Toyota 2AZ-FE Engine Problems, Specs and Reliability

The 2AZ-FE is a 2.4 L (2362 cc) version built in Japan (Kamigo Plant and by Toyota Industries Corporation), at TMMK in the USA and also built-in China for Scion xB models obtains a total displacement of 2362 cc with 88.5 mm (3.5 in) bore and 96.0 mm (3.8 in) stroke, with a compression ratio of 9.6:1. The output, is 160 hp (120 kW) at 5600 rpm; 162 lb·ft (220 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm.

Later versions of the 2AZ-FE engines were upgraded with 9.8:1 compression ratio, a slightly more aggressive intake cam profile, a 6500 rpm red line, and piston oil squirters. These later versions are rated at 161 hp (120 kW) in the Scion tC, 177 hp (132 kW) in the Rav4, and 158 hp (118 kW) in the Camry, Corolla XRS, and Scion xB.

However, these latter 2AZ-FE models were the first to be rated under the new SAE J1349 standard. The new standard usually produces more conservative numbers, though no definitive comparison is available since the two versions were never tested by the same standard. The Rav4 uses a different timing chain cover than the Camry; they can, however, be interchanged.

A TRD supercharger was available for the Scion tC until Spring 2009. There have been complaints of this engine “burning oil” in North America, starting after 45k miles, though mostly after 60k-75k miles. Piston ring design has been identified as a problem. Toyota has even issued a TSB (Technical service bulletin) TSB #0094-11 in August 2011 but has refused to issue a general recall.

Also more convincingly reported as a head gasket problem 2AZ-FE aluminum block head bolt threads wear out on the back 3 middle bolts (closest to firewall). There are several class-action lawsuits underway regarding this widespread issue. In January 2015, Toyota North America caved in and issued an extended warranty notification (ZE7) for this issue. However, Toyota still insists that burning 1 quart of oil every 1200 miles is “normal”.

Toyota 2AZ-FE Engine Specs

ManufacturerToyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, Inc.
Kamigo Plant
Shimoyama Plant
Also calledToyota 2AZ
Production2000-present
Cylinder block alloyAluminum
ConfigurationStraight-4
ValvetrainDOHC
4 valves per cylinder
Piston stroke, mm (inch)96 (3.78)
Cylinder bore, mm (inch)88.5 (3.48)
Compression ratio9.6
9.8
11
12.5
Displacement2362 cc (144.1 cu in)
Power output (horsepower)108 kW (149 HP) at 6,000 rpm
118 kW (160 HP) at 5,600 rpm
120 kW (162 HP) at 5,600 rpm
125 kW (170 HP) at 6,000 rpm
Torque output187 Nm (138 lb·ft) at 4,400 rpm
218 Nm (161 lb·ft) at 3,800 rpm
220 Nm (162 lb·ft) at 4,000 rpm
224 Nm (165 lb·ft) at 4,000 rpm
Redline6,500
HP per liter63.1
67.7
68.6
72
Fuel typeGasoline
Weight, kg (lbs)138 (305)
2AZ-FE Fuel consumption, L/100 km (mpg)
– City
– Highway
– Combined
for RAV4 XA20
13.0 (18)
8.6 (27)
10.8 (21)
TurbochargerNaturally aspirated
Oil consumption, L/1000 km
(qt. per miles)
up to 1.0
(1 qt. per 750 miles)
Recommended engine oil5W-30
10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity, L (qt.)4.3 (4.5)
Oil change interval, km (miles)5,000-10,000
(3,000-6,000)
Normal engine operating temperature, °C (F)~95 (203)
Engine lifespan, km (miles)
-Official information
-Real

300,000+ km (180,000 miles)

Torque Specifications

PartN-mKgf-cmFt-lbs
Stiffering crankcase assy x Cylinder block3333224
Oil control valve filter x Cylinder block3030622
Cylinder block water drain cock2525518

Cylinder head x cylinder block 1st

2nd

79

turn 90

806

Turn 90

58

Turn 90

Spark plug x cylinder head1919414
Oil drain plug x oil pan2525518

What Cars Have 2AZ Engines?

These vehicles are fully compatible with the 2AZ-FE motor:

  • 2002–2011 Toyota Camry
  • 2009–2011 Toyota Matrix S (USA)/XR (Canada)/XRS
  • 2009–2010 Pontiac Vibe
  • 2009–2010 Toyota Corolla XRS (2011-2013 only in Mexico)
  • 2002–2008 Toyota Camry Solara
  • 2004–2007 Toyota RAV4
  • 2001–2007 Toyota Highlander/Kluger/Harrier
  • Toyota Estima / Toyota Ipsum / Toyota Previa / Toyota Tarago
  • Toyota Alphard
  • Toyota Blade
  • Toyota Avensis
  • 2005–2010 Scion tC
  • 2008–2015 Scion xB
  • 2007-2013 Toyota MarkX Zio

2AZ-FSE Engine

The 2AZ-FSE is a 2.4 L (2362 cc) version. The bore is 88.5 mm, stroke is 96.0 mm, and the compression ratio of 11.0:1. Output is 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) at 5800 rpm with 231 N·m (170 lb·ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The 2AZ-FSE features Toyota’s D-4 direct injection system.

Applications: Toyota Avensis

2AZ-FXE Engine

The 2AZ-FXE is an Atkinson cycle variant of the 2AZ-FE. It has the same bore and stroke, but the cams and pistons are unique. It has a physical compression ratio of 12.5:1.

The large valve overlap leads to a reduction in cylinder charge and reduced torque and power output, but efficiency is increased. This combination makes the 2AZ-FXE suitable for use only in hybrid vehicles, where peak torque and power demands can be met by the electric motor and battery.

When used in the Camry hybrid, the maximum output is 147 hp (108 kW) at 6000 rpm with 138 lb·ft (187 N·m) of torque at 4400 rpm.

Applications:

  • Toyota Alphard Hybrid
  • Toyota Estima Hybrid
  • 2007–2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid AHV40
  • 2010–2012 Lexus HS 250h
  • 2009– Toyota Sai

Toyota 2AZ Engine Problems and Reliability

The engine’s maintainability is practically zero. Saddles in the head are very thin with laser treatment, and it has a narrow neck of the valve. The engine is exposed to overheating.

The average life of 2AZ is about 200,000 miles, in case of proper maintenance.

The main mass defect of all AZ engines became apparent after a few years of operation and was more than critical. It is spontaneously destruction of the thread in holes for head bolts in the cylinder block, with seal failure, leaking of coolant through a gasket, possible overheating, mating surfaces warping, etc.

And many owners and repairers initially did not allow the thought of constructive miscalculation of Toyota and believed that the failure of the thread occurred due to overheating, whereas in reality, it was the opposite.

Officially the problem was recognized in 2007, after some modifications (the length of the thread in the block has increased from 24 to 30 mm). Initially, the manufacturer recommended replacing the damaged blocks assembly (defective part numbers – 11400-28130, -28490, -28050, the price is $3000-4000). As the warranty expired this method was unacceptable due to high cost, in practice the optimal was damaged thread reboring and threading to a larger diameter to install threaded inserts for standard bolts (it is recommended to “update” all holes preventive, not damaged only, and renew the head bolts).

Finally, in 2011 Toyota officially recommended a special repair kit “Time Sert,” with threaded inserts for post-warranty car repair.

Modification of blocks with a slight increase of thread length was definitely effective – if “head drop” for 2000-2006 cars was only a matter of time, for later cars this defect becomes non-typical.

Is The 2AZ-FE A Good Engine?

The Toyota 2AZ-FE is a decent engine. For many years, it’s been in Toyota vehicles and is still popular among Toyota drivers. The engine is recognized for its fuel efficiency and performance. If you’re seeking an inexpensive, dependable motor, the Toyota 2AZ-FE is a wonderful choice. Performance may be subpar by today’s standards, but the 2AZ-FE delivers respectable reliability and efficiency.

Toyota 2AZ Replacement Parts

This block presents spare parts that you can buy on Amazon. After all the commission can be paid to us. Nevertheless, we do not urge you to buy goods only in order to help our project – buy only those spare parts that you really need.

No. 1
JDMSPEED New Engine Valve Cover 11201-28033 11201-28014 Replacement For Toyota RAV4 Camry Solara Harrier Highlander Kluger Tarago Scion tC xB 1AZ 2AZ 2001-2015 2.4L Silver
193 Reviews
JDMSPEED New Engine Valve Cover 11201-28033 11201-28014 Replacement For Toyota RAV4 Camry Solara Harrier Highlander Kluger Tarago Scion tC xB 1AZ 2AZ 2001-2015 2.4L Silver
  • Package included: 1 x Engine Valve Cover
  • Manufacturer Part Number:11201-28014
  • Engine Code :2.4L 2AZ-FE
  • Material: High Quality Steel
No. 2
DNJ Piston Ring Set Standard Size PR917 For 01-07 Toyota, Scion/Highlander, tC, Camry, Solara, RAV4 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated designation 2AZ-FE
6 Reviews
DNJ Piston Ring Set Standard Size PR917 For 01-07 Toyota, Scion/Highlander, tC, Camry, Solara, RAV4 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated designation 2AZ-FE
  • THIS IS BRAND NEW: DNJ® Piston Ring Set Standard Size
  • FITS: 01-07 Toyota, Scion / Highlander, tC, Camry, Solara, RAV4 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated 2AZ-FE
  • FITMENT NOTES: Set Services Complete Engine, 1.2x1.2x2.0
  • DNJ Engine Components is a full line provider of Domestic & Japanese engine parts for cars and trucks.
No. 3
INEEDUP 13401-28030 Automotive Engine Crankshaft Fit for for Toyota 2AZ 2.4L Camary Scion Highlander Solara Rav4 Crankshaft
1 Reviews
INEEDUP 13401-28030 Automotive Engine Crankshaft Fit for for Toyota 2AZ 2.4L Camary Scion Highlander Solara Rav4 Crankshaft
  • FITMENT - Fit for CRANKSHAFT for TOYOTA 2AZ-FE.Engine Code:2AZ-FE 16V DOHC 2.4 LTR VVT-i PETROL.Compatible Models:For TOYOTA PREVIA, For CAMRY, For ALPHARD, For SOLARA, For RAV4, For IPSUM, For AVENSIS, For ESTIMA & For SCION 2001-08.
  • OE NUMBER - 13401-28030
  • FEATURES - Common faults in crankshaft include journal wear, cracks, ablation, bending, twisting, and fracture etc. Our high quality crankshaft can convert the linear motion of a piston in rotary motion effectively to improve engine performance noticeably. This crankshaft is a good choice to solve these issues for you.
  • INSTALL READY - Complete new crankshaft, perfect fit and no modification is needed. Ready to install for your vehicle.
No. 4
DNJ MMK1120 Complete Engine Motor & Transmission Mount Kit For 06-08 Toyota RAV4 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated 2AZ-FE
1 Reviews
DNJ MMK1120 Complete Engine Motor & Transmission Mount Kit For 06-08 Toyota RAV4 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated 2AZ-FE
  • THIS IS BRAND NEW: DNJ® Motor Mount Kit
  • FITS: 06-08 Toyota / RAV4 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated 2AZ-FE
  • FITMENT NOTES: Set, Set w/ Trans Mount
  • DNJ Engine Components is a full line provider of Domestic & Japanese engine parts for cars and trucks.
No. 5
DNJ FGS9017 Full Gasket/Sealing Set for 01-06 Scion, Toyota/tC, Camry, Highlander, RAV4, Solara 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated Designation 2AZ-FE
1 Reviews
DNJ FGS9017 Full Gasket/Sealing Set for 01-06 Scion, Toyota/tC, Camry, Highlander, RAV4, Solara 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated Designation 2AZ-FE
  • THIS IS BRAND NEW: DNJ® Full Gasket/Sealing Set
  • FITS: 01-06 Scion, Toyota / tC, Camry, Highlander, RAV4, Solara 2.4L L4 DOHC Naturally Aspirated 2AZ-FE
  • FITMENT NOTES: Premium Sealing Solution, Overhaul Set
  • DNJ Engine Components is a full line provider of Domestic & Japanese engine parts for cars and trucks.

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The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented. The reader is advised to consult a qualified professional, such as a mechanic or dealership, before making any decisions related to their vehicle's engine oil or maintenance.

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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