Engine Code

MAZDA P5Z8 engine (2022–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mazda P5Z8 is a 2,488 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2022 for the North American CX-50 and later the CX-90. It features Skyactiv-G direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and a 10.5:1 compression ratio, delivering 187 kW (256 PS) and 320 Nm for strong, accessible performance. Its high-pressure direct injection system enables precise fuel control under boost for responsive power delivery.

Fitted primarily to the CX-50 (PU) and CX-90 (J50), the P5Z8 was engineered to provide a more engaging, torque-rich driving experience in Mazda's larger SUVs. Emissions compliance for North American markets is achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and optimized combustion calibration, meeting ULEV II standards.

One documented service concern involves potential carbon buildup on intake valves, a known characteristic of GDI turbo engines. Mazda Service Information Bulletin 01-007/22 outlines inspection and cleaning procedures for vehicles exhibiting drivability issues. No major generational hardware updates have occurred since its introduction.

Mazda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2022–Present meet ULEV II standards for North American markets (EPA Certificate of Conformity #MAZ-2022-008).

P5Z8 Technical Specifications

The Mazda P5Z8 is a 2,488 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid‑size and large SUVs (2022-Present). It combines Skyactiv-G direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong, low-end torque and spirited acceleration. Designed to meet stringent ULEV II standards, it balances performance with modern emissions control.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,488 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged (Twin-Scroll)
Bore × stroke89.0 mm × 100.0 mm
Power output187 kW (256 PS) @ 5,000 rpm
Torque320 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemDirect Injection (Skyactiv-G), High Pressure
Emissions standardULEV II
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerTwin-Scroll (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeMazda Genuine 0W-20 (API SP)
Dry weightNot Publicly Available
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo provides strong, low-RPM torque ideal for overtaking and towing, but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup and turbo degradation. Mazda Genuine 0W-20 oil is critical due to its specific formulation for turbocharged GDI engines. The engine features a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), requiring the use of Top Tier detergent fuel to prevent premature clogging. Intake valve cleaning may be necessary as preventative maintenance around 80,000–100,000 km per service recommendations.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Mazda Genuine 0W-20 meeting API SP (Mazda Owner's Manual). Lower viscosity aids turbo spool and efficiency.

Emissions: ULEV II certification applies to all P5Z8 engines in this production period (EPA Certificate of Conformity #MAZ-2022-008).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are consistent across specified model applications (Mazda Group PT-2024).

Primary Sources

Mazda Technical Information System: ETK Doc. MZ-ETK-2488-T2, SIB 01-007/22

EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (MAZ-2022-008)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

P5Z8 Compatible Models

The Mazda P5Z8 was used across Mazda's PU/J50 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine has received no major hardware revisions affecting core compatibility since its introduction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mazda
Years:
2022–Present
Models:
CX-50 (PU)
Variants:
2.5T Turbo Petrol
View Source
Mazda Group PT-2024
Make:
Mazda
Years:
2023–Present
Models:
CX-90 (J50)
Variants:
2.5T Turbo Petrol
View Source
Mazda Group PT-2024
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a metal plate affixed to the cylinder head, near the ignition coils (Mazda ETK Doc. MZ-ETK-2488-T2). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'Z' for the 2.5L Skyactiv-G turbo petrol engine in North American models. Visually, the engine features a black plastic cover with "SKYACTIV-G 2.5T" branding and a visible twin-scroll turbocharger with associated piping on the exhaust manifold side. Differentiation from the P5X0: P5Z8 is used in CX-50/CX-90 and may have minor ECU calibration differences.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Mazda ETK Doc. MZ-ETK-2488-T2

Location:

Stamped on metal plate on cylinder head near ignition coils (Mazda ETK Doc. MZ-ETK-2488-T2).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic engine cover with 'SKYACTIV-G 2.5T' branding.
  • Visible turbocharger and intercooler piping on the front/right side of the engine.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Mazda Technical Bulletin Database

E C U Software:

ECU calibration is specific to vehicle platform (CX-50 vs CX-90); ensure correct software when replacing ECUs.

Exhaust System:

Downpipe and catalytic converter assemblies differ between CX-50 and CX-90 applications.

Common Reliability Issues - MAZDA P5Z8

The P5Z8's primary documented concern is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Mazda internal service data indicates this is a common maintenance item rather than a failure, while owner feedback often cites it as a cause for drivability complaints. Regular use of quality fuel and adherence to service intervals make preventative cleaning a manageable task.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation or stumbling during acceleration, reduced fuel economy, illuminated check engine light (misfire codes).
Cause: Direct fuel injection sprays fuel directly into cylinders, bypassing intake valves, allowing oil vapors to bake onto valve stems over time, exacerbated by turbocharging.
Fix: Perform walnut shell or chemical intake valve cleaning per Mazda service procedures; use Top Tier detergent fuel to slow recurrence.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle
Symptoms: Distinct metallic rattle or chatter from the engine bay, particularly under light throttle or during deceleration, may trigger boost control codes.
Cause: Wear or carbon buildup in the turbocharger's wastegate linkage or actuator, preventing smooth operation and causing the valve to rattle.
Fix: Clean or replace the turbocharger wastegate actuator/linkage assembly with OEM parts; inspect for carbon buildup in the exhaust housing.
Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, warning messages for 'Exhaust System' or 'Engine Power Reduced', frequent regenerations.
Cause: Use of non-Top Tier fuel or frequent short trips preventing the GPF from reaching optimal regeneration temperatures, leading to excessive soot accumulation.
Fix: Perform a forced regeneration via diagnostic tool if possible; if severely clogged, the GPF may require replacement. Always use Top Tier fuel.
High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, sudden loss of power, diagnostic trouble codes related to fuel rail pressure (e.g., P0087, P0088).
Cause: Internal wear or electrical failure within the high-pressure fuel pump, a critical component of the direct injection system under high boost loads.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump assembly with a new OEM unit; inspect associated wiring and connectors during replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2022-2024) and aggregated owner-reported data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about MAZDA P5Z8

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA P5Z8.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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

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