The Jeep J8S is a 1,956 cc, inline‑four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2023. It features common-rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering outputs ranging from 103 kW (140 PS) to 125 kW (170 PS) with torque figures between 320–350 Nm. Its robust design prioritizes low-end pulling power for off-road and towing capability.
Fitted to models such as the Renegade and Compass, the J8S engine was engineered for drivers seeking diesel efficiency, strong torque delivery, and dependable performance in varied conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, allowing Euro 6d‑TEMP compliance for most production years.
One documented engineering update addressed potential EGR cooler internal leakage under high thermal load, highlighted in FCA Service Bulletin 19‑032‑20. This was linked to specific coolant chemistry and duty cycles. Revised cooler cores and updated engine management software were introduced from MY2021 production.
Jeep
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2023 models meet Euro 6d standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Jeep J8S is a 1,956 cc inline‑four turbocharged diesel engineered for compact SUVs (2016-2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP/Euro 6d standards, it balances rugged performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–350 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (pre‑2021); Euro 6d (2021+) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | FCA MS-11106 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and off-road use but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals (max 20,000 km) to prevent turbo and EGR system wear. FCA MS-11106 (5W-30) low-SAPS oil is critical for protecting the DPF and SCR system. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce soot accumulation. Revised EGR coolers from MY2021 address internal leakage concerns documented in FCA SIB 19-032-20. The SCR system mandates regular AdBlue top-ups; running dry triggers a torque reduction and eventual no-start condition.
Oil Specs: Requires FCA MS-11106 low-SAPS specification (FCA Owner's Manual). Supersedes ACEA C2/C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to pre-2021 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 2021+ models meet Euro 6d.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (FCA TIS Doc. TIS-J8S-201).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-J8S-101, TIS-J8S-102, SIB 19-032-20
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jeep J8S was used across Jeep's Small Wide 4x4 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the Renegade and revised AdBlue tank routing for the Compass-and from 2021 the facelifted models adopted updated EGR coolers and SCR control units, creating minor hardware interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (FCA TIS Doc. TIS-J8S-005). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('9' for 1.9L). Pre-2021 models have a silver engine cover; post-2021 units feature a black engine cover. Critical differentiation: Early J8S engines use Bosch EDC17C79 ECU, while post-2021 units use EDC17C79.1 with updated emissions mapping. Service parts, particularly for the EGR system, require model year and production date verification due to the cooler revision (FCA SIB 19-032-20).
The J8S engine's primary reliability consideration is EGR cooler integrity under sustained high-load conditions, with elevated incidence in towing or hot-climate environments. FCA internal quality reports from 2021 noted a measurable rate of premature cooler failure in pre-MY2021 builds, while owner feedback frequently cites DPF regeneration issues in predominantly short-trip urban driving. Consistent use of correct oil specification and AdBlue makes preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JEEP J8S.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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