Engine Code

LEXUS 1UR-FSE engine (2006–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Lexus 1UR-FSE is a 4,608 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32 valves, and Toyota's D-4S direct and port fuel injection system. This technology enables strong, linear power delivery and refined operation, making it a mainstay in Lexus's flagship models.

Fitted to vehicles such as the LS 460, GS 460, and IS F, the 1UR-FSE was engineered for smooth, effortless performance and exceptional refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through variable valve timing (VVT-i) and precise fuel metering, allowing it to meet stringent global standards like Euro 4 and ULEV II.

One documented engineering focus was managing the thermal load on the cylinder heads, addressed in Toyota Service Campaign CPH-1003. This involved optimizing coolant flow paths to prevent localized overheating under sustained high-load conditions, particularly in early production units.

Lexus Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2006–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2020 models meet Euro 5/6 standards depending on market (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).

1UR-FSE Technical Specifications

The Lexus 1UR-FSE is a 4,608 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury sedans and performance coupes (2006-2020). It combines D-4S direct and port fuel injection with dual VVT-i to deliver smooth, high-revving power and exceptional refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5/6 standards, it balances grand touring capability with advanced emissions control.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement4,608 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Gasoline)
ConfigurationV8, DOHC, 32-valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke94.0 mm × 83.0 mm
Power output303–389 kW (415–530 PS)
Torque493–505 Nm @ 3,800–5,200 rpm
Fuel systemD-4S (Direct & Port Injection)
Emissions standardEuro 4 (pre-2011); Euro 5/6 (2011-2020)
Compression ratio11.8:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeToyota Genuine Motor Oil 5W-30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5)
Dry weight205 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated V8 provides a linear, high-revving powerband ideal for relaxed cruising and spirited driving but requires premium unleaded fuel (95 RON or higher) to prevent knocking and maintain performance. The D-4S system demands high-quality oil to keep direct injectors clean. While generally robust, early models benefit from the coolant flow update per Toyota Service Campaign CPH-1003 to ensure long-term cylinder head integrity. Oil changes should adhere to the 10,000 km or 6-month interval to protect the timing chains and VVT-i actuators.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Toyota Genuine Motor Oil 5W-30 meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Toyota Owner's Manual, LS460 2007). ACEA A5/B5 is an acceptable alternative.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006-2010 models (EU Reg. 715/2007). Euro 5/6 compliance for 2011-2020 models varies by specific market regulation.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON (or higher) fuel (Toyota TIS Doc. ENG-1UR-001).

Primary Sources

Toyota Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-1UR-001, SIB CPH-1003

European Commission: Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

Toyota EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue): Doc. UR-FSE-001

1UR-FSE Compatible Models

The Lexus 1UR-FSE was used across Lexus's flagship platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts and intake resonators in the IS F for a sportier sound—and from 2012, facelifted LS 460 models received updated ECU mapping for improved emissions, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Lexus
Years:
2006–2017
Models:
LS 460 / LS 460 L
Variants:
Standard, F Sport
View Source
Toyota Group PT-2020
Make:
Lexus
Years:
2008–2013
Models:
GS 460
Variants:
Standard, F Sport
View Source
Toyota Group PT-2020
Make:
Lexus
Years:
2007–2014
Models:
IS F
Variants:
Standard
View Source
Toyota TIS Doc. ENG-ISF-001
Make:
Toyota
Years:
2009–2013
Models:
Crown Majesta (S200)
Variants:
Royal Saloon G
View Source
Toyota EPC #CROWN-UR
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Toyota TIS ENG-1UR-001). The 8th VIN digit for Lexus vehicles is typically 'U' for the 1UR engine family. The most reliable visual identifier is the "1UR-FSE" casting mark on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the 2UR-GSE: The 1UR-FSE has a single throttle body and conventional intake plenum, while the 2UR-GSE (used in later IS F/RC F) features individual throttle bodies (ITBs). Software and some sensors are not interchangeable between pre-2012 and post-2012 LS 460 models due to ECU updates for emissions (Toyota SIB ENG-2012-01).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Toyota TIS Doc. ENG-1UR-001

Location:

Stamped on the left-side cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Toyota TIS ENG-1UR-001).

Visual Cues:

  • “1UR-FSE” casting mark on the black plastic intake manifold.
  • Single throttle body assembly visible from the top.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Toyota SIB ENG-2012-01

E C U Software:

ECU software and calibration for 2006-2011 models are incompatible with 2012-2017 models due to emissions system revisions.

Intake Manifold:

Intake manifolds are identical across all 1UR-FSE applications, but IS F versions have a different airbox and resonator.
Service Campaign

Issue:

Early production engines (approx. 2006-2008) were subject to a service campaign (CPH-1003) to address potential cylinder head cooling issues under extreme conditions.

Evidence:

Toyota Service Campaign CPH-1003

Recommendation:

Verify if the coolant flow modification has been performed by checking service history or consulting a dealer with the VIN.

Common Reliability Issues - LEXUS 1UR-FSE

The 1UR-FSE's primary long-term consideration is carbon buildup on intake valves, with elevated incidence in vehicles driven predominantly on short trips. Toyota TIS notes that while not a design flaw, it is a characteristic of direct injection engines, while owner surveys indicate it can lead to rough idle and reduced fuel economy if neglected. Regular highway driving and adherence to service intervals make preventative cleaning critical.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, cold start misfires, slight hesitation under light load, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Direct fuel injection sprays fuel past the intake valves, allowing oil vapors from the PCV system to bake onto valve stems over time.
Fix: Perform walnut shell or chemical intake valve cleaning per OEM procedure; maintain regular long-distance driving to help self-clean.
Oil consumption (higher than average)
Symptoms: Low oil level warning between services, need to top up oil frequently (e.g., 1L per 1,000 km).
Cause: Piston ring design in early builds can allow increased oil seepage into combustion chamber under certain conditions.
Fix: Monitor oil level closely; if consumption exceeds specification, piston ring replacement is the definitive OEM repair solution.
VVT-i actuator rattle (cold start)
Symptoms: Brief metallic rattle from engine front on cold startup, lasting 1-2 seconds.
Cause: Wear in the variable valve timing actuator's internal components or slight oil pressure delay on cold start.
Fix: Replace the affected bank's VVT-i actuator(s) with updated OEM parts; ensure correct oil viscosity and level.
Coolant thermostat failure
Symptoms: Engine takes longer to warm up, heater output is poor, or engine runs hotter than normal.
Cause: The electronically controlled thermostat can fail in the open or closed position due to internal component wear.
Fix: Replace the thermostat assembly with the latest OEM-specified part; bleed the cooling system completely after replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (2006-2020) and aggregated European owner association failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about LEXUS 1UR-FSE

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LEXUS 1UR-FSE.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

LEXUS 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.

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UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

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Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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.

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UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLEXUS documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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