Among the huge list of various characteristics of the car, the championship is, of course, the resource of the power unit. Simply put, we are talking about how far a car can travel under its own power, until the moment when it needs a major overhaul.
Photo: engine with intercooler
I would like to immediately emphasize that the life of modern, and not only engines, is essentially a conditional thing. After all, many factors have a great importance on the viability of the “heart”. For example, the climate, no matter how many people think, but harsh conditions can significantly reduce the life of the motor. In addition, not timely replacement of oil, consumables, aggressive driving, off-road and the like. All these factors seriously affect the operation of the engine and its service life.
To date, most manufacturers have long abandoned the production of so-called "millionaire" engines. That is, cars that could drive up to 1,000,000 km without capital. With what it is connected it is clear to everyone. Indeed, in the case of such terms, the owner does not need spare parts and repairs, and this is a non-receipt of profit by the plant. Today, cars are rarely produced whose engine life exceeds 400-500 tons, and often even less.
In addition, one should not lose sight of the fact that various modernized (forced), turbocharged engines lose significantly in terms of “longevity” to their “civilian” options (on average, one and a half times less resource). You also need to know that, in principle, tenacious than gasoline. This is due to the difference in the work of the piston group. For clarity, the “diesel” has a lower operating speed, about one and a half times, which is why the piston from top to bottom dead center, for a year or one thousand runs, travels half the distance, hence the resource savings.
So, a small list of reliable engines among the bestsellers of the Russian automotive market:
1. Ford Focus II. Since 2008, almost a bestseller in the domestic market, with 1.4 liter engines. 75 HP (ASDA; ASDB), 1.6 (SHDC; HWDB; SHDA, PNDA and others) and 1.8 liters. 125 HP Duratec HE (QQDB). Now you can find a lot of offers for sale, but what is the resource? As already mentioned, everything is relative, but if you study the reviews and comments of the owners in various forums, we can conclude that the car will pass 350,000 km without a “capital”.
If we are talking about turbocharged versions of 1.5 EcoBoost 150 hp. (M8DA; M8DB), then, depending on the operation, the average mileage is within 200 tons. Km.
2. Lada Priora, Granta, Kalina, 2110, 2112.
For domestic models, the resource is often less, although there are "long-livers". Motors of various series are installed - BA3 (82/98 hp) 21703; VAZ-21114 (81 hp), VAZ 21116 (87 hp) VAZ-21126 (98 hp). There are a lot of reviews on the network that Priora calmly passed 200,000 km with her 16-valve, but you can also find comments from owners who have already carried out repairs for 50,000 km. A similar situation is developing with Grant, Kalina, the motors are identical. It's all about how the car is operated, the quality of fuels and lubricants affects.
In addition, on most models of engines, both 8 and 16 valve, if the timing belt breaks, which accordingly leads to a major overhaul. The valve does not bend on the engine 21114 (81 hp). There are cases when motors are nursed even 300-350 tons km, but this is rather an exception.
For this car, engines with a volume of 1.4, 1.6, 1.7 (diesel), 1.8 were installed. The declared "mileage" by the manufacturer is 350 tons. Km. Moreover, similar resources are officially given to turbocharged 1.4 with 140 "strong" engines (). However, judging by the responses, the service life of the latter is close to 150,00 km. 1.6 180 HP (ALET) liter, which is considered more successful among turbocharged ones, often “walks” more than 250 tons, but again, it’s an individual matter, who will work more, who will work less. The rest have similar “runs”, and even for a diesel engine 1.7 110 hp. (DTC; DTE; DTJ) predict a considerable resource of 250 tons. Km.
Petrol 1.6 A16XER and 1.8 AXER, (115/140 hp), at all, judging by the reviews, more than 350,000 km calmly “walk”. A slightly higher mileage is also declared for the “diesel” 1.7 101/125 hp. DTJ, DTH, DTR, about 450-500 t.km.
4. Kia Rio III, Hyundai Solaris I, II
The now popular "state employees" are aggregated with 1.4 G4FA (107 hp) and 1.6 (123 hp) G4FC engines. The engines are assembled by a Chinese company, which is somewhat embarrassing, but judging by the comments of the owners, the engines have a decent resource, as for their class. Given adequate use, 300,000 km pass quietly. Even the manufacturer himself officially confirms that the resource is about 400,000 km, the main thing is to monitor and care for the “heart”.
In the photo: engine 1.6 (123 hp) G4FC
Do not forget how many Solaris and Rio taxi drivers have, and this is a kind of “quality mark”.
5. Skoda Octavia A5
This model is equipped with different engine modifications depending on the year of production - 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 2.0. Average resource for turbocharged versions 1.4 TSI 122 hp CAXA - 200-250,000 km, given that a turbine is installed here (and, as you know, it has a short service life). Therefore, if you buy an Octavia, it’s better with an “atmospheric” engine, for it “mileage” and 350,000 km is not terrible, judging by the reviews. By the way, the 1.6 102 hp engine version is not a bad “mileage”. (BGU, BSE, CCSA), as well as 1.6 TDI 105 hp. (CAYC), about 350,000 km.
And here is another generation of engines that left in 2010 - 2.0 TDI 136 hp. (AZV), on the contrary, was famous for constant breakdowns. If, on average, the declared “mileage” by the manufacturer was approaching the mark of 300,000 km, then such details as the oil pump drive, turbine, “live”, judging by the reviews, no more than 180,000 km.
6. Renault Duster, Renault Logan
Three engines are offered for the Duster: two petrol 1.6 and 2.0, as well as a 1.5 liter diesel. The resource is measured in several hundred thousand km. For example, popular modifications of the 1.6 102 hp engine. (K4M) are found on Logans, which taxi drivers love. According to their own data, they are able to travel to the "capital" for 400,000 km. Similar "runs" are declared for other versions, including the "diesel" 1.5 90/86 hp. K9K884, 796.
But, it must be borne in mind that if the Duster is often used off-road, and there the resource is measured according to the system for three kilometers.
7. Toyota Corolla
Corolla is most famous for the generation of 1.6 engines (1ZR, 2ZR-FE), which replaced the “oily” ZZ. The average mileage, judging by the comments, reaches 450,000 km.
And here is another modification 1.3 101 hp. (1NR-FE), on the contrary, it is considered extremely unsuccessful, as well as all "low-volume" ones. On average, problems with the engine appear after 100,000 km, in the form of an “oil burner”, judging by the reviews, it “pulls out” barely up to 200,000 km. Among diesels, the 1.4 D 90 hp enjoys more “love”. (1ND-TV), for him a mileage of 450,000 km is not a problem.
8. Volkswagen Polo IV
Polo has a good reputation for the 1.6 engine (BTS) installed on the fourth generation, whose resource reaches 350,000 km, the only special attention should be paid to the timing chain (90,000 km in total).
In the period from 2010 to 2015, the fifth Polo was produced with a modification of the 1.6 (CFNA) 105 hp engine. and 1.6 (CFNB) 86 hp, reliable engines, an average resource of 350,000 km.
The last one was replaced by 1.6 MPI (110 hp), judging by the responses of the owners, there are problems with it, some in the form of an “oil burner”. It is still difficult to say what kind of resource, since the market, by and large, is recent.
9. Volkswagen Golf V, VI, VII
For this car, a line of more than twenty engines is presented, but some of them stand out from the general segment with their resource. For example, a 1.6 (CMXA, BSE, BSF) 102 hp atmospheric engine stands out in the gasoline line, which can cover 350-400,000 km without overhaul.
1.6 BSE - the same one that was installed on Skoda
Dark from the exhaust.
Knock in the engine.
Let's break it down into points:
1. Proper break-in. When buying a car from Novya, be sure to drive the first few thousand km in a gentle mode. Many people believe that the essence of the break-in is not to press the "sneakers" on the floor, to drive at "pensioner's speed", this is partly true. But, the main thing is to follow the rule - do not raise the speed above 3,000.
By the way, on some modern models, the "brains" before running in will not give you the opportunity to spin the engine to the fullest, as a rule, it is 2000 km.
And in general, try to stick to a normal driving style in the future. Remember that jerks, abrupt starts, short trips, long stops to a certain extent affect the duration of the motor.
3. Fuel only what the manufacturer recommends. Many, in the desire to save money, pour the “second”, even if the manufacturer does not approve of this. Keep in mind that such a rash step will seriously shorten the life of the engine. Try to refuel with the one recommended by the manufacturer, as a rule, this is the 95th.
Some modifications are adapted for "use" 92, but often these are domestic models. More information in the instruction manual.
4. Change the filters in time, both , and . Due to the contamination of the air filter, more dirt and dust will enter the motor, which significantly reduces the resource.
5. Oil condition. Pay attention to what liquid is filled in, periodically remove the dipstick and check if there is an emulsion on the dipstick. Otherwise, this indicates a mixture of "coolant" and oil, which will certainly lead to an early overhaul.
I would also like to clarify separately that for turbocharged internal combustion engines it is better to stick to your list of recommendations, since there are certain nuances. So :
Try not to step on the gas while starting.
Do not turn off the engine immediately after stopping, let it run for at least 2 minutes.
Fill in the "correct" engine oil, do not experiment, be guided by the recommendations of the manufacturers. The fact is that the operating temperature for the turbine is higher, which is why such requirements for oil.
Change the air filter frequently.
How long will the machine last without a hitch? How many thousands of kilometers will it travel before its components and assemblies begin to require major repairs? In many ways, the pleasure of trouble-free driving depends on the resource of the engine - the heart of the car.
Let's find out in detail what modern motors are capable of, and what needs to be done to make them work as long as possible.
Engine resource. Extension Secrets
The engine resource, as a concept, today has become overgrown with many myths and conjectures. This is because car owners have different attitudes to the rules for operating cars, which is why the same power unit can “walk” normally and, or it can stall forever in the second hundred.
Why can this happen and how to maximize the life of the engine of an average passenger car? Consider this question point by point, because there are many factors that you should pay attention to:
- running in - when buying a car from the salon, you should not immediately test it for maximum speed and load capacity. The fact is that even though automakers assure us that a running-in is not needed for a modern engine, it is still necessary to operate the power unit in a gentle mode for the first 2-3 thousand kilometers of run - the speed is not higher than 3 thousand, no racing, dragging trailers and driving on hard bumps;
- lubricants - to the delight of car owners, the chemical industry today produces very good oils that can significantly increase the durability of the engine. They not only lubricate with high quality, but also clean the rubbing parts of the motors. Synthetic oils are especially good, which do an excellent job even in cold weather, which was a big problem in the old days. The only disadvantage of good "synthetics" is the price, which is why many drivers save on lubricants, which predict a decrease in engine life;
- cooling system - internal combustion engines emit a huge amount of heat during operation, which must be efficiently removed. The better and better the system will function, the greater the chance that the motor will pass more than one hundred thousand kilometers without problems. The owner of the car can influence it by filling in high-quality coolant - this also does not need to be saved.
Which motors are more durable?
It is quite natural that in addition to careful operation, the life of the engine also depends on its design. Which motors are more durable and which are not?
For comparison, let's take a few purely conditional engines without reference to any manufacturers - atmospheric gasoline, turbocharged gasoline, and exotic.
I will not torment and I will say right away - of all these four, the diesel unit has the greatest resource. Its secret is in slightly lower, compared to other, average crankshaft speeds, which, of course, also entails less mechanical wear of parts. Such motors can "walk" and 300 thousand, and more without any problems.
The second in terms of durability can be called classic atmospheric four-stroke engines running on gasoline.
The overall statistics are spoiled, unfortunately, by domestic units and the Chinese, who may not live up to 200 thousand. Although, on the other hand, Japanese motors of this type are famous for the fact that sometimes they work up to 1 million kilometers!
Turbocharged gasoline units do not last that long. Their main problem is the supercharger, which is often the first to fail.
A little more than 100 thousand kilometers will work smoothly with a rotary engine.
But, in truth, today such units can only be seen in the Mazda RX-8 sports car that has long since left the assembly line.
Approximately so it is possible to distribute different types of power units according to their durability. But it is worth emphasizing that among the representatives of each type there are both champions and lagging behind - a lot depends on the manufacturer.
Friends, honor and praise to you for showing interest in cars, and thank you very much for visiting AUTO-RU.RU. I really hope that the information posted here is interesting for you and improves your technical level.
See you soon! Write and subscribe! Good luck on the roads!
Among the many characteristics of a car, one of the most important is the life of the engine. This is a parameter that determines how far a machine can travel before its power unit needs a major overhaul. This value is rather conditional, since it largely depends on how and under what conditions the vehicle is operated.
Accordingly, one and the same car, for example, a Subaru Forester, can completely exhaust the engine resource for one hundred thousand kilometers (with constant driving on the same Siberian winter roads and summer roads), or it can safely leave three hundred thousand across the Krasnodar Territory without a hint of overhaul.
car manufacturers, as a rule, indicate the warranty mileage, during which nothing will happen to the motor, subject to the operating rules. The true resource of a car engine is usually much longer. For example, AvtoVAZ for its first models set an engine resource of 125 thousand km, for the “tenth” family the figure increased to 150 thousand, however, tens of thousands of Lads drive on the roads with a mileage of well over two hundred thousand, whose engines do not cause trouble to the owners.
Some time ago, foreign automakers sought to equip their cars with million-plus engines, designed for trouble-free operation throughout the entire life of the car. Then the company's policy changed, they considered (and not without reason) that much more profit could be made from the sale of spare parts, and artificially reduced the resource of their motors. For modern foreign cars, this figure is usually about three hundred thousand.
In practice, the owner of the car can understand that it is time to go to the workshop, according to a number of characteristic symptoms:
Significant loss of power;
Abnormally high fuel and engine oil consumption;
The appearance of extraneous sounds.
How to increase engine resource
There are several simple ways to increase this important parameter and push back as much as possible the day when it will not be possible to do without a major overhaul.
First of all, when buying a new car, do not forget about the break-in. Despite the fact that most manufacturers claim that the engines of modern cars do not need to be run-in, it is advisable to operate the car in a gentle mode for the first two to three thousand kilometers.
Here's what not to do:
Load the car "to the eyeballs";
Towing trailers;
Drive off-road;
Allow long-term operation of the motor at high speeds (it is best to keep the speed in the region of 2-3 thousand);
In winter, drive dynamically on a cold engine.
In the future, these rules can, and some need to deviate. The latter concerns work at high speeds. In order for the spark plugs of a gasoline engine and parts of the cylinder-piston group to self-clean, the car engine must periodically operate at high speeds for one to two minutes. During this time, the accumulated soot has time to completely burn out.
To increase the life of the motor, it is necessary to monitor the quality of lubricants and the frequency of replacement. It is better to use the oil that the automaker recommends and change it on time. You should not save on the quality of filters, both oil and air.
Resource of engines of different types
Many motorists are interested in the answer to the question of which engine “runs” longer. Indeed, there are several types of engines, and it is logical to assume that two-stroke, four-stroke and rotary have different margins of safety. It is no less interesting for car owners whether the resource of a diesel engine differs from that of a gasoline one. The resource of a rotary engine
The smallest margin of safety for a two-stroke gasoline motorcycle engine. This is mainly due to the high speed of the crankshaft. The second reason lies in the lack of a lubrication system as such. Lubrication of the cylinder-piston group of a two-stroke engine occurs with a working mixture; for this, oil is added to gasoline.
In different operating modes, the motorcycle motor requires a different amount of lubrication, and it is not possible to change its supply. As a result, the motor receives normal lubrication only in certain operating modes, and under heavy loads it may experience oil starvation.
The rotary or, more correctly, the Wankel rotary piston engine, things are a little better. By the way, the only automaker that serially installs such engines on their cars is Mazda. Engines of this type are installed on its RX series models (for example, MazdaRX-8).
The resource of a rotary type engine is small in comparison with four-stroke engines operating on the Otto cycle. With proper and timely maintenance, it does not exceed one hundred thousand kilometers.
On average, given that the MazdaRX-8 is not purchased for quiet trips, the car's engine requires overhaul or replacement after fifty to sixty thousand.
A gasoline four-stroke engine has a significantly higher resource than the two above. For foreign cars, it is larger, for domestic, and even more so, Chinese cars, it is less, but nevertheless, it amounts to hundreds of thousands of kilometers. There are cases when a car engine passed 500 thousand km without overhaul. Moreover, the layout of the cylinders does not matter at all.
Subaru owners like to brag about the fact that boxer engines last longer, but this is not at all the case. Fundamentally, the boxer engine of a Subaru car is no different from any g4fc, so it makes no sense to talk about which power unit will last longer without a major overhaul. In favor of the same in-line g4fc, we can say that it is much easier and cheaper to maintain.
Speaking about the resource of turbo engines, it is more correct to talk about the margin of safety of the turbine itself, which fails many times faster, and without it, the engine turns into a normal aspirated engine.
The resource of the turbine is usually about one hundred thousand kilometers, after which either the repair of the turbine or (more often) its replacement is required. The service life of the turbine is largely affected by the driver's compliance with the rules for operating a car with a turbo engine.
Diesel has the longest engine life. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, diesel power units are made from stronger alloys due to the high compression ratio. The second reason lies in their slowness. If a gasoline engine has an operating speed, as a rule, of 3-4 thousand, then a diesel engine has half as much, i.e. 1.5-2.
Accordingly, with the same mileage under the same conditions, the pistons of a diesel engine will make half as much forward movement, i.e. physical wear will also be much less. Here is a table in which the resources of engines of different types are arranged.
Engine resource table
The car has many parameters by which it is evaluated. This includes maximum speed, emission toxicity standards, economy, safety, etc. All of these showed easy to measure, but the situation is different with the engine resource. In this article, we will discuss what is engine life how to extend it, and you will find out from a special table what resource your car has.
What is engine life?
In reference books, the resource of work means the mileage until the engine is overhauled. In practice, it is considered that the service life has been exhausted when fuel consumption increases, power is greatly reduced, knocking appears, increased oil consumption, etc. In general, all situations that lead to serious engine repairs.
To prolong engine life simple rules must be followed. Believe me, it is much easier to prevent problems than to fix them later. This will come out more expensive, so keep an eye on the condition of the car - and you will be happy.
Just a few small rules will help increase engine life:
- Fill with oil, fuel and;
- Be sure to check the condition of the air filter;
- Observe regularly for maintenance;
- Do not allow non-standard engine operation modes;
How to increase the life of the engine
Fuel and oil must be recommended by the manufacturer of your machine. If it is necessary to fill in the 95th gasoline or euro DT, fill it in. Trying to save money and fill in lower quality fuel will bring you a quick result in the form of cheaper car refueling. But, think ahead - in this way you reduce the life of the engine, because of which it will need a major overhaul, which costs much more than you save on fuel, oil and antifreeze.
Correctly . The same rule applies here as in the first paragraph. Often, manufacturers recommend branded oil, so it’s better to fill it in. If you pour oil into the engine that is not intended for it, this will reduce the life of the motor.
Be sure to change the oil on time, because an untimely oil change is a guarantee of a reduced resource. To prolong engine run time, use special engine oil with low viscosity in winter.
Always fill with high quality coolant, and never use plain water instead of antifreeze, because this will also speed up the overhaul of the engine. Water can even corrode some parts of the engine, causing overheating and permanent clogging of the system.
Must always be in good condition. It is very important to monitor it and change it in time. If there is a dirty filter, much more dust and dirt will enter the engine, which the dirty filter cannot fight. Driving with such a filter will not be very pleasant: the engine power will decrease and the fuel consumption.
Driving without a filter at all is a critical mistake, because in just a few thousand kilometers of such a ride, the engine resource will be exhausted, and you will set an anti-record for car mileage.
Avoid unusual driving patterns. Ragged, abrupt starts and other non-standard things reduce the life of the engine. To prolong your work time, move in a uniform style, without making sudden starts and stops.
Regularly check for maintenance and carry out diagnostic work. The frequency of maintenance visits is often recommended by the manufacturer, so it would be a good idea to follow this schedule. If you increase the time between visits to a car service, you may not notice a malfunction in the engine, which will lead to a decrease in its resource, and in the future - to its repair.
Below is a table of different makes and models. Of course, each individual case has its own engine life, so the table contains approximate data, taking into account the fact that you will follow all the recommendations given in this article.
| Machine brand | Engine resource |
| Daewoo Lanos | 350.000 - 400.000 km. |
| Daewoo Matiz | 250.000 km. |
| Daewoo Nexia | 500.000 km. |
| Ford Escort (1990-2000) | 150.000 - 180.000 km. |
| Ford Focus (2004-) | 250.000 - 300.000 km. |
| Ford Fiesta | 150.000 km. |
| Ford Mondeo III (2001-) | 200.000 km. |
| Honda Civic (1995 - 2001) | 350.000 km. |
| Honda CR-V (1996-2001) | 250.000 - 300.000 km. |
| Hyundai Coupé (1996-2001) | 250.000 km. |
| Hyundai Getz (2002-) | 300.000 - 400.000 km. |
| Kia Rio (2000–2005) | 300.000 km. |
| Mitsubishi Galant (1992-1996) | 300.000 - 400.000 km. |
| Mitsubishi Lancer | 400.000 km. |
| Mitsubishi ASX | 500.000 km. |
| Mitsubishi Carisma | 300.000 km. |
| Mitsubishi Pajero | 300.000 - 350.000 km. |
| Mitsubishi L200 | 200.000 - 300.000 km. |
| Mazda 323 (1998-2003) | 350.000 km. |
| Mazda RX8 (2003-) | 250.000 km. |
| Nissan Primera (1990-2000) | 300.000 km. |
| Nissan Almera (1995-2000) | 300.000 km. |
| Nissan Terrano I (1987-1995) | 300.000 km. |
| Opel Omega B (1993–2003) | 300.000 km. |
| Renault Clio | 500.000 km. |
| Renault 19 (1988-1996) | 300.000 km. |
| Saab 9000 (1991 - 1998) | 400.000 - 500.000 km. |
| Skoda Octavia I (1996-2004) | 300.000 km. |
| Skoda Felicia (1994-2001) | 300.000 km. |
| Subaru Outback (1998-2003) | 400.000 km. |
| Subaru Impreza GT (1992-2000) | 150.000 km. |
| Suzuki Baleno (1995-2003) | 400.000 km. |
| Suzuki Vitara (1996-2001) | 250.000 - 300.000 km. |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara (2001-) | 300.000 - 400.000 km. |
| Suzuki Samurai (1984-) | 300.000 - 500.000 km. |
| Toyota RAV4 (1996-2001) | 250.000 - 300.000 km. |
| Toyota Carina E (1992-1997) | 250.000 - 400.000 km. |
| Toyota Corolla 4A-FE (1988-1998) | 300.000 km. |
| Volkswagen Passat B4 (1995–97) | 250.000 - 400.000 km. |
| Volkswagen Golf V (2004-) | 350.000 km. |
The table shows data only for some models of foreign cars. If you want to add something about domestic or other models - write in the comments.
Production: since 1993 - 1.2 liters, since 2003 - 1.4 liters.
Application: Fiat Punto/Grande Punto/Punto Evo, Fiat 500, Fiat Panda, Fiat Idea, Fiat Palio, Ford Ka (2nd generation), Fiat Linea, Lancia Musa, Lancia Y.
Fiat's engines of the FIRE series (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine - an engine completely assembled by robots) for more than 30 years. The range of power units covers a wide range of engines with a working volume from 769 cm3 to 1368 cm3, and 8-valve versions were later supplemented with 16-valve ones. Two 8-valve units without hydraulic pushers are worthy of attention.
In general, all versions of engines with an 8-valve head, regardless of the displacement, turned out to be very durable. The simple design showed high wear resistance even in small displacement engines (eg 1.1). Outdated 8-valve versions after a timing belt break will not require a major overhaul, which is inevitable for more modern modifications that have a higher compression ratio and comply with Euro-5 standards.
FIRE engines have always been characterized by "plasticity" of character. Incredibly, two absolutely identical motors after running in behaved completely differently. So with calm drivers, he behaved lazily, and with temperamental drivers, he behaved more briskly.
Regular maintenance involves changing the timing belt, spark plugs and a reasonable oil change interval (in Europe it is a maximum of 15,000 km). These engines are absolutely reliable - they can only occasionally be disturbed by minor oil leaks.
Ford 1.38VDuratecRocam"
Production: 2001-2008
Application: Ford Ka (1st generation), Ford Fiesta VI.
The engine is similar in design and parameters to the older 1.3 OHV. It has a cast iron block, timing chain and hydraulic tappets. The power unit is rather lazy, but absolutely reliable. It has good traction at low revs and requires minimal operating costs. The motor was assembled in Brazil and South Africa (South Africa). The abbreviation Rocam stands for Shaft with Roller Bearings.
Along with the ancient OHC "Pinto" unit (used, for example, in the Ford Sierra), this is one of the most reliable engines that has ever been under the hood of a Ford. The larger 1.6L Rocams are much rarer. They were used mainly in the "charged" Ford SportKa and Ford StreetKa.
Honda 2.2i-DTEC
Production: 2008-2015.
Application: 8th generation Honda Accord, 3rd generation Honda CR-V, 9th generation Honda Civic.
In fact, 98% of Honda's gasoline units could be listed here, and no one would object. But much more interesting is the fact that the Japanese diesel engine turned out to be very reliable. And this despite the fact that its design uses all the most vulnerable elements of modern diesel engines, which the best of competitors cannot cope with.
Using a single-row timing chain is completely counterproductive, not to mention a thermally unstable aluminum block with thin, dry steel cylinder inserts (complicating heat dissipation), any BMW N47 diesel connoisseur will tell you.
In 2.2 i-DTEC, such a set works properly for a long time. Even the piezoelectric injectors, the turbocharger (has water-cooled bearings) and the electrically controlled EGR valve do not cause problems. The normally carbonized swirl flaps in the intake manifold were replaced with a bypass valve upstream of the bifurcated intake port, with the EGR plugged in behind it.
The only known drawback is the failure of the differential pressure sensor of the DPF filter.
Mercedes M266 (1.5/1.7/2.0)
Production: 2004-2012.
Application: Mercedes A-Class (W/C 169), Mercedes B-Class (T 245).
Strong and reliable diesel engines from OM601 to OM606 are known from the legendary W124. But they are long out of date. However, among the newer units you can find a hardy motor. This is M266. The 4-cylinder petrol engine is an evolution of the previous M166, known from the first A-Class and Vaneo.
The engine received a specific design, as it had to be placed at a large slope in a cramped engine compartment. The engineers relied on simplicity: only one timing chain and 8-valve gas distribution mechanism.
The mechanical part is very reliable. Injector failures are very rare (which is somewhat surprising for an indirect injection gasoline engine). But in most cases, the defect manifested itself during the warranty period.
All three versions of the motor are very hardy. The presence of turbocharging for modifications of the A200 Turbo theoretically increases the likelihood of malfunctions, but in reality nothing of the kind happens. The disadvantages include slightly increased fuel consumption, but this merit is not enough good aerodynamics of the body.
Mitsubishi 1.3/1.5/1.6MIVEC (series 4A9)
Production: since 2004.
Application: Mitsubishi Colt, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mitsubishi ASX, Smart ForFour, Citroën C4 Aircross.
Almost all Mitsubishi gasoline engines are very reliable, so choosing the best one is not easy. One of the most common is the 4-cylinder unit of the 4A9 series. It was created in a Mitsubishi/Daimler-Chrysler collaboration and is one of the most reliable engines on the market today.
The 4A9 is made entirely of aluminum, has a 16-valve DOHC gas distribution system, a MIVEC electronically controlled intake valve timing system (some versions of the 1.3-liter engine are deprived of it). Although the engine is over 10 years old, no problems are known. Cars with such engines come to the service only for maintenance - replacement, oil, filters and candles.
4A9 is only atmospheric. Turbocharged Colt CZT/Ralliart models use a completely different Mitsubishi "Orion" engine. The Citroen C4 Aircross inherited the engine from its tech twin, the Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 MIVEC, but sold it under the simple name 1.6 i, and in some markets even the downright amazing 1.6 VTi.
PSA 1.4HDi 8V(DV4)
Production: since 2001.
Application: Citroen C1, C2 Citroen, Citroen C3, Citroen Nemo, Peugeot 107, Peugeot 1007, Peugeot 206, Peugeot 207, Peugeot Bipper, Toyota Aygo, Ford Fiesta, Ford Fusion, Mazda 2.
The small 1.4 HDi can be seen as the successor to the legendary XUD7/XUD9. Even despite the fact that "on paper" the 1.4 HDi was created in collaboration with Ford (as was the larger 1.6 HDi). In fact, this is a completely French design, which turned out to be very successful.
Like Honda, the French were able to create a solid aluminum block with dry inserts. The timing belt is capable of going 240,000 km or 10 years. A simple turbocharger will last forever. The common rail injection system from Siemens has proven itself right from the start. Mazda, Ford and some PSA models have recently mentioned the Bosch injection system.
Initiates know that there is also a 16-valve version with a return of 90 hp. for more powerful options - Citroen C3 1.4 HDi and Suzuki Liana 1.4 DDiS. With its leaky 16-valve head, variable geometry turbocharger and Delphi injection system, this engine will never match the simple 8-valve version in terms of reliability.
Subaru 3.0 / 3.6R6 (EZ30 /EZ36)
Production: since 2000.
Application: Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Subaru Tribeca.
Of all the illustrious Subaru boxers, the most reliable are the naturally aspirated six-cylinder EZ series, known from the Outback, Legacy 3.0R and the Tribeca crossover. The first versions of the 3-liter Outback H6 (219 hp until 2002) still had a mechanical throttle control and an aluminum intake manifold. Later modifications (245 hp), despite more sophisticated technologies (among others, a system for regulating the lift height and phases of the intake valves, and in 3.6 also the exhaust ones), did not become more “vulnerable”.
The engine has so-called wet cylinder liners and a durable timing chain. The only real drawbacks are the relatively high fuel consumption (especially in the Legacy 3.0 Spec B equipped with a sports manual with a short-throw gear selector) and minor maintenance difficulties (for example, to change spark plugs due to poor accessibility to "horizontally" located cylinders).
Suzuki 1.3/1.5/1.6DOHCM"
Production: since 2000.
Application: Suzuki Jimny, Suzuki Swift, Suzuki Ignis, Suzuki SX4, Suzuki Liana, Suzuki Grand Vitara (1.6), Fiat Sedici (1.6), Subaru Justy III.
M series engines include 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8 small capacity motors. The latter is exclusively for the Australian market. On the European continent, the power unit is found in almost all small and medium Suzuki models that appeared at the turn of our millennium, and in the Fiat Sedici 1.6, which is a copy of the Suzuki SX4. The mechanical part of the engine is very reliable and durable. Even the VVT variable valve timing system, which is used by most engine modifications, is not satisfactory. It is not only in the 1.3-liter version, designed for Ignis and Jimny until 2005, and the old 1.5 modifications for the SX4.
The timing chain drive is reliable. Among the minor drawbacks, small oil leaks through the crankshaft oil seal can be noted. More serious malfunctions are almost never encountered.
Toyota 1.51NZ-FXE Hybrid
Production: since 1997.
Application: Toyota Prius I, Toyota Prius II, Toyota Yaris III Hybrid.
As with Honda, almost all Toyota engines could be included in this review, but let's focus on the hybrid, which is still viewed with skepticism by most motorists. And this despite the fact that this power unit has unprecedented reliability. A simple high compression gasoline engine running on the Atkinson cycle, a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and nothing else.
There are no gearboxes in the classical sense, and therefore there are no problems with this device. Instead, a planetary gearbox with two inputs and one output is used. The gear ratio changes depending on the difference in the speeds of rotation of both engines.
The most frightening thing is the expensive battery. But so far none of the owners have changed it. European competitors cannot match the phenomenal Japanese reliability.
Volkswagen 1.9SDI /TDI
Production: 1991-2006 (in some markets until 2010).
Application: Audi 80 B4, Audi A4 (1st generation), Audi A3 (1st generation), Audi 100/A6 (C4), Audi A6 (C5), Seat Alhambra, Seat Ibiza, Seat Cordoba, Seat Inca, Seat Leon, Seat Toledo, VW Caddy, VW Polo, VW Golf, VW Vento, VW Bora, VW Passat, VW Sharan, VW Transporter, Ford Galaxy (1st generation), Škoda Fabia and Škoda Octavia (1st generation).
Without a doubt, this is one of the most famous, but perhaps the most controversial engine on our list. The SDI/TDI engines are based on the old 1.9 D/TD. They received direct injection, the thermal loads on the block head were reduced and a Bosch rotary pump was installed, however, it is sensitive to fuel quality.
The reliability and durability, especially of the simple naturally aspirated 1.9 SDI versions, deserves respect. The engine is able to cover more than one million kilometers without major investments. Often mentioned problems with the mass air flow sensor are not taken into account.
Paradoxically, the most reliable turbocharged variant is only the 90 PS TDI with a maximum torque of 202 Nm (code designation 1Z or AHU). This turbodiesel appeared in the early nineties and was used in Audi, Golf III, Passat B4, Seat until 1996-1997.
Among the Skoda Octavia, the CMA is considered the best TDI. Its small fixed-geometry turbocharger exhibits much greater survivability than the 90-horsepower ALH's variable-geometry supercharger. The latter was prone to blade sticking, just like the 110 hp version.
The only weak point of SDI/TDI, especially in the early years of production, is the crankshaft damper pulley.
