Noticing oil stains on your driveway, a sharp burning smell after a drive, or a dipstick indicating lower oil levels? These are classic signs of a leaking oil issue, particularly common in Jeeps equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar engine.
At Allied Automotive, a leading name in Jeep repair in Allentown, PA, we’ve seen this issue countless times—especially in Wranglers, Grand Cherokees, and Cherokees. The problem is common, but the fix doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s what you need to know and why ignoring it might cost you more than just oil.
Why Is Your Jeep Leaking Oil?
Not all oil leaks are created equal. Some are slow, others are sudden. But they all point to the same reality—your engine isn’t sealed like it used to be. Let’s take a look at the most common leak points on the 3.6L Pentastar engine:
Oil Filter Housing Failures
Early versions of the Pentastar engine came with a plastic oil filter housing that became brittle over time. It cracks, and when it does, oil leaks out fast—often down the engine block and onto hot surfaces.
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
This rubber gasket seals the top of your engine. When it breaks down, oil starts seeping along the edges and can drip into spark plug wells or down onto the engine block.
Rear Main Seal
A bit less common but more serious, this seal sits between the engine and transmission. If it’s leaking, it’s typically a bigger repair that requires removing major components.
The Signs: Catching a Leak Before It Gets Worse
You don’t need to be a mechanic to know something’s off. Watch for these symptoms:
- Burning oil smell, especially after a drive
- Oil stains or spots in your driveway
- Smoke from under the hood
- Low oil light or frequent top-offs
- Visible oil on the engine or undercarriage
If you’re seeing any of these, the best move is to schedule a professional inspection before the leak leads to more serious damage.
What Makes the 3.6L Pentastar Prone to Oil Leaks?
The 3.6L Pentastar is a widely used engine, found in not just Jeeps, but also in some Chrysler and Dodge models. It’s known for its performance and reliability, but early models had an Achilles heel: a plastic oil filter housing that cracks easily under heat and pressure.
At Allied Automotive, we’ve seen 2024 models with the same plastic and metal combination housing that’s prone to failure. That’s why we install a high-quality aftermarket all-aluminum oil filter housing that’s far more durable than the factory option. It’s a long-term solution that prevents repeat repairs and keeps your engine properly sealed.
But not all aluminum replacements are created equal—and not all are installed the right way. We’ve seen units leak again because someone over-torqued the bolts or skipped the correct torque sequence. That’s why we don’t just swap in new parts—we use best-in-class upgraded housings and install them with precision. Torque specs aren’t just technical details; they’re the difference between a repair that lasts and one that leaks again.
Why This Isn’t Just a Jeep Problem—But a Jeep Opportunity
Here’s the twist. Yes, an oil leak is a problem. But it’s also an opportunity, especially for Jeep owners.
Why? Because many leaks are caught before they cause serious damage. And for vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator, a leak is often a sign that it’s time to give your Jeep the deeper attention it deserves. Consider it a checkpoint, not just a repair.
It’s also a chance to evaluate how your Jeep is being driven, what it needs next, and how to invest in its long-term reliability. That might mean addressing suspension wear, upgrading brakes, or planning ahead for your next off-road season.
At Allied Automotive, we don’t just fix the leak—we help you understand the full picture so you can keep enjoying the freedom and capability that makes your Jeep unique.
Our Proven Process for Reliable Jeep Service
Temporary fixes like oil stop-leak additives might mask the issue for a short time, but they won’t solve it. A professional, permanent repair is the only way to protect your engine.
At Allied Automotive, here’s how we handle it:
- We perform a Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) with photos and notes you can view on your phone
- We pressure test and dye test to find the exact leak source
- We install upgraded parts, like aluminum oil filter housings
- Our ASE-certified technicians are trained in Jeep diagnostics and repairs
- You get a full estimate, no surprises, no pressure
- Every repair is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty and a 5-year workmanship guarantee
When you’re looking for the best Jeep repair shop near me, you want more than someone who can fix the issue—you want a team that understands Jeeps and stands behind their work.
Should You Keep Driving Your Jeep If It’s Leaking Oil?
No. Even a slow leak can drop oil levels below what’s safe. Running low on oil increases friction and heat inside your engine, which can lead to premature wear—or worse, a complete engine failure.
If you’re seeing signs of a leak, your next move should be scheduling an inspection. Our team at Allied Automotive in Allentown, PA can tell you exactly what’s going on, how severe it is, and what it’ll take to fix it right.
Preventative Maintenance Tips for Jeep Owners
Owning a Jeep means being ready for anything—but that includes regular maintenance too. To stay ahead of leaks and other wear, we recommend:
- Monthly oil checks: Monitor levels between oil changes
- Use full synthetic oil: Better performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures
- Listen and look: Burning smells, drips, or dashboard lights are all signs to act on
- Schedule seasonal inspections: Before a big trip or after heavy off-road use
We include inspections with every visit, so whether you’re in for an oil change or something more serious, your Jeep gets a full once-over every time.
Note: While Jeep recommends 0W-20 oil under warranty, we often switch to a more appropriate viscosity once the vehicle is out of warranty. This helps provide better engine protection as it ages, based on real-world driving and wear.
We also inspect for oil cooler leaks during oil changes—if oil is pooling in the engine valley or dripping near the bellhousing, that’s a red flag. Catching it early prevents bigger problems down the line.
Common Jeep Models We Service at Allied Automotive
Our shop specializes in Jeep repair in Allentown, PA, and we see the full range of models, including:
- Jeep Wrangler (JK, JL)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Jeep Gladiator
- Jeep Cherokee and Compass
- Jeep Renegade
- And even older legacy models
No matter the Jeep model, our trained team knows what to look for—and how to keep your vehicle running strong.
The Allied Automotive Standard: Built on Trust and Expertise
There are plenty of shops that can work on Jeeps. But at Allied Automotive, we actually understand them. We know the quirks of the 3.6L Pentastar engine. We know what works long-term. And we’re set up to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Here’s what you get with us:
- Dealer-level diagnostics without the dealership attitude
- Loaner cars so you’re never stuck without transportation
- After-hours drop-off and secure pickup to fit your schedule
- Contactless service and mobile payments for convenience
- A shop that truly values relationships over transactions
We’re your dealership alternative, focused on building trust—not just fixing cars.
Book Your Jeep Service with Allentown’s Trusted Repair Shop
If you’re looking for Jeep oil leak repair near Allentown, PA—especially for issues with the Pentastar 3.6L engine—you’ve found your team. Book your inspection today and keep your Jeep ready for whatever’s next. Stop by at 5580 Quince Rd., Allentown, PA 18106 or call us at (610) 351-0020 to schedule your service.
