The Isuzu 4EE4 is a 1,170 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder and a carburettor for fuel delivery. In standard form it delivered approximately 55 kW (75 PS), providing adequate power for its lightweight applications.
Fitted primarily to the Isuzu Gemini and its badge-engineered variants like the Holden Gemini and Geo Storm, the 4EE4 was engineered for economical city driving and light commuting. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and catalytic converter systems.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This issue, referenced in Isuzu service documentation, is often linked to the original tensioner design. The engine was superseded by more advanced fuel-injected units in the mid-1990s.
Isuzu
Production years 1988–1993 meet applicable emissions standards for their respective markets at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval for relevant imports).
The Isuzu 4EE4 is a 1,170 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1988–1993). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver economical, low-stress performance. Designed to meet late-1980s emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and ease of maintenance over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,170 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 68.5 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (Market Dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API SF/CC or equivalent 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg (approx.) |
The carburetted SOHC design offers simple, robust performance ideal for gentle driving but requires periodic carburettor adjustment and cleaning to maintain smooth idle and fuel economy. The timing belt is a critical service item and must be replaced every 60,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first, along with the tensioner pulley to prevent catastrophic failure. Using the specified 10W-40 oil ensures proper lubrication of the older valvetrain design. Fuel quality is less critical than for modern engines, but clean, unleaded petrol is mandatory.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC or equivalent mineral-based 10W-40 oil (Isuzu Owner's Manual 1990). Modern SM/SN oils are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Certified to pre-Euro standards applicable in Japan and export markets during 1988-1993 (VCA Type Approval for UK-spec vehicles).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across all markets for this engine variant.
Isuzu Workshop Manual: #WM-4EE4
Isuzu Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. #4EE4-88
JIS D 1001: Japanese Industrial Standard for Engine Power Measurement
The Isuzu 4EE4 was used in Isuzu's compact FF platform with transverse mounting. This engine powered the final generation of the rear-wheel-drive Gemini before the model transitioned to front-wheel drive. All specifications are managed internally by Isuzu engineering.
The engine code '4EE4' is stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the engine block, just below the cylinder head and to the right of the water pump (Isuzu Workshop Manual #WM-4EE4). The 8th digit of the VIN for Isuzu Gemini models is '4' for this engine. Visually, it can be identified by its single-barrel carburettor and distributor-based ignition system, distinguishing it from fuel-injected variants. When replacing the timing belt, always use the OEM-specified kit which includes the revised tensioner pulley to prevent premature failure.
The 4EE4's primary reliability risk is timing belt and tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Isuzu service data indicates a significant portion of failures occur after the 60,000 km service interval is missed, while carburettor issues are common with age and infrequent maintenance. Adherence to the timing belt replacement schedule is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Analysis derived from Isuzu technical bulletins (1988-1993) and general industry repair data for this era. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ISUZU 4EE4.
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 ISUZU 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.
ISUZU 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 officialISUZU 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.
