As you know, there are no perpetual motion machines, but all engines are different - the models of power units of modern cars have for different periods services, and besides, they have their own characteristic malfunctions.

This article will consider both the most reliable engines in the world, which do not break down for a long time, have a very good service life in terms of mileage and hours worked, and not the best power units.

Recently, almost nothing has been heard about “million-dollar” engines, of which there were many in the 80-90s of the 20th century; it is possible that it has become unprofitable for automobile companies to produce reliable engines. On the other hand, the newly developed engines have not yet traveled a certain number of kilometers, and it is too early to judge their quality. In this article we will touch on the topic of what modern engines the most reliable and durable, and have already proven themselves on the market and are very popular.

Among the most durable internal combustion engines, power units from manufacturers Mitsubishi, Honda, Toyota, Opel, BMW, Mercedes are most often noted, but not all engines from these companies are successful, there are also frankly weak motors with characteristic defects. Again, engines vary in power, so in order to compile a rating, it is necessary to divide all power units into car classes.

There is often a debate among car enthusiasts about which engines are more reliable - Japanese or European? Recently, Toyota and Honda have increasingly taken the lead, while companies such as Audi, Volkswagen and Peugeot are losing their positions. There is no talk at all about VAZ engines; it seems that domestic engines do not compete with foreign internal combustion engines?

Unlike gasoline engines, diesel engines are more capricious in Russian conditions, and more often the compilers of ratings in Russia note engines that are prone to breakdowns. Among the most reliable power units are diesel engines Mercedes and Nissan also have a fairly good reputation for diesel Subaru engines. Opel diesels are somewhere in the middle of the reliability rating, but Russians have a lot of complaints about Renault engines. It should also be noted that naturally aspirated engines are more reliable than turbodiesels - the turbine often breaks down and causes a lot of trouble for car owners.

If speak about Volkswagen diesels, then the four-cylinder 1.9 TDI diesel engine (models ASZ and ARL) is considered “indestructible”. This motor is available in various modifications, “digests” Russian diesel fuel well. 1.9 TDI can cover both 400 and 500 thousand km up to overhaul– a lot depends on the operating conditions and timely maintenance.

The question of which diesel engines are the most reliable is still not easy to answer - among the good practical engines there are not only “Japanese” and “Germans”, but also “Americans”, for example, Ford produces good internal combustion engines. Reliability is often determined by the percentage of breakdowns for each vehicle, but the complexity of the breakdown itself is not taken into account. Still, it is better to turn to reviews left by users - popular opinion is always more objective.

As you know, modern Ford cars are equipped with three types of gasoline engines:

• Duratec;
• Zetec;
• Split Port.

Split Port motors are not famous for their reliability; sore spot– valve seats falling out of the cylinder head. The Zetec internal combustion engine with a timing belt drive is considered the most problem-free; Ford Focus and Mondeo cars are mainly equipped with Zetec 1.6 and 2.0 liter power units. The 1.6-liter engine is generally good, but somewhat weak, but the two-liter engine turns out to be the most reliable:

• practically does not consume oil (occasionally consumption is observed after 150 thousand km);
• starts well in any frost;
• has excellent dynamics;
• the timing belt of the engine almost always reaches its service life (120 thousand km);
• with careful operation, the internal combustion engine can easily cover 350-400 thousand km or more before overhaul.

For chain Duratec engines there are complaints, although in some cases they last 500 thousand km. Popular engine on Ford cars Focus/ Mondeo, Mazda 6 – this is a Duratec HE with a volume of 1.8 liters. These engines often have floating idle speeds, oil consumption is higher than normal, but the chain lasts a long time - it needs to be replaced at 200-250 thousand km.

Power units Honda company renowned for their reliability, and according to UK research, Japanese engines Honda ranks first in terms of the minimum number of breakdowns per car in percentage. The most popular among Honda engines are the K20 series models; in 2001, these engines replaced the F20 and B20 internal combustion engines. Two-liter power units have a good power reserve, on average they consume no more than one liter of oil per 10 thousand km, the standard engine life is 300-400 thousand km. But you need to operate the engine carefully, and it should be taken into account that the K20 is not intended for sports competitions, it does not “love” bad oil and low-quality gasoline.

Car owners speak very highly of the B20B engine, and some boast that the car starts in any frost with it. However, it should be noted that frequent cold starting the internal combustion engine at temperatures below minus 25ºC without preheater reduces the life of the power unit. And one more thing - no matter how good the engine is, if you fill it with low-quality motor oil, do not maintain the engine, or overheat, the engine will quickly fail and turn out to be completely unreliable.

Legendary million-dollar engines

It is believed that in the eighties they produced car engines, which could operate up to 1 million km without major repairs. In particular, it seems that one of such power units is the internal combustion engine of the Mercedes-Benz model M102 (installed on Mercedes cars in W123 and W124 bodies). But in the world everything is relative, and for some car owners this engine did not last even 200 thousand km - a lot depends on operating conditions.

There are also legends about Toyota 2.5 liter diesel engines and Mitsubishi 4G63 gasoline engines. Of course, these internal combustion engines have a very good service life and honestly work out their million kilometers, but with one caveat - major repairs (and even more than one) are still carried out during the service life of the internal combustion engine, since the cylinders cannot last forever, and they wear out after 300 -400 thousand km. Those motors that continue to operate longer are already losing their power.

Although engines produced by VAZ are not included in the rating of reliable automotive power units, it is worth talking about them. VAZ cars themselves are characterized by poor build quality and a large number of defects, but the engines on Ladas are surprisingly reliable, 8-valve internal combustion engines are considered especially successful.

For VAZ-2112 engines, the normal mileage before major repairs is 200-300 thousand km, although the manufacturer declared a resource of 150 thousand. VAZ-21083 engines, with normal operation and timely oil changes, can last even longer - up to 400 thousand km.

VAZs come across 16-valve engines that immediately begin to “crumble”:

• increased oil consumption appears;
• various knocking noises occur in the internal combustion engine;
• oil appears in the spark plug wells;
• the engine is prone to overheating.

Unfortunately, all VAZ products are in some way a lottery, and the percentage of defects at the plant is quite high. But the design of the engines itself can be confidently called successful - engines sometimes endure considerable “bullying” from drivers, and at the same time survive.

ABOUT Renault engines It’s impossible to say unequivocally - in the line of power units there are both successful models and downright weak ones. The 8-valve engines K7M and K7J with volumes of 1.6 and 1.4 liters, respectively, are considered very reliable. The design of these engines is very simple, and there is practically nothing to break here. Timing drive French engines– belt, valves are adjusted with screws, no hydraulic compensators. K7M is the most popular - it is installed on cars Renault Logan/ Sandero/ Symbol/ Clio, VAZ Lada Largus cars are also equipped with this power unit. The K7J is good for everyone, but its power is not enough for a mid-size passenger car.

The K7M engine has a timing belt drive; it is recommended to replace parts of the gas distribution mechanism after 60 thousand km. The engine life is very good - internal combustion engines last an average of 400 thousand km without major repairs.

Renault has engines with low reliability - these are 1.5 / 1.9 and 2.2 liter diesel engines. The problem with the engines is quite serious - the crankshaft knocks under load, and the knocking of the connecting rod bearings is definitely a major overhaul with all the attendant costs. The resource of Renault diesel engines is short, and a “capital” may be required after 130-150 thousand kilometers.

Myths about super-reliable engines

Reliability car engine– a relative concept, since not everything depends on design features power unit. The same internal combustion engine, even if it is a three-million-dollar engine, can be quickly disabled in inept hands with careless treatment. At the same time, a motor of not the most successful design can last quite a long time, but for this you need:

• fill in high-quality motor oil that meets technical specifications, preferably always the same brand;
• change the oil according to the regulations;
• Do not overheat the internal combustion engine under any circumstances;
• do not allow the engine to operate at increased loads (at constant high speeds).

If you follow all operating rules, the engine will run for a long time.

Almost all modern gasoline engines They have a very complex design, thanks to which the engineers who worked on them managed to achieve excellent environmental and strength indicators. But if many power units, despite this, can withstand a mileage of 200-250 thousand kilometers without any problems, then individual copies are beginning to be presented unpleasant surprises much earlier. So which modern gasoline engines deserve to be called the worst today in terms of reliability?

Engines 2.0 JTS and 2.2 JTS Alfa Romeo

Without a doubt, this list includes 2.0 JTS and 2.2 JTS engines installed on Alfa Romeo cars. These power units can be found under the hood of models 156, 159, GT and Brera. Both engines have one common problem– carbon deposits on the intake valves. In the case of a smaller power unit, it can even lead to damage to the valves. And the 2.2 JTS is characterized by accelerated wear camshafts. In addition, both power units are prone to excessive oil consumption. Periodic failures in the operation of control electronics are also not uncommon.

ZZ series (1.4 – 1.8 liters) from Toyota

Excessive oil consumption also affects ZZ series engines (1.4 – 1.8 liters) from Toyota company, which were born in 2000 and were installed, for example, on the Corolla Verso and Avensis models. Due to a design miscalculation, not all parts of the ZZ family engines receive the required amount of lubricant, which often results in very rapid wear of the piston rings. Fortunately, the Japanese nevertheless tried to solve this problem and used an additional oil channel in the modified engines.

Petrol engine 1.6 THP Peugeot and Citroen

It didn't turn out too well 1.6 THP petrol engine, which is produced by the French from Peugeot and Citroen designed together with specialists from German BMW. Originally given power unit, and it was installed on BMW of the first series, Mini Cooper S and almost all modern models of the PSA concern, and has earned many flattering reviews. However, it later became clear that this engine is prone to premature wear of the camshaft bearings, which can also accelerate even more during long-term driving with reduced level motor oil. Add to this the malfunction of the electronics and valve timing system. But that's not all. Quite often, damage to the turbocharger rotor occurs in 1.6 THP engines. And the worst thing is that all this happens with very little mileage. Against this background, problems with the stretching timing chain no longer seem so significant.

Engines of the TSI family (1.2 and 1.4 liters) Volkswagen

The chain also stretches in engines of the TSI family (1.2 and 1.4 liters) from Volkswagen. And if you don’t rush to replace it, then it’s quite possible to end up with a major overhaul of the engine. In addition, in TSI engines Due to a defective valve, problems with the turbine are quite often observed. And on some cars, cases of pistons burning out were even recorded. Volkswagen, however, responded very quickly to the problems that arose and already in 2012 introduced new version motor (EA211 series). It replaced the timing chain drive with a much less problematic belt.

Three-cylinder petrol engine 1.0 R3 Opel

Well, the most unfortunate at the moment can be considered three-cylinder petrol engine 1.0 R3 from Opel, which was installed on Opel models Corsa C and Agila. Not only is this power unit characterized by rather rough operation and low power, but also in terms of reliability it is one of the worst. Failed ignition coils and engine control unit, oil and coolant leaks are not all that owners of cars with this power unit under the hood have to contend with. For some of them, it all ended with twisted bearings and a broken timing chain. A definite disadvantage of the 1.0 R engine is that it was installed exclusively on affordable small cars. As a result, now the cost of overhauling such a power unit may well exceed the cost of the car itself. Something to think about!

Everyone knows that once upon a time, in the distant 80s and 90s, there were “million-dollar” engines that served faithfully for hundreds of thousands of kilometers. So, as a matter of fact, it is – we compiled their rating not so long ago. But there are worthy successors to the work of the “millionaires” today.

For some reason, it is believed that modern cars are disposable. I drove it for three years, sold it and went for a new one. But this is at least an exaggeration and generalization. Indeed, there are unsuccessful engines, but this is only part of the market. People own cars for 5-7 or even 10 years and, scary to say, buy them used! This means that reliable motors exist. Question: how to find them?

Which car and with which engine to buy, so that it not only does not break down during the warranty, but also does not fall under recall campaigns, does not require expensive Supplies and special service equipment. I ran happily ever after, although at a slower pace, consuming a little more fuel than my more progressive brothers.

Renault 1.6 16v K4M

IN different classes machines have their own leaders, and, of course, more complex and expensive machines are not well suited for harsh operating conditions, but they also have their leaders and lagging behind in terms of the required amount of maintenance and the likelihood of failure.

Small class

Let's start with class B+, fortunately this size is one of the most common in Russia. The segment is rapidly developing, and there are a wide variety of cars in it: our Kalina-Grants, and foreign cars for every taste and budget. Almost all cars are extremely practical and are not burdened with special innovations. But this is only in Russia; abroad, such cars are often equipped with more advanced engines. Fortunately, there are few “imported” cars; most of the cars in this segment have long taken root on Russian soil and are produced here or supplied in special Russian configurations.

The undisputed leader is the K7M engine from Renault. The recipe for reliability is simple: a displacement of 1.6 liters and only eight valves, no complications. Timing belt drive, no hydraulic compensators, simple cast iron block, a simple ignition module, no “newfangled” things at all. Such engines are installed on the “folk” Logan and Sandero and do not cause much trouble. There is simply nothing to break, and the workmanship is excellent.

Second and third places, perhaps, should be given to the VAZ-21116 and Renault K4M engines. The first engine is also 1.6 and eight-valve, simple and reliable. But at times the build quality and wiring quality let us down, and cars with manual transmissions are not the most reliable, because the gearbox is not designed for increased torque.

The sixteen-valve K4M engine from Renault is just a little more complicated and a little more expensive. Not so easily tolerated high loads. But they install it not only on Logan, but also on Duster, Megane, Kangoo, Fluence and other cars.

Middle class

One of the leaders in reliability in the C-class already exists - this is the mentioned K4M from Renault. But the cars are somewhat heavier, cars with automatic transmission are more common, and therefore the power requirements are slightly higher. 1.6 engines will obviously have a shorter lifespan than engines with a displacement of 1.8 and 2 liters, which means it is worth separating 1.6 engines into a separate group for those who do not need to drive fast.

Probably the simplest, cheapest resource engine for cars in the C-class can be called the very respectable Z18XER. The design is the most conservative, except that phase shifters and an adjustable thermostat are installed. Timing belt drive, simple injection system and a good margin of reliability. A power of 140 horsepower is enough for comfortable movement of such heavy vehicles as Opel Astra J and Chevrolet Cruse, as well as the Opel Zafira minivan.

Second place in reliability can be given to the series of engines from Hyundai/Kia/Mitsubushi G4KD/4B11. These two-liter engines are the heirs of the famous Mitsubishi 4G63, including in terms of reliability. Not without a system for adjusting the timing phases, and in its drive - quite reliable chain. Simple system nutrition and good quality assembly, but the timing chain drive is more complex and expensive, and the motor itself is noticeably more technologically advanced, so only second place. The engine power is noticeably higher, however, all 150-165 hp. This is more than enough for any C-class car with any load, on the highway and in the city, with automatic transmission and manual transmission. Such engines were installed on a huge number of cars, including the Hyundai i30, Kia Cerato, Ceed, Mitsubishi Lancer and other cars and crossovers of a higher class: Mitsubishi ASX, Outlander, Hyundai Sonata, Elantra, ix35 and Kia Optima.

The Renault-Nissan MR20DE/M4R engine may well claim third place. This two-liter gasoline engine has been produced for quite a long time, since 2005, and in design it also goes back to " glorious ancestors"F-series from the 80s. The key to success lies in the conservatism of the design and a moderate degree of boost. In comparison with the leaders, it has a less reliable cylinder head, sometimes the chain still stretches, but still it allows you to exchange all three hundred thousand kilometers with careful operation, and the price of spare parts is not off the charts.

Junior business class

In the D+ segment, two-liter engines from among the C-class reliability leaders are also popular, and here they look good, because the weight of the cars does not differ so much. But complex and “prestigious” high-power motors are more popular.

Motor 2AR-FE with a power of 165-180 hp. and a displacement of 2.5 liters is installed on one of the bestsellers in the D+ segment, the Toyota Camry, and is without a doubt the most common and reliable engine in its class. They are installed on both RAV4 crossovers and Alphard minivans. The engine is quite simple, but the key to success is the quality of performance and frequent maintenance of Toyota cars.

Second place deservedly goes to G4KE/4B12 engines from Hyundai/Kia/Mitsubishi. These engines have a displacement of 2.4 liters and a power of 176-180 hp. installed on Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, many others passenger models and galaxy Mitsubishi crossovers Outlander/Peugeot 4008/Citroen C-Crosser. The design is close to the G4KD/4B11 engines, and in the same way they are the heirs of the reliable Mitsubisi engines. The design is without any special frills in the form of direct injection, timing chain drive plus phase shifters. Good reserve of power and resource, not too much expensive spare parts- this is the key to success.

But there will be no third place. Turbo engines on European cars are noticeably more difficult to operate and potentially more vulnerable. Relatively reliable turbodiesels still require more High Quality service. And third place goes to fairly simple units, for example, the already mentioned Z18XER on Opel Insignia or Duratec Ti-VCT on a Ford Mondeo, and if their power is enough for you and you drive quietly, then they will also be the most inexpensive to operate.

Senior business class

Prestigious E-class sedans are not low-cost cars, and the engines in this class are complex and powerful. And often they cannot boast of particular reliability. But among them there are leaders and units with high reliability.

Once again the leaders are Toyota, or rather Lexus, but you know that the company is essentially one? Engines 3.5 series 2GR-FE and 2GR-FSE are installed on Lexus ES and GS models and luxury Lexus SUVs RX. Despite the high power and low weight, this is a very successful gasoline engine; in the version without direct injection, it is considered one of the most trouble-free in its class.

Second place is deservedly taken by Volvo with its in-line six B6304T2 with a volume of 3 liters. The first turbo engine in our rating turns out to be even easier and cheaper to operate than diesel engines. Largely due to the venerable age of the design with a good margin of safety and relatively low prices for service.

Unfortunately, the naturally aspirated 3.2 engine is no longer available, it is undoubtedly even more reliable and could claim first place in this category. The secret of success is the modular design of the engines. This family has been produced from 1990 to the present day in versions with four, five and six cylinders. Continuous improvement of the design and extensive experience in operating motors has had a positive effect on the reliability and cost of operation.

Behind Infiniti, which is in third place, in this class is the Q70 model with the legendary “six” VQVQ37VHR series with a volume of 3.7 liters and a power of 330 horsepower. The key to success in this case is the quality of execution, the glorious and long history of the motor series and its prevalence. Such engines were installed on the sports Nissan 370Z, and on the QX50 and QX70 SUVs, and on the smaller Q50 sedan.

Don't expect a rating here. An F-class car is never cheap to operate; a modern car of this level combines all the technological advances of recent years, all the most complex and expensive equipment. They have, of course, their leaders and their outsiders, especially since German executive sedans are also produced with very reliable diesel engines, and Korean and Japanese premium brands They focus on the reliability of gasoline engines and warranty. But it’s difficult to choose between them, and it doesn’t make sense; there are different rules of the game in this class.

Production: from 1993 - 1.2 l, from 2003 - 1.4 l.

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 engines of the FIRE series (Fully Integrated Robotised Engine - an engine completely assembled by robots) are already more than 30 years old. The range of power units covers wide range engines with a displacement 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 displacement, turned out to be very durable. The simple design showed high wear resistance even in small engines (for example, 1.1). Outdated 8-valve versions, after a timing belt rupture, will not require major repairs, 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 engines behaved completely differently after running in. So with calm drivers he behaved lazily, and with temperamental drivers he behaved more lively.

Regular maintenance includes replacing 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 - only occasionally they can be bothered by minor oil leaks.

Ford 1.3 8VDuratec "Rocam"

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 engine was assembled in Brazil and South Africa (South Africa). The abbreviation Rocam means shaft with roller bearings.

Along with the ancient OHC "Pinto" unit (used in the Ford Sierra, for example), this is one of the most reliable engines to ever sit under the hood of a Ford. Larger Rocams with a displacement of 1.6 liters are much less common. They were used mainly in the “charged” Ford SportKa and Ford StreetKa.

Honda 2.2i-DTEC

Production: 2008-2015.

Application: Honda Accord 8th generation, Honda CR-V 3rd generation, Honda Civic– 9th generation.

In fact, you could list 98% of Honda's petrol units 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 competitors cannot cope with.

The use of a single-row timing chain is completely counterproductive, not to mention the thermally unstable aluminum block with thin, dry steel cylinder inserts (complicating heat dissipation) - any expert will tell you BMW diesel N47.

In 2.2 i-DTEC, such a set works properly for a long time. Even piezoelectric injectors, a turbocharger (has water-cooled bearings) and an electrically controlled EGR valve do not cause problems. The swirl flaps in the intake manifold, which are usually overgrown with carbon deposits, were replaced bypass valve at the entrance to the bifurcated intake duct, and the EGR was “connected” behind it.

The only known drawback is the failure of the DPF differential pressure sensor.

Mercedes M266 (1.5 / 1.7 / 2.0)

Production: 2004-2012.

Application: Mercedes A-Class(W/C 169), Mercedes B-Class (T 245).

Durable and reliable diesel engines from OM601 to OM606 are known from the legendary W124. But they have long been outdated. However, even among newer units you can find a durable motor. This is M266. The 4-cylinder petrol engine is an evolution of the previous M166, known for first A-Class and Vaneo.

The engine received a specific design, since it had to be placed at a large angle in a tight engine compartment. The engineers relied on simplicity: only one timing chain and an 8-valve timing mechanism.

Mechanical part very reliable. Injector malfunctions are very rare (somewhat surprising for a gasoline engine with indirect injection). But in most cases, the defect appeared during the warranty period.

All three versions of the motor are very durable. The presence of turbocharging for A200 Turbo modifications theoretically increases the likelihood of malfunctions, but in reality nothing like this happens. The disadvantages include slightly increased fuel consumption, but this is due to the insufficiently 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 For Four, Citroën C4 Aircross.

Almost all gasoline Mitsubishi engines 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 as a Mitsubishi/Daimler-Chrysler collaboration and is one of the most reliable engines on the market today.

4A9 is made entirely of aluminum, has a 16-valve DOHC gas distribution system, variable valve timing system intake valves With electronically controlled MIVEC (some versions of the 1.3 liter engine do not have it). Although the engine is more than 10 years old, there are no known problems. Cars with such engines come to the service center only for maintenance - replacement, oil, filters and spark plugs.

4A9 is only atmospheric. The turbocharged Colt CZT/Ralliart models use a completely different Mitsubishi "Orion" series engine. Citroen C4 Aircross inherited the engine from its technical Mitsubishi twin ASX 1.6 MIVEC, but serves it under the simple name 1.6 i, and in some markets even under the absolutely 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 little 1.4 HDi can be seen as the successor to the legendary XUD7/XUD9. Even though, on paper, the 1.4 HDi was created in collaboration with Ford (like 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 durable aluminum block with dry inserts. A timing belt can last 240,000 km or 10 years. A simple turbocharger will last forever. Injection system Common Rail manufactured by Siemens has proven itself from the very beginning. 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 compare to a 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 famous boxer engines of Subaru, the most reliable are the naturally aspirated six-cylinder EZ series, known for the Outback, Legacy 3.0R and the Tribeca crossover. The first versions of 3-liter engines for the Outback H6 (219 hp until 2002) still had a mechanical control drive throttle valve and aluminum intake manifold. Later modifications (245 hp), despite more complex technologies (among others, a system for adjusting the lift height and phases of the intake valves, and in the 3.6 also the exhaust valves), did not become more “vulnerable”.

The engine has so-called wet cylinder liners and a durable timing chain. The only real drawback is the relatively high level fuel consumption (especially in the Legacy 3.0 Spec B, equipped with a sports manual transmission with a short-throw gear selection mechanism) and minor difficulties when maintenance(for example, to replace spark plugs due to poor accessibility to “horizontally” located cylinders).

Suzuki 1.3 / 1.5 / 1.6DOHC "M"

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.

The M series engines include small capacity engines 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8. The latter is intended exclusively for the Australian market. On the European continent, the power unit is found in almost all small and medium-sized Suzuki models that appeared at the turn of the 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 phase change system is not satisfactory VVT valve timing, used by most engine modifications. It is not present only in the 1.3-liter version intended for Ignis and Jimny until 2005, and the old 1.5 modifications for SX4.

The timing chain drive is reliable. Minor deficiencies include small oil leaks through the crankshaft oil seal. More serious malfunctions practically never occur.

Toyota 1.5 1NZ-FXE Hybrid

Production: since 1997.

Application: Toyota Prius I, Toyota Prius II, Toyota Yaris III Hybrid.

As with Honda, this review almost everyone could get in Toyota engines, but let’s focus on the hybrid, which most motorists still perceive with skepticism. 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 more.

There is no gearbox in the classical sense, and therefore problems with this device disappear. Instead, a planetary gearbox with two inputs and one output is used. The gear ratio changes depending on the difference in rotational speeds of both engines.

What scares me the most is the expensive battery. But so far none of the owners have changed it. European competitors cannot compete with 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 León, Seat Toledo, VW Caddy, VW Polo, VW Golf, VW Vento, VW Bora, VW Passat, VW Sharan, VW Transporter, Ford Galaxy(1st generation), Š koda Fabia and Škoda Octavia (1st generation).

Without a doubt, this is one of the most famous, but perhaps also 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 load on the cylinder head was reduced and a Bosch rotary pump was installed, although it was sensitive to fuel quality.

The reliability and durability, especially of the simple naturally aspirated 1.9 SDI versions, deserves respect. The engine is capable of traveling more than one million kilometers without major investments. We do not take into account the frequently mentioned problems with the mass air flow sensor.

Paradoxically, the most reliable turbocharged variant is only the 90 hp TDI with a maximum torque of 202 Nm (coded 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 best TDI is considered to be the CMA. Its small constant-geometry turbocharger demonstrates much greater survivability than the 90-hp ALH's variable-geometry supercharger. The latter was prone to blade freezing, 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.

Not a single miscalculation in the design of a car brings as many inconveniences and problems as an engine that constantly breaks down. No matter how many cylinders you have under the hood or how much your car costs, bad motor can ruin the entire impression of the car.

There may be several reasons why the engine causes so many problems. Sometimes it is a design miscalculation by engineers, poor quality materials or workmanship, or perhaps a combination of all three factors. Of course, the automakers themselves are in no way interested in creating low-quality units. However, sometimes this happens, causing irreparable damage to the reputation of companies.

What engines can be considered the worst in the world? The American site cheatsheet.com gives 10 examples of motors that can safely be called a mistake. The list includes not only modern engines, but also classic units. Moreover, some of them were literally programmed to break from the very beginning.

10. Cadillac V8-6-4

In 1981, Cadillac engineers introduced an engine with a cylinder deactivation function. Today such a feature will not surprise anyone, but in the early 80s it was a novelty. The idea was pretty good - to allow the driver, depending on traffic situation temporarily turn off several cylinders to reduce fuel consumption.

True, the implementation of the idea left much to be desired. The fact is that the hydraulic valve lifters were controlled by unreliable solenoids, which often failed. When the system worked as it should, the delay in response when pressing the gas pedal was enormous. As a result, most owners simply preferred not to use cylinder deactivation and drive their cars like regular 8-cylinder Cadillacs. The conservatism of the Americans, who were frightened by the different timbre of the engine, also had an effect. As a result, Cadillac very quickly abandoned the installation of a new promising engine and returned to the usual V8.

9. Mistubishi 1.2 3A92

The three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine installed on the Mitsubishi Mirage is capable of developing 78 hp. and 100 Nm of torque. In principle, they are not like that poor performance, if not for some nuances. Firstly, “Mirage” did not turn out to be particularly dynamic. For example, acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes almost 13 seconds. Secondly, the engine turned out to be not so economical: fuel consumption per 100 km exceeds 6 liters per mixed cycle, which is quite average by modern standards. All in all, it's no surprise that the Mitsubishi Mirage has earned poor reviews from critics. For example, Car and Driver magazine wrote in December 2016 that there is “virtually nothing in this car that would make the driver happy while behind the wheel.”

8. Mopar 2.2

In the 1980s Chrysler company launched a new 2.2-liter four cylinder engine. The advertising campaign of those days claimed that this engine, which developed from 84 to 100 hp in different versions, was much better and more powerful than its competitors. As a result, almost all of the concern’s cars received the Mopar 2.2 engine from Dodge Daytona to minivans.

However, it turned out that the design of the engine leads to constant knocking of the connecting rod. It is curious that the Americans later improved the engine by installing a turbocharger at the same time. This engine was much better than the previous one and even had good tuning potential. It’s a pity that this decision was reached only after thousands of calls to customer service for cars with unfinished engines.

7. Oldsmobile V8 Diesel

In the 70s, the popularity of diesel cars began to grow in the United States. This was due to more stringent environmental and fuel consumption requirements that the federal government imposed on gasoline engines. The standard did not apply to diesel units. Therefore, at first they poured into the USA diesel Mercedes-Benz and Peugeot, and then it was time to strike back at General Motors.

In 1978, GM introduced its diesel engine, which began to be installed on Oldsmobile cars. It was a V-shaped 8-cylinder engine that was essentially made... from a gasoline engine! It is not surprising that the engine began to have problems. Although the designers made a more durable cylinder block, the car had the most problems with the mounting bolts, which were designed for a completely different pressure. In addition, the machine did not have a water separator, which is why fuel system Corrosion often occurred. As a result, already with a mileage of about 50,000 km, the diesel engine often required major repairs. Not to mention the fact that it was frankly weak and developed only 120 hp. with a volume of 3.5 liters. All in all, it is not surprising that the engine turned out to be one of the biggest failures in GM history. By the way, they say that it is precisely because of those same Oldsmobiles that Americans still do not trust diesel engines.

6. Lexus 2.5 V6

The second generation Lexus IS was quite successful model, unless you take the 2.5-liter V6 engine. Although this combination of letters and numbers sounds very good, in fact we are talking about a unit that developed 204 hp. For understanding: Honda power The Civic Si of the era was about the same, although the car had two fewer cylinders. At the same time, Lexus IS 250 owners complained not only about insufficient dynamics, but also about high consumption fuel. And according to the authoritative publication Consumer Reports, this model, despite its positioning, is “neither sporty nor premium.”

5. GM 2.2 Ecotec

If the word Ecotec in the name scared you, we hasten to reassure you - we are talking about a 2.2-liter engine that was installed on cars until 2006. However, that four-cylinder unit managed to fray the owners’ nerves due to frequent problems with the cylinder head gasket and timing chain. In addition, the engine did not have high output, which is why buyers tried in every possible way to avoid buying cars with this unit.

4. 1932 Ford V8

The very first serial motor The company's V8, featuring a blue oval logo, was an attempt to usher Americans into a new era of automobile manufacturing. True, everything turned out a little differently. Since an engine of this design was a real breakthrough for Ford, it is not surprising that it collected all imaginable and inconceivable problems. For example, piston rings were made of insufficiently strong steel, which is why the oil often began to boil. Due to errors in the design of the cooling system, the temperature in the rear cylinders was always higher than in the front, and the intake manifold did not provide the correct mixture of fuel and air. As a result, problems with the engine occurred literally every 100-200 kilometers.