The Toyota 1MZ-FE is a 2,995 cc, 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 2004. It features an aluminium block and heads, dual overhead camshafts, and sequential fuel injection for smooth, refined power delivery. In standard form it delivered 136–149 kW (185–203 PS) and 274–284 Nm of torque, engineered for comfort and reliability in Toyota's premium sedans and SUVs.
Fitted to models such as the Camry (XV10, XV20), Avalon (XX10), and RAV4 (XA20) V6, the 1MZ-FE was designed for drivers seeking quiet, effortless performance for highway cruising and daily commuting. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 2 and Euro 3 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented engineering characteristic is the potential for oil sludge buildup under severe service conditions or extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Toyota's Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) EG005-03, is linked to specific driving patterns and oil quality. Toyota addressed this with revised maintenance schedules and oil specifications in later production years.
Production years 1993–1999 meet Euro 2 standards; 2000–2004 models meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Toyota 1MZ-FE is a 2,995 cc 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium sedans and SUVs (1993-2004). It combines dual overhead camshafts with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and exceptional refinement. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with proven Toyota reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 82.5 mm | |
| Power output | 136–149 kW (185–203 PS) @ 5,200–5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 274–284 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1993–1999); Euro 3 (2000–2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL or ILSAC GF-3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg |
The DOHC design and V6 configuration provide a smooth, quiet powerband ideal for relaxed driving but require strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. The potential for oil sludge formation under severe conditions necessitates using the correct ILSAC GF-3 specification oil and adhering to shortened 5,000 km oil change intervals if primarily used for short trips or in extreme climates, as detailed in TSB EG005-03.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL or ILSAC GF-3 specification oil (Toyota TSB EG005-03). Modern API SN oils are suitable upgrades.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1993-1999 models; Euro 3 applies to 2000-2004 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies by model application and year (Toyota Group PT-2002).
Toyota Technical Information System: Workshop Manual RM418U
Toyota EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Doc. 1MZ-001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
The Toyota 1MZ-FE was used across Toyota's Camry, Avalon, and RAV4 platforms with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the V6 RAV4-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the left cylinder bank, near the timing cover (Toyota Workshop Manual RM418U). The engine bay VIN plate will also list the engine code. Visual identification: Aluminium block, dual cam covers with "VVT-i" logo (on later models), distributorless ignition with coil packs. Critical differentiation from 3MZ-FE: 1MZ-FE is 3.0L (2995cc), while 3MZ-FE is 3.3L (3311cc). Engine management ECUs and some ancillary components are not interchangeable.
The 1MZ-FE's primary reliability concern is oil sludge formation under severe service conditions, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or infrequent oil changes. Toyota TSB EG005-03 documents this as a critical service issue, while owner reports frequently cite timing belt failure and VVT-i oil line leaks. Adhering to strict maintenance schedules and using correct lubricants make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (1993-2004) and aggregated owner/mechanic reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 1MZ-FE.
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