The Mazda L3Y7 is a 2,488 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and variable valve timing (S — VT) on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 121 kW (165 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 226 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing smooth and linear power delivery ideal for daily commuting and highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the Mazda6 (GJ/GY) and CX — 5 (KE) across global market…
Mazda
All production years (2011–2018) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mazda L3Y7 is a 2,488 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2011–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with S-VT variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel economy and long-term reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,488 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
Power output | 121 kW (165 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 226 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Mazda M5 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Mazda L3Y7 was used across Mazda's GJ/GY and KE platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the CX-5 KE for NVH control and updated ECU calibrations in the Mazda6 GJ facelift—and from 2016 the introduction of cylinder deactivation (i-Stop compatible variants) in select markets, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The L3Y7's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in early builds (2011–2014), with elevated incidence in high-mileage or short-trip usage. Mazda internal data cited in TSB-01-003/14 indicated a subset of engines exceeding 1 L/1,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related failures. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil amplify piston ring coking, making correct oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Generally yes—especially post-2014 models. Early engines (2011–2014) had oil consumption issues, but revised piston rings and proper maintenance (5W-30 Mazda M5 oil, 10K km intervals) greatly improve longevity. The timing chain is robust, and the engine is known for smooth operation when serviced correctly.
Top issues include excessive oil consumption (early builds), S-VT actuator rattle, carbon buildup on intake valves, and plastic thermostat housing leaks. All are documented in Mazda TSBs, and most are preventable with correct oil and maintenance.
The L3Y7 2.5L petrol was used in the Mazda6 (GJ sedan and GY wagon, 2012–2018) and CX-5 (KE, 2012–2018) globally. It was not licensed to other manufacturers and is exclusive to Mazda’s Skyactiv-G lineup during this period.
Modest gains are possible via ECU remap (+10–15 kW), but the engine lacks forced induction. Significant power increases require turbocharging, which demands internal upgrades. Most owners prioritize reliability over tuning due to the engine’s already smooth and adequate performance.
In a Mazda6 2.5L, expect ~8.5 L/100km (city) and ~5.8 L/100km (highway), or ~33 mpg UK combined. CX-5 figures are slightly higher (~9.0 L/100km city). Real-world economy depends on driving style, but 30–38 mpg UK is typical for mixed use.
Yes. The L3Y7 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (extremely rare), piston-to-valve contact would cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed for life with proper oil maintenance.
Mazda specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Mazda M5 standard (API SN/ILSAC GF-5). Using this exact spec ensures proper lubrication of the S-VT system and helps prevent oil consumption and sludge in early engines.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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