The 1.5-liter Toyota 3SZ-VE engine has been produced since 2005 at factories in China and Indonesia for compact models of the concern. The motor is equipped with a VVT-i phase regulator only at the intake. The timing drive in the power unit is carried out by a Morse chain.
SZ family: 1SZ-FE, 2SZ-FE, 3SZ-VE.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1495 |
| Fuel system | MPI |
| Power output, hp | 105 – 110 |
| Torque output, Nm | 135 – 145 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 72 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 91.8 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | Morse chain |
| Phase regulator | VVT-i intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.1 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Toyota bB 2008) — city — highway — combined |
7.3 5.1 6.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 95 |
The engine was installed on:
- Toyota Avanza 1 (F600) in 2006 – 2011, Avanza 2 (F650) since 2011;
- Toyota bB 2 (QNC20) in 2006 – 2016;
- Toyota LiteAce 6 (S400) since 2008;
- Toyota Passo M500 in 2008 – 2012;
- Toyota Rush 1 (J200) in 2006 – 2016;
- Daihatsu Luxio since 2009;
- Daihatsu Terios in 2006 – 2017;
- Perodua Alza since 2009;
- Perodua Myvi in 2011 – 2017.
Disadvantages of the 3SZ-VE engine
- The motor is demanding on the quality of lubrication, bad oil accelerates its wear at times;
- When the hydraulic tensioner is loosened, the chain jumps and the valves hit the pistons;
- When operating in severe frost or heat, air leakage in the intake is possible;
- Due to the design of the pump, the lubricant spreads through the system for a long time after starting the engine;
- The drive belt of mounted units wears out quickly, but it is not cheap.
Frequently asked questions about the Toyota 3SZ-VE
How much power does the Toyota 3SZ-VE make?
The Toyota 3SZ-VE develops 105 - 110 hp and 135 - 145 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Toyota 3SZ-VE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.1 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Toyota 3SZ-VE have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Toyota 3SZ-VE: Morse chain.
Is the Toyota 3SZ-VE turbocharged?
No, the Toyota 3SZ-VE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Toyota 3SZ-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 Toyota 3SZ-VE last?
The typical lifespan of the Toyota 3SZ-VE is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Toyota 3SZ-VE?
Toyota bB 2008: city 7.3, highway 5.1, combined 6.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Toyota 3SZ-VE installed on?
Toyota Avanza 1 (F600) in 2006 - 2011, Avanza 2 (F650) since 2011; Toyota bB 2 (QNC20) in 2006 - 2016; Toyota LiteAce 6 (S400) since 2008; Toyota Passo M500 in 2008 - 2012; Toyota Rush 1 (J200) in 2006 - 2016; Daihatsu Luxio since 2009 and 3 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the Toyota 3SZ-VE?
The motor is demanding on the quality of lubrication, bad oil accelerates its wear at times. When the hydraulic tensioner is loosened, the chain jumps and the valves hit the pistons. All known problems.






I have refaced engine head and placed new head gasket but still heating.
The 3sz Engine for Toyota townace needs to be revisted on overheating