1NZ-FXE vs 2NZ-FE
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Specifications
Character
1NZ-FXE
"Toyota's first mass-market hybrid petrol engine (Prius NHW11/NHW20, Yaris Hybrid 2012-2020). An Atkinson-cycle 1.5 with a timing chain and an easy life thanks to the electric motor. Wear arrives late: oil burning past about 200,000 km and chain wear; on the 2004-2009 Prius the electric water pump was recalled. Check the recall and the oil level."
2NZ-FE
"Toyota's 1.3 16V petrol (2NZ-FE) with a timing chain and VVT-i on the intake camshaft; in Europe it powered the first Yaris (1999-2005). The 1.5 1NZ is its bigger sister. German and French owners and used-car guides rate it simple and reliable, and French owners report 250,000-450,000 km. Weak points arrive with age: oil consumption past about 150,000 km, chain stretch around 200,000 km, oil leaks at the rear crankshaft seal (which can foul the crankshaft sensor and stall the engine; recalled on early cars), an unstable idle from a dirty throttle body and a weak oil pressure sensor. Check the oil level regularly."