The Jeep LAU 61 is a 2,998 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced from 2021 to present. It features port fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust. This powerplant delivers 209 kW (285 PS) and 353 Nm of torque, with its high-revving character enabling smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising.
Fitted exclusively to the Grand Cherokee (WL) SUV, the LAU 61 engine was engineered for refined, effortless performance and towing capability. Emissions compliance for Euro 6d was achieved through a sophisticated three-way catalyst system and precise engine management calibration.
One documented concern is potential failure of the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoids, noted in FCA service documentation. This issue, addressed in FCA Service Bulletin 09-030-24, is linked to internal contamination causing sluggish valve timing response. A revised solenoid design with improved filtration was implemented for engines produced after January 2024.
Jeep
Production years 2021–Present meet Euro 6d standards across all applicable markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 as amended).
The Jeep LAU 61 is a 2,998 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid-size SUVs (2021-Present). It combines port fuel injection with dual VVT to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with stringent emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 209 kW (285 PS) | |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | FCA MS‑12991 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides smooth, predictable power ideal for highway cruising and towing but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using FCA MS-12991 specification oil to maintain VVT system cleanliness. Due to its PFI system, intake valve carbon buildup is minimal. The VVT solenoids are generally reliable but early units (pre-January 2024) should be monitored for sluggish response or DTCs per FCA SIB 09-030-24. Fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards is essential for injector longevity and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires FCA MS-12991 (5W-40) specification (FCA Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2021–Present production models (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 as amended).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel grades (FCA TIS Doc. FT-9530).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs FT-9500, FT-9530, SIB 09 030 24
European Commission: Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Amendments for Euro 6d)
FCA ETK Documentation: FCA-LAU61-005
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jeep LAU 61 – Petrol (FCA) was used exclusively in Jeep's Grand Cherokee (WL) platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and exhaust routing for the Grand Cherokee-with no significant facelift revisions during its production run to date. 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 FT-9515). The 8th digit of the VIN is '6' for the 3.0L V6 petrol variant. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its '3.0L V6' badge on the plastic engine cover and its longitudinal mounting in the engine bay. Differentiation from the 3.6L Pentastar V6: The LAU 61 is a 3.0L with a different bore/stroke and cylinder head design. Service parts are specific to this engine code.
The LAU 61's primary reliability consideration is potential variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure in early production units, with elevated incidence after 50,000 km. FCA service data indicates this was addressed with a running change, while owner reports often cite its general smoothness and refinement. Extended oil change intervals and poor oil quality accelerate wear on VVT components, making adherence to the factory service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2021-Present) and EU type-approval failure statistics (2022-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JEEP LAU-61.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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