo:
Compression Gauge - amzn.to/3dHyl4C (I had this one before)
Ratchet Set - amzn.to/3sek4QO (Has spark plug sockets)
Impact Socket Set - amzn.to/3aLjfsD (I've had this for 5 years, still works great!)
Electric 3/8 Ratchet - amzn.to/3slVRYW (Affordable Option)
Electric 3/8 Ratchet - amzn.to/3aLYVr3 (Milwaukee)
Scan Tool -amzn.to/3bw7KVj
Tool Tray - amzn.to/2P6c469
Magnetic Work Light - amzn.to/3aMPVSI
Torque Wrench - amzn.to/2ZLdFjK
Keyword Tags :
compression test p0303 p0305 pentastar v6 #jeepwrangler #3.6pentastar #p0302 #p0300
#alexthecardoctor #autorepairguys #autovlog #dodge #chrysler #autorepair #automotive

[@oldgiapetto]

A week ago today I bought a 2015 Wrangler....and the engine light came on fifty feet from the dealer.....So, I had O'Reilly Auto Parts put the gauge on it....Cyl 2 misfire. The dealer took it back and had all new plugs and spark coils installed ( at his expense)....and the mechanic said there was no change and that the engine had serious internal damage. Apparently just like this one. The dealer, an honest man, came to my house that night and brought all my money back!! So, it was a good day....I owned a Jeep for a day, learned a lot about Jeeps and met an honest man. Thanks for your video, great stuff.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks buddy.wow that’s unheard of, what an amazing story

[@jeepfan75]

wow good deal. not that many honest people left in the world now.

[@paulspinosa1679]

I'm a professional, mechanic of sorts (electrician.) I hate bad butcher type work... I'm glad to see that you you care. That's a good mechanic.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks brother

[@LewdSilhouettes]

Man…world needs mechanics like you. Youre the real deal.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for the kind words man,I’m just out here trying to make a difference

[@onebridge7231]

A good trustworthy mechanic is worth their weight in gold. So few are honest or do good quality.

[@joedessenberger2048]

3.6 pentastar has a recall for cylinder #2 misfire. It is only taken care of if the owner goes to the dealer with the problem. Not all pentastars get this issue. The estimate is about 1% of all units built will have this problem develop. It was a major problem through 2014, but is a known problem through 2018 and a class action lawsuit has been filed. Chrysler will take care of it for customers who are persistent. The heads are manufactured with sand castings and if the heads are not properly cleaned before installation during the manufacturing process, this is a result. If I were the customer, I would demand Chrysler reimburse for all repair costs.

[@michaelcronin5225]

Is there a recall for cylinder 1 misfire too for 2015?

[@joedessenberger2048]

@@michaelcronin5225 Only way to know for sure is a trip to the dealer. The people on @EpicFmilyRoadtrip just had a cylinder 1 misfire on their 2020 JL. It all comes down to the way the heads are cast and if the manufacturer got all the residue out of the heads before assembly. #2 and #3 are both covered by recall if it is determined to be the head. I had a new head installed at manufacturer expense for a #3 misfire.

[@michaelcronin5225]

@@joedessenberger2048 thanks. Just dreading hassle and the expensive repair. Sounds like $3k or more

[@sidneythomas4174]

😊

[@queensapphire7717]

They all pretty much have the oil filter housing problem, that fails, mine did at 42K miles. It’s a $1000 fix.

[@bstrutton]

That's some solid diagnostic skill right there. Damn good job diagnosing and teaching! Most folks these days couldn't troubleshoot their way out of a wet paper bag...

[@braydinjones6301]

Great job man! I can tell you take lots of pride in your work. Simple and straight to the point as well. 👍👍💪💪💪

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks brother.I put my all in my work

[@luisangel-fe8hy]

Great video Alex! I didn’t know how the cylinders were numbered and you did a great job explaining that. Thank you for your help and you gained a new subscriber

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for the support buddy. I’m glad you enjoyed my video

[@user-dq4dn5em1h]

30 years ago that would have had a bulletproof straight 6. How far we have come.

[@chrispurzer9461]

Have watched this a few times because the audio and video are both so informative. Thanks for this!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

No problem thanks for watching I really appreciate it

[@veryconfusing]

The right piece of rubber hose ( stiff braided type ) is also awesome for walking spark plugs out and in. I have had the same four pieces I use for about the last 15 years in my "odd stuff" toolbox drawer. Thanks for video !

[@289hipo]

Been using that hose on sparkplug technique for 48 yrs

[@ronaldbrosius7488]

Great video, its great to see mechanics care about their work. You my friend are doing Awesome!!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks man

[@sbjrcourses7961]

Alex, this was a great video! Awesome job!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for watching buddy I’m glad you enjoyed it

[@Greenwitch_Garden]

Thank you for the information! You explain things so well. I’m the sole owner of my 2017 Jeep JKUR and starting to have many common issues. I’m learning about common problems so I can get ahead of them. Fortunately I followed the engine break in guidance 😅 and got an extended warranty but now I’m out of warranty at 110k and learning A LOT!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Just stay on top of the maintenance and you will be good, sounds like you’re doing all the right stuff. thanks for watching

[@azizabahati7037]

Hi there! Would the extended warranty cover the tick?

[@Aceinfinity-le8zc]

You sir are the best mechanic I have ever seen work!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I appreciate ya 😎

[@robpond7385]

Great job Alex your great for feeling for the customer ty

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

That’s the hardest part about my job is Watching people go through a hard time with their vehicles. That’s why I make these videos for people in need and to get a better understanding

[@banginsteel4978]

Good job, very thorough, easy to follow!

[@tsunamas]

Hey Alex, just got a JK and this videos are very helpful. Thanks for sharing!

[@TheGeorgiaMediaGroup]

I have a 4.0 online 6. In my jeep. Love it

[@daleinada4306]

Good Job Alex, Your a good guy!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thank you buddy

[@richarddiaz8248]

Thank you for your knowledge and experience

[@robertritter4188]

You r amazing I can’t say enough about your care with explaining things

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thank you buddy

[@tomtenant9255]

Good mechanic and good videos.

[@user-kw5ze5ky5q]

I can tell you’ve worked on a few of these 3.6s. You’re absolutely right about not using power tools on the intake manifold. I’ve cracked a few of them over the years just tightening them with a 1/4 ratchet and torqued to the minimum torque spec. Other than that the pentastar engine is a great engine despite their early production flaws. As opposed to the dreaded GM 3.6, which needs a timing chan kit every oil change. I’ve seen plenty of neglected Chrysler 3.6!engines with no timing chain or VVT issues like GM cars have. Also you opened the hood on the wrangler the correct way lol. That’s how I open all of them. The prop rod is for the customer to fill their washer solvent and the rare occasion where a customer checks oil. And screw them hack mechanics. I hate when I get a car that I see a bunch of butchering, missing bolts, misrouted wiring, amongst other things, then I have to figure out how the car is supposed to go back together. My conscience won’t let me hack on a car. Customers pay tons of money to get their cars fixed and it should be done right, even if it’s an 07 rotted Caliber.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Aman brother 100% true I like you where are you from

[@77DucMon]

I had, key word HAD, a Cadillac CTS with the dreaded GM 3.6. You are right about the timing chain and gear issues. But also a flaw that can present as a timing chain but is really much much worse. The crank position reluctor ring on the back of the crankshaft is just pressed on and can shift. When that happens it’s a crankshaft replacement. Big $$$! For a piss poor design. Should have been keyed. I also ironically have a 2014 Wrangler Rubicon with the 3.6 Pentastar 120k+ miles and really no engine issues, oh save for the oil cooler leaked and needed replacement at 80k miles. It’s stupid that it’s plastic and under the intake, but at least it’s fairly cheep.

[@davidperry4013]

Even aluminum intake manifolds can crack if you tighten them too much. A manual ratchet is the proper way to tighten an intake manifold.

[@richsweeney1115]

Dodge sucks.....theyre not good motors...not even close.

[@abdulsaber1085]

That co worker of yours giving you the battery is prime example of someone you want in the shop. You aint even have to LOOK at him and he knows to help.

[@kentearly805]

Cylinder # 2 exhaust valves not seating properly or burning have been a regular problem on pentastars from the beginning. Put # 2 at tdc compression and blow a little shop air in plug hole with a latex glove on the tailpipe. Glove inflates letting you know for sure it's the exhaust valves not seating.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

That was gonna be the next step but the customer didn’t want to pay for further diagnostics

[@seahorse5677]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor lol you charged for that?

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@seahorse5677 unfortunately I have to.my shop rent at the time was 2500$ plus light and water a month I don’t think you want to now lol

[@jacobdykes6736]

You said at that time it was 2500 how did you get it lower

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@jacobdykes6736 5000$

[@gmtully42]

Had the same problem on cylinder head #2 of 2014 Wrangler Rubicon w/ 70k miles. After failed compression tests had a dealership replace the cylinder head. After I went under the hood and found multiple hack mechanic examples including the plastic bolts that seat the air filter housing being broken. After the first 2+ hr. road trip I am having high RPMs when starting and cycling through low gears. Going to replace crankshaft sensor and see if that is problem.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Dang man I wish people would take more pride in what they do

[@MoparDan]

Alex, I appreciate your making of this video. I'm a retired electronics technician and I own a low mileage '12 Chrysler 200 Touring convertible with the Pentastar engine. I believe if you take good care of these engines they will do fine. I only use Pennzoil Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 motor oil and change it at 3,000 to 3,500 miles. Chrysler recommends this oil for their engines. My car has not had anything done to it as far as I can tell by a shop before I bought it in ‘16. I'm particular and really like this car and I'm buying tools and looking at videos in order to perform future work on this car in a careful and precise manner myself. I even clean the dirt off parts before putting them back on the vehicle. I like my white convertible!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for watching buddy, yes I agree if you take care of your engine it will take care of you

[@davidperry4013]

The Chrysler 3.5L High Output V6 in the Dodge Chargers and Chrysler 300s are pretty good engines

[@OffTheBeatenPath_]

@@davidperry4013 Oh you'll be doing the oil cooler some time on the 3.6

[@richsweeney1115]

Dodge is garbage...

[@TheDirtCreature]

I religiously changed the oil with premium products and replaced spark plugs, etc., with OEM everything. This Pentastar issue is a real issue that has nothing to do with maintenance, although I'm sure that poor maintenance can help precipitate the problems. Why? Because all of these problems (Pentastar tick, Oil cooler breaking, etc) are all oiling problems. All Jeep dealerships will tell you the same thing as I have just said. Hopefully they fixed everything in the latest version that goes into the JL (lol).

[@SergioGonzalez-uc4rw]

THE DOCTOR, THAT SAYS IT ALL

[@JF32304]

Nice work! Good troubleshooting skills! I liked and subscribed. 👍👍

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks so much for the support buddy

[@JF32304]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor I work on my own vehicle frankly because I don't trust people to touch it lol. As a lot of people do not know what they are doing and you're touching my baby. You gotta know what you're doing or don't even knock on my door. I would feel comfortable giving you the keys or working on it with you. Cheers buddy! Finding someone who knows what they are doing is like Indiana Jones looking for the holy grail. I use to have a 2004 grand Cherokee overland with the 4.7 HO. Had a hard misfire on #8 (of course the crappiest location) after hours and days of troubleshooting (never experienced a broken valve spring), it was determined that the exhaust valve spring was broken, i got a camera for my phone and dropped it down the spark plug hole to make sure there was no damage to the valve or piston. No issues there. Took a compression tester, filled the cylinder with 120 psi to hold the valve closed, got my tool to compress the spring by using a special tool and the cam as the fulcrum, with 2, 12" 3/8 extension's I was able to compress the spring, pull the bad unit out, compress it again with the new spring and install the keepers. This was all done with myself and GOD! Put it all back together and boy did I understand why all 4 tires were bald! Lol lol power!! I took to the shop to have the exhaust stud replaced and the mechanic said... You take care of your vehicle don't you! That thing runs! Thank you, Lol yes sir I do. It'll bark all 4 tires leaving the light. Bosch platinum +4 plugs, 12 hole injectors, new fuel pump, new O2's (all 4) new coil packs. Paid $1500 for it because it ran like crap. But when I was done BEAST.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@JF32304 thanks for the love buddy. Man it sounds like you a good mechanic man. I love seeing people take pride in their vehicle, I just wish I had the time to take pride in mine lol I guess I’m too busy making other people vehicles be great.

[@howsithangin03]

Great work. I first encountered this problem on a 2011 charger then a 2014 jeep and now a 2018 grand caravan.. Finally the grand caravans owner paid to tear down and the issue is actually the exhaust valve seats. Chrysler is aware of this problem and check engine comes on for different reasons o2 codes or misfire codes and yes its common on cylinder 2 4 or 6 After hours on the phone with Chrysler i was able to actually speak to a good tech. The cause for the issue is the robot that assembled the head put incorrect valve seats.. Sooo there you have it.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for the information buddy

[@howsithangin03]

Anytime. " knowledge cant be power if you dont share it with no one"

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@howsithangin03 I love it thanks again

[@howsithangin03]

@Jimmy S Its possible... But i dont think thats the case with the 96k mile one.. by went away for 2 or 3 weeks im assuming u mean no check engine light on. But the misfire is still there u can feel it in the body or even see the engine shake now to continue the issue i believe is the seats are misshapen just a tad to where over time it causes the valve to not completely seat correctly putting more pressure on one side or the other and the valve bends just a tad and begins to wobble and if left that way for some time especially at higher rpms it wreaks havoc on the lifters sooo that may be what you were hearing in the valve cover.. the 2018 grand caravan i first posted actually went to the dealer due to being covered under there extended warranty Brand new head replacement Cost was $1682.13 for parts $2000 for labor in california so its a pretty penny

[@superchucksvd]

Currently experiencing the same issue on a 2017 wrangler Rubicon and its looking like a new motor and great video by the way

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for watching buddy

[@JasPlun]

They have had a lot of problems with cracked cylinder heads on these engines I hope that is not your case, but there has been a lot of it. I know a Chrysler tech and they said that the newer engines no longer have them, but he says they lied because he is still replacing cylinder heads on late models. Mis-fires can be many things, but you want to keep an eye on the temp and check the oil regularly to make sure its not got a milky look to it. If it ever starts to look cloudy like a milky substance is in it you got a cracked head. Some cracks can be small and grow more problematic with time as they will introduce more water into the engine. I am not a mechanic I am going off information I have gotten from friends and a guy that is a Chrysler tech. I believe car wizard has a video on this problem.

[@mikesvarietychannel2403]

Great video man.

[@meganbradley6187]

I have a 2013 with 67,000 miles. I just got a PO300 and PO339. I love my Jeep but this is irritating. I have replaced the starter at 27,000 and the thermostat at 55,000. I wish these were more reliable. Thanks for this video.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Dang that is irritating good luck buddy. Thanks for watching and your support

[@JavaJon3D]

I just replaced the oil filter housing on my 3.6 in my Dodge Grand Caravan and I cracked the upper intake manifold plenum while tightening one of the screws with my torque wrench. Can't imagine using power tools on that plastic!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I follow this Mobile mechanic on Facebook and I seen him tightening down an intake on a 3.6 Pentastar with a impact that I was smh

[@riverrail]

Remove the ASD relay and you can do a compression test with out the fuel system to be bleed. ASD relay + voltage to the injectors and the coils

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Did not know it had a auto shut down relay so I didn’t bother mentioning it. Thanks for the information buddy

[@TC-hs5wy]

Hey bro great video. Should i stay away from these engines? I was looking at downsizing my ‘05 yukon to a grand cherokee w the V6 but looking into them and have found out that these get cracked cylinder heads, and all the above mentioned.

[@jamesrahn8339]

Great video. Im having problems on the #2 cylinder on the same engine in a charger. The compression is good but the plug keeps fauling out.

[@bigtimelsu]

Dude.. great video! 👍 I'll be subscribing!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for the support buddy

[@dandtintennessee7675]

Facing the same thing but we're at 120k miles. Cylinder 3 misfires when first start it and coolant vanishing. Started this morning and a huge plume of white smoke. Gonna have to have a head gasket looks like..

[@vanceburks5323]

You are really good and knowledgeable! Wish you were my mechanic-

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks buddy

[@rockinstone123]

I know is is a bit old but I would like to mention my odd happening s. My Ram 1500 has the 3.6 Pentastar. It started running rough although I had replaced coil packs/plugs 3 months ago. Took it to Autozone, OBD said #5 fuel injector. Took it to the local shop (franchise) that does my "small" stuff. The next day they called me and said "come pick up your truck, you got a MAJOR problem with compression so bring it to a dealer ???!" Went into the lot to drive it out and it started right up and NO engine light. It ran great! I knew better than it just healed itself so I went to another Autozone. OBD said no issues, lol Next day it was running rough again so off to the dealer. End result #5 fuel injector WAS bad. On the way home picked up some REDLINE injector cleaner . Hopefully that will clean the other FI's AND if you're wondering why all 6 FIs weren't replaced, my extended warranty company won't fix ANYTHING that's not broken so my protocol is let them fix the one, I start the Redline S1, and if it happens again I know what to do

[@bartwaggoner2000]

Great video - super talkative assistant! ;-)

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Glad you enjoyed it thanks for watching

[@clydeespinosa6286]

Thanks I have a Jeep and that was a great video

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for watching and the support I really appreciate it

[@stacydornan9765]

So glad I found this channel Alex is the Man

[@JP-nisu_2]

Me and my Brother have two 13’jeep wrangler Rubicon’s 2dr 3.6 L - Both are about 95,000 miles, no issues with the engine or transmission one has developed a leak in the front driver side axle seal no other issues.

[@upsman1313]

Do you have a video doing head removal and install on the 3.6L Jeep? I need to replace left head.

[@byronewhite]

I have a 2008 wrangler with the 3.8. Want the newer 4dr. What can I do for a proper check on a used one ahead of purchase.

[@itsmountainwithanm]

Have had this issue on all four of my jeeps with the 3.6... a 2012 a 2015 rubicon 2015 grand Cherokee and now my 2021 mojave....

[@deanedell362]

Jeep's engine warranty is 5 years or 60k miles.

[@mtoddvan]

Common failure is the rocker arm bearings on 3.6. Millage isn't relevant or year model. It's known manufacturer defect. Really luck of draw if happens & it can chew up the cam shaft lobe. Doubt it's the VCC or it would effect all cylinders on same side of engine.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I just witnessed that on a Ram pro master with low mileage

[@wailingalen]

I have a 23 JL Sport 3.6 6MT I did my first oil change at 1000mi and just did my second at 5000. Made sure breakin was adhered too. And did early oil changes to make sure all breakin particles were scavenged. I love my Jeep and I hope and pray she lasts long.

[@glanphear588]

Hi, very important! You were supposed to cover up that exposed intake manifold (6 holes) so that you don’t drop tools or debris down in the exposed engine. 😣

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey buddy and thanks for watching.I only cover them up if I’m leaving the work area.I’m always paying close attention.and plus I’ve been doing it that way for about 12 years and no problem. thanks for the advice

[@glanphear588]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor I get your experience, but even experience people make mistakes.. it only takes one ratchet socket to fall down in one of those holes and basically that Pentastar engine could be ruined. Just my observation and based off watching other mechanics working on that type of engine and they would stress covering up those holes as I own a 3.6L Pentastar myself.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

You right about that buddy. Thanks for the advice man

[@VWtech562]

I'm also a mechanic... you can't cover the holes when checking compression.

[@DaviDiazXx7]

The noise the Jeep makes at 22:54 is what mine does now after changing cylinder #2 since it was misfiring . Engine light came on , changed all six spark plugs, engine light when off. Then turned back on changed the cylinder 2. Light went off came back on. And when starting it makes this noise.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey buddy so it’s not currently raining right

[@zellequinonez8906]

Mine did the same thing, I took it to auto zone to get the fix finder to see what's wrong with it. It said cylinder misfire on #2 (but the mechanic already fixed that) but also said underneath that, that the injector fuel #2 is open. So I am assuming it's just that, that I need to fix. I am thinking of fixing it myself, instead of wasting 400 bucks. It's 99 dollars for the part.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@zellequinonez8906 hey buddy you can handle it just take your time

[@lstruggy]

No disconnecting the negative battery?

[@jakedank2746]

I have a question how did you start the jeep with the hood open and the door?

[@JasPlun]

I had a 2015 Ford Fusion SE with the 2.5l engine that had a cracked cylinder head in 3 places at 22k miles. Ford fixed it under warranty and said it was a bad head from the forge. Testiment to Ford quality control because a 3rd party made the heads and so it got passed their quality control and past Fords quality control. Later on at 55k it had a bad head gasket. I got wise and have a Toyota Camry in the drive for my wife now. Best decision I ever made for her. I figured this Jeep had a cracked cylinder head from the start because so many Pentastars have them. Its a well known issue so I immediately thought that when it was mis-firing. Good work though keep it up man:P

[@garyingalls8287]

Hey Alex. Great content! I heard you say Bosch does not go in this engine. Can you explain? Thanks!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Because different spark plug brands are manufactured for different cars. While they market spark plugs as universal parts, their actually not.

[@randallmeacham4655]

I get it, I have a 17 JKU that had a timing chain failure that caused a catastrophic failure and had to replace the engine at 57,000 miles.

[@chillywillie0074]

My 2012 did the same thing at 100,000 km. Jeep repaired it at their expense. It’s a common problem on the earlier engines.

[@alexsantana5377]

I got a 2017 Jeep Wrangler and I do live in Phoenix and it started overheating but didn’t reach to the max and I changed every component on cooling system thermostat, radiator, hoses, water pump, overflow tank and even radiator cap. When we run the Jeep it flows the coolant to the overflow tank causing it to have not enough coolant in radiator and then it heats up. Next step is to do compression check maybe warped head or head gasket?? Also check engine light doesn’t come on ??? I’m lost and the air was bled from system too.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hello, are the cooling fan coming on

[@alexsantana5377]

Yes sir they are

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

You can perform a block test to make sure the cylinder head gasket is good, you have replaced just about everything in your cooling system.my guess if it passes the block test you still may have air in the system, are you familiar with performing a block test

[@N4UPD]

Might want to check your heater core. They are known to get clogged up.

[@michaelpincavitch5245]

My daughter has over 100 k on her 2016 wrangler 3.6 alternator is the 9nly problem is the only thing I've ever had to fix for her. It's been really reliable And she loves it!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

That’s great to hear your daughter must drive it like she loves it

[@michaelpincavitch5245]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor I work on cars for a living. Just good maintenance,that's all!

[@danielr3333]

Man I have a 2016 jeep wrangler jk and my check engine light came on ran the reader and it's giving me a p0301 which is a misfire on cylinder one I changed spark plugs but same problem it feels like it wants to shut off and shake while I come to a stop I'm going to change the coil see if it helps but watching this video kind of scared me I wonder if I'm not getting pressure in it. Quick question I have extended warranty through a 3rd party but the dealer always gives me the run around when I use it and takes like 3 weeks for anything small and now I hate the hassle can I take my jeep to any local shop and will it cover it through extended warranty?

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Find the number to the third-party warranty company and called them most local auto repair shops accept third-party warranty company I know I do

[@davem.539]

Good troubleshooting skills..

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks buddy

[@4Runner21]

What direction did the customer end up going in this case? What was the outcome? Awesome vid!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

They took it back to the dealership and they replaced it under warranty!

[@Jumpwingz]

Great video sir. I have a dilemma that you may be able to provide guidance on. 12’ JKU (114k miles) son did cold start before school and was idling during a cold morning the other day. Engine started stuttering and puffing white smoke and then died. Jeep would not start back up afterward, cranks but won’t run. Threw a code for oil pressure sensor, so I replaced it after I disassembled upper intake and lower intake manifolds. I also changed the spark plugs while in there, since they were through. Still won’t start but it sounds like it wants to. Fuel pump makes buzz noise when key is turned on so I don’t think it is bad. Do you think maybe fuel filters are plugged? Or could it be something else? Battery is good also, and fuel in tank is fresh. Any guidance would really be appreciated!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey buddy sorry to hear the bad news buddy.start by checking the engine compression with a engine compression gauge and make sure you have spark

[@Jumpwingz]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor thanks for the quick response. I will have to go buy that gauge, as I really don’t work on vehicles except for basic aftermarket upgrades, and general maintenance. I will keep you posted. Thanks for all the great videos and guidance Alex! Daniel Aiken SC

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@Jumpwingz my pleasure buddy

[@aaronmanley7595]

Awesome vid, man! I have a 2015 Jeep Wrangler JK with a 3.6L & have been dealing with a misfire the last month - rocker arms and lifters! I'll be doing those this weekend! There is a lawsuit currently in place against Chrysler/Dodge for these motors, specifically to the previously mentioned engine components. Really sad given how inexpensive the rockers and lifters are and additionally, being tied to the Jeep name. Curious to know if this was the issue got had and repaired on this particular vehicle? Thanks again for sharing! I really enjoy your analysis on different things and your teaching abilities! Keep it up, man!

[@darknes7800]

You need a new head, its the only real fix for the issue.

[@TheDirtCreature]

@@darknes7800 Exactly. The lifters probably failed and so the exhaust port burned through. The dreaded P0302.

[@lightspeedhorse8964]

For a 2012 wrangler engine in need of work do you recommend fixing or replacing for same yr, 2015 engine or any other year?

[@slowdancecore]

My Jeep JK 2014 has the exact same issue at 70k. Looking at getting another engine or selling for a more reliable vehicle 😭 So sad because I love driving it. You mentioned that the Jeep in your video may have not been broken in correctly; is a used engine with over 100k reliable?

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

It’s hard to say because you don’t know who the previous owner of that engine was, may have been a person that was rough driver and didn’t take good care of the engine. That’s why it’s good to inspect the engine if you can. I had to send back a used engine 3 times before installing it because I didn’t like what I saw during inspection.

[@oiygfdxssfgg]

You seem like a really nice guy.

[@jasonbaxter5502]

In the wire harnesses as the harnesses goes in the firewall. The data lines are touching something, probably the wiring for the lights. I bet it has shifting and small jurking.

[@js2music231]

Hi. I see you really know your stuff. I have a 2017 Jeep Wrangler sport. While driving it turned off with a check engine light misfire po300 po305 po306. Also running really rough. So my question is. What step I should do to figure out what’s going. I already swapped all the spark plugs and coils to see if the misfire will follow, but it stayed at 5 and 6

[@TheDirtCreature]

Take it to the dealership and have them diagnose it. If it is this common problem get Chrysler to pay for the repairs. Do not take no for an answer.

[@TheBballplayer05]

Can you show how to replace the right side (driver side) valve gasket on 17’ 3.6L wrangler please, I only ever see the left side (passenger side) get done. There was oil in my 2 cylinder spark plug and I’m pretty sure there is a valve leak there, but not sure how to disassemble.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey there I have a tear down video of me pulling off the valve covers on both sides that may help until I get a chance to do one on a wrangler

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnyQo5lopJiisM0

[@telluride4017]

Thank you

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

My pleasure

[@tommyclickclick]

does anyone know what vehicles with the 3.6 pentastar are compatible donors? I do have the same issue on my 17 JKU and it had less than 30k miles, I am looking forward to replace the whole engine instead trying to fix the cylinder head

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey buddy I don’t know the answer to your question but here’s a tip, at many local Salvage auto places they have the software that tells what year is compatible with your vehicle.you may want to give them a call and see if they can help you,you may have to call a few.good luck

[@reelnative01]

On that drives side head it’s 10yrs 150k miles they have a ext warranty on that head

[@traviolisupreme]

Poor Pentastar, someone neglected him in the past, such low km’s too, fixable but at 40k that’s just full neglect from previous owner ☹️

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

They said they took care of it but you know how that works sometimes

[@chiefjoseph8154]

Took care of mine, junk engine.

[@TheDirtCreature]

No! I replaced oil with premium every 3-4,000 miles. I had both a 2009 and 2014 (still have the 2014). The 2009 oil cooler broke (common problem). The 2014 had passenger side lifters replaced under warranty (common problem). Then at 80,000 miles the driver head had to be replaced for P0302. Poor maintenance will help to kill an engine, but these issues are well known, documented, and Chrysler is paying for the work as a warranty fix, regardless of mileage.

[@Kyle-nq5si]

What do you think about buying a 2015 chrysler 200s 3.6 with 15k miles. I usually work on my own vehicles have for years so I can handle more repairs that are not too extensive.

[@tuesdayskelton9233]

So I am having this issue right now with my Jeep. I’m dropping it off to the dealership this week coming. This made me super sad. Any idea of the cost of that type of job? To tear the engine down? You are super talented! And I learned a lot from this video!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey there and thanks for watching. I don’t deal with pricing that much this days what year is your Jeep, hopefully it is under warranty

[@rickteeden8656]

My 2017 Grand Cherokee Overland went in today with this same error code (P0302) I bought it new and have had it less than five years. It has less than 74k miles on it and has been meticulously maintained changing the oil every 5k miles. From what I have researching, it’s could be a worn rocker arm(s) and that could have damaged the camshaft. If so, the top of the motor will need to be torn down and the parts replaced. Could end up costing me thousands of dollars.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@rickteeden8656 sorry to hear that. Let me know how it turns out

[@rickteeden8656]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor Hey Alex, They replaced the rocker arms and the camshaft on the left bank. Ended up costing me just over $2K ☹️

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@rickteeden8656 dang hopefully that’s it for a while

[@sscbkr48]

Enjoyed watching you! I tuned in because of the mention of problems with low miles.. Should I be concerned? My 2015 2 dr 6 spd only has 7500 miles.. totally baby, even has a dust cover.. garaged over the PNW winters, only driven in the summer, it doesn't get out much. I change the oil and filter once a year. Engines like to be worked. Having heard so many negatives about the JK wrangler and this engine in particular and not using it enough, I'm concerned I could be killing it from inactivity. Like they say, use it.. or lose it. lol

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I think you should be fine sounds like you take very good care of her

[@OffTheBeatenPath_]

Sometimes you just get a bad engine. At 7500 miles for a 2015 -- KEEP IT. It will be fine.

[@gdmofo]

Coworker of mine has one of those 3.6 nothing but problems I have an old Ford truck it's a 91 F150 the engine has never been overhauled it has been well-maintained 380000 MI still going strong I'll keep my underpowered 300 cubic inch inline 6

[@reelnative01]

That head from the factory has a 150k 10yr warranty because they have a major prob with the drivers side head so I’m sure it’s under warranty

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

They took it to the dealership and the dealership took care of it

[@MrBenjo55]

I just did all my phasers , rockers, and lifters on my 3.6 Jeep that has 130k! works great! But it was not easy!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Sounds like you are the man,that was a big job

[@MrBenjo55]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor Thanks man! Love your videos!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

@@MrBenjo55 thanks for the support buddy

[@teotwawki00]

Where are you located? I have the exact same issue, and the mechanic did the exact same things. Mine has 75k miles. I'm watching now. I hope I can learn something about this issue. It runs great just like that one, and I only feel a very, very slight vibration at low idle. Other than that it's perfect. That light is messing with my mind. Lol. Thanks.

[@zublacus]

I'm crying. My 2017 tossed a P0302 while on the Rubicon Trail. 40,300 miles on the engine. I pushed and my dealer pushed, and Jeep is going to cover this and I have to pay $1500 deductible. I drove this engine around town and wheeled it. It's not my primary vehicle. I changed the oil religiously with Amzoil. Looks I like I'll get it fixed (My compression was about the same..80% of normal) but I think I'm going. to start a HEMI fund.

[@TwoFeatherChannel]

I have the same engine in my JLUR Jeep. I hope I win the lottery when it happens to mine, cause I'm throwing in a LS in it. I have 400,000 miles in a Silverado with an LS in it. Question: Why can't you use other brands of Spark Plugs in the 3.6 Pentastar engine?

[@Huckleberry54]

Why not any other spark plugs? Just curious.

[@brightsideme]

I have a 2013 Jk. At about 80k miles i had the spark plugs changed because i had the oil cooler changed. Ever since, SOMETIMES it chokes while starting. I'd say 1 in 10 times if that. Any ideas? I told them specifically to use factory spark plugs

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hello.I would get a second opinion on the spark plugs most times shops lie. Any warning lights on

[@AMC401]

How did you start that without pressing the break?

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

With push button start yes you have to push the brake with key 🔑 you don’t have to

[@mrsa101]

did it end up being the valves?

[@kennytinker24]

yeah my chrysler pacifica 2017 30k miles, bad knocking, had it turned up, still there, luckely it was a CPO vehicle with a 7 year, 120000 mile warranty on engine, had a better warranty than a new van and only had 2k miles, dealer service tried new rockers, 2 new heads, still knocking, I told them the original tech non dealer said #3 rod bearing was bad, they did not listen, finnaly after 4 weeks of trying, they replaced the engine. So far so good.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Wow that’s crazy

[@hksjoshua]

Pentastars are great but if you only have short drives you will have issues.

[@TheDirtCreature]

We lived in a city and most of our drives were highway since we used it to get out of the city. It makes no difference. It is a design defect.

[@hunterwilliams360]

what did the customer do? do you have a part 2 on this?

[@papamrk1343]

Alex... THIS WAS VERY EDUCATIONAL!!! I have a P306 ERROR with 40 PSI on my NO# 6. Looks like gotta take out a Mortgage??? or do I.... Can you give a round a bout figure of what that follow on work might cost??? Tks!

[@worksonit1]

NGK makes ACDelco plugs .. just fyi, good vid, appreciate the info

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I didn’t know that

[@philip4193]

I bought a 2008 Jeep JK Wrangler with the old 3.8L pushrod V6 new off the lot; at the time everyone said I was crazy, and that I should just wait another couple of years until the brand new OHC hi-tech Pentastar motor was released, however I had my reasons. The old Mopar 3.8L V6 had been around in one form or another since the 80's, being used & abused in minivans by soccer moms and that motor, while certainly no powerhouse by today's standards, had a solid reputation for reliability; sure, some of them were known to be oil burners but apart from that they were fairly bulletproof (even the oil burners were fine as long as you kept an eye on the oil level & kept them topped-up between oil changes in order to avoid running them dry and spinning a bearing). The new upcoming Pentastar V6 however was an unknown quantity and would undoubtedly have some teething problems as most new hi-tech motors do, which indeed turned out to be the case with frequent cylinder head failures in early years (which ended-up with a redesign of the head itself) and although these motors eventually got better as the years went by they are still known for multiple issues to this day with failing rocker arms, cracking plastic oil coolers, dry starts due to the poor design of the cartridge-type oil filter without a drain-back valve included in the housing, etc. I had originally planned to trade-in my '08 and upgrade to a later model Wrangler with the new Pentastar V6 after a few years however after seeing all the problems with this new motor I held-off. I still have my '09 Wrangler with 140K trouble-free miles on it and apart from regular maintenance items (plugs, serpentine belt, idler pulleys, scheduled coolant changes) the only thing I had to replace at 100K miles was the water pump (pump itself was fine but the gasket was leaking). I have changed the oil every 3K miles from new and expect this motor to continue to run at least another 80-100K miles trouble-free (will probably replace the injectors in the next few years purely for peace of mind)

[@county23]

My 2019 Ram has the 3.6 and got the check engine and soon the tick tick tick, took it to one of the local parts stores, they did the scan tool, got the code, Cylinder #3 either spark plug or coil pack, I couldnt get it into a dealer for 30 days, took it to a local shop, nope! it wasn't either, it was a bad cam, flat spot on cylinder #3.. not a cheap date.

[@Rubi747HVY]

I have a 2020 Gladiator with 90K miles and no issues, but I too am crying for the customer.

[@William-rf8oh]

I have a cylinder 1 misfire 3.6 2016 charger. Could bad gas?

[@darknes7800]

You have to replace the head. The line bore of the valve is off, compared to the valve seat. It does not seal or in some cases it will crack the valve. The only fix is to replace the head.

[@joejoe-the-original]

Warranty expired for the Powertrain? Are you sure? 2018-2021 is only 4 years. Missing bolts? A mod was done maybe - air intake (hmmm) , then the original parts slapped back on (but they lost the bolts?) after they screwed up the engine?, that or that previous shop was so shady or incompetent that they figured out how to blow the piston bust a pipe and lose the screws? Did they ever change the oil? or put the correct kind in?

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

That’s the first thing I asked them and they called the dealership right off the bat, and they told them it was out of warranty. That’s a good point about the upgrades 🤔 sometimes customers don’t tell me the whole truth. I don’t know if they kept up with the oil changes or put the right oil in previously. That other shop seemed very shady from what they told me. Thanks for the comment and good observation man!

[@ThoughtMachine1]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor The warranty 5yr/60k for powertrain. I smell bullsh1t here.