Most Common Toyota 2.4-Liter Engine Problems | Top 5 Issues

Most Common Toyota 2.4-Liter Engine Problems

Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability and longevity. Many people feel that if they maintain it properly, their Toyota will keep running. In many cases, this is true, but some have engine issues that need to be managed. The 2.4 Engine (2AZ-FE) is one of those models. We will explore the most common Toyota 2.4-liter engine problems.

Toyota 2.4 Liter Engine Problems:

Toyota 2.4 Liter Engine Problems:

While the Toyota 2.4 engine has had issues, it is still a quality engine, and any issues can be solved. It is considered one of the most reliable engines built, and if maintained properly, the engine should be relatively free of serious problems when high-quality oil and replacement parts are used.

Here are some of the common Toyota 2.4 engine problems and some solutions according to JackDromey.org:

Burns oil:

This is one of the biggest issues with the 2.4 engine. This is due to the position of the piston rings. It usually shows no sign of burning oil until you hit about 50,000. After that, the vehicle may burn up to one liter of oil after driving 1,200 miles. Without repairing this issue, you could have complete engine failure.

Solution: The engine must be removed and unassembled to fix this problem. This is a big job and may cost as much as $7,000 to be repaired.

Cylinder Head Bolt Threads

Problem: The cylinder head bolt connects the cylinder to the head gasket and the engine block. When the bolts weaken, coolant leaks occur, causing the coolant to flow through the head gasket and cylinders. This issue must be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Solution: Anyone with even a little automotive knowledge should be able to fix this issue. There are kits you can follow to repair the cylinder head bolt issue for about $1,000 to $1,600.

It costs between $1000 and $1600 to get this problem fixed. Sometimes, it may cost more if other components, such as the gasket, have been affected and need replacement.

Overheating:

This is a common issue typically due to the need for coolant. It can also mean that the cooling system is not properly absorbing and transporting the coolant. A faulty thermostat or clogged radiator can also be a cause of overheating.

Solution: Take your vehicle to a reputable service station to check for the issues. The cost of repairing the vehicle depends on the exact issue. A faulty hose may only cost $200, but replacing the head gasket or radiator may be as high as $1,500.

Faulty Piston Ring:

Piston rings are found inside the engine, regulating and controlling oil pressure. When the rings wear or are damaged, it can affect the engine’s performance. Without them, the vehicle will not run. You will know if the piston rings are bad because the car may emit smoke, burn oil, and notice a drop in overall performance.

Solution: Any sign of smoke or increased oil burning should be checked immediately before more damage occurs. New piston rings will cost between $50 to $150, but labour may be steep as it takes nearly 11 hours to complete the installation.

Head Gasket Leak:

The head gasket is between the cylinder block and the head. Coolant and oil do not leak into the cylinders or outside walls. The head gasket will get damaged when the engine overheats. Once it does, it can result in a loss of compression and leaking coolant and oil.

Solution: Any time the engine overheats, it could damage the head gasket. It will cost around $700 to replace the head gasket unless the issue is more severe and needs additional repairs.

The Redesigned 2.4 Liter Engine:

The 2.4, 2AZ-FE engine was introduced in 2002 Toyota vehicles. It replaced the 2.2 Liter, 5S-FE engine.

The engine underwent a remodel in 2008; the redesigned engine implemented a direct injection system, which improved the engine’s power and torque. The camshafts were also replaced, which enabled them to go to 6500 RPM.

New features:

The new redesigned 2.4-liter Toyota engine was redesigned using an aluminium block with cast-iron cylinder liners to reduce engine weight.

The 2.4 engine also comes with slant-squish combustion chambers and variable valve timing.

Specs of the Toyota 2.4 Liter

  • Engine: It comes with an aluminium cylinder block with sleeves
  • Fuel injection system: A 4-stroke internal combustion engine   
  • 160 HP: Compression Ratio: 9.6:1 & 9.8:1
  • The engine weighs 305 pounds.
  • Inline configuration
  • Runs on gasoline 
  • 5 mm cylinder bore
  • 2 balancer shafts inside the crankcase, reducing vibration
  • Vehicles that use the 2.4 Liter
  • Engine: Many different cars adopted the 2.4-litre engine when it came out in 2002.

Here are just some of the cars with this engine:

  • Toyota Camry   
  • Lexus ES240
  • Toyota Highlander
  • Scion
  • Toyota Matrix
  • Toyota Corolla
  • Toyota RAV4
  • Toyota Harrier
  • Toyota Kluger
  • Toyota Estima
  • Toyota Blade
  • Toyota Previa
  • Lexus HS 250h
  • Toyota Alphard
  • Toyota Sai
  • Toyota Ipsum

Read More: Ford Vs Toyota

The Verdict

In light of these common issues with the 2.4-liter engine, owners must be proactive about maintenance and vigilant to warning signs. Pay attention to the smell of burning oil or unusual exhaust smoke. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious problems and save significant money in the long run.

Interestingly, this comparison between Lexus GX and LX models is a great resource those considering an upgrade or switch. Both Lexus models offer a significant step up in terms of luxury and performance, and this guide can help you understand the key differences between the two: Lexus GX vs LX. Exploring these options might provide a compelling alternative to continually dealing with engine problems in older Toyota Camrys.