Engine Code

CHRYSLER EWR engine (2011–2014) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Chrysler EWR is a 3,604 cc, 60‑degree V6 petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2014. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing (VVT), delivering a strong balance of power, refinement, and fuel efficiency. The Pentastar architecture introduced advanced combustion chamber design for improved thermal efficiency.

Fitted to models such as the Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger, and Jeep Wrangler, the EWR engine was engineered for responsive, versatile performance across sedans and SUVs. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting stringent U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards.

One documented engineering update addressed potential oil filter housing gasket leaks in early production units, as noted in Chrysler Service Bulletin 09‑020‑12. This was linked to material compatibility under prolonged heat cycles. A revised gasket material was implemented for engines produced after September 2012 to resolve this concern.

Chrysler Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2011–2014 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-2345).

EWR Technical Specifications

The Chrysler EWR is a 3,604 cc 60-degree V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2011-2014). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it represents a significant evolution in Chrysler's V6 engine technology.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,604 cc
Fuel typePetrol
Configuration60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke96.0 mm × 83.0 mm
Power output283 hp (211 kW)
Torque260 lb-ft (353 Nm) @ 4,800 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI)
Emissions standardU.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5
Compression ratio10.2:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven (maintenance-free design)
Oil typeSAE 5W-20 (MS-6395 specification)
Dry weight175 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC V6 configuration provides smooth, responsive power ideal for highway merging and towing, but requires adherence to 5W-20 oil specification (MS-6395) to ensure proper lubrication of the variable valve timing system. Early engines (pre-September 2012) should have the oil filter housing gasket inspected if external oil leaks are noted, per Chrysler Service Bulletin 09-020-12. The engine's high compression ratio demands premium unleaded fuel (91 octane or higher) for optimal performance and to prevent knocking.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-20 meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification (Chrysler Service Manual 09-021-12).

Emissions: Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2011-2014 EWR engines (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-2345).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures apply to standard tune; no factory high-output variant exists.

Primary Sources

Chrysler Technical Service Manuals: Docs 09-021-12, 09-022-12, 09-020-12

EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (A-2345)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

EWR Compatible Models

The Chrysler EWR was used across Chrysler's PF and JK platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the Wrangler off-road package-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Chrysler
Years:
2011–2014
Models:
200
Variants:
Touring, Limited
View Source
Chrysler Group PT-2021
Make:
Dodge
Years:
2011–2014
Models:
Avenger
Variants:
SXT, R/T
View Source
Chrysler Group PT-2021
Make:
Jeep
Years:
2012–2014
Models:
Wrangler (JK)
Variants:
Sahara, Rubicon
View Source
Chrysler Service Manual 09-021-12
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code 'EWR' cast into the left-side cylinder head, near the front of the engine (Chrysler Service Manual 09-021-12). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'H' for vehicles equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine. Visually, the engine features a black composite intake manifold with '3.6L' embossed on top and a distinctive coil-on-plug ignition system. Critical differentiation from the 3.5L V6 (EBD): The EWR has a wider bore spacing and a different intake manifold design. Service parts are generally consistent across all model years; however, pre-September 2012 engines require the specific revised oil filter housing gasket (Part No. 68077920AA) as per Service Bulletin 09-020-12.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Chrysler Service Manual 09-021-12

Location:

Engine code 'EWR' cast into the left-side cylinder head, near the front (Chrysler Service Manual 09-021-12).

Visual Cues:

  • Black composite intake manifold with '3.6L' embossed on top.
  • VIN 8th digit is 'H'.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Chrysler Service Bulletin 09-020-12

Intake Manifold:

Intake manifolds are interchangeable across all EWR-equipped models and years.

Oil Filter Housing:

Oil filter housing gaskets for engines manufactured before September 2012 (per SB 09-020-12) are incompatible with later production engines due to a material revision.

Common Reliability Issues - CHRYSLER EWR

The EWR's primary reliability consideration is potential oil filter housing gasket leaks in early builds, with elevated incidence noted in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Chrysler internal data prompted a service bulletin for engines built before September 2012, while U.S. NHTSA data shows no significant safety recalls linked to the engine. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-specified oil can exacerbate wear, making adherence to the MS-6395 specification critical.

Oil filter housing gasket leak (early builds)
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips on driveway, oil residue on engine block near oil filter, low oil level warning.
Cause: Original gasket material in pre-September 2012 engines degraded under prolonged heat cycles, leading to external oil seepage.
Fix: Replace the oil filter housing gasket with the updated, more durable design (Part No. 68077920AA) as specified in Chrysler Service Bulletin 09-020-12.
Variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure
Symptoms: Check Engine Light (P0016, P0022), rough idle, reduced power, rattling noise from front of engine.
Cause: Solenoid can become clogged with debris from degraded oil or fail electrically, preventing proper cam phaser operation.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid(s) and perform an oil and filter change with correct specification oil.
Thermostat housing failure
Symptoms: Coolant leak from the front/top of the engine, low coolant level, engine overheating warning, sweet smell.
Cause: The plastic thermostat housing can crack or its gasket can fail due to age and thermal cycling, a common issue in Pentastar engines.
Fix: Replace the entire thermostat housing assembly with an OEM unit and refill the cooling system with the correct coolant.
Exhaust manifold bolt breakage
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from engine (especially at cold start), exhaust smell in cabin, Check Engine Light for lean codes.
Cause: Exhaust manifold bolts can become brittle and break due to repeated thermal expansion and contraction cycles.
Fix: Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts with updated, higher-grade hardware. Often requires removing the manifold for access.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (2011-2014) and U.S. NHTSA recall data (2011-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about CHRYSLER EWR

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHRYSLER EWR.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCHRYSLER documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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