The 3.0-liter Toyota 3VZ-FE engine was assembled from 1991 to 1996 at the concern’s American plant and was installed only on the popular Camry sedan and its counterparts: Windom and Lexus ES 300.
It is a 2-shaft overhead valve engine. The camshaft drive is from the chain. There are 2 intake and outlet valves per cylinder. The left camshaft in the direction of the vehicle controls the intake valves, and the right camshaft controls the outlet valves. All 3VZ engines are equipped with an electronic fuel injection system.
There was also an 12-valve version of this power unit with a separate index 3VZ-E.
VZ family: 1VZ-FE, 2VZ-FE, 3VZ-E, 3VZ-FE, 4VZ-FE, 5VZ-FE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-1996 |
| Displacement, cc | 2958 |
| Fuel system | MPI |
| Power output, hp | 185 |
| Torque output, Nm | 256 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 82 |
| Compression ratio | 9.6 |
| Features | ACIS |
| 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 Windom 1993) — city — highway — combined |
13.2 7.9 9.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 200 |
The engine was installed on:
- Toyota Camry 3 (XV10) in 1991 – 1996;
- Toyota Windom 1 (XV10) in 1991 – 1996;
- Lexus ES300 2 (XV10) in 1991 – 1994.
Disadvantages of the 3VZ-FE engine
- As a result of overheating, due to breakdown of the gasket, the cylinder head often cracks.
- Often the cause of overheating is an unreliable fan hydraulic drive.
- There is increased wear on the main connecting rod bearings and crankshaft journals.
- Also, the disadvantages include high fuel consumption and expensive spare parts.
- On runs over 100,000 km, a progressive oil burn usually begins.
Frequently asked questions about the Toyota 3VZ-FE
How much power does the Toyota 3VZ-FE make?
The Toyota 3VZ-FE develops 185 hp and 256 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Toyota 3VZ-FE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Toyota 3VZ-FE have a timing belt or chain?
The Toyota 3VZ-FE uses a timing belt.
Is the Toyota 3VZ-FE turbocharged?
No, the Toyota 3VZ-FE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Toyota 3VZ-FE 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-FE last?
The typical lifespan of the Toyota 3VZ-FE is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Toyota 3VZ-FE?
Toyota Windom 1993: city 13.2, highway 7.9, combined 9.9 L/100 km.
What cars was the Toyota 3VZ-FE installed on?
Toyota Camry 3 (XV10) in 1991 - 1996; Toyota Windom 1 (XV10) in 1991 - 1996; Lexus ES300 2 (XV10) in 1991 - 1994.
What are the common problems of the Toyota 3VZ-FE?
As a result of overheating, due to breakdown of the gasket, the cylinder head often cracks. Often the cause of overheating is an unreliable fan hydraulic drive. All known problems.
