The 1.8-liter Mazda L8-DE gasoline engine was produced by the company from 2002 to 2018 and was installed on the European versions of the 5, 6 and MX-5 models, as well as Ford cars under the QQDB index. There was a version of this unit with an inlet phase regulator with its own index L8‑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 | 2002-2018 |
| Displacement, cc | 1798 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 120 – 125 |
| Torque output, Nm | 160 – 170 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 83 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83.1 |
| Compression ratio | 10.8 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 6 2003) — city — highway — combined |
9.5 5.2 6.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~275 000 |
| Weight, kg | 102 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 5 CR in 2004 – 2010, 5 CW in 2010 – 2018;
- Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 – 2007, 6 II (GH) in 2007 – 2012;
- Mazda MX-5 NC in 2005 – 2015.
Disadvantages of the Mazda MZR L8-DE engine
- The entire period of operation of a car with this engine, owners have to deal with floating speed;
- Flashing helps one, modification of the throttle helps others, but nothing to the third;
- The weak points of the motor include the thermostat, which often simply jams;
- Often there are leaks from under the valve cover and oil enters the candle wells;
- There are no hydraulic lifters and valve clearances need to be adjusted every 100,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda L8-DE
How much power does the Mazda L8-DE make?
The Mazda L8-DE develops 120 - 125 hp and 160 - 170 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda L8-DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda L8-DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda L8-DE uses a timing chain.
Is the Mazda L8-DE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda L8-DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda L8-DE 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 L8-DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda L8-DE is ~275 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda L8-DE?
Mazda 6 2003: city 9.5, highway 5.2, combined 6.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda L8-DE installed on?
Mazda 5 CR in 2004 - 2010, 5 CW in 2010 - 2018; Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 - 2007, 6 II (GH) in 2007 - 2012; Mazda MX-5 NC in 2005 - 2015.
What are the common problems of the Mazda L8-DE?
The entire period of operation of a car with this engine, owners have to deal with floating speed. Flashing helps one, modification of the throttle helps others, but nothing to the third. All known problems.
