2018 JLU 2.0 engine problems

[MIJL]

I have a 2018 Wrangler JLU with the 2.0t engine and 75,000 miles on it. About a week ago I noticed that it was overheating so I brought it home. The temp never went above 250F and I was about .5 miles away from home at the time. Once I got it home I checked the coolant reservoir and it was empty other than some brown sludge in it. I brought it to my local dealer to have it looked at and they are now saying that the motor, turbo, radiator, thermostat, and all of the coolant lines need to be replaced and estimated that it would cost $20,000, $11,000 of that being the motor and $4,000 being labor.

Their original explanation as to how it could of happened is that water got into the intake. However I have not taken into any sort of water in probably 10,000 miles. I have also changed the oil and checked the coolant about 3,000 miles ago and both were fine.

Does anyone have any suggestions or experience with this happening?

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[Heimkehr]

@MIJL
There was/is a documented coolant leak issue as it concerns the water pump inlet tube fasteners. Here's one of several posts on the subject in a related thread.

Over time, and if the owner doesn't recurringly monitor the coolant level in the opaque expansion tank, it might be possible for coolant loss to occur over time to a degree sufficient to cause engine damage.

I want to say there was a TSB (not a recall) for the matter.

The regular temperature of the coolant in my 2.0T hovers at 195° or so, meaning 150° should only be evident on the gauge very briefly, as the engine [quickly] warms up after a cold start.

As to dealer's claim that the damage occurred due to "water getting into the intake", that's something that I'd want them to expand on. It doesn't immediately make sense.

 

[MIJL]

I should have added that there is coolant in the oil and oil in the coolant. I also have not seen any coolant on the ground. I also meant to say 250F not 150F.

 

[Heimkehr]

I should have added that there is coolant in the oil and oil in the coolant. I also meant to say 250F not 150F.

You have a big financial decision to make.

 

[VKSheridan]

Liquid swap is an indication that a gasket designed to keep oil and coolant in their own compartments has failed. Head gasket, expansion plug or water pump with plugged weep hole are common culprits. A crack in the water jacket is possible as well either in the head or the block. Either way, get ready to part with some money……

 

[goesreallyfast]

If you look at my other thread on model trim engine differences I found a some deals on the 2.0 complete engine, around $2k. May be worth a shot?

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