Warning: Use Only OAT Coolant Antifreeze In Your Jeep Wrangler Or Gladiator
- Muddy Ruttzz
- Jan 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 14
The Mistake: Why Your Jeep Coolant Reservoir is Lying
We all lead busy lives, and sometimes vehicle maintenance takes a back seat. I recently realized I had fallen behind on my own Jeep Gladiator upkeep. The "hidden danger" I discovered is that the coolant reservoir often develops a stain at the "Max" line. If you just glance under the hood, it looks full, but looking closer reveals the actual fluid level is much lower. Proper Jeep OAT Coolant Maintenance starts with a careful inspection of that tank to ensure you aren't being fooled by a stain.
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Warning: Use A Coolant Tester Prior To Adding Coolant/ Antifreeze
Check your coolant for its ability to protect your engine from freezing or boiling over. A simple tester antifreeze tester will do that. Also check the for discoloration or debri in your coolant. It would be a waste of time to add coolant if what you really need is a complete flush and fill.
WARNING: Safety First When Adding Antifreeze
Before you touch that reservoir cap, ensure the engine is completely cold. I’ve seen people get severely burned by steam because they opened a hot radiator. One "Pro Tip" for Jeep owners: there are four tabs on top of the reservoir designed to hold your cap so you don't lose it while you work.
Understanding the OAT MS-12106 Specification
Modern Jeeps (2014 and newer) are not like the vehicles of the old days. You cannot simply add water or "universal" green antifreeze. Every Wrangler and Gladiator, whether gas or diesel, requires Organic Acid Technology (OAT) fluid. Specifically, you must use a product that meets the Chrysler MS-12106 specification. Mixing the wrong fluids can cause the coolant to coagulate, destroying the 10-year/150,000-mile lifespan of your factory fluid and potentially damaging your engine.
Using Zerex G30 for Jeep OAT Coolant Maintenance
For my Jeep, I chose Zerex G30 Purple. It is a 50/50 pre-diluted OAT coolant that is proven to meet the Chrysler MS-12106 spec. Buying the pre-diluted version makes the job much easier and ensures you have the perfect ratio for your cooling system.
How to Add Coolant Without Making A Mess
To keep my engine bay clean and avoid contamination, I follow a specific process:
Clean the Funnel
I use IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) to remove any oil residue from my funnel.
The Kitchen Hack
Instead of wrestling with a heavy gallon jug, I pour the Zerex into a small silicone kitchen tray first. This allows for extreme accuracy when filling to the "Max" line.
Conclulsion:
When to Seek Professional Coolant Service
Checking and adding antifreeze/coolant is a simple procedure but like any maintenance task performed on a vehicle there is a right way and a wrong way.
If you check your antifreeze and notice it is dirty, discolored, or full of debris, a simple top-off isn't enough. You will need a full flush using a Vacuum & Fill Coolant Service Machine. This specialized equipment prevents air pockets from forming in the engine block, which is critical for the longevity of these modern motors.
#MuddyRuttzz #JeepMaintenance #JeepGladiator #OATCoolant #ZerexG30 #DIYMechanic #JeepWrangler #AutoMaintenance #NewMexicoLife
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