The CADILLAC EJ-DE is a 1,498 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1998. It features a SOHC valvetrain, multi-port fuel injection, and cast-iron block construction, delivering reliable performance for compact and city-focused applications. In standard tune it produced 67 kW (91 PS) with 127 Nm of torque, forming part of Daihatsu's EJ engine family.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Charade, Mira, and Move, the EJ-DE was engineered for urban drivability, fuel economy, and emissions compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9232).
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 93-NA-034. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the camshaft lobes during sustained high-RPM operation and extended oil change intervals. In 1995, Daihatsu revised the oil pump design and updated lifter profiles to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (1990–1998) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9232).
The CADILLAC EJ-DE is a 1,498 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and city cars (1990–1998). It combines SOHC architecture with multi-port fuel injection to deliver dependable urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it represents a durable iteration of Daihatsu's small-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.5 mm | |
| Power output | 67 kW (91 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SG) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The SOHC inline-four design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. SAE 10W-30 API SG oil is essential due to its stability under sustained load conditions. 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 10W-30 API SG specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 1990-0365).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9232).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 67 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24710).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24710, A25162, SIB 93-NA-034
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9232)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC EJ-DE was used across Daihatsu's CHx and Mx platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Charade and revised cooling routing in the Mira-and from 1995 the facelifted Move 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 A25110). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('E' for EJ series). Pre-1995 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-1995 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EJ-VE: Original EJ-DE has Denso ECU with 40-pin connector and cast-iron block, while EJ-VE uses aluminium block. Service parts require production date verification—lifters before 09/1994 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 93-NA-034).
The EJ-DE's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 1993 indicated a significant share of pre-1995 engines required camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low fuel quality increase lifter stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (1990–1998) and NHTSA field reports (1993–1997). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU EJ-DE.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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