Ever spent a hot day stuck on the side of the road with steam billowing from the hood? We’ve been there too. It’s crucial to know how to maintain your Jeep Grand Cherokee, especially when it comes to the coolant. The coolant reservoir is located on the passenger side of the engine bay. Keeping an eye on this spot can save you from a lot of headache.
Let’s face it, nobody likes playing hide and seek with car parts. Whether your Grand Cherokee is an older model or a post-2013 beast, knowing where to add coolant and the right type to use makes a massive difference. You don’t want to mess around with the wrong stuff; yellow, red, or purple antifreeze for newer models and a broader range for others. Cheers to being informed and stress-free!
Before you rush out with a jug of antifreeze, remember: a hot engine is not your friend. Always check and add coolant when the engine is cool. Popping the hood on a hot engine is like opening a pressure cooker too soon. Trust us, stay safe and stay cool.
JUMP TO TOPIC
Locating The Coolant Reservoir In Jeep Grand Cherokee
Finding the coolant reservoir in a Jeep Grand Cherokee can be as easy as pie once you know where to look. Let’s dive in and locate that critical component so we can keep our engine cool. 🌡️
First, pop the hood. The coolant reservoir is usually a white, semi-transparent plastic tank with markers indicating the coolant level. It’s often labeled, so keep an eye out for that.
You’ll likely find it near the radiator. The radiator cap should be nearby too. 🚗
Watch out for the coolant that moves through the coolant system: 🚨
- The coolant starts from the **coolant reservoir**.
- It circulates through the engine and the **radiator**, absorbing heat.
- It then returns to the **coolant reservoir** via specific pathways.
A properly functioning system will ensure smooth coolant flow through these stages. Keep an eye on the coolant cap on the coolant tank. It should be tightly sealed to maintain pressure and prevent leaks. 🔧
If you run into issues, like low coolant levels or leaks, it can affect the car’s performance. Always maintain the coolant level within the specified range. Such a simple step safeguards the engine and keeps it running cool. 🛠️
Step-By-Step Guide To Adding Coolant
Adding coolant to our Jeep Grand Cherokee is simple if we follow the steps correctly. Let’s jump right in!
Materials Needed:
- Proper coolant (OAT coolant, Dex-Cool, or Zerex G05)
- Distilled water
- Funnel
- Gloves 🧤
Steps:
-
Park the Jeep:
Make sure we park on level ground and turn off the engine. Let the engine cool. -
Locate the Radiator and Reservoir:
Pop the hood. The radiator cap and coolant reservoir are usually near the front. -
Open the Radiator Cap:
⚠️ A WarningNever open the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The coolant can spurt out and cause burns. 🌡️
-
Check Coolant Level:
Look at the reservoir. The coolant should be at or above the “Full” line. If it’s low, we need to add more. -
Prepare the Coolant Mix:
Mix 50% coolant (preferably HOAT or OAT coolant, like Zerex G05) and 50% distilled water unless we have premixed coolant.Coolant Type Brand Features OAT Mopar Long-lasting Dex-Cool Prestone Anti-corrosion HOAT Zerex G05 Hybrid technology -
Add Coolant:
Using the funnel, add the coolant mix to the radiator until it’s full. Do the same for the coolant reservoir. -
Replace the Radiator Cap:
Securely put the radiator cap back on. -
Check the Heater Core:
Start the engine, turn on the heater, and check for warm air. This helps circulate the coolant. -
Look for Leaks:
Confirm there are no leaks and check the coolant level again after a few days. 🛠️
Tips For Maintaining Proper Coolant Levels
Keep your engine in top shape by maintaining proper coolant levels. It’s vital for preventing overheating and corrosion.
First off, always check the coolant level while the engine is cold. Hot engines can cause burns.
Be Aware of Coolant Types
Coolant types: Make sure to use the correct coolant, whether you need OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology). Your owner’s manual will have this info.
Regular Checks
Check regularly: We should check the coolant level every month. Always park on level ground and let the engine cool.
Inspect hoses: Make sure coolant hoses are tight and free of leaks.
Coolant Color and Quality
Coolant color: Look at the coolant color. Orange or green coolant should be clear. Cloudy or rusty coolant needs replacing because it may lead to overheating.
| Coolant Color | Condition | Action |
| Orange/Green | Clear | Good |
| Orange/Green | Cloudy/Rusty | Replace |
Watch for Leaks
Check for leaks: Look around the coolant reservoir and under the vehicle for any signs of leaks. Leaks can indicate issues like a head gasket or water pump problem.
Ignoring leaks can lead to engine overheating and costly repairs.
Refilling Coolant
Adding coolant: When adding coolant, ensure it reaches the “Full” line on the coolant reservoir. Always use a mixture of coolant and water, typically 50/50.
Use the right coolant: Check the manual or ask at your local auto parts store if you’re unsure. Using the wrong type may cause damage.
By following these tips, we can help ensure that our Jeep Grand Cherokee stays in excellent condition. Keep an eye out for any signs of trouble, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if needed.
We love what we do, and it shows in everything we do and more. We share our knowledge, here on Ran When Parked.
- Best Exhaust Tip for Deep Sound: Top Picks for 2025 - May 3, 2025
- Best Clear Coat for Headlights Reviewed: Top Picks for Enhanced Visibility - May 3, 2025
- Best Car Coffee Table Books for Auto Enthusiasts - May 3, 2025