3.6 Pentastar Engine for Sale | OEM Used Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis 3.6 Liter Naturally Aspirated V6 with Variable Valve Timing

Description

About the 3.6 Pentastar Engine

Are you in the market for a powerful and reliable engine upgrade? Look no further than our selection of used 3.6 Pentastar engines for sale at Part Nests. This versatile powerplant has been a staple in Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles since 2011, offering impressive performance and proven longevity across millions of vehicles. Whether you are replacing a worn 3.6 Pentastar in your Jeep Wrangler JK, completing a Grand Cherokee rebuild, or sourcing a replacement for your Dodge Charger or Chrysler Pacifica, our inventory includes carefully inspected and tested Pentastar engines.

However, we believe in honest disclosure of known engine issues so you can make an informed buying decision. The 3.6 Pentastar has one significant documented issue affecting pre-2014 builds that every buyer should understand before purchase. Read the dedicated section below.

Engine Overview: The Chrysler 3.6 Pentastar V6

The 3.6 Pentastar engine stands as Chrysler modern V6 workhorse, introduced in 2011 in the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 and quickly rolled out across the entire Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis lineup. Within a few years of launch, the Pentastar replaced a wide variety of older Chrysler V6 engines including the 3.5L EGF, 4.0L SOHC, 3.7L PowerTech (Magnum), and 3.3L EGA. By 2013, the Pentastar was in nearly every Chrysler product that needed a V6.

Specifications:

• Displacement: 3.6 liters (3,604 cc / 220 cubic inches)
• Bore x Stroke: 96 mm x 83 mm
• Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 to 11.3:1 depending on application
• Configuration: 60-degree V6, all-aluminum construction
• Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (24 valves total), Variable Valve Timing on both camshafts
• Fuel System: Sequential multi-port fuel injection (most variants)
• Power Output: 283 to 305 HP depending on application
• Torque: 260 to 270 lb-ft depending on application
• Built At: Trenton Engine Plant, Michigan

Power Output by Application

The 3.6 Pentastar is tuned slightly differently for various vehicles:

Honest Disclosure: The Left Bank Cylinder Head Issue (Pre-2014 Builds)

We disclose known engine issues honestly so buyers can make informed decisions. The 3.6 Pentastar has one significant documented issue affecting pre-2014 builds that every potential buyer must understand:

The pre-2014 Pentastar has a documented left bank cylinder head failure pattern. The most common symptom is a persistent #2 cylinder misfire (occasionally #4 or #6 instead), which does not resolve with new spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. The root cause is a manufacturing defect in the left bank cylinder head casting that allows valve seat dropping or cracking, particularly around exhaust valves.

Chrysler response:

• Issued TSB 09-004-13 in 2013 documenting the procedure for left bank head replacement
• Extended warranty coverage for affected vehicles (up to 10 years / 150,000 miles depending on specific terms)
• Approved repair: full left bank cylinder head replacement

Symptoms of pre-2014 Pentastar left bank head failure:

• Persistent #2 cylinder misfire (P0302 code)
• Code does not resolve with ignition / fuel / injector replacement
• Sometimes #4 (P0304) or #6 (P0306) misfire instead
• Occasionally rough idle and reduced power
• Eventually: more severe damage requiring head replacement

The 2014 Pentastar Upgrade Solved It

In 2014, Chrysler introduced the “Pentastar Upgrade”, a comprehensive revision that addressed multiple first-generation issues:

• Revised cylinder head castings that solved the left bank failure issue
• Improved oil cooler design (less prone to leaks)
• Revised timing chain components
• Updated VVT solenoids
• Modest power and efficiency gains

2014 plus Pentastar engines are substantially more reliable than pre-2014 builds. When buying a used Pentastar, always verify the production year, 2014 plus is significantly better than 2011-2013.

Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis V6 / V8 Engine Family Context

The 3.6 Pentastar (this listing) is the modern Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis V6 workhorse that replaced multiple older Chrysler V6 engines. For broader Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis engine family context across our catalog: the predecessor SOHC V8 architecture is represented by the Chrysler 4.7L PowerTech (our vaz181 listing, SOHC V8 with 2 valves per cylinder, MPFI sequential fuel injection, cast iron block with aluminum heads, 235 HP Standard / 265 HP HO / 310 HP VVT variants, used in Ram 1500 / Dakota / Durango / Grand Cherokee WJ-WK / Commander / Aspen 1999-2013, officially PowerTech NOT Magmum since the Magnum name applied only to the older 5.2L and 5.9L V8 engines), which is the predecessor Chrysler V8 from the 1999-2013 era that operated alongside the early Pentastar before being phased out. For the modern Chrysler V8 high-performance context, the 392 Hemi Apache 6.4L V8 (our vaz182 listing, modern Chrysler / Stellantis third-generation Hemi V8 with hemispherical combustion chambers, OHV pushrod valvetrain, available in SRT Performance 470-485 HP / 470-475 lb-ft variant for Challenger / Charger SRT 392 / Scat Pack / Grand Cherokee SRT / Wrangler 392 / 300 SRT8 OR HD Truck 410 HP / 429 lb-ft variant for Ram 2500 / 3500 HD 2014 plus the gas alternative to the 6.7 Cummins diesel) is the modern Chrysler high-performance naturally-aspirated V8. Three Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis engine architectures across different eras and applications: 3.6 Pentastar (this listing) the modern naturally-aspirated DOHC V6 with VVT for mid-size and large car / crossover / SUV / pickup applications 2011 plus; 4.7 PowerTech per vaz181 the predecessor SOHC V8 for light-duty truck / SUV applications 1999-2013; 392 Hemi Apache per vaz182 the modern OHV V8 with hemispherical heads for performance and HD truck applications 2011 plus. The 3.6 Pentastar this listing succeeded the predecessor V6 engines (3.5L EGF, 4.0L SOHC, 3.7L PowerTech / Magnum, 3.3L EGA) that Chrysler used pre-2011.

Other Common Pentastar Maintenance Items

Beyond the left bank head issue, common Pentastar service items include:

• Oil cooler housing leaks, the plastic oil cooler housing on early builds (and some later builds) can crack and leak coolant. Typical replacement cost: $400 to $800.
• Rocker arm failures, early production builds had documented rocker arm wear; later production revised this
• VVT solenoid issues, common at higher mileage; relatively easy DIY replacement
• Spark plug change every 100,000 miles (NGK iridium plugs)
• Cooling system flushes every 4 years or 60,000 miles
• PCV valve replacement approximately every 100,000 miles
• Active intake manifold (later models), some applications have failures of intake manifold runner valves

Pentastar Variants You Should Know About

Standard Pentastar (2011-Present):

The base 3.6 V6 used in most applications. Multi-port fuel injection, conventional cooling, output 283-305 HP.

Pentastar Upgrade (2014-Present):

Revised cylinder heads, improved cooling, modest power and efficiency gains. Same basic architecture as the original but more reliable.

eTorque Pentastar (2019 plus Ram 1500):

Combines the 3.6 Pentastar with a 48-volt belt-driven motor-generator system. The eTorque system:

• Provides approximately 90 lb-ft of additional torque assistance during acceleration
• Enables smoother and faster engine auto-start-stop
• Acts as a mild hybrid system (not a true plug-in hybrid)
• Provides regenerative braking for the 48V battery
• Improves fuel economy by approximately 1-2 MPG

Atkinson Cycle Pentastar (Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid):

The Pacifica Hybrid uses an Atkinson-cycle variant of the 3.6 Pentastar designed for hybrid efficiency:

• Delayed intake valve closing (Atkinson cycle)
• 11.3:1 compression ratio (higher than standard)
• Lower peak output (248 HP combined system) but better efficiency
• Mated to dual-motor eFlite hybrid transaxle
• NOT directly interchangeable with standard Pentastar due to different valve timing strategy

Massive Vehicle Compatibility List

The 3.6 Pentastar is used in an enormous range of FCA / Stellantis vehicles. Critical: always match year and donor vehicle for proper fitment.

Jeep:

• Wrangler JK (2012-2018), 285 HP
• Wrangler JL (2018-current), 285 HP, also available in 392 HEMI per vaz182 / 2.0 Turbo trims
• Cherokee KL (2014-2023), optional V6
• Grand Cherokee WK2 (2011-2021), standard V6
• Grand Cherokee WL (2022-current), optional V6
• Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer (2022-current), optional V6 in base trims
• Grand Cherokee L (2021-current)

Dodge:

• Charger (2011-2023), SXT and base trims with V6
• Challenger (2011-2023), SXT and base trims
• Durango (2011-current), standard V6 in base trims
• Journey (2011-2020), optional V6
• Grand Caravan (2011-2020), standard V6

Chrysler:

• 200 (2011-2017), V6 variants
• 300 (2011-2023), base V6 (premium 5.7 Hemi optional)
• Pacifica (2017-current), standard V6
• Pacifica Hybrid (2017-current), Atkinson cycle variant
• Town and Country (2011-2016), standard V6

Ram:

• 1500 (2013-current), base V6 in standard trim
• 1500 eTorque variant (2019-current), mild hybrid V6
• ProMaster (2014-current), optional V6 in commercial van

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 3.6 Pentastar offers competitive performance and fuel economy:

• Highway: 24 to 30 MPG depending on vehicle
• City: 17 to 22 MPG
• Combined: 20 to 25 MPG average
• Towing capacity: Variable by vehicle; Grand Cherokee with 3.6 tows 6,200 lbs

The Pentastar provides good real-world drivability with a strong torque curve and refined operation.

Why Choose a Used 3.6 Pentastar

Opting for a used 3.6 Pentastar offers compelling value:

• Significant cost savings vs new long block (4,349 vs $5,500 plus new)
• Wide availability, one of the most produced V6 engines in North America
• Tested reliability, the 2014 plus Pentastar Upgrade is well-proven
• Massive parts availability, every Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis dealer stocks Pentastar parts

Here at Part Nests, you will find the 3.6 Pentastar engine for sale at the most reasonable price possible, with honest disclosure of pre-2014 vs 2014 plus production year significance and clear documentation of variant (standard, eTorque, Atkinson Hybrid).

Vehicle Compatibility

Why Buy From Part Nests

• Pre-2014 vs 2014 plus Pentastar Upgrade status honestly disclosed
• Variant correctly identified (standard, eTorque, Atkinson Hybrid)
• Honest disclosure of known left bank head issue on pre-2014 builds
• Compression and leak-down tested all 6 cylinders
• Oil cooler housing condition checked (common Pentastar issue)
• VVT solenoid function verified
• Free freight pallet delivery to all 50 states
• 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects
• Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis experienced support team
• Application compatibility verified before shipping
• Call (855) 634-4447 to confirm 3.6 Pentastar engine (Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis modern V6 workhorse 3.6 liters 3,604 cc / 220 cubic inches, 60-degree V6 all-aluminum construction, DOHC 4 valves per cylinder 24 valves total with Variable Valve Timing on both camshafts, sequential multi-port fuel injection most variants, 283-305 HP and 260-270 lb-ft depending on application, built at Trenton Engine Plant Michigan, introduced 2011 in Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 and rolled out across the entire Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis lineup replacing 3.5L EGF / 4.0L SOHC / 3.7L PowerTech Magnum / 3.3L EGA), year verified (pre-2014 high-risk window with documented left bank cylinder head failure pattern, OR 2014 plus Pentastar Upgrade with revised cylinder head castings that solved the left bank failure issue plus improved oil cooler design plus revised timing chain components plus updated VVT solenoids plus modest power and efficiency gains), variant identified (Standard Pentastar 2011 plus the base 3.6 V6 used in most applications, Pentastar Upgrade 2014 plus revised cylinder heads and improved cooling, eTorque Pentastar 2019 plus Ram 1500 mild hybrid combining the 3.6 Pentastar with 48-volt belt-driven motor-generator system providing approximately 90 lb-ft of additional torque assistance, OR Atkinson Cycle Pentastar Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid with delayed intake valve closing and 11.3:1 compression ratio higher than standard 248 HP combined system NOT directly interchangeable with standard Pentastar due to different valve timing strategy), donor vehicle (Jeep Wrangler JK 2012-2018 / Wrangler JL 2018-current / Cherokee KL 2014-2023 / Grand Cherokee WK2 2011-2021 / Grand Cherokee WL 2022-current / Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer 2022-current / Grand Cherokee L 2021-current, Dodge Charger 2011-2023 / Challenger 2011-2023 / Durango 2011-current / Journey 2011-2020 / Grand Caravan 2011-2020, Chrysler 200 2011-2017 / 300 2011-2023 / Pacifica 2017-current / Pacifica Hybrid Atkinson cycle variant 2017-current / Town and Country 2011-2016, Ram 1500 2013-current / 1500 eTorque 2019-current / ProMaster 2014-current), all 6 cylinder compression and leak-down test results, left bank cylinder head condition assessed (the known pre-2014 wear point with documented manufacturing defect in the left bank cylinder head casting that allows valve seat dropping or cracking particularly around exhaust valves causing persistent #2 cylinder misfire P0302 that does not resolve with spark plugs / ignition coils / fuel injectors, Chrysler issued TSB 09-004-13 in 2013 with extended warranty coverage up to 10 years / 150,000 miles), oil cooler housing condition checked (common Pentastar leak point with plastic oil cooler housing that can crack and leak coolant on early builds and some later builds, typical replacement cost $400-$800), VVT solenoid function tested both intake and exhaust, fuel injectors confirmed functional, timing chain condition documented, active intake manifold function tested where applicable, engine block visual inspection, and Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis V6 / V8 engine family context (3.6 Pentastar this listing the modern naturally-aspirated DOHC V6 with VVT for mid-size and large car / crossover / SUV / pickup applications 2011 plus, vs 4.7 PowerTech per vaz181 the predecessor SOHC V8 for light-duty truck / SUV applications 1999-2013 officially PowerTech NOT Magnum, vs 392 Hemi Apache per vaz182 the modern OHV V8 with hemispherical heads for performance and HD truck applications 2011 plus) before ordering