During a routine oil change, I noticed a significant amount of engine oil on both sides of the transmission bell-housing and both the oil pan and transmission pan. I was initially unable to determine the source but, upon hitting the internet, I learned of the common engine oil filter adapter failure problem across all early 3.6 liter Pentastar engines.
This plastic unit contains the engine oil filter and oil cooler and is mounted in the “v†between the heads, under the intake. I could clearly see the valley was filled with oil which is a tell-tale sign. I had it replaced at the dealer for $650 CDN which requires the intake and fuel rails to be removed.
I have come to learn that over time, the hot oil causes the plastic in the unit to become brittle. As a result, the unit cracks when you change an oil filter. Apparently this is extremely common. It is unfortunate that Chrysler would use a plastic part for such a critical unit.
During a routine oil change, I noticed a significant amount of engine oil on both sides of the transmission bell-housing and both the oil pan and transmission pan. I was initially unable to determine the source but, upon hitting the internet, I learned of the common engine oil filter adapter failure problem across all early 3.6 liter Pentastar engines.
This plastic unit contains the engine oil filter and oil cooler and is mounted in the “v†between the heads, under the intake. I could clearly see the valley was filled with oil which is a tell-tale sign. I had it replaced at the dealer for $650 CDN which requires the intake and fuel rails to be removed.
I have come to learn that over time, the hot oil causes the plastic in the unit to become brittle. As a result, the unit cracks when you change an oil filter. Apparently this is extremely common. It is unfortunate that Chrysler would use a plastic part for such a critical unit.
- Jason D., Thorndale, ON, Canada