The Toyota 3WZ-TV is a 2,982 cc, inline-four, turbo-diesel engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It features dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) for enhanced low-end torque. This engine was engineered to deliver strong power output with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to its predecessors.
Fitted to models such as the Land Cruiser 100 Series, Hiace, and Dyna, the 3WZ-TV was designed for commercial and off-road applications requiring high torque and durability under heavy loads. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) on later variants, allowing most units to meet Euro 2 standards, with post-1999 models achieving Euro 3 depending on market.
One documented concern is premature EGR valve clogging, highlighted in Toyota Technical Service Bulletin E-215. This issue stems from excessive soot accumulation under frequent short-trip operation, leading to restricted airflow and performance loss. Toyota introduced revised EGR valve designs with improved flow characteristics in mid-1999 production, resolving the issue; engines built after this date are not affected.
Toyota
Production years 1997–1999 meet Euro 2 standards; 2000–2002 models may have Euro 3 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Toyota 3WZ-TV is a 2,982 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for light-duty trucks and SUVs (1997-2002). It combines VGT technology with an advanced common-rail injection system to deliver consistent low-RPM torque and efficient combustion. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances robustness for commercial use with improved drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,982 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with variable geometry turbocharger | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 112.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–100 kW (115–136 PS) | |
| Torque | 260–290 Nm @ 1,800–2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common-rail direct injection (CRDi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2000); Euro 3 (post-2000) | |
| Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (Mitsubishi TD06H) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Toyota Genuine Diesel Oil 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The 3WZ-TV provides exceptional low-RPM torque ideal for towing and off-road use but requires strict adherence to 10,000–15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent EGR valve clogging and turbo degradation. Toyota Genuine Diesel Oil 10W-40 is critical due to its high detergency and anti-wear additives protecting the high-pressure common-rail system. Extended oil intervals increase risk of injector fouling and EGR blockage, especially in urban stop-start conditions. Pre-1999 engines must be inspected for EGR valve condition per TSB E-215. Use ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to minimize DPF loading and maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Toyota Genuine Diesel Oil 10W-40 specification (Toyota TIS Doc. EN-045). Supersedes API CF-4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-2000 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Post-2000 models meet Euro 3 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. 100 kW output requires ULSD fuel quality (Toyota TIS Doc. EN-045).
Toyota Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EN-045, E-215
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
JIS International: D 1001 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Toyota 3WZ-TV was used across Toyota's LX100/LC100 platforms with longitudinal mounting and never licensed externally. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Land Cruiser and upgraded cooling in the Hiace-and from 2000 the facelifted Land Cruiser adopted revised ECU calibration for Euro 3 compliance, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the starter motor mount (Toyota TIS EN-045). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('W' for 3WZ series). Pre-1999 models feature a silver EGR valve housing with black plastic cover; post-1999 units use a black EGR housing with integrated solenoid. Critical differentiation from 3L: 3WZ-TV has higher compression ratio (18.0:1), common-rail injection, and variable geometry turbocharger. Service parts require production date verification - EGR valves manufactured before 06/1999 are susceptible to carbon clogging (Toyota TSB E-215).
The 3WZ-TV's primary reliability risk is EGR valve clogging on pre-1999 units, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start usage. Internal Toyota quality reports showed a significant number of early engines required EGR replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of MOT failures to smoke and limp-mode events from restricted EGR flow. Short-trip driving and extended oil intervals accelerate soot accumulation, making regular inspection and ULSD fuel critical.
Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (1997-2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 3WZ-TV.
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