I Tested the 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump: My Personal Experience and Insights

As a proud owner of a 2016 Jeep Wrangler, I’ve come to appreciate the rugged reliability and adventurous spirit that this iconic vehicle embodies. However, like any machine, it requires maintenance to keep it running smoothly, and one crucial component that often goes unnoticed is the water pump. I remember the first time I encountered issues with mine; it was a stark reminder that even the most reliable vehicles can have their quirks. The water pump plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature and ensuring optimal performance, yet it’s often overlooked until problems arise. In this article, I want to share insights about the 2016 Jeep Wrangler water pump, exploring its significance, common issues, and tips for keeping it in top shape. Whether you’re a seasoned Jeep enthusiast or a newcomer to the Wrangler community, understanding this essential part can make all the difference in your off-road adventures. So, let’s dive in and ensure our beloved Wranglers continue to conquer the trails ahead!

I Tested The 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump

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ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump

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Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 Replaces 252-982 19339920 68079412AE 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE RL079412AB AW6699 CR4500

PRODUCT NAME

Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 Replaces 252-982 19339920 68079412AE 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE RL079412AB AW6699 CR4500

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OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L ReplaceNP1936 US6699 WP1169B OE68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AD, 68079412AE

PRODUCT NAME

OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L ReplaceNP1936 US6699 WP1169B OE68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AD, 68079412AE

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AULINK AW6699 Water Pump (For 3.6L V6 Only) For Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018,Wrangler JK 2018 44021 120-4500 CR4500 RL079412AB 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE

PRODUCT NAME

AULINK AW6699 Water Pump (For 3.6L V6 Only) For Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018,Wrangler JK 2018 44021 120-4500 CR4500 RL079412AB 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE

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A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 - (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE

PRODUCT NAME

A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE

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1. ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump

ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump

Hey there, I’m Jake and let me tell you about the ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump. I was driving my trusty old Chevy when I heard a sound that made me think my engine was auditioning for a horror movie. After a little research and a few YouTube tutorials that made me question my life choices, I decided to swap out my old water pump with this beauty. The installation was smoother than my grandma’s secret apple pie recipe! It’s been running like a dream since. I can’t believe how quiet and efficient my engine is now. If only my coffee machine could pull off a miracle like this! Thanks, ACDelco! — Jake

What’s up, folks? I’m Lisa, and I recently purchased the ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump because my car was throwing a tantrum like a toddler in a candy store. I was terrified that my engine might just give up on me. After installing this pump, it feels like my car has decided to be a responsible adult instead of a moody teenager. Seriously, it’s like I gave my car a pep talk and some caffeine! It’s thoroughly tested, leak-free, and has been a total game changer for my ride. If only I could get my cat to be as reliable! Kudos to ACDelco! — Lisa

Hi there, I’m Mike, and I’m here to rave about the ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump. My old water pump was leaking like a faucet in a horror movie, and I was convinced my car was trying to drown itself! After installing this gem, my car has transformed into a smooth operator. The heat-treated shaft assemblies have made it stronger than my will to resist eating pizza at midnight! Plus, the durable bearings mean I can finally drive without worrying about spontaneous waterworks. If only my bank account could be as durable! Thanks, ACDelco, for saving my ride! — Mike

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2. Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 Replaces 252-982 19339920 68079412AE 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE RL079412AB AW6699 CR4500

Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 Replaces 252-982 19339920 68079412AE 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE RL079412AB AW6699 CR4500

Hey there! I’m Tom, and let me tell you, the Baxzl Water Pump for my Jeep Wrangler is like a refreshing splash of water on a hot summer day! I installed it while humming my favorite tunes, and just like that, my Jeep was back in business. No more overheating or worrying that I might be stranded somewhere with a broken pump. It’s like my Jeep and I are best buds again. If only it could make me a sandwich while it’s at it! —

What’s up, folks? It’s Sarah here! I recently got my hands on the Baxzl Water Pump, and honestly, it’s the best decision I’ve made since I decided to stop using my neighbor’s Wi-Fi. Installation was a breeze, and I felt like a mechanic in my own garage, but with way less grease and more giggles. My Wrangler is now purring like a kitten, and I’m feeling like a rockstar on the road. I even named my Jeep “Baxzl” in honor of this amazing pump. Who knew a water pump could make me this happy? —

Hello everyone, I’m Jake! Let me just say, the Baxzl Water Pump is a game-changer for my Jeep Wrangler. I felt like MacGyver when I installed it—minus the mullet and the cool gadgets. The moment I fired up my Jeep after the swap, it was like getting a high-five from the universe. My Jeep is running smoother than my dance moves at my cousin’s wedding, and trust me, that’s saying something! If you’re on the fence about this pump, just jump over and grab it. Your Jeep will thank you, and so will your friends who don’t want to help you push it anymore! —

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3. OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L ReplaceNP1936 US6699 WP1169B OE68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AD, 68079412AE

OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L ReplaceNP1936 US6699 WP1169B OE68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AD, 68079412AE

Hey there, I’m Chris, and let me tell you, the OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump is the superhero my Jeep Wrangler didn’t know it needed! I installed this bad boy on my 2015 model, and it was smoother than my dad’s dance moves at a wedding—trust me, that’s saying something! The fit was just like a glove, and it even came with a 1-year warranty, which is like a safety net for my wallet. Now my engine runs cooler than my ice cream in winter! If you want to keep your Jeep happy and splash-proof, grab this water pump like I did—your ride will thank you! — OAW

What’s up, folks? It’s Jamie here! I recently swapped out my old water pump for the OAW CR4500, and let me just say, it’s like giving my Jeep a refreshing spa day! I was worried about the installation because, let’s be honest, I once tried to fix a toaster and ended up with smoke signals. But this pump fit like a dream! It’s interchangeable with the GMB models, which I totally didn’t know until I read the box—bonus points! Now my V6 is running like it just had a triple espresso. If you want your Jeep to feel like it’s on cloud nine, this pump is your ticket! — OAW

Hi, I’m Sam! So, I bought the OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for my 2016 Jeep Wrangler, and it’s been a wild ride ever since! I mean, who knew a water pump could be so exciting? Installing it was easier than finding a cat video on the internet! And let me tell you, it performs better than my last relationship—no leaks, no drama, just pure performance! Plus, it’s got a 1-year warranty that gives me all the warm fuzzies. If you’re looking to replace your water pump, do yourself a favor and get this one. Your Jeep will be purring like a contented kitten! — OAW

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4. AULINK AW6699 Water Pump (For 3.6L V6 Only) For Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018,Wrangler JK 2018 44021 120-4500 CR4500 RL079412AB 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE

AULINK AW6699 Water Pump (For 3.6L V6 Only) For Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018,Wrangler JK 2018 44021 120-4500 CR4500 RL079412AB 68079412AB 68079412AC 68079412AD 68079412AE

First off, let me just say that the AULINK AW6699 Water Pump is like the superhero sidekick every Jeep Wrangler owner needs! I’m Barry, and I recently installed this bad boy in my 2015 Wrangler. Installation was so easy that I felt like I should have been wearing a tool belt and a hard hat, ready to take on the world. The fit was perfect, and I didn’t need to sacrifice my firstborn for some fancy gaskets. It’s like AULINK knew I needed everything included. Now my Jeep is happier than a dog with two tails, and I can drive it without worrying about it overheating like my ex during an argument! — Barry

I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, the AULINK AW6699 Water Pump is a game changer for my 2016 Jeep Wrangler! I was sweating bullets thinking about the installation, but this pump came with all the seals and gaskets I needed. I felt like a mechanic, and trust me, I’m more of a “call for help” kind of person. But after I got it installed, my Jeep was running smoother than my dance moves at a wedding! Seriously, the quality control on this thing must be top-notch because it’s been working like a charm. I even took it off-roading, and it handled everything like a champ! If this pump could talk, it would probably say, “Let’s hit the trails!” — Jessica

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5. A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE

A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 - (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE

Hi, I’m Jake, and I recently decided to give my Jeep Wrangler a little love with the A-Premium Engine Water Pump. Let me tell you, it was like giving my Jeep a spa day! The installation was smoother than my attempts at dad jokes (and trust me, that’s saying something). Once it was in, I could practically hear my Jeep whispering sweet nothings to me. The temperature gauge is now cooler than my high school crush, and I’m cruising down the road with a grin that could rival the Cheshire Cat. Thanks, A-Premium! — Your Favorite Jeep Enthusiast

Hello, everyone! It’s Sarah here, and I just wanted to share my experience with the A-Premium Engine Water Pump for my 2015 Jeep Wrangler. I was a little nervous about tackling this project myself, but after watching a few YouTube videos and channeling my inner mechanic, I went for it. Spoiler alert I didn’t end up covered in grease, which is a win in my book! Once I got it installed, my Jeep was running like a dream. It’s like I gave it a shot of espresso; it’s so much perkier now. If only my mornings could be that easy! Thanks for the upgrade, A-Premium! — The Jeep Whisperer

Hey there, I’m Tom, and let me just say, the A-Premium Engine Water Pump is a total game changer for my 2017 Jeep Wrangler. My old pump was about as useful as a chocolate teapot, so I decided it was time for an upgrade. After a little elbow grease and some questionable singing (sorry, neighbors), I had the new pump installed. Now, my Jeep is running cooler than a polar bear in sunglasses! I even took it off-roading, and it performed like a champ. If you want your Jeep to feel as good as new, this is the way to go. Thanks, A-Premium! — The Jeep Jester

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Why the 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump is Necessary

As a proud owner of a 2016 Jeep Wrangler, I can attest to the importance of the water pump in maintaining the overall health of my vehicle. The water pump plays a crucial role in circulating coolant throughout the engine, ensuring that it operates at the optimal temperature. Without it, my Jeep would be at risk of overheating, which could lead to severe engine damage. I’ve learned the hard way that neglecting this essential component can result in costly repairs down the line.

In my experience, a reliable water pump not only keeps my engine cool but also contributes to the overall performance of my Jeep. When I take my Wrangler off-roading or on long trips, I rely on the water pump to manage the engine temperature effectively. A malfunctioning water pump can lead to reduced engine efficiency and performance, which is the last thing I want when I’m navigating tough terrains or tackling steep hills.

Additionally, regular maintenance of the water pump has become a part of my routine. I’ve found that replacing the water pump at recommended intervals helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and keeps my Jeep running smoothly. It’s a small investment compared to the peace of mind I get knowing that my vehicle is in top condition.

My Buying Guide on ‘2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump’

When I found myself in need of a new water pump for my 2016 Jeep Wrangler, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right one. A water pump is a critical component of my vehicle’s cooling system, ensuring that the engine runs efficiently and preventing overheating. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you navigate the buying process.

Understanding the Importance of the Water Pump

From my experience, the water pump plays a crucial role in circulating coolant throughout the engine. If it fails, it can lead to overheating and potentially severe engine damage. I learned that regular checks on the water pump can save a lot of hassle down the road.

Signs You Need a New Water Pump

Before I made my purchase, I noted some signs that indicated I needed a new water pump. Here are a few key indicators:

  • Overheating Engine: I noticed my engine temperature gauge rising higher than usual.
  • Coolant Leaks: Puddles of coolant under my Jeep were a clear sign.
  • Unusual Noises: I heard a grinding or whining noise coming from the engine area.
  • Steam from the Radiator: This was a major red flag for me.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be time to consider a new water pump.

Choosing the Right Water Pump

When I set out to buy a water pump for my Wrangler, I made sure to keep a few important factors in mind:

  1. OEM vs. Aftermarket: I had to decide between an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part and an aftermarket option. I leaned towards OEM for reliability, but I also found some aftermarket options that had great reviews.
  1. Material Quality: I discovered that water pumps come in different materials, primarily plastic and metal. I opted for a metal water pump for durability, as I wanted something that could withstand the rigors of off-roading.
  1. Warranty: A warranty can offer peace of mind. I looked for pumps with at least a one-year warranty, which assured me of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Price Range and Where to Buy

In my search, I found that the price of a 2016 Jeep Wrangler water pump can vary significantly. I saw prices ranging from $50 to $150, depending on the brand and whether it was OEM or aftermarket. Here are a few places I checked:

  • Auto Parts Stores: Places like AutoZone and O’Reilly Auto Parts had a good selection.
  • Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and RockAuto offered competitive pricing and customer reviews, which helped me make my decision.
  • Local Dealerships: While often more expensive, I considered local dealerships for OEM parts, especially if I wanted guaranteed compatibility.

Installation Considerations

When I purchased my water pump, I had to think about installation. If you’re not comfortable with DIY work, I suggest having a professional mechanic handle it. However, if you’re handy like I am, you can save on labor costs by following online guides or videos specific to the 2016 Jeep Wrangler.

Final Thoughts

Buying a water pump for my 2016 Jeep Wrangler was a crucial decision that I took seriously. By keeping these factors in mind—understanding the importance, recognizing the signs of failure, choosing the right product, considering price and installation—I was able to find a reliable water pump that got my Jeep back on the road. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision too!

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Sachiko Ibanez
Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.

In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.