2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Coolant Capacity & Type

Your 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee holds approximately 13.2 to 14.2 quarts (12.5 to 13.4 liters) of coolant, depending on the engine.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: Approximately 13.2 - 14.2 quarts (12.5 - 13.4 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology) meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-90032. This is typically purple/pink in color.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 pre-mix or concentrate mixed with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

Note: These capacities are approximate and may vary slightly. Always consult your owner's manual for the most precise information.

Flush Interval

Maintaining your Grand Cherokee's cooling system is crucial for longevity. The recommended flush intervals are:

• Normal Duty: Every 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty (e.g., heavy towing, extreme temperatures, off-road use): More frequent inspection and possibly flushing may be beneficial, but the long-life OAT coolant is designed for extended service intervals. Always inspect coolant condition at regular service intervals.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding your Grand Cherokee's cooling system is essential to prevent air pockets, which can lead to overheating. Here's a general procedure:

1. Preparation: Ensure the engine is cool. Elevate the front of the vehicle slightly to help air escape.
2. Drain (if flushing): Open the radiator drain cock (petcock) typically located at the bottom of the radiator. Remove the radiator cap for faster draining. Collect old coolant in an appropriate container.
3. Flush (optional): If performing a flush, close the drain cock, refill with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on high until warm, then drain again. Repeat until the drained water is clear. Consider using a cooling system cleaner, following its instructions.
4. Refill: Close the drain cock. Slowly add the specified Mopar OAT coolant (50/50 mix) to the radiator until full. Fill the coolant reservoir to the "COLD FILL" line.
5. Bleeding Air:
   • Start the engine with the radiator cap off (or pressure bleeder attached). Run the heater on high (full hot, full fan speed).
   • Allow the engine to reach operating temperature. As the thermostat opens, the coolant level in the radiator may drop. Top off as needed.
   • For the 3.6L Pentastar: There is often a bleeder screw on the thermostat housing/coolant pipe. Loosen it until a steady stream of coolant (without air bubbles) emerges, then tighten. Some models may not have an easily accessible bleeder, relying on the system to self-bleed through the reservoir.
   • Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge air bubbles.
   • Continue running the engine until the cooling fans cycle on and off at least once. Monitor the temperature gauge.
6. Final Check: Install the radiator cap. Drive the vehicle and re-check the coolant level in the reservoir after the engine has cooled completely. Top off if necessary.

If you're experiencing persistent air pockets or overheating, a vacuum-fill tool is highly recommended by professionals to ensure a complete fill without air.

Common Cooling System Issues for This Generation

Owners of 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokees may encounter some cooling system-related issues, including:

• Water Pump Leaks: The water pump can be a known failure point, especially on the 3.6L Pentastar engine, leading to coolant leaks and overheating.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks over time, often at the plastic end tanks or from impact with road debris.
• Thermostat Issues: A faulty thermostat can cause the engine to overheat (stuck closed) or run too cool (stuck open), impacting performance and fuel economy.
• Heater Core Clogs: Less common but possible, especially with incompatible coolants or neglected maintenance, leading to poor cabin heating.
• Coolant Reservoir/Hose Leaks: Plastic reservoirs can crack, and hoses can degrade and leak over time, often due to age and heat cycling.

Regular coolant level checks, visual inspections for leaks, and adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule are your best defense against these issues.

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