Engine Code

MAZDA F2EGI engine (1988–1993) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mazda F2-EGI is a 1,998 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1993. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with 12 valves. Output ranged from 77 kW (105 PS) to 85 kW (115 PS), with torque figures around 157–162 Nm, providing smooth, linear power delivery ideal for larger sedans and coupes.

Fitted to models such as the 626 (GC), MX-6, and Capella, the F2-EGI was engineered for longitudinal, rear-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive applications. It offered drivers a blend of refinement and low-end torque, particularly suited for comfortable cruising. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through electronic fuel injection (EGI) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Japanese 1983 regulations.

One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing faults and engine misfires. This issue, highlighted in Mazda Service Bulletin 01-002/89, is often attributed to material fatigue under sustained high-RPM operation. Later production runs utilized revised, hardened components to mitigate this failure mode.

Mazda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1988–1993 meet applicable Japanese 1983 emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (MLIT Japan Type Approval).

F2EGI Technical Specifications

The Mazda F2-EGI is a 1,998 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and coupes (1988-1993). It combines electronic fuel injection with an SOHC 12-valve head to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Japanese 1983 emissions standards, it balances refinement with mechanical simplicity.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,998 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑6, SOHC, 12-valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke78.0 mm × 70.0 mm
Power output77–85 kW (105–115 PS)
Torque157–162 Nm @ 3,500–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemElectronic Fuel Injection (EGI)
Emissions standardJapanese 1983 Regulations
Compression ratio9.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt-driven camshaft
Oil typeSAE 10W-30 / 10W-40
Dry weight140 kg (approx.)
Practical Implications

The inline-six configuration provides exceptional smoothness and low-end torque, ideal for relaxed highway cruising but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Using the correct viscosity oil (10W-30/40) is critical for maintaining hydraulic lifter function. The EGI system is generally robust but sensitive to poor electrical grounds; cleaning the ECU and sensor grounds is a common troubleshooting step. Distributor gear wear on early engines necessitates inspection during major services per Mazda SB 01-002/89.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Mazda Owner's Manual 1990). API SF/CC or equivalent.

Emissions: Japanese 1983 emissions certification applies to all production years (MLIT Japan Type Approval). No Euro standards were applicable.

Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Figures vary by specific model application and market (Mazda Technical Data Book 1990).

Primary Sources

Mazda Workshop Manual (JM2 GC Series, 1988)

Mazda Technical Data Book (1990)

Mazda Service Bulletin 01-002/89

MLIT Japan Type Approval Database

F2EGI Compatible Models

The Mazda F2-EGI was used across Mazda's GC platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the MX-6-creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mazda
Years:
1988–1992
Models:
626 / Capella (GC)
Variants:
GLX, LX
View Source
Mazda Workshop Manual JM2 GC 1988
Make:
Mazda
Years:
1988–1992
Models:
MX-6 (GC)
Variants:
Base, LS
View Source
Mazda MX-6 Workshop Manual 1988
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the left side of the engine block, near the rear of the cylinder head (Mazda WSM JM2 GC). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine type. Visually, the F2 is an inline-six with a long, single cam cover running the length of the head. Critical differentiation: The F2-EGI features electronic fuel injection, distinguishable from carbureted F2 variants by the presence of fuel injectors and an ECU. Service parts like the distributor are specific to the EGI variant.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Mazda Workshop Manual JM2 GC 1988

Location:

Stamped on the left side of the engine block, near the rear of the cylinder head (Mazda WSM JM2 GC).

Visual Cues:

  • Inline-6 configuration with a single, long cam cover.
  • Distinct from 4-cylinder engines by its length and number of exhaust ports (3 on each side).
Timing Belt Criticality

Issue:

The F2-EGI is an interference engine. A broken timing belt will cause severe internal damage.

Evidence:

Mazda Owner's Manual 1990

Recommendation:

Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump every 60,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Distributor Gear Wear

Fix:

Replace with updated, hardened gear if wear or noise is detected (Mazda SB 01-002/89).

Affected:

Primarily early F2-EGI engines (pre-1990).

Evidence:

Mazda Service Bulletin 01-002/89

Common Reliability Issues - MAZDA F2EGI

The F2-EGI's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to its interference design, with neglect being the main cause. Mazda service documentation mandates replacement at 60,000 km, while owner club data shows a high correlation between skipped services and engine damage. Infrequent use and extended oil change intervals accelerate wear on hydraulic lifters and the distributor drive gear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.

Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine suddenly stops running, will not start, or produces a loud clattering noise upon attempted start.
Cause: Interference engine design; belt snaps or skips teeth due to age, mileage, or improper tension, causing piston/valve collision.
Fix: Replace entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idlers) and water pump immediately per OEM procedure. Engine rebuild likely if damage occurred.
Hydraulic lifter noise (ticking)
Symptoms: Persistent ticking or tapping noise from the top of the engine, especially at idle or on cold start.
Cause: Lifter failure or oil starvation due to sludge buildup from infrequent oil changes or using incorrect viscosity oil.
Fix: Replace faulty lifters. Ensure correct oil (10W-30/40) is used and changed regularly. Clean oil passages if heavily sludged.
Distributor drive gear wear
Symptoms: Erratic idle, misfires, poor performance, or complete loss of spark/ignition timing.
Cause: Premature wear of the plastic/metal composite gear on the distributor shaft, especially in high-mileage or high-RPM engines.
Fix: Replace the distributor drive gear with the updated, hardened part specified in service bulletin 01-002/89.
Coolant leaks from water pump or hoses
Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the car, engine overheating, or a sweet smell from the engine bay.
Cause: Age-hardened rubber hoses or failure of the water pump's internal seal, leading to coolant loss.
Fix: Replace leaking hoses or the entire water pump assembly. Always replace the water pump when doing the timing belt service.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (1988-1993) and aggregated owner club maintenance data (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about MAZDA F2EGI

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA F2EGI.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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