Is the Jeep 3.6 Pentastar a Good Engine?

Aug 20, 2021

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 has powered several Jeeps since its 2011 debut, including the Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Gladiator. While it started off with a few issues, it’s now one of the most common engines found in modern Jeeps.

Jeep 3.6 - Photos by FCA

Key Points

The Pentastar 3.6-liter engine debuted in Jeeps lineup for the 2011 Grand Cherokee.
The 3.6-liter Pentastar is found on three Jeep models, the Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Gladiator.
Power figures for the Pentastar 3.6-liter range from 260 to 293 horsepower depending on year, model, and trim.
Early reliability issues for the 3.6-liter consisted of cylinder head and rocker arm failure, and clogs in the cooling system.
Some owners have reported impressive reliability of 626k, 307k, 175k, and 141k miles on their trouble-free engines.

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Sterling Edition

3.6-liter Pentastar Powers Jeep Wranglers, Grand Cherokees, & Gladiators

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 debuted in the Jeep Grand Cherokee in 2011, replacing the previous model’s 3.7-liter Powertech. As of 2021, it’s still the base engine in the Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Gladiator. The 3.6-liter was first available on the Wrangler in 2012 and has been in the Jeep Gladiator since its 2020 launch.

While it may be the base offering on these models, its specs make it anything but.

Pentastar 3.6-liter Engine Specs, Performance & Fuel Economy

Horsepower has always been a strong point of the 3.6-liter, which ranges from 260 to 293 depending on model, trim, and year. However, gas mileage was less impressive on early models, ranging from a low of 16/22 city/highway on a 2011 Grand Cherokee to 19/26 on 2021 models.

In Motor Trend’s first drive of a 3.6-powered 2018 Wrangler, it took 6.9 seconds for their Unlimited to go from zero to 60. That’s not bad considering it’s mainly designed for off-road applications.

3.6-liter Issues Include Premature Wear and Overheating

Things started off a bit rocky for the 3.6-liter. A number of 2011-2013 Jeep vehicles experienced issues upon launch, especially in the left cylinder head. Failure was generally signaled by engine knock coming from the left side of the engine and was due to excessive premature wear.

In 2012, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the then-parent company of Jeep, revised the heads by adding hardened valve guides and seats, which alleviated the problem. In addition, FCA extended their factory warranty on left-side cylinder heads to 10-year/150,000-miles for all 2011 and 2012 vehicles as well as select 2013 vehicles.

Another issue for the 3.6-liter Pentastar stemmed from rocker arm failure. The issue caused cylinder misfires resulting in a ticking sound coming from the engine. A service bulletin was issued in March 2014, but no additional warranty has been offered to 3.6-liter engine owners to date.

Lastly, owners experienced issues with the engine’s cooling systems, and, according to Repair Pal, with their Jeeps overheating. Consequently, owners have reported bringing their vehicles to dealers for multiple replacements of thermostats, water pumps, oil pumps, oil coolers, and radiators.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Sahara - Photo by Stellantis

Should You Buy a Jeep with the 3.6-liter Pentastar Engine?

Despite initial hiccups, 3.6-liter Pentastar has proven to be a solid and reliable heart for many FCA vehicles, including Jeep. Most failures tend to occur in auxiliary engine equipment such as water pumps and radiators, but the block, internal components, and cylinder heads have far surpassed expectations in terms of reliability.

As for performance, the Jeep 3.6-liter still has enough power and grunt to be considered competitive. Even a decade later, this engine offers adequate performance.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a Jeep or other FCA vehicle, grab the 3.6-liter Pentastar with an extended warranty and you’ll have plenty to smile about for years to come.

Photos: Stellantis

Frequently Asked Questions

Mar 27, 2022

How many miles can you put on a 3.6 Pentastar?

The Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar engine can be found across many different vehicles from Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram and it is known to be a good motor when it comes to longevity. These engines should have no problem going over 200,000 miles as long as you take care of them, and there are a few that have traveled much farther than that.

The 3.6L Pentastar is the latest evolution on Chrysler's V6 lineup that they have been building since 1989. They have had some issues in the past with the earlier years of their V6, but they have improved a lot and the latest 3.6L is known to be a great choice to go with if you are looking to get decent power out of a naturally aspirated 6 cylinder engine.

As long as you take care of your 3.6L engine it should be able to last a very long time. These engines are considered to be some of the last great naturally aspirated V6 engines available on the market today as more brands move to turbos.

How much HP can a 3.6 Pentastar handle?

The Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar V6 is used in many different vehicles and that has led to an enthusiast group forming around the engine. These are known to be robust engines that can last a long time, and with some modifications can make a decent amount of power. It is generally accepted amongst tuners that a 3.6L can make about 450 horsepower with stock internals.

To get to the 450 horsepower level you will usually need to go with forced induction on your engine, so you will need either a turbo or supercharger kit. These can help improve performance, but the extra pressures do put more wear and tear on your engine which can affect its reliability in the long run.

Any time that you modify an engine you are trading off reliability in the pursuit of performance. If you are fine with this then the Pentastar 3.6L V6 is a great platform to start with since there are plenty of aftermarket parts available from intakes and tunes through to forced induction kits.

Does the 3.6 L Pentastar have a timing belt?

The Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar V6 comes standard with a timing chain instead of a timing belt. Timing chains are a better option than a belt because they usually do not need to be changed throughout the life of the vehicle, and do not break as often as belts do.

Chrysler chose a unique approach with the 3.6L Pentastar because it has four total timing chains. This design was used to provide better engagement between the sprocket and the chain. The added benefit is that using more chains leads to less chain slap and that reduces the noise, making this a much quieter engine than some of the chain-driven competition.

Even though you have a timing chain you may still need to access things under the timing cover and replace them from time to time. This can be a tricky task since the timing cover is not very accessible on a 3.6L V6, so expect higher labor rates if something does need to be replaced.

Owner Reviews

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Greg on June 20, 2023

2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland

I bought a certified pre-owned 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 85k, this month and my first month with it has been better than expected. We've all heard of Chrysler's problems with quality and reliability, but even at near 100k miles this car is nothing short of rock solid. The Alpine sound system, while not the absolute best money can buy, is more than adequate for the average daily. The air bag suspension offers a smooth ride with minimal body roll, but it is truck like (It's not a Cadillac, you will feel the bumps in the road). The powertrain feels firm, but underpowered. You get the general sense that the 3.6L V6 could give you a little more, but manufacturers underpower engines to help them last longer. The interior is beautiful and you get the feeling of being in a luxury SUV (Seriously, it's that nice) and it feels timeless. Sure, 2023 has presented it's own new automotive trends, but this Grand Cherokee still looks and feels premium. My only complaints (So far) are that the A/C system appears to have a really, really small leak. The brakes and rotors are due for replacement, but hey, it's a 6 year old, 85k mile car. Proper maintenance is to replace them every 80k miles or after 2 sets of brake pads, so it's time. OPINION: The engine could REALLY do with a little more torque. The Grand Cherokee is a heavy SUV, especially with 4WD. Low-end torque would do wonders for this thing, but I'm also used to driving trucks. Overall solid 8/10 for a used car.

Bob F on February 12, 2023

Pentastar 3.6 engine failure

I purchased a 2018 Jeep grande Cherokee in 2021. In November I hit 60,000 miles and check engine light came on. I brought it back to the dealer and they told me I had a cylinder five misfire. They changed out all the spark plugs and also changed the leaky water pump. They charged me almost $1000 to change the spark plugs.I picked up the vehicle and the next day in the morning the check engine light is back on. Brought it back to the dealer and this Miss Schem misfire code came back up so problem was not fixed that was around Thanksgiving of 2022 today the car is still at the dealer. They said the head was bad. Other components were bad and the stud in the head also snapped off. At this point the vehicle has been at the dealer for 2 1/2 months with no answer as to when or even if it is going to be repaired. Fortunately. I did purchase the extended warranty because Chrysler will not stand behind. They’re extremely defective engines rest assure I will never purchase another Chrysler/Jeep product again. So if you I did purchase the extended warranty because Chrysler will not stand behind. They’re extremely defective engines rest assure I will never purchase another Chrysler/Jeep product again. So if you were thinking of purchasingvehicle with this 3.6 Pentastar engine. I highly recommend against it just another inferior Chrysler product In which Chrysler will not stand behind.

Tammy Longnecker-Huggins on July 12, 2022

2012 Jeep Wrangler Sahara

I bought this vehicle for my daughter's fitst vehicle. All was good with regular oil changes and tire rotation. Recently the engine light came on and it was the oil pressure sensor so we had that repaired. Her Step-Dad takes it to get a 2 1/2 lift and black wheels with more aggressive tires. We go to pick it up and I get in it crank it up and it kinda sputtered or something so i put in reverse to back out of parking space and pull down in Drive and it dies right there. I've had several mechanics look at it and they tell me the motor is locked up. Now I've got to come up with money to get a motor then have it installed. My daughter has drove it for 2 years and this happens. We bought it used from a Jeep Dealership where their vehicles are supposed to be thoroughly checked before they resale them. Anyway, this sucks.

Frank from Elsinore on May 4, 2022

2017 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2DR Softtop

I really enjoy this Jeep!, it looks great, had a couple of hiccups, but nothing to bad, new oil pump, 2 injectors and all 6 coils replaced, however, it runs like it will last forever. I've got 104000 miles so far, and when this engine finally goes, I'll replace it with a new or rebuilt 3.6. Great performance, quick to pass on freeways, and fun off road. I put a 2.5" lift, 33" tires, added a nice sound system with Apple Car Play and a subwoofer in the back, its not a Lexus, but I didn't want a Lexus. Drive a Jeep and you're hooked for life!

Keith Layne on December 1, 2022

I will not own a jeep grand cherokee laredo limited anymore.

At 110,000 miles had to have the engine rebuilt due to blowing a head gasket and fuel leaking back into the engine which caused it to seize up. A car should drive at least 200, 000 miles before engine goes bad. This car was a 2017 and paid a lot of money for it. I called Jeep Care and they said there was nothing they could do. Because of that i will never own a Jeep, Chrysler or Dodge product. They s**k.

Richard Gray on October 24, 2021

Amazing power and gas milage

2016 Dodge Charger 3.6 L V6. I have base model charger that is far from just a plain old V6. This car with some modifications that I have done myself can run with the big dogs. It’s hard to believe at 85 miles an hour I can still mash it and the car will jump up and respond. All the time getting over 20 miles to the gallon of fuel. Do yourself a favor and try it for yourself.

Tony C on August 13, 2021

Smooth ride, great look. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Altitude.

Very reliable vehicle. It is a comfortable drive and I have had very minimal issues with it over the years. It does pretty well on gas since it is only a v6, is very good at keeping up speed on the highway.

Kevin M on July 19, 2021

2012 Jeep Wrangler Sahara pros and cons over 100,000 miles.

For performance the 3.6 liter V6 has done very well for me, with just regular maintenance it has never given me any doubt about completing a road trip or making it to work in any weather conditions.

Steve D on April 10, 2021

2014 Jeep Wrangler maneuverability and the unique customization ability.

Jeep wrangler unlimited has great handling for off-road capabilities and has great engine power in its v6. The ability to perform maintenance on the vehicle was a big selling point for me.

Randall B on March 31, 2021

Why the 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a good daily driver.

The 3.6 liter Pentastar v6 power plant seems to be refined and produces more than enough power to get the little jeep up the road although you do suffer some lose in gas mileage.

Wz on August 13, 2022

2020 Gladiator 3.6 rocker arm failure

The Jeep has 52,000 miles on it. It's in the shop with rocker arm failure and camshaft damage. Right bank. I won't buy another Chrysler product with the other engine failures.

Jeremy B on August 19, 2021

2017 Jeep Wrangler sport 2 door.

Keeping up with traffic with ease thanks to the powerful v6 motor but where it really shines is on the weekend when I get to lock it in 4x4 and play in the mud and hills.

Travis N on June 30, 2021

What I love about my 2015 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler, I definitely recommend

I'd recommend to anyone who loves off-roading and also the v6 is amazing and powerful with wonderful fuel mileage. Great daily driver and also 4x4 works excellent!

Sergio on March 19, 2022

3.6L penta

I have 30k on my gladiator without any engine problems. Strong engine. Even towing 6 rolls of hay about 450lbs a piece. Easy to change oil. Easy maintenance

Phillip H on May 1, 2021

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo all wheel drive, stability and handling.

The 3.6 v6 is a powerful engine with in my opinion is very fuel efficient for the size of the vehicle even pulling a trailer with a 2000 pound tow capacity.

Raquel M on August 13, 2021

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo interior is beautiful, I love the look of the dashboard and leather seats.

Drives nice, quiet, plenty of power and tows our boat very well. Great car for traveling, hauling and towing. Base v6 and 8 speed trans are excellent match.

Lori T on July 5, 2021

2011 Jeep Wrangler Sport V6 4 wheel drive 18 inch rims

No problems good on gas mileage, performance is outstanding. Jeeps are reliable on and off road with the most comfort and awesome legroom for tall people.

William S on July 3, 2021

Best on and off road vehicle! 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sahara.

Very reliable with many great features. Not a fast car or a car with good gas mileage. Has a 3.6 liter v6 gas engine and automatic transmission.

Brain G on July 10, 2021

There's nothing like a 2015 Jeep Wrangler Sport.

My 2015 wrangler has been a fun and reliable vehicle. The v6 engine is not exactly peppy, but it provides enough power to tow a small trailer.

Christian W on March 25, 2021

Can never go wrong with a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo.

Disappointed in the V6 3.6L powertrain. Lacks true performance and speed when needed, but still get excellent MPG (23-26) for a mid size SUV.

M D on March 31, 2021

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee LAREDO: Great SUV for the value in its class.

Wish that the v6 was more powerful as it tends to hesitate when accelerating which is needed in high traffic times on the interstate.

Dennis Y on June 30, 2021

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is stylish and sleek look with excellent performance.

V6 that puts out more than enough power to drive off-road or on the road with good miles to the gallon.

Andrew Z on July 22, 2021

2020 Jeep Wrangler Sport S reviewed.

The handling was great. In everyday driving, the v6 power is spot on and gives you the power you need.

Vandy C on May 13, 2021

2017 Jeep Wrangler Sport extremely reliable except on gas.

It is a pretty basic wrangler but 4 wheel drive is great and had amazing torque for the 3.6 liter.

Day M on June 9, 2021

2017 Jeep Wrangler love the body type and size.

It actually gets pretty good gas mileage for its size/shape, weight and v6 engine.

Ryan W on June 2, 2021

The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been reliable and comfortable for all of our long trips.

The engine is a V6 so the performance is great. Wish it had better gas mileage.

Katie K on May 22, 2021

2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited - I have never had to take it in for repairs.

I have had no problems with this vehicle. It is extremely reliable. V6 engine.

Kimberly Z on June 30, 2021

2015 Jeep grand Cherokee, great first SUV purchase.

For a v6, it has quite a bit of power and can comfortably fit a family of 4!

Peter P on May 7, 2021

2017 Jeep Wrangler Sport - Not Built for Comfort.

Equipped with a 3.6L V6 Engine it is quite peppy. 260 horse 4800 rpm.

Emily B on June 29, 2021

My vehicle is a white 2016 Jeep Wrangler Sport edition.

The air conditioning works really well and the v6 engine is powerful.

Colena W on May 6, 2021

For it being a v6, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo has a lot of get up and go from a dead stop.

Performance is great! It has been super reliable!

Lynn K on May 21, 2021

Power and size make the2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee OVERLAND worth the buy.

I love the power of the v6 engine.

Karyn J on April 13, 2021

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 7 years with very few maintenance issues

The gas mileage is good for a V6.

Tyler Linn

Tyler joined Vehicle History as a contributing writer in 2021 and has worked in the automotive industry as a journalist since 2019. His area of expertise lies in '80s and '90s Japanese imports and Toyota/Lexus vehicles. When he's not writing, Tyler likes to jam out to screamo or synthwave in his '94 Toyota Soarer as he pushes it through the twisties with his car club. Check out his poor taste in photography and Christian memes via IG: @tylerlinn5