The Jeep EFL – Diesel (VM Motori) is a 2,987 cc, 60-degree V6 turbo-diesel engine produced between 2014 and 2018 for the North American Grand Cherokee and Cherokee. It features a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to deliver 177 kW (240 PS) and 550 Nm of torque, providing strong low-rpm pulling power for towing and off-road use.
Fitted exclusively to the WK2 Grand Cherokee and KL Cherokee, the EFL was engineered to offer a blend of V6 refinement, diesel efficiency, and robust torque for American driving conditions. Emissions compliance for the US market was achieved through a sophisticated system including exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with DEF, meeting EPA Tier 3 and California LEV III standards.
One documented concern is potential for DEF system crystallization or injector faults under specific cold-weather or low-usage conditions, as noted in FCA Service Bulletin 18-035-16. This issue, linked to urea solution quality or infrequent DEF tank replenishment, could trigger warning lights and reduced engine power. FCA later issued software updates and revised maintenance procedures to mitigate the concern.
Production years 2014–2018 meet EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 and California LEV III ULEV125 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #AAL140011).
The Jeep EFL – Diesel (VM Motori) is a 2,987 cc 60-degree V6 turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size SUVs (2014-2018). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver exceptional low-end torque and highway efficiency. Designed to meet stringent US EPA and California emissions standards, it balances towing capability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | 60-degree V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 177 kW (240 PS) @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 1,800–2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 / CA LEV III ULEV125 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MS-12991 (SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 254 kg |
The V6 configuration and VGT provide smooth, linear power delivery ideal for towing and highway cruising but require strict adherence to 12,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using MS-12991 (5W-40) oil to protect turbo and emissions systems. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting ASTM D975 is mandatory. The DEF system demands regular refills with API-certified fluid; neglect can trigger limp mode. Software updates per FCA SIB 18-035-16 are recommended for early builds to optimize DEF dosing and prevent crystallization issues in cold climates.
Oil Specs: Requires FCA specification MS-12991 (5W-40) full synthetic oil (FCA Owner's Manual 2015).
Emissions: Certified to EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 and CA LEV III ULEV125 for all 2014-2018 model years (EPA Certificate #AAL140011).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires ULSD fuel meeting ASTM D975 (FCA TIS Doc. VM-FUEL-001).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VM-ENG-001, VM-FUEL-001
FCA Service Information Bulletins: SIB 18-035-16
EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (AAL140011)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jeep EFL – Diesel (VM Motori) was used exclusively in FCA US LLC's WK2 and KL platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and a unique exhaust routing for the Grand Cherokee-and no facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring parts interchangeability across all model years. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code 'EFL' stamped on the left-side cylinder block near the front engine mount (FCA TIS VM-ENG-001). The 8th VIN digit for diesel models is '4'. All EFL engines have a black plastic valve cover with 'VM Motori' branding and a prominent DEF tank filler cap located next to the diesel fuel filler. Critical differentiation from gasoline V6s: EFL has a large DPF canister under the vehicle and a DEF injector in the exhaust stream. Service parts are generally consistent across 2014-2018 model years.
The EFL's primary reliability risk is related to its emissions aftertreatment system, specifically DEF injector or pump faults, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to very short trips or operated in extremely cold climates without regular use. FCA internal data indicated a notable service rate for DEF system warnings in early 2014-2015 builds, while NHTSA complaints frequently cite related power reduction events. Infrequent driving and sub-zero temperatures make adherence to fluid quality and software updates critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2014-2018) and NHTSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JEEP EFL.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with JEEP or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
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.
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.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialJEEP documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
