2021-2024 Jeep/Dodge/RAM 3.6L Pentastar Coolant Leak TSB

Owners of certain 2021-2024 Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine may notice signs of a coolant leak. Manufacturer communication 9100337, issued on May 2, 2024, provides important guidance for technicians to properly diagnose these leaks, particularly those related to the water pump.

This technical service bulletin (TSB) aims to prevent unnecessary water pump replacements by emphasizing a thorough inspection process. It highlights that not all signs of coolant presence indicate a faulty water pump requiring replacement.

Symptoms of a Coolant Leak

If you own a vehicle with a 3.6L Pentastar engine, you might observe a suspected coolant leak in various ways. This could include visible puddles of coolant under your vehicle, a noticeable drop in your coolant reservoir level, or a sweet odor, which is characteristic of coolant. The manufacturer communication specifically mentions the possibility of finding coolant residue at the water pump weep hole plug area.

Important Inspection Advisory

Manufacturer communication 9100337 provides a critical advisory: "PRIOR TO PERFORMING ANY WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT, PROCEED WITH INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE LATEST VERSION OF STAR ONLINE PUBLICATION S2307000002." This means technicians must conduct a detailed inspection before deciding to replace the water pump, even if a 3.6L Pentastar coolant leak is suspected.

The bulletin notes that "Some coolant residue may be found at the water pump weep hole plug area which may be normal, but coolant should not be dripping from this location." This distinction is crucial for accurate diagnosis. If there is any uncertainty regarding whether the residue is normal or indicates an active leak, technicians are instructed to use the "Pressurized Coolant System Inspection process as found in the Dealer Connect Cooling Diagnosis and Testing Procedures."

Manufacturer Communication 9100337 Details

This manufacturer communication, identified as 9100337, is an internal document designed to guide dealership technicians. It references STAR Online Publication S2307000002 for detailed inspection instructions and requires the submission of pictures of the leak area through the DIDI process outlined in the STAR Online document. This structured diagnostic approach ensures that technicians follow a standardized procedure for addressing a 3.6L Pentastar coolant leak.

Affected Components and Parts

The primary component of concern in this communication is the water pump, referred to as "PUMP WATER." The bulletin lists several associated part numbers: 04893941A$, 04893942A$, 68311108A$, and 68311109A$. These part numbers are relevant to the water pump assembly for the 3.6L Pentastar Upgrade engine.

What Owners Should Know

If you suspect a 3.6L Pentastar coolant leak in your 2021-2024 Jeep, Dodge, or RAM vehicle, it's important to have it professionally inspected. Be aware that the presence of some coolant residue near the water pump weep hole may be considered normal by the manufacturer, provided it is not actively dripping. Insist that your technician follows the detailed inspection procedures outlined in manufacturer communication 9100337 and STAR Online Publication S2307000002 to ensure an accurate diagnosis and avoid unnecessary repairs.

Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 11000195