The Under the Hood
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Dear Motor Medics, I have a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 4.0 six-cylinder engine that failed. This is the first time I have ever had to replace an engine in a vehicle and with fairly low miles and a faithful maintenance history, I am shocked that it failed.
They told me the camshaft failed because I was not using an engine oil additive and that if I did not use one on the new engine every time that the engine warranty coverage would be void.
Why have I never heard of using an additive before? I thought they were not needed for everyday use. The place that changes my oil is not where I go for bigger repairs and I have not had to see them for several years.
Scott in Dell Rapids, SD.
Dear Scott, Seeing a Jeep engine with low mileage fail when oil additive has not been used is not a surprise to us. The lack of ZDDP in the engine oil was likely the cause.
ZDDP was removed from engine oil around the time diesel fuel had most sulfur removed. ZDDP protects high pressure areas such as the flat tappets of the Jeep cam.
All oil change facilities should be offering the additive to you as a choice.
A yearly check-up at a full-service shop is also a good way to get good advice. They can often advise you of recent changes.
Take care, The Motor Medics
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