5 reliable engines you should consider
Unless we're mistaken, nobody likes to make repeated visits to the garage because of mechanical problems. This is even truer now, with the cost of parts and labor having risen dramatically across the board.
Reliability is therefore an increasingly important criterion in the decision to buy a vehicle, whether new or used. As a consumer, it's your duty to consult the various brand and model reliability rankings and studies (Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, etc.), as well as discussion forums and other platforms where owners share their good and bad experiences.
To help you out, we've come up with a few recommendations of reliable engines to consider:
Honda – Four-cylinder (K-series), 2 to 2.4 liters
In service since 2001, these DOHC engines have found their way into many Honda and Acura models over the past two decades, including the Civic, CR-V, Accord and RDX. They are available in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged versions, and are highly durable in both cases. Their i-VTEC valve timing system contributes to their efficiency.
General Motors – V8 LS, 4.8 to 7.4 liters
The reliability of some American vehicles can leave a lot to be desired, but that's not usually a concern with General Motors' LS family small-block V8, which has been proving its worth since 1997 and is now in its fourth generation. Powering cars like the Camaro, as well as full-size pickups and SUVs like the Silverado and Tahoe, this engine proves reliable and easy to maintain. It can very well last for hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
Toyota – V6 2GR, 3.5 liters
It was inevitable that a Toyota engine would feature on our list. It's the 3.5-liter V6 that the Japanese automaker has been using for everything since 2005, including its Lexus luxury models. The Camry, Highlander, Tacoma and many others use it. Efficient, powerful and robust, this engine is regularly ranked in Ward's Auto magazine. It's easy to maintain, too.
Stellantis – Pentastar V6, 3.6 liters
This other V6 has a very good reputation for reliability too. In fact, it's been found in over 10 million Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles since 2010. Admittedly, the early years were a little more problematic, but overall, it's an engine you can have great confidence in, for many years to come.
Toyota – V8 UR, 4.6 to 5.7 liters
The successor to the UZ V8 series, discontinued in 2013, Toyota's UR V8 has maintained its reputation for reliability. That's why the automaker's large SUVs and pickup trucks, led by the Tundra and Sequoia, retain a better resale value than their more popular American competitors. There have been 4.6-liter, 5-liter and 5.7-liter versions, each delivering very good service with minimal maintenance and repairs.
