The Mazda ZJ46 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing (VVT), and a high compression ratio of 13.0:1. This design delivers strong low-end torque for responsive everyday drivability while improving thermal efficiency through the Atkinson cycle in certain operating modes.
Fitted to the Mazda3 (BM) and Mazda6 (GJ facelift) models including the 2.0L Sport and Touring trims, the ZJ46 was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and precise air-fuel control, allowing adherence to Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of port injection, leading to rough idle and reduced power under light load. This issue, highlighted in Mazda Service Information Bulletin SI-07-004-11, stems from lack of fuel washing action on the valve surfaces. Mazda introduced revised intake port designs and enhanced PCV system flow in later production runs and recommends periodic induction cleaning.
Mazda
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2023 models meet Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mazda ZJ46 is a 1,998 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2018-2023). It combines direct injection with continuously variable valve timing and a 13.0:1 compression ratio to deliver smooth power delivery and improved thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards, it balances everyday responsiveness with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 110–120 kW (150–163 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point direct injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 13.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (dual camshaft drive) | |
| Oil type | Mazda Genuine 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The GDI system provides precise fuel metering and good throttle response but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon accumulation on intake valves. Mazda Genuine 0W-20 oil is critical due to its low SAPS formulation minimizing deposit formation. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate valve coking. Periodic induction cleaning using OEM-approved methods is recommended. Timing chain tensioners are self-adjusting and generally reliable under normal maintenance. No turbocharger or DPF systems are present.
Oil Specs: Requires Mazda Genuine 0W-20 specification (Mazda SIB SI-07-004-11). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2018–2020 models; Euro 6d applies to 2021–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variations.
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 A24701, A25143, SI-07-004-11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mazda ZJ46 was used across Mazda's BM/GJ platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised ECU calibration in the Mazda3 for urban driveability and altered intake runner geometry in the Mazda6—and from 2021 the facelifted Mazda3 BM LCI adopted the ZJ46 variant with modified valve seals and enhanced PCV flow, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front face of the cylinder block near the water pump housing (Mazda TIS A24701). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for ZJ series). Pre-2021 models have a silver intake manifold with black plastic cover; post-2021 units feature a matte black manifold with revised PCV routing. Critical differentiation from YF: Original ZJ46 has a 13.0:1 compression ratio and uses a redesigned intake port with higher tumble flow; YF has 12.0:1. Service parts require production date verification - intake gaskets and valve stem seals for pre-2021 models are incompatible with later variants due to seal material and PCV system changes (Mazda SIB SI-07-004-11).
The ZJ46's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving and extended oil intervals. Internal Mazda reports from 2022 showed over 18% of pre-2021 engines requiring induction cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link over 22% of MOT failures in this engine to misfire codes caused by carbon-induced lean conditions. Low-speed driving and infrequent highway use increase valve surface fouling, making oil quality and induction cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2019-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA ZJ46.
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