Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant are natural liquid or gas used to regulate the Jeep engine’s temperature. In most cases, liquid coolants consist of half water and half ethylene glycol. In order to reduce the chilled point of liquids, water is used to transfer heat, and ethylene glycol to transfer heat.
It can be difficult to get the right kind of coolant for your Jeep Grand Cherokee. So what kind of coolant should you use in a Jeep Grand Cherokee? Every Jeep Grand Cherokee driver knows the importance of refueling and changing the oil or brake fluid regularly. A less frequent question is how often to change the coolant.
It is important to replace this fluid on time to prevent your Grand Cherokee’s engine from overheating, which is a very dangerous malfunction, which can also occur on a congested highway.
To prevent this, let’s figure out together when and how to change the Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant and which one to use.
What is The Function of Engine Coolant?
Are you wondering what exactly car coolant is? To keep your car running at its best, coolant transfers heat and adds antifreeze protection.
The combustion of fuel creates energy in internal combustion engines. A portion of this energy is harnessed by the engine and used to propel the vehicle forward. As energy remains, heat is produced.
A portion of this heat escapes through the exhaust pipe. In the engine block itself, the rest remains.
Combustion temperatures average over 2,000°F and can reach 4,500°F in some instances. Melting temperatures for aluminum components are around 1,225°F.
In some ways, engine cooling problems cause many engine failures. The engine coolant protects the engine and keeps it at the optimal temperature.
How Does Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant Work?
During engine operation, coolant is collected in a reservoir attached to the radiator before being introduced to the engine block.
Liquid cooling systems combine engine coolant with engine coolant. There are several components that make up the liquid cooling system.
- Coolant circulates throughout the system thanks to the water pump.
- Radiators conduct heat away from coolants.
- It is the radiator hoses that connect the various parts of the cooling system.
- If the vehicle does not move fast enough, the fan draws air through the radiator.
- The thermostat regulates the coolant’s temperature.
Coolant circulates continuously through the engine and back through the radiator while the engine is running. Upon cooling, coolant exits from the bottom of the radiator. It then flows into the engine’s water pump, which pumps it into the engine’s block and head to absorb excess heat. A second cooling process occurs at the top of the radiator where the coolant is returned.
What Kind of Coolants Are Available for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
We recommend checking your manual first, since different years of Jeep Grand Cherokee may have slightly different antifreeze formula requirements. Jeep Grand Cherokee owners’ manuals should provide suggestions about what antifreeze to use, if not a brand and mixture.
The following are some examples of antifreeze you might be asked to use. You will also find information in your manual about how often you should change your antifreeze.
1. INORGANIC ADDITIVE TECHNOLOGY
If your Jeep Grand Cherokee was built before 1990, you may find this type of antifreeze in your manual. Even though Jeeps can last that long with some tender, loving care, you probably won’t put this type of antifreeze in your Jeep unless the manual says so.
Green is perhaps the most distinctive characteristic of IAT antifreeze. If you have a leak or spill, you’ll definitely know! This type of antifreeze was not very effective, and it had to be replaced every couple of years.
2. ORGANIC ACID TECHNOLOGY
The main advantage of OAT acid over IAT is that it can last much longer. Unlike silicates or phosphates, this type of antifreeze is much less corrosive. There are a variety of colors of OAT coolants, including red, yellow, orange, purple, and blue.
In about ten years or 135,000 miles, your Jeep will need to have this changed. Most likely, your Jeep will ask for this type of antifreeze if it was built after 2013.
3. HYBRID ORGANIC ACID TECHNOLOGY
Newer vehicles require HOAT. Although Jeep recommended this type of antifreeze up until 2013, you’re more likely to find it in German or Asian cars.
To prevent aluminum corrosion, some silicates were added back in. By removing particles that would otherwise contaminate the vehicle’s coolant, corrosion inhibitors enhance the cooling system. It lasted only 5 years or 150,000 miles, however.
This type of antifreeze might be suitable for Jeeps built before 2013.
What is the Color of Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant?
Answers vary depending on the year. Most Jeep Grand Cherokee models built after 2013 use yellow, red, purple, or blue antifreeze. You will probably find yellow, blue, purple, pink, or even turquoise if it was built before 2013.
In light of the overlap in colors, it would be better to look at the actual type of antifreeze on the bottle. You probably shouldn’t paint your Jeep Grand Cherokee green unless it’s a 1990 or older model.
Part of the reason for adding colors to antifreeze is to make it easier to spot leaks. It’s not a particularly good indicator of the actual type of material.
What Are The Best Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant?
Different Jeep Grand Cherokee models and years may require different types and amounts of coolant. There are two types of coolants: OAT (Organic Acid Technology) and HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology). DEX-COOL is another variation they use.
Does that sound confusing to you? We’ll show you how to determine what kind of coolant fluid to use.
The types of coolant used in automotive service departments can be strange, and we’ve worked with them before. In addition, we realize how important it is to get it right, which is why we will provide some information that will assist you.
What Happens If Your Jeep Grand Cherokee Runs Out Of Coolant?
Having problems with your Jeep Grand Cherokee doesn’t require you to run out of coolant. In order to prevent rust, breakage, or irreparable damage to Jeep Grand Cherokee engine components, dilution levels must be within a satisfactory range.
It is possible for your entire engine system to be compromised if you run out of coolant due to a leak or inadequate fluid levels, including the gaskets, pistons, and even the engine block.
What Are The Main Symptoms Of Coolant Misuse on Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The cavitation erosion that results from improper antifreeze use is one of the most dangerous consequences.
A simple example of cavitation is the boiling of a kettle. During this process, the bubbles collapsing make a buzzing sound.
How does this affect the cooling system of the Jeep Grand Cherokee? Whenever bubbles collapse near the surface of the metal, even over a long period of time, the metal erodes.
Surface grooves appear on the surface, which deepen over time. In metal parts, cavitation can “eat” holes if it is not detected in time.
You can prevent this issue by changing your car coolant regularly, especially if it contains extra additives (but this may not be applicable to all vehicles). Water accumulating in the refrigerant can cause cracks to form.
Furthermore, they can be quite large, causing leaks. By monitoring and updating antifreeze on time, they can be avoided.
Can The Wrong Kind of Coolant Damage Anything?
In fact, it might, especially if you leave it for too long. IAT or older types of antifreeze could harm the metals used in Jeep engines. Water pumps, radiator hoses, radiators, and gaskets in your engine can corrode and rust.
They are designed to work within certain tolerances and to withstand certain chemicals. By using the wrong chemicals, you can prematurely wear out your engine.
If you put the wrong type of antifreeze in, we recommend having it flushed out to avoid further problems.
How Often Do You Have To Change The Coolant In Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Depending on the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s model year, age, and mileage, the coolant needs to be replaced at different intervals.
After 60,000 miles (or four years), it is usually necessary to change the liquid. It is recommended to replace the coolant every 30,000 miles (or every two years).
A coolant level should remain between the “min” and “max” levels at all times. Replace the coolant if the amount has decreased to the minimum.
If It’s a sign that the radiator fluid is deteriorating it’s time to replace it.
It is also necessary to replace the coolant when tiny particles or dirt appear on the surface, indicating contamination.
Coolant changes depend on the coolant used on the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the driving conditions.
Do You Need To Mix Water With Coolant?
You shouldn’t have to adjust the coolant at all since most coolants come in a 50/50 mix of water and coolant. Rarely, a bottle of coolant may ask for distilled water mixed with it. Unless you are experiencing issues with your Jeep’s cooling system, you won’t need to use a particular coolant mixture.
How To Change The Coolant In Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers are accustomed to changing the oil and brake fluid regularly. The question of how often to change coolant arises less frequently.
By replacing this fluid on time, you protect your Grand Cherokee’s engine from overheating – a potentially dangerous malfunction that can also occur on congested highways.
Ensure this never happens by figuring out how often and how to change the coolant in your Grand Cherokee.
Untimely replacement of Jeep Grand Cherokee coolant can result in serious consequences
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced driver, you will find this information useful.
On the Jeep Grand Cherokee, coolant serves as a refrigerant. Its purpose is to remove heat from internal combustion engines. Temperatures between 85 and 90 °C are standard for motor heating. Excess can lead to such consequences as:
- An increase in fuel consumption;
- Motor power loss;
- Cylinder body expansion;
- Piston ring deformation;
- Exhaust systems are clogged with oil.
Due to all the factors described above, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s motor elements wear out, reducing their service life and resulting in a stop in the middle of a journey.
For such situations to be prevented, you need a coolant that lowers the temperature. The cooling system of the Grand Cherokee relies on it.
The untimely filing of coolant can also result in engine corrosion. A long-used refrigerant gradually accumulates dust, dirt, combustion products, silicates, etc.
Upon contact with the metal components of the engine, the liquid becomes rusty in color. In the event of corrosion, thermal conductivity, heat transfer, and radiator functions are impaired, which can lead to overheating and engine wear.
You should read your Jeep Grand Cherokee’s owner’s manual before changing the coolant.
Items needed:
- New coolant;
- Drain container;
- Pair of cloth gloves;
- Floor jack;
- A set of sockets or spanners;
- Screwdrivers (crisscross and flat);
- Pliers.
Follow these steps to change the coolant:
- Place the Jeep Grand Cherokee on an even surface and apply the handbrake (if your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, set the first gear);
- After driving recently, let the vehicle and liquids cool down for 20-30 minutes;
- You need to open the hood. Check the manual to locate the expansion tank (it’s a plastic container with fluid);
- Remove the tank cap by turning it anticlockwise, waiting for some pressure to release, then remove it completely;
- Lift the front of your car with a floor jack;
- Remove any shielding underneath;
- Under the radiator, place the container and remove the drain valve (check the manual for its location).
- Make sure all coolant has been removed from the system by cleaning it multiple times;
- There is usually a bleed screw on most cars, which allows air to assist in draining the coolant;
- Close the drain tap after draining all the coolant (reattach the hose);
- Check the radiator hoses. They must be in good condition;
Note: Some Jeep Grand Cherokee models do not have a drain valve, but rather a hose, so one must remove it to drain the liquid;
- Drain any remaining coolant from the reserve tank. After that, place the tank back where it belongs;
- You can remove the filler cap on the expansion tank. Pour a couple of liters of water into the cooling system to prevent an airlock. Ensure that the bleed screw is open;
- Add the necessary amount of coolant. Add a little more water;
- Squeeze the radiator hoses periodically to release any trapped air.
- Continue pouring coolant until you see it pouring from the bleed screw. When you notice it, close the bleed screw;
- Once the coolant level reaches “max”, screw back the expansion tank cap;
- Make sure the bleed screw is firmly closed. Under the container, remove the container;
- Run the engine for five minutes at idle speed. Make sure the electric cooling fan is turned on. Increase the torque from 2000 rpm to 3000 rpm during this time;
- After 20 minutes, stop the engine and let it cool down. Make sure there are no leaks. Be sure to check the coolant level as well.
Note: Drive your Jeep Grand Cherokee after replacing the coolant and check the liquid level once the engine is cold. Add coolant if necessary.
How Do You Know When It’s Time To Change The Coolant on Jeep Grand Cherokee?
It is important to check the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s coolant level as well as its oil and brake fluid. You will receive signs from your vehicle if you still need to do this. The following are listed:
1. Quick overheating: This is the most obvious sign that you should go to a service center or change the coolant yourself;
2. The appearance of leaks: When liquid leaks from the radiator hoses, something is amiss with the tightness;
3. Sweetish smell: It smells like sweet syrup. While driving, it is a sign that something is wrong;
The constant decrease in the coolant: Check your Jeep Grand Cherokee’s coolant reservoir in this case. There may be a crack in the hoses that pump the coolant if coolant levels drop. In this case, you should consult a mechanic.
How Long Does Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant Last?
The type of coolant you use determines how often you need to flush and replenish your vehicle’s coolant. Coolants come in a variety of types. In the mid-1990s, coolants were basically limited to one type.
The coolant contained corrosion inhibitors and lasted between 24,000 and 36,000 miles or two to three years. Coolants with a longer lifespan are not recommended for newer vehicles.
Compared to older coolants, newer ones use Organic Acid Technology (OAT). These long-life coolants can last up to five years or 100,000 miles in some cases.
Useful Tips For Coolant Change on Jeep Grand Cherokee
Even coolant has quirks and features that are worth knowing. Being knowledgeable about it also protects you and your Jeep Grand Cherokee from any harm.
Checking or replacing coolant when the engine is hot is not a good idea! You may be burned by the unexpected overflow. In addition, when it is hot, the level expands and shows the incorrect information.
Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the coolant will benefit from a periodic flush and change, as necessary.
If the coolant level decreases before the specified period, take the car in for a thorough inspection; there could be a leak.
It is highly recommended to use a coolant recommended by the manufacturer. A coolant may have different components in its structure that are good for some Jeep vehicles but not for others.
In addition to cooling, coolant protects your Jeep Grand Cherokee’s engine from corrosion and scale. Therefore, it is crucial to check the liquid level inside the reservoir and to fill it if necessary. Over time, your vehicle’s engine will be greatly improved.
Conclusion: Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant
It is important to check and replace the coolant in your Jeep Grand Cherokee. Your car’s engine will not overheat, corrosion will not occur, and other problems will not happen.
The process of replacing coolant is simple. However, it takes time, patience, and a sequence of steps. It may be advisable for you to seek the help of an experienced mechanic at the repair shop if you need more time to make it.
Read more of our articles here.
Read also: Jeep Grand Cherokee Models, Generations & Redesigns
FAQs
What coolant do I put in my Jeep Grand Cherokee?
In order to perform a complete fill, top off, or a flush/fill, you can use PEAK ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY 50/50 PREDILUTED ANTIFREEZE + COOLANT.
Does it matter what coolant I put in my Jeep?
Jeep, like many other vehicle manufacturers, has developed its own coolant or uses a coolant that is specific to the model and year of the vehicle. So yes, it does matter.
Can you mix coolant colors?
There are some people who do not mind it, as long as it matches the coolant already in the system. Experts, however, advise against mixing colors of coolants.
How do I choose the right coolant?
If you are not sure what type of antifreeze your vehicle requires, check its owner’s manual.
How do I know if my Jeep needs coolant?
You can check your coolant levels by looking at the reservoir’s side. The side of the reservoir will have markings, and you will be able to see the coolant level through it.