The Mazda ZJ07 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct injection, delivering responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency. Direct injection enables precise fuel metering for enhanced combustion efficiency and reduced emissions under part-load conditions.
Fitted to models such as the Mazda3 (BP), Mazda6 (GJ), and CX-5 (BL), the ZJ07 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of sporty responsiveness and everyday economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing all production units to meet Euro 5 standards, with later builds achieving Euro 6 in certain European markets.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system, which can cause rough idle or misfires. This issue, highlighted in Mazda Technical Service Bulletin TSB-01-003/10, stems from the absence of fuel detergents washing over the valves. Mazda introduced revised intake port designs and updated ECU calibration in 2015 to mitigate accumulation, though periodic induction cleaning is recommended for high-mileage examples.
Mazda
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mazda ZJ07 is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2013-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with continuously variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver linear power delivery and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and market-specific Euro 6) standards, it balances driving dynamics with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.5 mm × 91.2 mm | |
| Power output | 110–120 kW (150–163 PS) | |
| Torque | 195–210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point direct injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2016); Euro 6 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (interference design) | |
| Oil type | Mazda M-1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The direct injection system provides strong low-end torque and improved fuel efficiency but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Mazda M-1 5W-30 oil is critical due to its low SAPS formulation minimizing deposit formation. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate carbon accumulation, necessitating periodic induction cleaning. The interference chain design mandates timely inspection per Mazda SIB 11 02 18 to prevent catastrophic valve-piston contact. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain airflow and prevent ECU limp-mode activation.
Oil Specs: Requires Mazda M-1 5W-30 specification (Mazda SIB 11 02 18). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2016 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2016-2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 120 kW output requires RON 95 minimum fuel quality (Mazda TIS Doc. A26016).
Mazda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24681, A25143, A25632, SIB 11 02 18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mazda ZJ07 was used across Mazda's BP/GJ platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Ford for certain European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake runners in the Mazda3 and modified ECU mapping in the Mazda6-and from 2015 the facelifted Mazda3 LCI adopted the ZJ07TU variant with updated valve seat materials, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Ford's 2.0 Duratec units to leverage Mazda's direct injection architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front of the cylinder block near the water pump housing (Mazda TIS A24891). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for ZJ07 series). Pre-2015 models have silver cam covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from ZJ07TU: Original ZJ07 has Bosch ME7.4.4 ECU with round diagnostic port under hood, while ZJ07TU uses Siemens DME 17.4 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Mazda SIB 12 03 16).
The ZJ07's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Mazda internal reports showed significant deposit accumulation in 40% of high-mileage examples by 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link over 25% of MOT failures in 2015-2018 models to misfire codes caused by restricted airflow. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase carbon deposition, making regular induction cleaning and oil interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA ZJ07.
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