A Guide to the Engine Water Pump for the 2012-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Everything you need to know before replacing the engine water pump on your WK2 Grand Cherokee.
- Water pump failure is a known issue for this Grand Cherokee generation, with TSBs issued for both 3.6L and 5.7L engines.
- Symptoms include coolant leaks from the front-center of the engine, overheating, and grinding noises.
- Do not continue driving if you suspect a water pump failure, as it can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
- When replacing the pump, it is highly recommended to also replace the thermostat, serpentine belt, and idler pulleys to save on future labor costs.
Is Your Grand Cherokee's Water Pump Failing?
A failing water pump on a 2012-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee will give you clear warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to a-lot-of-trouble. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's time to inspect your cooling system immediately.
Common Failure Symptoms:
- Coolant Leaks: This is the most common sign. You might see puddles of orange, pink, or green fluid under the front-center of your Jeep. The leak often comes from the pump's "weep hole," a small hole designed to let coolant escape when the internal seals fail.
- Engine Overheating: If your temperature gauge is climbing into the red or you get an engine temperature warning light, the pump may not be circulating coolant effectively.
- Grinding or Whining Noises: A low-pitched grinding, rattling, or whining sound from the front of the engine can indicate a bad bearing inside the water pump. This noise may change with engine speed.
- Steam or Coolant Smell: A strong, sweet smell of coolant while driving or after you park is a sign of a leak. If the engine is hot enough, you might see steam coming from the engine bay.
- Loose Water Pump Pulley: If you can see the pulley on the front of the pump wobbling while the engine is running, the bearing has failed. Do not operate the vehicle if this is the case.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Warranty Extensions
There are no active safety recalls for the water pump on the 2012-2016 Grand Cherokee. However, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) did issue a technical service bulletin (TSB) and an extended warranty for some models. For Grand Cherokees with the 5.7L or 6.4L engine, FCA extended the warranty to 7 years with unlimited miles for water pump replacement due to premature seal or bearing failure. TSBs also exist for the 3.6L Pentastar engine regarding coolant leaks from the water pump. While these programs may have expired for your vehicle's age, they confirm that water pump failure is a known issue.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Water Pump
When you shop for a new water pump, you'll see the original Mopar part and many aftermarket brands. For a critical part like this, quality matters more than saving a few dollars on an unknown brand.
OEM (Mopar): This is the original part your Jeep came with. It's the benchmark for quality and fit, but it's also the most expensive option. Many owners choose to stick with Mopar, believing it offers the longest life.
Premium Aftermarket (Gates, GMB, ACDelco): These brands have a strong reputation for producing parts that meet or exceed OEM quality. Gates is a well-known manufacturer of belts and cooling system components. GMB is a major global supplier to both automakers and the aftermarket. ACDelco is also considered a reliable choice and is often more affordable than Mopar. These brands offer a great balance of price and performance.
Standard Aftermarket (Crown, Melling, US Motor Works): These brands provide a more budget-friendly option. Crown Automotive specializes in Jeep replacement parts and is a popular choice. Melling is known for engine components. While these pumps can be a good value, their service life might not match that of a premium or OEM part.
Pro Tip: Replace More Than Just the Pump
Since replacing the water pump requires draining the coolant and removing the serpentine belt, it's a perfect time to replace other related parts. Consider installing a new serpentine belt, belt tensioner, idler pulley, and thermostat at the same time. This saves you from paying for the same labor twice in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a recall on the 2012-2016 Grand Cherokee water pump?
No, there is no official safety recall. However, Jeep has acknowledged issues through Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and a 7-year extended warranty for certain engines, which may now be expired.
Can I drive my Jeep with a bad water pump?
It is not recommended. A leaking pump can quickly lead to low coolant levels, and a pump that isn't working will cause the engine to overheat. This can result in critical engine damage, such as a warped cylinder head or blown head gasket. If you suspect a water pump failure, you should stop driving and have the vehicle inspected.
What is a "weep hole"?
The weep hole is a small opening on the water pump housing. It's a safety feature. When the internal seal of the pump wears out, the weep hole allows a small amount of coolant to leak out. This makes the leak visible, warning you that the pump is about to fail completely.
Should I use a cheap aftermarket water pump?
While cheaper parts are tempting, a water pump is not a good place to cut corners. A low-quality pump can fail much sooner, forcing you to pay for the same repair all over again. Sticking with a reputable aftermarket brand like Gates, GMB, or ACDelco, or the OEM Mopar part, is a safer investment.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68079412AB
This vehicle uses a mechanical, belt-driven water pump. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 5.7L HEMI V8 use different pump designs, so ensure you order the correct part for your specific engine.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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