From 2002 to 2015, the company produced the 2.0-liter Mazda LF-DE gasoline engine, which was fitted to Ford vehicles under the CJBA index and the Asian versions of the 3, 5, 6, and MX-5 models. The LF-VE power unit, which is identified by a phase regulator at the inlet, is found in several markets.
The L-engine family also includes:
- 1.8 L – L8‑DE, L813;
- 2.0 L – LF‑DE, LF‑VD, LF17, LFF7;
- 2.3 L – L3‑VE, L3‑VDT, L3C1;
- 2.5 L – L5‑VE.
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 3 BK in 2003 – 2008;
- Mazda 3 BL in 2008 – 2013;
- Mazda 5 CR in 2005 – 2007;
- Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 – 2007;
- Mazda 6 II (GH) in 2007 – 2012;
- Mazda MX-5 NC in 2005 – 2015.
Specifications
| Production years | 2002-2015 |
| Displacement, cc | 1999 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 140 – 160 |
| Torque output, Nm | 175 – 195 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83.1 |
| Compression ratio | 10.8 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 6 2006) — city — highway — combined |
9.8 5.4 7.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 105 |
Disadvantages of the Mazda MZR LF-DE engine
There were numerous instances of intake dampers jamming or falling out in the early years;
Floating revolutions are typically caused by throttle assembly malfunctions;
Additionally, the pump, thermostat, and right engine mount are the motor’s weak points;
An oil burner and timing chain stretch are typical on runs longer than 200,000 kilometers;
Every 100,000 kilometers, the valves will need to be adjusted because there are no hydraulic lifters.