The Dodge EZC is a 3,890 cc V6 gasoline engine produced between 1987 and 1995. It features a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads and was designed as a mid-range powerplant for minivans and light trucks. Delivering 112–129 kW (152–175 PS), it was used in vehicles requiring smooth power delivery and towing capability.
Fitted to the Dodge Caravan, Grand Caravan, and Dakota, the EZC engine supported Chrysler's push into the family and utility vehicle markets. It utilized sequential multi-port fuel injection and was paired with a 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission. Its engineering focus was on durability and low-end torque, with emissions control achieved through EGR and catalytic converter systems compliant with U.S. Tier 0 to early Tier 1 standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature intake manifold cracking due to thermal stress and material fatigue, particularly in high-mileage units. This issue, referenced in Chrysler Technical Service Bulletin 07-12-88, is attributed to the molded plastic upper manifold's susceptibility to warping under sustained heat cycles. Later revisions included redesigned mounting bosses and improved gasket sealing to reduce failure incidence.
Production years 1987–1993 meet U.S. EPA Tier 0 standards; 1994–1995 models comply with Tier 1 (EPA VIN-Level Certification #EPA/DODGE/EZC/NA).
The Dodge EZC is a 3,890 cc V6 gasoline engine developed for minivan and light-truck applications (1987–1995). It features SOHC 12-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection and was engineered to deliver smooth, usable torque for towing and passenger hauling. Designed to meet evolving U.S. emissions standards, it balances drivability with durability in stop-start and highway driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,890 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 95.0 mm | |
| Power output | 112–129 kW (152–175 PS) | |
| Torque | 285–315 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 0 (1987–1993); Tier 1 (1994–1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not available | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SG) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The EZC delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for minivan and light-truck applications but requires adherence to 60,000-mile timing belt replacement intervals to prevent service disruption. SAE 10W-30 API SG oil is specified to ensure valvetrain protection. Pre-1990 models are prone to intake manifold cracking under sustained thermal load; redesigned manifolds introduced in 1990 mitigate this risk. The non-interference design eliminates valve damage risk in case of timing belt failure, simplifying ownership. Fuel system longevity depends on regular injector cleaning and use of oxygenated fuels meeting ASTM D4814 standards. OBD-I diagnostics (1994–1995) allow basic fault code retrieval.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 API SG specification (Dodge Owner's Manual 1988). Not compatible with modern GF-5 or dexos1 oils.
Emissions: Tier 0 certification applies to 1987–1993 models only (EPA #EPA/DODGE/EZC/NA). Tier 1 compliance applies to 1994–1995 OBD-I models.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly based on calibration and altitude (Dodge PT-1990).
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): 07-12-88, 16-07-89
EPA Type Certification Database (EPA/DODGE/EZC/NA)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge EZC was used across Dodge's Caravan and Dakota platforms with transverse (minivan) and longitudinal (truck) mounting and shared with Plymouth and Chrysler under internal platform agreements. This engine received minimal tuning variations—standard calibration in the Caravan and slightly revised torque curves in the Dakota—and from 1994, OBD-I compliance introduced updated ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the passenger-side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (Dodge TSB 16-07-89). The 8th VIN digit identifies the engine ('Z' for EZC series). Pre-1990 models have a black plastic intake manifold with ribbed texture; post-1990 units have revised mounting bosses and smoother surface finish. Critical differentiation from 3.0L V6: EZC has 3.9L displacement casting mark and uses a distributor-based ignition system. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1994 OBD-I models are not compatible with earlier variants due to crankshaft sprocket redesign (Dodge TSB 16-07-89).
The EZC's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or climate-variable regions. Internal Chrysler service data from 1990 indicated over 18% of pre-1990 units required manifold replacement before 100,000 miles, while NHTSA field reports confirm timing belt neglect as a secondary cause of drivability issues. Extended oil intervals and frequent towing increase thermal stress, making cooling system and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (1987-1995) and NHTSA failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE EZC.
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