Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine Specs, Problems & Reliability

Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine

Here in this post, I have gathered information about the Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine from its official website, including its specifications, Problems, and Reliability.

We believe in providing reliable information to our readers, therefore we prefer to obtain information on the Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine from authentic sources.

This article, which has been updated, has all the information you require about the Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine.

Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine

The firm developed the 2.3-litre Mazda L3-VE gasoline engine from 2002 to 2018, during which time it was put in a variety of well-known vehicles, including Ford automobiles that were categorized by the SEWA index.

The second-generation Mazda MPV minivan that was made had the L3-DE version, which didn’t have a phase shifter. 

Production years 2002-2018
Displacement, cc 2261
Fuel system distributed injection
Power output, hp 150 – 180
Torque output, Nm 200 – 220
Cylinder block aluminium R4
Blockhead aluminium 16v
Cylinder bore, mm 87.5
Piston stroke, mm 94
Compression ratio 10.6
Features DOHC, balancers
Hydraulic lifters no
Timing drive chain
Phase regulator S-VT, intake
Turbocharging no
Recommended engine oil 5W-30
Engine oil capacity, litre 3.5 / 4.7
Fuel type 92
Euro standards EURO 4
Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 3 2004)
— City
— highway
— combined
10.7
6.8
8.1
Engine lifespan, km ~300 000
Weight, kg 112

Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine Problems & Reliability

Leaks are common in factory cartridge filter housings.

You can extend the life of your L3-VE or MZR 2.3L engine by switching to a spin-on oil filter housing. If you don’t stop using it, it will drain. Have frequent oil checks and use a high-quality filter.

Problems with oil burning off have been reported with the L3-VE. Most vehicles affected by the oil-burning issue were manufactured in 2004 and 2005.

What exactly contributes to increasing oil usage remains a mystery.

However, in the latter years of manufacturing, Mazda implemented improvements that significantly reduced oil burning in the 2.3L engine.

In all other respects, the engine performs admirably. The engine may easily last for 150,000 kilometres without any problems (250,000 km).

Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine Review 

The Mazda MZR/L3 2.3L engine is a midsized 4-cylinder inline gasoline piston engine, designed by Mazda and part of the MZR family. It ranges in displacement from 1.8 liters to 2.5 liters. For a full review, please check this YouTube video Here.

Mazda MZR/L3-VE 2.3L Engine FAQ

Is the Mazda 2.3 Turbo engine reliable?

The 2.3-litre gas engine 1) has documented VVT actuator difficulties and 2) has a hot motor.

Both contribute to turbocharger failure, which in turn can kill an engine. The variable valve timing (VVT) actuator manipulates camshaft timing via oil pressure.

Is the 2.3 EcoBoost a Mazda engine?

Since 2015, the Ford EcoBoost 2.3L has been a part of Ford’s lineup of turbocharged engines. It has the same inline layout as the Mazda L engine and uses its dual overhead cam (DOHC) design.

Is MZR engine Ford?

Since 2001, Mazda Motor Corporation has designed and manufactured a line of inline-four engines under the MZR brand name.

Who makes the 2.3 Mazda engine?

Ford Motor Company’s 2.3-liter Duratec 23 engine, also known as the Mazda L engine, is a naturally aspirated four-cylinder that powers small and medium cars, pickup trucks, and CUVs.

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