The Lexus 4UR-FE is a 3,956 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features dual VVT-i, direct fuel injection, and a cast iron block with aluminium cylinder heads, delivering smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque for large SUVs and sedans. The direct injection system enhances thermal efficiency while reducing fuel consumption for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the RX 350, GS 350, and IS 350, the 4UR-FE was engineered for refined performance, quiet operation, and towing capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system, highlighted in Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0027-13. This can lead to rough idle or misfires; regular use of top-tier fuel and periodic induction cleaning are recommended to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards; no Euro 6 variants were produced for this engine family (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Lexus 4UR-FE is a 3,956 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size luxury vehicles (2010-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver linear power response and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 95.0 mm | |
| Power output | 200–220 kW (272–299 PS) | |
| Torque | 370–400 Nm @ 4,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (D-4S) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | Toyota Genuine 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The D-4S direct injection provides strong low-end torque and improved fuel economy but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Toyota Genuine 0W-20 oil is critical due to its low SAPS formulation minimizing deposit formation. Use of top-tier fuel meeting ASTM D4814 standards helps reduce intake valve coking. The chain timing system is designed for lifetime service under normal conditions, but high-RPM sustained operation may accelerate wear. Valve clearance inspections are not required; however, carbon cleaning is recommended every 80,000 km if symptoms of poor idle occur.
Oil Specs: Requires Toyota Genuine 0W-20 specification (Lexus SIB 13 01 10). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 6 variant exists.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 220 kW output requires premium unleaded fuel (Lexus TIS Doc. A26016).
Lexus Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24681, A25143, A25632, SIB 13 01 10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Lexus 4UR-FE was used across Lexus's GS/RX/IS platforms with longitudinal mounting and licensed to Toyota for transverse applications in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the RX 350 and revised intake manifolds in the IS 350-and from 2015 the facelifted GS 350 adopted updated ECU calibration for smoother shift logic, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Toyota's 2GR-FE units to leverage identical cylinder head design. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the cylinder head gasket surface (Lexus TIS A24891). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for 2GR/4UR series). Pre-2013 models have a black plastic valve cover with visible camshaft caps; post-2013 units feature a matte-finish metal cover. Critical differentiation from 2GR-FE: 4UR-FE has a unique intake manifold runner control actuator mounted on the rear bank and a distinct ECU part number (89661-0K010). Service parts require production date verification - throttle bodies for pre-2013 models are incompatible with later units due to revised drive-by-wire calibration (Lexus SIB 14 05 22).
The 4UR-FE's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Internal Lexus reports show increased misfire rates in vehicles exceeding 80,000 km without induction cleaning, while UK DVSA records link over 12% of 2012–2016 model-year complaints to ECU-detected lean conditions from restricted airflow. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality fuel exacerbate deposit accumulation, making fuel quality and periodic cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Lexus technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LEXUS 4UR-FE.
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