Chrysler vehicles have long been considered reliable, but recent engine design issues have caused problems with the 2.4L TigerShark engine. This engine has been used in multiple makes of cars, including Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge models. There are several flaws that plague these engines, making them expensive and sometimes dangerous to use.
If you own a vehicle with the Chrysler 2.4L engine that has issues such as high oil consumption, you need to know how the law can work for you. At Robison Lemon Law Group, we specialize in helping you understand your options and how to receive the compensation and fair treatment you deserve.
History of the Chrysler 2.4L TigerShark Engine
Starting in 2002, Chrysler partnered with other manufacturers to build the 2.4L World Gasoline Engine. In 2009, Chrysler bought out its partners to take exclusive ownership of the engine design and manufacture. It renamed the engine in 2013, calling it the TigerShark, but during this redesign, Chrysler was bought by Fiat. This formed Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), which holds the TigerShark design at present.
The TigerShark is a 2.4L inline-4 powerplant that offers between 172 and 285 horsepower, depending on the vehicle. The TigerShark improves on its predecessor by using MultiAir2 variable valve timing from Fiat’s design group.
Which Cars Have the 2.4L TigerShark Engine?
As a result of the ownership changes for the companies manufacturing these engines, the World Gas Engine or TigerShark engine can be found in numerous automobile models sold in the United States for the last two decades. These model years and names include:
- 2011-2014 Chrysler 200
- 2015-2016 Chrysler 200
- 2007-2010 Chrysler Sebring
- 2008-2014 Dodge Avenger
- 2007-2011 Dodge Caliber R/T & SRT-4
- 2013-2016 Dodge Dart
- 2009-2020 Dodge Journey
- 2016-present Fiat 500X
- 2017-present Fiat Toro
- 2007-2017 Jeep Compass
- 2014-present Jeep Cherokee
- 2015-present Jeep Renegade
- 2017-present Jeep Compass
- 2007-2017 Jeep Patriot
- 2015-present Ram ProMaster City
Common Problems With the 2.4L TigerShark Engine
There are two main issues you may encounter from the TigerShark engine: high oil consumption and flaws in the MultiAir system design. These are related since the MultiAir system works by using engine oil. The problems become worse with a third issue: a faulty oil level warning system.
The MultiAir system is intended to better control airflow into the pistons during the combustion cycle. This should increase engine power, reduce emission levels, and reduce fuel consumption. However, the technology is hampered severely by faults in the piston rings meant to control the flow of oil into the pistons. This problem actually increases emissions since it uses high levels of oil. The piston rings fail easily, causing the engine to burn oil quickly. This means the engine does not stay cool or lubricated, setting up the driver for serious repair bills when the TigerShark is damaged.
Trying to maintain sufficient oil levels becomes costly and time-consuming, something that should be made easier by the oil level warning system. Ideally, the warning system should notify the driver before the engine seizes and is damaged. However, this system frequently fails to alert the driver that the oil is too low until after the vehicle has already stalled.
Is There a Fix for the TigerShark Engine Oil Consumption Problem?
The MultiAir system uses electro-hydraulic controls to adjust the airflow into the cylinders, creating excess vacuum during some driving situations. In stop-and-go traffic, it could pull oil into the cylinders at a higher rate, burning off excessive oil. In large cities with long commuter drive times, this issue can decrease the life of the engine. Drivers who typically travel long stretches of road at a time tend to experience this less.
However, in newer models of the engine, there is a fix available that appears to solve this issue. Having the engine recalibrated at a dealership or repair center can adjust the MultiAir system to eliminate the points where excess vacuum is created. This reduces or stops the high oil consumption. However, it does not repair the piston rings if they are already failing.
Is the 2.4L TigerShark Considered a Good Engine?
In general, the TigerShark engine gets favorable reviews from both auto publications and drivers since not all vehicles experience problems with oil consumption and the MultiAir system issues. However, these and other flaws appear so regularly that you should thoroughly research other vehicle options before purchasing a car or truck model that carries this engine.
How Long Will a 2.4L TigerShark Engine Last?
With proper oil changes and maintenance, a 2.4L TigerShark engine should last between 130,000 and 200,000 miles. However, the oil consumption issues and piston ring failures can severely limit the lifespan of these engines before they need significant repair or fail completely.
Have There Been Any Lawsuits About the TigerShark Engine?
Yes. In March 2022, Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) settled nine class-action lawsuits with several vehicle owners who alleged that specific car models contained faulty TigerShark engines. The plaintiffs argued the vehicles would unexpectedly shut down, consume large amounts of oil, and expel oil into the exhaust system. They further claimed the oil warning system did not provide sufficient notice before the oil reached a dangerously low level.
FCA settled the claims without admitting liability for the problems or admitting guilt. They offered a small payout to each member of the lawsuits along with options for repairing or replacing the engines in their vehicles.
Can a Lemon Law Lawyer Help Me if My 2.4L TigerShark Engine Has Problems?
Car problems are common, but they are usually not caused by defectively manufactured products. If you took excellent care of your car and still experienced oil issues with your 2.4L TigerShark engine, you are facing repair bills that are not your fault. While the larger class-action lawsuits have been settled, you still have an option to pursue an individual claim against FCA if your vehicle has one of these engines and is having the same problems.
An experienced lemon law lawyer can instruct you in documenting your repairs and pursuing compensation for the loss and damage you’ve suffered. Filing an individual lawsuit can be more beneficial for you since there are usually thousands of plaintiffs represented in a class-action suit. In an individual claim, you have a greater chance of receiving a higher settlement since state lemon laws can apply.
Contact a Qualified Lemon Law Attorney Today
If you are driving a car with a faulty 2.4L TigerShark engine, you need help navigating your state’s complex legal system and lemon laws. You should not need to take your car to the dealership or auto shop constantly for repairs when you may have legal options to have the engine repaired or replaced by the manufacturer. At Robison Lemon Law Group, we work tirelessly to guide you through all avenues to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
Contact us today using our online form for a free, no-risk consultation to learn how we can fight for you. Also click here to learn more about PA Lemon Law, the NJ Lemon Law, or the NY Lemon Law.