Engine Code

Jeep 552-63-842 Engine (2011–2013) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Jeep 552 63 842 is a 3,604 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2013. It features a 60‑degree V6 layout, dual overhead camshafts, and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This powertrain delivers 210 kW (285 PS) and 353 Nm of torque, with its high redline and linear power delivery engineered for responsive on — road performance.

Fitted exclusively to the Grand Cherokee (WK2) in markets like Europe and Australia,

Jeep Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2011–2013) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

Jeep 552-63-842 Technical Specifications

The Jeep 552 63 842 is a 3,604 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship SUVs (2011-2013). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances strong performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,604 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
V6, 60°, DOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke
96.0 mm × 83.0 mm
Power output
210 kW (285 PS)
Torque
353 Nm @ 4,800 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.2:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Stellantis MS‑6395 (SAE 5W‑20)
Dry weight
175 kg

Jeep 552-63-842 Compatible Models

The Jeep 552 63 842 was developed by Fiat Powertrain for Jeep's WK2 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and a unique intake manifold runner for the Grand Cherokee. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Jeep
Years:
2011–2013
Models:
Grand Cherokee (WK2)
Variants:
3.6L V6
View Source
Stellantis Group PT-2023

Common Reliability Issues - JEEP 552-63-842 Compatible Models

The 552 63 842's primary reliability focus is on the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoids, with elevated failure rates noted in high-mileage vehicles where oil changes were extended. Stellantis internal data indicates this is a common cause of check engine lights, while UK DVSA records show minimal MOT failures related to the engine. Using the correct oil viscosity and adhering to service intervals are critical preventative measures.

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid failure
Symptoms: Check engine light (codes P0016, P0017, P0022), rough idle, reduced power, rattling noise from timing cover area.
Cause: Internal wear or contamination of the VVT oil control solenoids, preventing them from accurately controlling camshaft phasing.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid(s) with the latest OEM part number. Perform an oil and filter change with the correct specification oil and clear the fault codes.
Oil cooler line leaks
Symptoms: Oil dripping from the front of the engine near the oil filter, low oil level warning, burning oil smell.
Cause: Degradation of the rubber O-rings or seals in the quick-connect fittings of the external oil cooler lines, allowing oil to seep out under pressure.
Fix: Replace the leaking O-rings or seals with new OEM parts. In some cases, the entire oil cooler line assembly may need replacement if the fittings are damaged.
Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) motor failure
Symptoms: Check engine light (codes P2004, P2008), reduced low-end torque, slight hesitation during acceleration.
Cause: Wear or electrical failure of the small electric motor responsible for opening and closing the intake manifold runners to optimize airflow.
Fix: Replace the IMRC actuator motor with the latest OEM part number and perform the required adaptation procedure using a diagnostic tool.
Water pump failure
Symptoms: Coolant leak from the front of the engine (driver’s side), engine overheating, whining noise from the water pump area.
Cause: Bearing wear or seal failure in the mechanical water pump, which is driven by the timing chain. This is often a wear item around 100,000 miles.
Fix: Replace the water pump assembly with a new OEM unit. It is often recommended to replace the thermostat at the same time.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Stellantis technical bulletins (2011-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

JEEP 552-63-842 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The 552 63 842 is generally a robust and durable engine. Its main long-term considerations are the VVT solenoids and water pump, which are common wear items. With regular oil changes using the correct 5W-20 specification and timely replacement of these components, the engine can easily exceed 200,000 miles with no major issues.

The most frequently reported issues are failures of the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoids causing check engine lights, leaks from the external oil cooler lines, failure of the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) motor, and eventual water pump failure. These are generally straightforward and inexpensive fixes.

The 552 63 842 engine was used exclusively in the Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2 generation) from model years 2011 to 2013. It was the standard petrol V6 engine for this model before being updated to a more efficient variant. It was not used in the Cherokee (KL) or any other Jeep platform.

Yes, the engine responds well to basic ECU remapping, which can yield modest gains of 10-20 kW and improved throttle response. More significant power increases require hardware modifications like a performance intake, exhaust, and potentially camshafts. The naturally aspirated design has less tuning potential than a turbocharged engine.

Official combined WLTP figures are around 10.5 L/100km (27 mpg UK). Real-world consumption varies: expect 12-14 L/100km (20-24 mpg UK) in mixed driving, and 9-10 L/100km (28-31 mpg UK) on long highway runs. Fuel economy is heavily influenced by the vehicle's weight and driving style.

Yes. The 552 63 842 is an interference engine. This means if the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the timing chain is very robust and designed to last the engine's lifetime under normal operating conditions.

The engine requires Stellantis MS-6395 specification 5W-20 synthetic oil. Using the correct low-viscosity oil is crucial for the proper operation of the variable valve timing system, fuel economy, and overall engine longevity. The recommended service interval is typically 12,500 km or 12 months.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

JEEP Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

Data Compilation

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

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

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