Originally Posted By: G-MAN
Originally Posted By: kmrcstintn
when did Chrysler re-spec the 3.7L V6 for 5w-30 again? mine's a 2011...did they do this for the 2012's? or are you talking about the new version being redesigned for 2013 and beyond (which I'm guessing will get the Pentastar 3.6L v-6 engine)?
It was assumed the 3.6 Pentastar would be spec'd for 5w20 since Chrysler seemed to be moving in that direction with their existing engines. But, surprise, when it was introduced in 2011 it was spec'd for 5w30. There are several possibilities why, all of which are conjecture, but it could be that since the Pentastar and the new Mercedes M276 engine are basically the same powerplant, Mercedes never intended this engine to run on 5w20.
I thought about that too since I'm very interested in buying a Wrangler equipped with that engine. Due to the ticking head issues I decided to hold off a bit longer. But that's OT and another story.
Anyway I wondered too why they spec'd 5W30, here's my twist. I honestly believe that they're more confident in a 30 grade oil than a 20 grade in new applications, because they didn't spend the time and money to fully test a 20 grade in that application, and didn't want to gamble and take the risk.
BTW I am/was a big supporter of the thinner grade oils. But lets face it, why did Chrysler pick a 30 grade for this application? It isn't DI and it doesn't have a turbo.