In 1993, the 1KZ engine was created and put into mass production. Until now, it is considered the most successful version of the diesel engine. This Toyota engine was able to displace 2L-TE diesel engines from the market in a short time.
Diesel engine 1KZ-T is a 4-cylinder engine equipped with water cooling and mechanical injection pump. The turbocharged diesel engine 1KZ-TE is equipped with an electronic injection pump. In this case, numerous data from the built-in sensors are used. 1KZ may seem complicated, but in fact, for a specialist it is not difficult to repair. Replacing the crankshaft or any attachment is easily accomplished in a workshop.
KZ family: 1KZ-T, 1KZ-TE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-2003 |
| Displacement, cc | 2982 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 125/3600 (1KZ-T) 130/3600 (1KZ-TE) 145/3600 (1KZ-TE) |
| Torque output, Nm | 287/2000 (1KZ-T) 332/2000 (1KZ-TE) 343/2000 (1KZ-TE) |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 96 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 103 |
| Compression ratio | 21.2 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt and gears |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | Toyota CT12B |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 7.7 (1KZ-T) 7.0 (1KZ-TE) |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 (1KZ-T) EURO 2/3 (1KZ-TE) |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Toyota 4Runner 1998) — city — highway — combined |
14.6 9.9 11.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~350 000 |
| Weight, kg | 275 (1KZ-T) 280 (1KZ-TE) |
The engine was installed on:
- Toyota LC Prado 70 (J70) in 1993 – 1996, LC Prado 90 (J90) in 1996 – 2002, LC Prado 120 (J120) in 2002 – 2006;
- Toyota 4Runner 2 (N120) in 1993 – 1995, 4Runner 3 (N180) in 1995 – 2002, 4Runner 4 (N210) in 2002 – 2006;
- Toyota Hilux 6 (N140) in 1997 – 2002;
- Toyota HiAce 4 (H100) in 1993 – 2004.
Disadvantages of the Toyota 1KZ engine
For 1KZ, the most relevant problems with the cylinder head. The head itself does not have a tendency to crack, and such problems can be caused by temperature conditions, therefore, it is necessary to monitor the cooling system and the indicators of the sensors.
In addition, it must be borne in mind that:
- coolant likes to disappear, which can lead to overheating;
- it is necessary to adjust the thermal clearances of the valves every 40 thousand km;
- the resource of the timing belt usually does not exceed 100,000 km; in the event of a break, the valves bend.
Frequently asked questions about the Toyota 1KZ
How much power does the Toyota 1KZ make?
Power output of the Toyota 1KZ, hp: 125/3600 (1KZ-T); 130/3600 (1KZ-TE); 145/3600 (1KZ-TE). Torque, Nm: 287/2000 (1KZ-T); 332/2000 (1KZ-TE); 343/2000 (1KZ-TE).
How much oil does the Toyota 1KZ take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 7.7 (1KZ-T); 7.0 (1KZ-TE) liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40.
Does the Toyota 1KZ have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Toyota 1KZ: belt and gears.
Is the Toyota 1KZ turbocharged?
Yes, the Toyota 1KZ is turbocharged (Toyota CT12B).
Does the Toyota 1KZ 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 Toyota 1KZ last?
The typical lifespan of the Toyota 1KZ is ~350 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Toyota 1KZ?
Toyota 4Runner 1998: city 14.6, highway 9.9, combined 11.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Toyota 1KZ installed on?
Toyota LC Prado 70 (J70) in 1993 - 1996, LC Prado 90 (J90) in 1996 - 2002, LC Prado 120 (J120) in 2002 - 2006; Toyota 4Runner 2 (N120) in 1993 - 1995, 4Runner 3 (N180) in 1995 - 2002, 4Runner 4 (N210) in 2002 - 2006; Toyota Hilux 6 (N140) in 1997 - 2002; Toyota HiAce 4 (H100) in 1993 - 2004.
What are the common problems of the Toyota 1KZ?
coolant likes to disappear, which can lead to overheating. it is necessary to adjust the thermal clearances of the valves every 40 thousand km. All known problems.






I have a super custom 1kz diesel engine. I changed the timing belt at 300000km but the warning light Tbelt have refused to go off. Pliz advise thank you.
My engine 1KZ-TE is consuming more fuel than expected. What is the problem?
i replaced a new turbo and wiring changed due to water damage .but still check light come
My 1Kz engine was overhauled & after short time smock & oil was coming from the exuose, what could be the problem?
It’s due to failed turbo charger
Change the turbo charger
And it will stop.it also happened to me
I have that one engine
Check turbo or repair it then check nozzle and piston rings
Excellent engine. Just keep an eye on the timing beltas well especially if you didn’t replace it with an original belt. It’s breaking will make you spend at least 700 dollars to replace the cylinder head, valves etc
Excellent engine, I have a 1996 KZJ71 Land Cruiser Prado SX (Japan imported) with 160,000 km and this engine runs great.
Regular oil + filter changes and keeping an eye on coolant should keep this baby going for a while.