The 2.3-liter Mazda L3C1 engine was produced at the company’s enterprise from 2002 to 2008 and was installed only on the first generation of the popular model of the sixth series. In fact, this power unit is not very different from its counterpart under the symbol L3‑VE.
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 | 2002-2008 |
| Displacement, cc | 2261 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 165 |
| Torque output, Nm | 205 |
| 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 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 6 2007) — city — highway — combined |
11.1 6.7 8.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~280 000 |
| Weight, kg | 112 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 – 2008.
Disadvantages of the Mazda L3C1 engine
- Most of the complaints on specialized forums are related to high lubricant consumption;
- In second place in terms of mass are problems with intake manifold flaps;
- The weak points of the motor also include a thermostat, pump, lambda probe and engine mounts;
- After 200,000 km, the timing chain is often extended, the phase regulator fails;
- Do not forget to adjust the valves every 90,000 km, there are no hydraulic lifters.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda L3C1
How much power does the Mazda L3C1 make?
The Mazda L3C1 develops 165 hp and 205 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda L3C1 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda L3C1 have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda L3C1 uses a timing chain.
Is the Mazda L3C1 turbocharged?
No, the Mazda L3C1 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda L3C1 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 L3C1 last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda L3C1 is ~280 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda L3C1?
Mazda 6 2007: city 11.1, highway 6.7, combined 8.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda L3C1 installed on?
Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 - 2008.
What are the common problems of the Mazda L3C1?
Most of the complaints on specialized forums are related to high lubricant consumption. In second place in terms of mass are problems with intake manifold flaps. All known problems.
