The Mazda RF7J is a 2,249 cc, inline-four turbo-petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts, delivering strong low-end torque for responsive everyday driving. The high-pressure direct injection system enables precise combustion control for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
Fitted to models such as the CX-5, Mazda6, and CX-7, the RF7J was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in compact SUVs and mid-size sedans. Emissions compliance was achieved through 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, highlighted in Mazda Service Bulletin SB-02-14-001. This results from the port-injection design lacking fuel wash on the valve surfaces, exacerbated by frequent short-trip driving. Mazda introduced revised intake manifold designs in 2015 to mitigate accumulation, but earlier units require periodic induction cleaning.
Mazda
Production years 2013–2018 meet Euro 5 standards; all models were certified under VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678.
The Mazda RF7J is a 2,249 cc inline-four turbo-petrol engineered for compact SUVs and mid-size vehicles (2013–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive power delivery and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,249 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with variable geometry turbocharger | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 93.6 mm | |
| Power output | 169–184 kW (230–250 PS) | |
| Torque | 420–450 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Mazda Genuine Synthetic Oil 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The variable-geometry turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for urban and motorway use but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon accumulation on intake valves. Mazda Genuine Synthetic Oil 5W-30 is critical due to its low SAPS formulation protecting the downstream catalyst and preventing valve coking. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate deposit formation, necessitating periodic induction cleaning. Use only premium unleaded fuel (RON 95 or higher) to maintain knock resistance and ensure optimal turbo operation. Post-2015 models feature redesigned intake manifolds reducing buildup risk; pre-2015 units should have cleaning performed every 40,000 km per Mazda SIB 02-14-001.
Oil Specs: Requires Mazda Genuine Synthetic Oil 5W-30 (Mazda SIB 02-14-001). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Maximum output requires RON 95+ fuel (Mazda TIS Doc. M46-1201).
Mazda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M46-1201, M46-1205
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mazda RF7J was used across Mazda's CX-5/Mazda6 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake runner geometry in the CX-5 and enhanced thermal management in the Mazda6-and from 2015 the facelifted CX-5 adopted the RF7J-TU variant with modified intake manifold baffles, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder head near the valve cover gasket (Mazda TIS M46-1201). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('P' for PN46 series). Pre-2015 models have a black plastic intake manifold with visible internal baffles; post-2015 units feature a revised manifold with smoother internal contours. Critical differentiation from RF7J-TU: Original RF7J has Bosch HDEV5 injector with serial code prefix 'B1', while RF7J-TU uses 'B2'. Service parts require production date verification - intake kits for engines before 07/2015 are incompatible with later units due to baffle redesign (Mazda SIB 02-14-001).
The RF7J's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Mazda data from 2016 reported over 15% of pre-2015 engines requiring induction cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT statistics show a significant rise in emissions-related failures linked to restricted airflow from deposits. Cold starts and frequent short journeys exacerbate oil vapor deposition, making regular maintenance and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2013–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA RF7J.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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