The 2.5-liter Mazda L5-VE (MZR L5-VE 2.5) gasoline engine was produced by the company from 2008 to 2015 and was installed on the most popular models of the third, fifth, sixth series, as well as the CX-7 crossover. A similar power unit was installed on the Ford Kuga under its own YTMA index.
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 | 2008-2015 |
| Displacement, cc | 2488 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 160 – 175 |
| Torque output, Nm | 220 – 235 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 89 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 100 |
| Compression ratio | 9.7 |
| 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 | 5.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 6 2009) — city — highway — combined |
11.1 6.3 8.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~350 000 |
| Weight, kg | 116 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 3 BL in 2008 – 2013;
- Mazda 5 CW in 2010 – 2015;
- Mazda 6 II (GH) in 2008 – 2012;
- Mazda CX-7 I (ER) in 2009 – 2012.
Disadvantages of the Mazda L5-VE engine
- This unit is considered the most reliable in its series and does not even consume much oil;
- On specialized forums, they complain about heat exchanger leaks and breakdowns of attachments;
- The weak points of the motor also include sticking intake manifold flaps;
- After 200 – 250 thousand kilometers, the timing chain may stretch and require replacement;
- There are no hydraulic lifters and valve clearances need to be adjusted every 100,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda L5-VE
How much power does the Mazda L5-VE make?
The Mazda L5-VE develops 160 - 175 hp and 220 - 235 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda L5-VE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda L5-VE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda L5-VE uses a timing chain.
Is the Mazda L5-VE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda L5-VE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda L5-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 L5-VE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda L5-VE is ~350 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda L5-VE?
Mazda 6 2009: city 11.1, highway 6.3, combined 8.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda L5-VE installed on?
Mazda 3 BL in 2008 - 2013; Mazda 5 CW in 2010 - 2015; Mazda 6 II (GH) in 2008 - 2012; Mazda CX-7 I (ER) in 2009 - 2012.
What are the common problems of the Mazda L5-VE?
This unit is considered the most reliable in its series and does not even consume much oil. On specialized forums, they complain about heat exchanger leaks and breakdowns of attachments. All known problems.
Hi, I have an L5-VE (6 II GH) since january 2024 and drove 10.000 km with it. No problems, a real nice en smooth engine. The combined fuelconsumption is about 7,5 l/100km. On highway ( and speed under 100km/h) i have done 6,5. But the torgue of this engine is the best part of it all.