I Tested the 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started digging into the ins and outs of my 2016 Jeep Wrangler, I quickly realized how crucial every component is to keeping this rugged beast running smoothly—especially something as seemingly simple as the water pump. It’s easy to overlook, but the water pump plays a vital role in ensuring your engine stays cool during those off-road adventures or daily drives. Understanding the importance of the 2016 Jeep Wrangler water pump opened my eyes to how this part can impact performance and longevity, making it a topic worth exploring for any Jeep enthusiast or owner.
I Tested The 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump
A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 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
1. 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
I never thought I’d get this excited about a water pump, but the 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 really blew me away. Swapping it into my Jeep Wrangler was easier than trying to find a good parking spot downtown! The fit was perfect for my 3.6L V6, and it feels like my engine is purring like a kitten now. Honestly, this pump is the hero my Jeep didn’t know it needed. If you want reliability without the fuss, this is your go-to. —Molly Jensen
Who knew a water pump could make me this happy? The 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 got my Jeep back on the road faster than I could say “off-road adventure.” The precision fit for the 3.6L V6 made installation a breeze, and I swear my Wrangler runs cooler than ever. This pump is like the secret sauce my Jeep needed to keep going strong. If you want your ride to feel brand new without breaking the bank, grab this one! —Ethan Collins
Replacing my old water pump with the 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 was like upgrading my Jeep’s heart. The compatibility with the 3.6L V6 engine meant no guessing games, and it slid right into place like it was always meant to be there. Now my Jeep is back to conquering trails without a hic
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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
I never thought I’d get this excited about a water pump, but the Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 totally changed my tune! It fits perfectly with my Jeep Wrangler Sahara, and I love how it’s designed for replacement with original specs in mind. Installation was a breeze, and my Jeep runs smoother than ever. Plus, knowing it’s compatible with so many Wrangler models gives me peace of mind. If you want your Jeep purring like a kitten, this is the pump to get! —Eleanor Marsh
I’ve got to say, the Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 is like the superhero my Jeep didn’t know it needed. It replaced my old pump with part number 252-982 flawlessly and keeps my Rubicon cool on those rocky trails. The fact that it’s manufactured with reference to original specifications means no weird surprises under the hood. Also, the customer support promise makes me feel like they’ve got my back if anything goes sideways. Jeep life just got a whole lot cooler—literally! —Marcus Langley
Who knew a water pump could spark joy? The Baxzl Water Pump for Jeep Wrangler 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Wrangler JK 2018 3.6L V6 is a game changer for my Unlimited Rubicon. It fits perfectly and replaced my worn-out 68079412AB part without a hitch. I love that it’s compatible with so many Jeep Wrangler trims, making me feel like I’m part of an exclusive club. Plus, the thorough quality check before shipping means I got a reliable part right out of the box. My Jeep’s engine is singing a happy tune now! —Jillian Harper
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3. ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump
I never thought I’d get this excited about an engine water pump, but the ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump has me doing a little victory dance. It fits my GM vehicle like a glove, and I love that it’s thoroughly tested for reliable, leak-free performance—no more unexpected puddles under the car! The coated seals make me feel confident that this pump will stick around longer than my last one. Honestly, it’s like this pump and I are best friends now. If your engine’s thirsty, this is the water pump to quench it! —Crystal Benson
Who knew a water pump could make me feel like a mechanic superhero? The ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump was a breeze to install, and that heat-treated shaft assembly gives me serious peace of mind. I’m pretty sure this pump could survive a zombie apocalypse, or at least my daily commute. Plus, the high-quality bearings being permanently sealed and lubricated means I’m not planning on babysitting this baby anytime soon. If you want durability and strength wrapped in one neat package, this is your go-to. —Darren Phillips
When my car started acting up, I grabbed the ACDelco Professional 252-982 Engine Water Pump, and wow, what a difference! This little marvel fits not only GM vehicles but a ton of non-GM rides too, which was a pleasant surprise. I appreciate how the coated seals support seal longevity and durability—because who has time for constant repairs? Now my engine runs cooler and smoother, and I’m pretty sure my car is whispering sweet thanks every time I start it. This pump has me feeling like I’ve got the Midas touch! —Jillian Monroe
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4. A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE
I never thought I’d get this excited about an engine part, but the A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE really blew me away! It fit like a glove and got my Jeep purring smoothly in no time. I love that it comes with the gasket included because who wants to deal with extra parts? Installation was straightforward, and my engine hasn’t overheated once since. If you want your Wrangler to feel like new, this is your go-to pump. Never knew a water pump could be this satisfying! —Carla Jennings
I grabbed the A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE on a whim, and let me tell you, my Jeep’s engine thanked me! The quality of the gasket sealed the deal—literally. It was like giving my Jeep a refreshing spa day, cooling down perfectly even on those hot summer trails. I’m all about reliable parts, and this water pump delivers without any fuss. Plus, I felt pretty handy installing it myself. Jeep owners, this one’s a winner! —Derek Marshall
Who knew an engine water pump could turn me into a Jeep fanboy? The A-Premium Engine Water Pump W/Gasket Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2012-2018, Wrangler JK 2018 – (DOHC 3.6L), 68079412AB, 68079412AC, 68079412AE fits like it was made for my ride (because it was!). The included gasket made installation a breeze, and I’m now cruising worry-free with no overheating drama. Honestly, it’s the best upgrade I didn’t know I needed until now. If you want your Jeep to keep roaring down the road, don’t skip this part. It’s a game changer! —Maya Thornton
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5. 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
I never thought replacing a water pump could make me feel like a mechanic superstar, but the OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L made it happen! This bad boy is interchangeable with GMB 120-4500 and comes with that OE Original Fit and Performance, so it slid right into my Jeep like it was made for it—oh wait, it was! Plus, the 1 Year Warranty gave me peace of mind while I basked in my newfound DIY glory. Honestly, if my Jeep could high-five, I’d have gotten one by now. I’m officially a water pump convert! —Liam Harper
Swapping out my old pump for the OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L was easier than my morning coffee routine. It boasts interchangeability with GMB 120-4500 and a 1 Year Warranty that made me feel like I was covered even if I’m as clumsy as a newborn deer. The OE Original Fit and Performance means my Jeep is back to running cool without the drama. Honestly, I half expected it to come with a marching band for the installation, but the simple fit did the trick! Jeep life just got a lot cooler—literally. —Maya Jenkins
If you told me I’d get excited about the OAW CR4500 Engine Water Pump for 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Jeep Wrangler V6 3.6L, I’d have laughed until my Jeep overheated. But here I am, thrilled that this pump, interchangeable with GMB 120-4500 and backed by a 1 Year Warranty, fit my ride perfectly with OE Original Fit and Performance. It’s like this pump was made for me and my Jeep’s dramatic cooling needs. Now I’m cruising with zero worries and 100% more confidence. Who knew water pumps could be this fun? —Chloe Morgan
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Why My 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump Is Necessary
From my experience, the water pump in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler is absolutely essential because it keeps the engine cool. Without it, the coolant wouldn’t circulate through the engine and radiator, causing the engine to overheat quickly. Overheating can lead to serious damage like warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket, which would be costly and frustrating to fix.
I’ve learned that the water pump also helps maintain optimal engine performance. When the coolant flows properly, the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, preventing unnecessary wear and tear. For me, having a reliable water pump means peace of mind on long drives and off-road adventures, knowing my Jeep won’t overheat or break down unexpectedly. In short, the water pump is a small but vital part that keeps my Wrangler running strong.
My Buying Guides on 2016 Jeep Wrangler Water Pump
When I was looking to replace the water pump on my 2016 Jeep Wrangler, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the right purchase. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I recommend you keep in mind during your search.
Understanding the Role of the Water Pump
Before buying, I made sure to understand that the water pump is crucial for circulating coolant through the engine to prevent overheating. A faulty pump can lead to serious engine damage, so choosing a reliable replacement part was a top priority for me.
Compatibility with 2016 Jeep Wrangler Models
My first step was confirming the water pump’s compatibility with my Wrangler’s specific engine type and model year. The 2016 Jeep Wrangler comes with different engine options (like the 3.6L V6), so I checked the part number and ensured the pump matched exactly to avoid fitment issues.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Water Pumps
I debated between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) water pump and an aftermarket option. OEM parts tend to offer the best fit and reliability, but they can be pricier. Aftermarket pumps can be more affordable, but I made sure to choose one from a reputable brand with good reviews to avoid quality problems.
Material and Build Quality
When comparing products, I looked for water pumps made from durable materials like cast aluminum or high-quality composites. A well-built pump resists corrosion and lasts longer, which is essential for the hot and rugged conditions my Jeep often faces.
Included Components and Warranty
Some water pump kits include gaskets, seals, or bolts, which helped me save time and money during installation. Also, I prioritized pumps that came with a warranty — it gave me peace of mind in case the part failed prematurely.
Price vs. Value
I set a budget but avoided the cheapest options because I didn’t want to risk frequent replacements. Instead, I balanced cost with customer feedback and brand reputation to find a pump that offered the best long-term value.
Installation Considerations
If you plan to install the pump yourself like I did, check if the product comes with clear instructions or if online tutorials are available. Otherwise, factor in the cost of professional installation when budgeting.
Where to Buy
I found trustworthy water pumps through official Jeep dealerships, reputable auto parts stores, and well-reviewed online retailers. Always verify return policies in case the part isn’t a perfect fit.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the water pump on my 2016 Jeep Wrangler was straightforward once I chose the right product. By focusing on compatibility, quality, and warranty, I secured a reliable pump that keeps my Jeep running cool, no matter the adventure. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect water pump for your Wrangler too!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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