The 2.3-liter Mazda L3-VE gasoline engine was produced by the company from 2002 to 2018 and was installed on many popular models, including Ford cars under the SEWA index. The second-generation Mazda MPV minivan was equipped with the L3-DE version without a phase shifter.
L-engine family:
1.8 L – L8-DE, L813;
2.0 L – LF-DE, LF-VD, LF17, LFF7;
2.3 L – L3-VE, L3-VDT, L3C1;
2.5 L – L5-VE.
Specifications
| Production years | 2002-2018 |
| Displacement, cc | 2261 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 150 – 180 |
| Torque output, Nm | 200 – 220 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 94 |
| Compression ratio | 10.6 |
| Features | DOHC, balancers |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | S-VT, intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.5 / 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 3 2004) — city — highway — combined |
10.7 6.8 8.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 112 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 3 BK in 2003 – 2008;
- Mazda 5 CR in 2004 – 2010;
- Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 – 2008;
- Mazda Biante CC in 2008 – 2018;
- Mazda MPV III (LY) in 2006 – 2016;
- Mazda Tribute EP in 2004 – 2008.
Disadvantages of the Mazda MZR L3-VE engine
- The most famous problem of such an engine is increased oil consumption;
- A lot of problems here are caused by a complex intake manifold flap system;
- A modest resource also has a thermostat, pump, lambda probe, motor mounts;
- After 200 – 250 thousand km, timing chain and phase shifter may require attention;
- Once every 90,000 km, you need to adjust the valves by selecting measuring cups.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda L3-VE
How much power does the Mazda L3-VE make?
The Mazda L3-VE develops 150 - 180 hp and 200 - 220 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda L3-VE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.5 / 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda L3-VE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda L3-VE uses a timing chain.
Is the Mazda L3-VE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda L3-VE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda L3-VE 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 L3-VE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda L3-VE is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda L3-VE?
Mazda 3 2004: city 10.7, highway 6.8, combined 8.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda L3-VE installed on?
Mazda 3 BK in 2003 - 2008; Mazda 5 CR in 2004 - 2010; Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 - 2008; Mazda Biante CC in 2008 - 2018; Mazda MPV III (LY) in 2006 - 2016; Mazda Tribute EP in 2004 - 2008.
What are the common problems of the Mazda L3-VE?
The most famous problem of such an engine is increased oil consumption. A lot of problems here are caused by a complex intake manifold flap system. All known problems.
