The 3.0-liter Toyota 3VZ-E engine was produced from 1988 to 1995 at the company’s American plant and was installed only on popular pickups and SUVs such as 4Runner, HiLux and T100. There was a 24-valve modification of the power unit with its own index 3VZ-FE.
VZ family: 1VZ-FE, 2VZ-FE, 3VZ-E, 3VZ-FE, 4VZ-FE, 5VZ-FE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1988-1995 |
| Displacement, cc | 2958 |
| Fuel system | MPI |
| Power output, hp | 145 – 150 |
| Torque output, Nm | 245 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 82 |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Toyota 4Runner 1992) — city — highway — combined |
18.2 10.9 14.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 190 |
The engine was installed on:
- Toyota 4Runner 1 (N60) in 1988 – 1989, 4Runner 2 (N120) in 1989 – 1995;
- Toyota Hilux 5 (N80) in 1989 – 1995;
- Toyota T100 1 (XK10) in 1992 – 1995.
Disadvantages of the Toyota 3VZ-E engine
- Cracks in the heads are formed as a result of overheating due to the breakdown of the gasket;
- Often the culprit of overheating is an unreliable fan hydraulic drive;
- There is a rapid wear of the connecting rod bearings and the main journals of the crankshaft;
- After 100,000 km of run, oil consumption increases with time;
- The remaining disadvantages include high fuel consumption and expensive spare parts.
Frequently asked questions about the Toyota 3VZ-E
How much power does the Toyota 3VZ-E make?
The Toyota 3VZ-E develops 145 - 150 hp and 245 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Toyota 3VZ-E take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Toyota 3VZ-E have a timing belt or chain?
The Toyota 3VZ-E uses a timing belt.
Is the Toyota 3VZ-E turbocharged?
No, the Toyota 3VZ-E is naturally aspirated.
Does the Toyota 3VZ-E 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 3VZ-E last?
The typical lifespan of the Toyota 3VZ-E is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Toyota 3VZ-E?
Toyota 4Runner 1992: city 18.2, highway 10.9, combined 14.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the Toyota 3VZ-E installed on?
Toyota 4Runner 1 (N60) in 1988 - 1989, 4Runner 2 (N120) in 1989 - 1995; Toyota Hilux 5 (N80) in 1989 - 1995; Toyota T100 1 (XK10) in 1992 - 1995.
What are the common problems of the Toyota 3VZ-E?
Cracks in the heads are formed as a result of overheating due to the breakdown of the gasket. Often the culprit of overheating is an unreliable fan hydraulic drive. All known problems.
