The Jeep ELF is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine was engineered for a balance of power and efficiency in mid-size SUVs, delivering 177 kW (240 PS) and 350 Nm of torque.
Installed primarily in the Cherokee and Compass models, the ELF targets drivers seeking confident highway performance with responsive urban acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and advanced engine management, meeting stringent Euro 6d‑TEMP standards across its production run.
One documented engineering update addressed potential turbocharger wastegate rattle under specific conditions, outlined in FCA Service Bulletin 09‑012‑18. This was linked to actuator calibration sensitivity at low boost levels. A revised ECU calibration and, in some cases, a modified wastegate linkage were implemented from mid‑2018 production.
All production years (2016–2020) meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards for the European market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/FCA/5681).
The Jeep ELF is a 1,995 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for mid‑size SUVs (2016-2020). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid‑range torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d‑TEMP, it balances spirited performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 177 kW (240 PS) | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,750–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d‑TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | FCA MS‑12991 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong, linear power delivery but requires premium unleaded (95 RON minimum) to prevent knock and maintain performance. FCA MS-12991 (5W-40) oil is critical for turbo bearing protection and chain longevity. The integrated exhaust manifold design aids warm-up but can retain heat; avoid aggressive driving immediately after cold starts. The GPF mandates low-ash oil and can trigger regeneration cycles during prolonged low-speed driving. The mid-2018 ECU update per FCA SIB 09-012-18 resolved most reported wastegate rattle issues.
Oil Specs: Requires FCA MS-12991 specification (FCA Owner's Manual). ACEA C2/C3 oils are generally suitable if MS-12991 is unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all model years (2016-2020) for EU/UK markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/FCA/5681).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 177 kW output requires 95 RON fuel or higher (FCA TIS Doc. F410‑C).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F401-A, F405-B, F410-C, SIB 09-008-17, SIB 09-012-18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/FCA/5681)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jeep ELF was used across Jeep's Cherokee and Compass platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts for the Trailhawk variant-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core engine compatibility occurred during its production. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the alternator (FCA TIS F400-01). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('D' for 2.0L petrol in relevant platforms). Visually, the ELF engine is identifiable by its inline-four layout and the prominent twin-scroll Garrett turbocharger on the exhaust manifold side. Differentiate from the 2.4L Tigershark engine by the direct injection fuel rail and the presence of a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) in the exhaust system. Service parts are generally consistent across model years, though ECU software versions vary; always verify part numbers against the vehicle's VIN.
The ELF's primary documented concern is minor turbocharger wastegate rattle on early builds, often linked to calibration. FCA internal data indicated this was primarily an NVH issue rather than a reliability failure, with a very low rate of actual turbo replacement required. Urban driving with frequent light-throttle inputs can make the noise more noticeable, making the ECU update a recommended mitigation for affected vehicles.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2017-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JEEP ELF.
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.
