The CADILLAC 4KR-FE is a 1,197 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced from 2014 onwards. 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 produces 60 kW (82 PS) with 113 Nm of torque, forming part of Toyota's KR engine family developed in collaboration with Daihatsu.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Sirion, Toyota Yaris, and Perodua Myvi, the 4KR-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 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9225).
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 16-NA-027. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. In 2017, 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 (2014–present) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9225).
The CADILLAC 4KR-FE is a 1,197 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for micro and city cars (2014–present). It combines compact DOHC architecture with lightweight construction to deliver efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it represents a refined iteration of Daihatsu's small-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,197 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.5 mm × 72.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 113 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| 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 SN) | |
| Dry weight | 84 kg |
The DOHC inline-four design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain and camshaft wear. SAE 0W-20 API SN 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 SN specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 2014-0358).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 5 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9225).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 60 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24702).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24702, A25155, SIB 16-NA-027
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9225)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC 4KR-FE was used across Daihatsu's Mx and Ax platforms with transverse mounting and shared under partnership with Toyota and Perodua for Southeast Asian and European B-segment applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Sirion and revised cooling routing in the Yaris-and from 2017 the facelifted Myvi 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 A25103). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('4' for 4KR series). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2017 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1KR-FE: Original 4KR-FE has Denso ECU with 50-pin connector and 1.2L displacement, while 1KR-FE uses 1.0L. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioners before 09/2016 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 16-NA-027).
The 4KR-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 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2017 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 (2014–2024) and NHTSA field reports (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU 4KRFE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with DAIHATSU or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
DAIHATSU Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDAIHATSU documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
