Engine Code

TOYOTA 2ZR-FE engine (2007–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Toyota 2ZR-FE is a 1,798 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced from 2007 to present. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and Toyota's Dual VVT-i system. This engine delivers approximately 103 kW (140 PS) and 177 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive, efficient performance in compact and mid-size vehicles.

Fitted primarily to the Corolla, RAV4, and Scion xD, the 2ZR-FE was designed for drivers seeking a balance of fuel economy, smooth power delivery, and low maintenance costs. Emissions compliance for its era is achieved through precise electronic fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 and equivalent global standards.

One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in certain production batches, linked to piston ring design. This issue, addressed in Toyota Service Bulletin ENG-038-11, affected engines built between 2008 and 2011. Toyota implemented revised piston ring sets for affected vehicles under warranty.

Toyota Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2007–Present meet Euro 5 standards and equivalent global emissions regulations (Toyota Emissions Certification TEC-07-2ZR).

2ZR-FE Technical Specifications

The Toyota 2ZR-FE is a 1,798 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks, sedans, and crossovers (2007-Present). It combines Dual VVT-i variable valve timing with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and excellent fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and equivalent global standards, it prioritises low running costs and everyday drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,798 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke80.5 mm × 88.3 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque177 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemElectronic fuel injection (EFI)
Emissions standardEuro 5 / Global equivalents
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeAPI SN, SAE 0W-20
Dry weightNot specified in primary sources
Practical Implications

The Dual VVT-i system provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for city and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using 0W-20 oil to protect the variable valve timing actuators. Engines built between 2008-2011 are susceptible to oil consumption; owners should monitor dipstick levels monthly. The chain-driven design is robust, but the water pump is integrated with the timing chain cover and can be expensive to replace if it fails.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API SN 0W-20 specification oil (Toyota Repair Manual RM2ZR-07). Critical for VVT-i system function and fuel economy.

Emissions: Certification applies to all models manufactured 2007-Present (Toyota Emissions Certification TEC-07-2ZR).

Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output figures are net ratings for production vehicles (Toyota Group PT-2015).

Primary Sources

Toyota Repair Manual (RM2ZR-07)

Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC-2ZR-07)

Toyota Service Bulletin Database (ENG-038-11)

Toyota Group Product Technical Data (PT-2015)

2ZR-FE Compatible Models

The Toyota 2ZR-FE was used across Toyota's E140/ZZE140 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations, such as different engine mounts or accessory brackets, but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility occurred. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Toyota
Years:
2007–Present
Models:
Corolla (E140/E150)
Variants:
1.8 VVT-i, 1.8 Valvematic
View Source
Toyota EPC Doc. EPC-2ZR-07
Make:
Toyota
Years:
2008–2018
Models:
RAV4 (XA30/XA40)
Variants:
2.0 VVT-i
View Source
Toyota EPC Doc. EPC-2ZR-07
Make:
Toyota
Years:
2008–2014
Models:
Scion xD (E140)
Variants:
1.8L
View Source
Toyota EPC Doc. EPC-2ZR-07
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Toyota Repair Manual RM2ZR-07). The 2ZR-FE can be visually identified by its DOHC valve cover with 'Dual VVT-i' marking and the electronic throttle body. Critical differentiation from the 1ZR-FE: The 2ZR-FE is a 1.8L engine (vs. 1.6L for 1ZR) and has a slightly taller block casting. The 2ZR-FXE, its hybrid variant, features an Atkinson cycle and different intake manifold.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Toyota Repair Manual RM2ZR-07

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the engine block, near the alternator (Toyota Repair Manual RM2ZR-07).

Visual Cues:

  • DOHC valve cover with 'Dual VVT-i' logo
  • Electronic throttle body and coil-on-plug ignition
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

ECU software is specific to the application (Corolla, RAV4, Scion) and may require reprogramming for swaps.

Evidence:

Toyota SIB ENG-038-11

Oil Consumption:

Vehicles with production dates between 2008 and 2011 are eligible for the piston ring replacement campaign (Toyota SIB ENG-038-11).

Common Reliability Issues - TOYOTA 2ZR-FE

The 2ZR-FE's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in 2008-2011 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Toyota internal data indicated a significant number of affected engines required piston ring replacement under warranty, while owner reports frequently cite water pump failure as a common secondary issue. Extended oil change intervals and use of incorrect oil specification make oil consumption and VVT-i issues more likely.

Excessive oil consumption (2008-2011 builds)
Symptoms: Rapid oil level drop (1+ litre per 1,000 km), blue smoke from exhaust (especially on startup or under load), illuminated oil pressure warning light.
Cause: Design flaw in early piston ring grooves, leading to oil bypassing rings and carbon buildup in the combustion chamber.
Fix: Replace pistons and rings with revised Toyota service parts per campaign ENG-038-11. Requires partial engine disassembly.
Water pump failure
Symptoms: Coolant leak from front of engine (behind timing cover), low coolant level, engine overheating, whining noise from front of engine.
Cause: Failure of the mechanical water pump seal or bearing, often due to age and mileage. The pump is integrated with the timing chain cover, making replacement labor-intensive.
Fix: Replace the water pump assembly. While the timing cover is off, inspect the timing chain and tensioner for wear.
VVT-i actuator/solenoid failure
Symptoms: Rattling noise from front of engine (especially on cold start), check engine light (camshaft position codes), reduced power or fuel economy.
Cause: Wear or sticking of the variable valve timing actuator or solenoid, often accelerated by using incorrect oil viscosity or extended oil change intervals.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT-i actuator or solenoid. Ensure correct 0W-20 oil is used and change intervals are strictly adhered to.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfires, especially under load, check engine light with misfire codes, rough running, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: The coil-on-plug ignition system can fail due to age and heat, particularly in modified engines or those with high mileage.
Fix: Replace faulty ignition coils with OEM or high-quality aftermarket units. It is often recommended to replace all four coils at once if one fails.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (2007-Present) and aggregated owner workshop reports (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about TOYOTA 2ZR-FE

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 2ZR-FE.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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