Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Get Quotes
Compare prices from trusted UK Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engine specialists for reconditioned, rebuilt and used units. Get quotes today for your Mazda 2 petrol engine replacement and find the best deal from vetted UK Mazda specialists.
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From VE/P5-VPS - from £1,200 to £2,400
Used from £500 · Reconditioned from £1,200 · Common codes: ZJ-VE, ZY-VE, P3-VPS, P5-VPS
From £500
Tested, bare/short engine
From £1,200
Rod bearings addressed, tested
From quote
Upgraded bearings, full teardown, revised valvetrain

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3 Simple Steps3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol Replacement Engineto Finding the Best Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol Replacement Engine
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engines represent the core petrol offering across three generations of the UK's best-selling Mazda model. The DE/KE generation (2007-2014) used the MZR engine family (ZJ-VE, ZY-VE), while the DJ generation (2014-present) introduced the Skyactiv-G family (P3-VPS, P5-VPS) with significant efficiency improvements . Known for their peppy performance and low kerb weight (under 1,065kg), these engines have been popular choices for urban and mixed-use driving .
Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engines represent the core petrol offering across three generations of the UK's best-selling Mazda model. The DE/KE generation (2007-2014) used the MZR engine family (ZJ-VE, ZY-VE), while the DJ generation (2014-present) introduced the Skyactiv-G family (P3-VPS, P5-VPS) with significant efficiency improvements . Known for their peppy performance and low kerb weight (under 1,065kg), these engines have been popular choices for urban and mixed-use driving .
Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol
Engine History Timeline
DE-generation Mazda 2 introduced with MZR 1.3L and 1.5L petrol engines; ZJ-VE (75-84hp) and ZY-VE (102hp) variants available
Three-door hatchback variant added to range with same MZR engine options
MZR engine range updated; 1.3L available with 75ps and 84ps outputs 1.5L with 102ps
DJ-generation Mazda 2 launched with Skyactiv-G 1.3L and 1.5L petrol engines; P3-VPS (92hp) and multiple P5-VPS variants (75-115hp) introduced
Skyactiv-G range expanded with different power outputs for various trim levels
e-Skyactiv M Hybrid mild-hybrid variants added to Skyactiv-G 1.5L engine (75hp and 90hp)
Key Specs Snapshot
Every engine fitted to the Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.
Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement CostMazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement Cost
1.3L MZR Petrol (75-91hp, 2007-2014)
Compatible Trim Levels
- Mazda 2 1.3 TS
- Mazda 2 1.3 SE Air Con
- Mazda 2 1.3 Colour Edition
- Mazda 2 1.3 Sport Venture

Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.
Used
Tested, ready-to-fit engine
£400-£900
Reconditioned
Addressed known issues, tested
£1,000-£1,800
Rebuilt
Full teardown, upgraded internals
£1,600-£2,200
Common Failure
The ZJ-VE engine uses a timing chain that typically lasts the life of the engine with proper maintenance. No major systemic failures are widely reported . The engine is generally considered the more reliable MZR option.


The Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engines are generally reliable, but Skyactiv-G timing chain tensioner wear and MZR head gasket issues can occur. Rebuilt engines through EnginesMarket include upgraded components addressing the original failure points, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.

Why the Mazda 2 1.5 Petrol Engine May Develop Noise
Affected Vehicles
Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Skyactiv-G (P3-VPS/P5-VPS, 2014+, early production units)
Typical Failure Mileage
60k-100k
Root Cause
The timing chain tensioner can wear on earlier Skyactiv-G production units, leading to chain slack and a characteristic rattle on cold start. If left unaddressed, this can cause timing chain jump and potential valve damage . Our rebuilt engines include upgraded tensioner and guide components.
Why It Happens
The timing chain tensioner can wear on earlier Skyactiv-G production units, leading to chain slack and a characteristic rattle on cold start. If left unaddressed, this can cause timing chain jump and potential valve damage . Our rebuilt engines include upgraded tensioner and guide components.
Dealer (parts + labour)
£150-£300
Specialist (parts + labour)
£100-£200
What it involves
Cold-start noise diagnosis; inspect tensioner and chain condition
Suitability
If no noise yet but mileage approaching 80k
Dealer (parts + labour)
£800-£1,200
Specialist (parts + labour)
£500-£900
What it involves
Replace tensioner, chain, guides; includes oil and filter change
Suitability
If cold-start rattle present; prevents catastrophic failure
Dealer (parts + labour)
£3,500-£5,000
Specialist (parts + labour)
£2,200-£2,800 (matches Section 4 rebuilt pricing)
What it involves
Supply & fit full rebuilt engine with upgraded timing components, warranty
Suitability
If timing chain failure caused engine damage or high mileage justifies full rebuild
| Repair Tier | Dealer (Parts + Labour) | Specialist (Parts + Labour) | What It Involves | Suitability | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Preventative - timing chain inspection Minor | £150-£300 | £100-£200 | Cold-start noise diagnosis; inspect tensioner and chain condition | If no noise yet but mileage approaching 80k | |
Timing chain kit replacement Best Value | £800-£1,200 | £500-£900 | Replace tensioner, chain, guides; includes oil and filter change | If cold-start rattle present; prevents catastrophic failure | |
Full Replacement - rebuilt/reconditioned engine Best Value | £3,500-£5,000 | £2,200-£2,800 (matches Section 4 rebuilt pricing) | Supply & fit full rebuilt engine with upgraded timing components, warranty | If timing chain failure caused engine damage or high mileage justifies full rebuild |
Vehicle Value Check
Vehicle Value Check
A typical Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol of relevant age (2007-present) sits in the £500-£16,000 band depending on generation and condition . A full rebuilt engine at £2,200-£2,800 plus fitting can represent 30-100% of vehicle value on older examples - weigh against overall vehicle condition and ownership horizon.
Our Recommendation
Our Recommendation
If your Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol Skyactiv-G has a cold-start rattle, get the timing chain tensioner inspected immediately. A £500-£900 preventative timing chain kit replacement is significantly cheaper than a full engine replacement if the chain has skipped. For vehicles under 60k miles, regular oil changes with Mazda-spec 0W-20 oil can help prevent tensioner wear. For earlier 1.3L MZR engines, the ZJ-VE is generally very reliable and unlikely to need a full replacement if properly maintained .

Don't Let Engine Problems Write Off Your Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol
The Mazda 2 petrol engines are generally reliable, but Skyactiv-G timing chain tensioner wear and MZR head gasket issues can occur on higher-mileage examples. Our network of vetted Mazda specialists can supply rebuilt or used engines with a minimum 12-month warranty, delivered nationwide with supply & fit options. Compare quotes now and keep your Mazda 2 on the road for less than main dealer prices.
Compare Skyactiv-G timing chain repair quotes for your Mazda 2
Important Information
Important Information
"All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data and repair requests from our network of engine specialists. Dealer pricing is estimated based on published main dealer labour rates and genuine OEM parts pricing. Specialist pricing reflects actual quote data from EnginesMarket's UK network. Actual costs vary depending on damage severity, vehicle condition, variant, and workshop location within the UK. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes for your specific Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol. Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier."
Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 Petrol Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engine replacement cost-
A used 1.3L MZR engine typically costs £400-£900, while a used 1.5L MZR runs £450-£1,000 and Skyactiv-G variants £600-£1,400 supply-only. Reconditioned units range from £1,000-£2,600, and full rebuilt engines run £1,600-£2,800. Add 6-10 hours of labour at around £65/hr for indie specialist fitting - around £390-£650 - or more at main dealer rates.
- Used engines: cheapest option, 30-60 day warranty typical
- Reconditioned engines: mid-range, tested and worn components replaced
- Rebuilt engines: full strip and rebuild, 12-month warranty, upgraded components
Question 2What are the signs of Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engine failure-
Common warning signs include a cold-start rattle from the front of the engine (Skyactiv-G timing chain tensioner), white exhaust smoke or overheating (MZR head gasket), and loss of power or engine management light.
- Cold-start rattle (Skyactiv-G) -> timing chain tensioner or guide wear - most common on early DJ models
- White smoke + overheating (MZR) -> head gasket failure on 1.5L units
- Engine management light -> diagnostic scan needed; check lambda sensor or ignition issues
Question 3Is it worth replacing the engine in a Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol-
A typical Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol is worth £500-£16,000 depending on generation and condition . A rebuilt engine at £1,600-£2,800 plus fitting can represent 30-100% of vehicle value on older examples. Consider the car's overall condition and your ownership horizon.
- Skyactiv-G models (2014+, £4k-£16k): rebuilt engine is sensible if keeping the car 2+ years
- MZR models (2007-2014, £500-£4,765): evaluate cost carefully; used engine or repair often makes more sense
- Sport Nav or high-spec models: replacement may be justified by the value of the rest of the car
Question 4Does the Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol have a timing belt or chain-
Both MZR and Skyactiv-G Mazda 2 petrol engines use a timing chain, not a belt . That means no scheduled timing belt replacement interval - the chain is designed to last the life of the engine with proper oil maintenance. However, Skyactiv-G engines can experience tensioner wear on early production units.
- No timing belt replacement required on Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol
- Keep up oil changes - chain, guides and tensioner rely on good lubrication
- Listen for cold-start rattle; that's the primary timing chain warning sign on Skyactiv-G
Question 5What's the difference between MZR and Skyactiv-G engines in the Mazda 2-
The MZR engines (ZJ-VE, ZY-VE) are the pre-2014 technology with 75-103hp, while Skyactiv-G engines (P3-VPS, P5-VPS) offer higher efficiency, direct injection, and outputs from 75-115hp. Both use timing chains and are generally reliable, but Skyactiv-G has known tensioner wear issues on early units.
- MZR: 2007-2014, 1.3L (75-91hp) and 1.5L (102-103hp)
- Skyactiv-G: 2014+, 1.3L (92hp) and 1.5L (75-115hp)
- Both are solid engines; Skyactiv-G offers better fuel economy and power
Question 6How long does a Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engine replacement take-
A typical Mazda 2 1.3/1.5 petrol engine replacement takes 1-2 days at an indie specialist, with 6-10 labour hours. Main dealers may take slightly longer. Allow 2-3 days for supply and fit through EnginesMarket's network.
- Supply-only: 1-3 days delivery
- Supply & fit: 1-2 days workshop time
- Nationwide collection/delivery available
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