The CADILLAC 1KR-FE is a 998 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2014. It features a DOHC valvetrain, port fuel injection, and aluminium block construction, delivering lightweight efficiency for urban and city-focused applications. In standard tune it produced 50 kW (68 PS) with 93 Nm of torque, forming part of Toyota's KR engine family developed in collaboration with Daihatsu.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Cuore, Toyota Aygo, and Peugeot 107, the 1KR-FE was engineered for compact dimensions, fuel economy, and low emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9224).
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 07-NA-026. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. In 2009, Daihatsu revised the tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (2005–2014) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9224).
The CADILLAC 1KR-FE is a 998 cc inline-three petrol engine engineered for micro and city cars (2005–2014). It combines compact DOHC architecture with lightweight construction to deliver efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it represents a refined iteration of Daihatsu's small-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 93 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20 (API SM) | |
| Dry weight | 69 kg |
The DOHC inline-three design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain and camshaft wear. SAE 0W-20 API SM oil is essential due to its low-temperature flow and protection of high-RPM components. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-20 API SM specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 2005-0357).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 4 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9224).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 50 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24701).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24701, A25154, SIB 07-NA-026
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9224)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC 1KR-FE was used across Daihatsu's Mx and Ax platforms with transverse mounting and shared under partnership with Toyota and PSA for European B-segment applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Cuore and revised cooling routing in the Aygo-and from 2009 the facelifted 107 models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daihatsu TIS A25102). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('1' for 1KR series). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2009 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 2KR-FE: Original 1KR-FE has Denso ECU with 50-pin connector and 1.0L displacement, while 2KR-FE uses 1.3L. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioners before 09/2008 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 07-NA-026).
The 1KR-FE's primary reliability risk is timing chain rattle, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 2008 indicated a significant share of pre-2009 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (2005–2014) and NHTSA field reports (2008–2013). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU 1KR-FE.
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