The 2.3-liter gasoline V6 Mazda KJ-ZEM engine was assembled in Japan from 1993 to 2002 and installed on the popular Millenia model, as well as its modifications Xedos 9 and Eunos 800. This engine stood out in its lineup for the presence of a compressor and work on the Miller cycle.
K-engine family: K8-DE, K8-ZE, KF-DE, KF-ZE, KJ-ZEM, KL-DE, KL-G4, KL-ZE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1993-2002 |
| Displacement, cc | 2255 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 210 – 220 |
| Torque output, Nm | 280 – 290 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 80.3 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 74.2 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | Miller Cycle |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | compressor |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.1 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda Millenia 1995) — city — highway — combined |
11.8 7.1 8.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 205 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda Eunos 800 TA in 1993 – 1998;
- Mazda Millenia TA in 1994 – 2002;
- Mazda Xedos 9 TA in 1993 – 2002.
Disadvantages of the Mazda KJ-ZEM engine
- Compressor failures are the main problem;
- The aluminum block is also very afraid of overheating, keep an eye on the cooling system;
- On runs over 100,000 km, the engine often consumes about 1 liter of oil per 1000 km;
- The timing belt is designed for 80,000 km, the replacement is expensive, but when it breaks, the valves do not bend;
- There are no hydraulic lifters and valve clearances need to be adjusted every 100,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda KJ-ZEM
How much power does the Mazda KJ-ZEM make?
The Mazda KJ-ZEM develops 210 - 220 hp and 280 - 290 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda KJ-ZEM take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.1 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda KJ-ZEM have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda KJ-ZEM uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda KJ-ZEM turbocharged?
Yes, the Mazda KJ-ZEM is turbocharged (compressor).
Does the Mazda KJ-ZEM need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Mazda KJ-ZEM last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda KJ-ZEM is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda KJ-ZEM?
Mazda Millenia 1995: city 11.8, highway 7.1, combined 8.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda KJ-ZEM installed on?
Mazda Eunos 800 TA in 1993 - 1998; Mazda Millenia TA in 1994 - 2002; Mazda Xedos 9 TA in 1993 - 2002.
What are the common problems of the Mazda KJ-ZEM?
Compressor failures are the main problem. The aluminum block is also very afraid of overheating, keep an eye on the cooling system. All known problems.





