2023 JEEP GLADIATOR maintenance

368SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
2. Lift the engine air cleaner filter cover to access the engine air cleaner filter.
3. Remove the engine air cleaner filter from the housing assembly.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Installation
NOTE:Inspect and clean the housing only if significant
dirt or debris is present before replacing the engine
air cleaner filter.
1. Install the engine air cleaner filter into the
housing assembly with the engine air cleaner
filter inspection surface facing downward.

2. Tighten engine air cleaner filter cover fasteners using a suitable tool.
DRAINING FUEL/WATER SEPARATOR
F
ILTER — DIESEL ENGINE
The fuel/water separator housing is located inside
the left frame rail in front of the fuel tank. The best
access to this water drain valve is from under the
vehicle. If necessary remove the fuel filter protective cover
to access the water drain valve.

Fuel/Water Separator Filter

If water is detected in the water separator while the
engine is running, or while the ignition switch is in
the ON position, the Water In Fuel Indicator Light
will illuminate and an audible chime will be heard.
At this point you should stop the engine and drain
the water from the filter housing.
1 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter Cover
2 — Engine Air Cleaner Filter
CAUTION!
Do not overtighten the engine air cleaner filter
cover lid screws or damage may result.
CAUTION!
Do not drain the fuel/water separator filter
when the engine is running.
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appropriate
container.
1 — Retainers
2 — Fuel Filter Protective Cover

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE369

Fuel/Water Separator Filter

Within 10 minutes of vehicle shutdown, turn the
filter drain valve (located on the bottom of the filter
housing) counterclockwise to drain fuel/water;
allow the accumulated water to drain. Leave the
drain valve open until all water and contaminants
have been removed. When clear fuel is visible,
close the drain valve by turning it clockwise.
Upon proper draining of the water from fuel filter
assembly, the Water In Fuel Indicator Light will
remain illuminated for approximately 10 seconds.
If the water was drained while the engine was
running, the Water In Fuel Indicator Light may
remain on for approximately three minutes.
NOTE:Care should be taken in disposing of used fluids
from your vehicle. Used fluids, indiscriminately
discarded, can present a problem to the envi -
ronment. Contact an authorized dealer, service
station, or government agency for advice on recy -
cling programs and for where used fluids and
filters can be properly disposed of in your area.
If more than two ounces or 60 ml of fuel have been
drained, follow the directions for Priming If The
Engine Has Run Out Of Fuel Ú page 370.
FUEL FILTER REPLACEMENT — DIESEL
E
NGINE
NOTE:Using a fuel filter that does not meet FCA US LLC
filtration and water separating requirements can
severely impact fuel system life and reliability.
1. Ensure engine is turned off.

2. Remove the fuel filter protective cover to
access the fuel filter assembly.

Fuel Filter Assembly

3. Place drain pan under the fuel filter assembly.
4. Open the water drain valve, and let any accumulated water and fuel drain.
1 — Water In Fuel Drain Valve
CAUTION!
Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appropriate
container.
Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a
new fuel filter. There is a possibility debris
could be introduced into the fuel filter during
this action. It is best to install the filter dry and
allow the in-tank lift pump to prime the fuel
system.
1 — Retainers
2 — Fuel Filter Protective Cover
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370SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
5. Close the water drain valve.

Fuel Filter Assembly

6. Wipe clean the underside of the filter housing to prevent contamination from entering fuel
system during service.
7. Remove the fuel filter cap and filter from the housing using a socket. Rotate counter -
clockwise for removal.
Fuel Filter Assembly

8. Remove the used fuel filter cartridge from the cap and dispose of according to your local
regulations.
9. Wipe clean the sealing surfaces of the cap and housing. 10. Lubricate o-ring on the cap with clean engine
oil.
11. Install the new fuel filter cartridge onto the cap.
12. Insert the cap and filter into the housing with clockwise rotation, use a socket to tighten.
13. After engine start, verify the fuel filter cap does not leak.
PRIMING IF THE ENGINE HAS RUN OUT
O
F FUEL — DIESEL ENGINE

1. Add a substantial amount of fuel to the tank,
approximately 2 to 5 gal (8L to 19L).

2. Push ignition switch twice without your foot on brake to put vehicle in RUN position. This will
activate the in tank fuel pump for approxi -
mately 30 seconds. Repeat this process twice.
1 — Water Drain Valve
1 — Fuel Filter Cap
2 — Socket Adapter
CAUTION!
Take care when handling the new fuel filter to
prevent contamination from entering the fuel
system.
WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system with
the engine running. Engine operation causes
high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel spray can
cause serious injury or death.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE371
3. Start the engine using the Normal Starting procedure Ú page 148.
NOTE:The engine may run rough until the air is forced
from all the fuel lines.
NOTE:
Use of biodiesel mixture in excess of 20% can
negatively impact the fuel filter's ability to sepa -
rate water from the fuel, resulting in high pres -
sure fuel system corrosion or damage.
In addition, commercially available fuel addi -
tives are not necessary for the proper operation
of your diesel engine.
For extreme cold conditions, "Mopar® Premium
Diesel Fuel Treatment" is recommended to
assist with cold starting.
INTERVENTION REGENERATION
S
TRATEGY — MESSAGE PROCESS FLOW
This engine meets all required diesel engine
emissions standards. To achieve these emissions
standards, your vehicle is equipped with a
state-of-the-art engine and exhaust system. These
systems are seamlessly integrated into your
vehicle and managed by the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM). The PCM manages engine
combustion to allow the exhaust system’s catalyst
to trap and burn Particulate Matter (PM)
pollutants, with no input or interaction on your part. Additionally, your vehicle has the ability to alert you
to additional maintenance required on your vehicle
or engine Ú
page 121.
DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) sometimes known
simply by the name of its active component, UREA,
is a key component of Selective Catalytic
Reduction (SCR) systems, which help diesel
vehicles meet stringent emission regulations. DEF
is a liquid reducing agent that reacts with engine
exhaust in the presence of a catalyst to convert
smog-forming Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) into harmless
nitrogen and water vapor.
For further information Ú page 424.
CAUTION!
The starter motor will engage for approximately
30 seconds at a time. Allow two minutes
between cranking intervals.
WARNING!
Do not use alcohol or gasoline as a fuel blending
agent. They can be unstable under certain
conditions and be hazardous or explosive when
mixed with diesel fuel.
CAUTION!
Due to lack of lubricants in alcohol or gasoline,
the use of these fuels can cause damage to the
fuel system.
WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park
over materials that can burn, such as grass or
leaves, and those items that come into contact
with your exhaust system. Do not park or oper -
ate your vehicle in areas where your exhaust sys -
tem can contact anything that can burn.
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372SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
ACCESSORY DRIVE BELT INSPECTION
When inspecting accessory drive belts small
cracks, that run across ribbed surface of belt from
rib to rib, are considered normal. This is not a
reason to replace the belt. However, cracks
running along a rib (not across) are not normal. Any
belt with cracks running along a rib must be
replaced. In addition, have the belt replaced if it
has excessive wear, frayed cords, or severe
glazing.
Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)

Conditions that would require replacement:
Rib chunking (one or more ribs has separated
from belt body)
Rib or belt wear
Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between two
ribs)
Belt slips
Groove jumping (belt does not maintain correct
position on pulley)
Belt broken
Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or rumble
is heard or felt while drive belt is in operation)
NOTE:Identify and correct problem before new belt is
installed.
Some conditions can be caused by a faulty
component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys
should be carefully inspected for damage and
proper alignment.
Belt replacement on some models requires the
use of special tools, we recommend having your
vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.
AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE
For best possible performance, your air conditioner
should be checked and serviced by an authorized
dealer at the start of each warm season. This
service should include cleaning of the condenser
fins and a performance test. Drive belt tension
should also be checked at this time.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to inspect an accessory drive
belt with vehicle running.
When working near the radiator cooling fan,
disconnect the fan motor lead. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at any
time regardless of ignition mode. You could be
injured by the moving fan blades.
You can be badly injured working on or around
a motor vehicle. Only do service work for which
you have the knowledge and the proper equip -
ment. If you have any doubt about your ability
to perform a service job, take your vehicle to a
competent mechanic.
WARNING!
Use only refrigerants and compressor lubri -
cants approved by the manufacturer for your
air conditioning system. Some unapproved
refrigerants are flammable and can explode,
injuring you. Other unapproved refrigerants or
lubricants can cause the system to fail,
requiring costly repairs. Refer to Warranty
Information Book, located online, for further
warranty information.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE373
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
R-1234yf
R-1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a Hydroflu -
oroolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the
Environmental Protection Agency and is an
ozone-friendly substance with a low
global-warming potential. The manufacturer
recommends that air conditioning service be
performed by an authorized dealer using recovery
and recycling equipment.
NOTE:Use only manufacturer approved A/C system PAG
compressor oil, and refrigerants.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
The cabin air filter is located in the fresh air inlet
behind the glove compartment. Perform the
following procedure to replace the filter:

1. Open the glove compartment and remove all contents.

2. Push up on the glove compartment travel stop and lower the door.
Glove Compartment Travel Stop

3. Pivot the glove compartment downward.
4. Disengage the two retaining tabs that secure the cabin air filter access door to the HVAC
housing.

Cabin Air Filter Access Door Retaining Tabs

The air conditioning system contains refrig -
erant under high pressure. To avoid risk of
personal injury or damage to the system,
adding refrigerant or any repair requiring lines
to be disconnected should be done by an
experienced technician.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your air condi -
tioning system as the chemicals can damage
your air conditioning components. Such damage
is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited War -
ranty.
WARNING!
WARNING!
Do not remove the cabin air filter while the
vehicle is running, or while the ignition is in the
ACC or ON/RUN mode. With the cabin air filter
removed and the blower operating, the blower
can contact hands and may propel dirt and
debris into your eyes, resulting in personal injury.
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374SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
5. Remove the cabin air filter from the HVAC air inlet housing. Pull the filter elements out
pinching them to the right for clearance.

Cabin Air Filter

6. Install the cabin air filter with the air filter position indicators pointing in the same
direction as removal.
7. Close cabin air filter access door and secure retaining tabs. 8. Rotate the glove compartment door back into
position, ensuring you have properly engaged
the travel dampener.

Travel Dampener

For the proper maintenance intervals see
Ú page 354 for gas engines or Ú page 358 for
diesel engines.
BODY LUBRICATION
Locks and all body pivot points, including such
items as seat tracks, door hinge pivot points and
rollers, liftgate, tailgate, decklid, sliding doors, and
hood hinges should be lubricated periodically with
a lithium-based grease, such as Mopar® Spray
White Lube, to ensure quiet, easy operation and to
protect against rust and wear. Prior to the application of any lubricant, the parts concerned
should be wiped clean to remove dust and grit.
After lubricating, excess oil and grease should be
removed. Particular attention should also be given
to hood latching components to ensure proper
function. When performing other underhood
services, the hood latch, release mechanism and
safety catch should be cleaned and lubricated.
The external lock cylinders should be lubricated
twice a year, preferably in the Autumn and Spring.
Apply a small amount of a high quality lubricant,
such as Mopar® Lock Cylinder Lubricant, directly
into the lock cylinder.
WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the
windshield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth
and a mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will remove
accumulations of salt or road film.
Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long
periods may cause deterioration of the wiper
blades. Always use washer fluid when using the
wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry windshield.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice
from the windshield. Keep the blade rubber out of
contact with petroleum products such as engine
oil, gasoline, etc.
CAUTION!
The cabin air filter is identified with an arrow to
indicate airflow direction through the filter.
Failure to properly install the filter will result in
the need to replace it more often.
1 — Travel Dampener Housing
2 — Travel Dampener Rod

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE375
NOTE:Life expectancy of wiper blades varies depending
on geographical area and frequency of use. If chat -
tering, marks, water lines, or wet spots are
present, clean the wiper blades or replace as
necessary.
The wiper blades and wiper arms should be
inspected periodically, not just when wiper
performance problems are experienced. This
inspection should include the following points:
Wear or uneven edges
Foreign material
Hardening or cracking
Deformation or fatigue
If a wiper blade or wiper arm is damaged, replace
the affected wiper arm or blade with a new unit. Do
not attempt to repair a wiper arm or blade that is
damaged.
Wiper Blade Removal/Installation

1. Lift the wiper arm to raise the wiper blade off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full
up position.

Wiper Blade With Release Tab In Locked Position

2. To disengage the wiper blade from the wiper arm, press the release tab on the wiper blade,
and while holding the wiper arm with one
hand, slide the wiper blade down towards the
base of the wiper arm.
Wiper Blade With Release Tab In Unlocked Position

3. With the wiper blade disengaged, remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm.
4. Gently lower the wiper arm onto the glass.
Installing The Front Wipers

1. Lift the wiper arm off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

2. Position the wiper blade near the hook on the tip of the wiper arm.
3. Slide the wiper blade up into the hook on the wiper arm, latch engagement will be
accompanied by an audible click.
4. Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.
CAUTION!
Do not allow the wiper arm to spring back
against the glass without the wiper blade in
place or the glass may be damaged.
1 — Wiper Blade
2 — Wiper Arm
3 — Release Tab
1 — Wiper Blade
2 — Wiper Arm J Hook
3 — J Hook Retainer
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