When Toyota unveiled the 2022 GR Corolla, several news articles mentioned how the Japanese carmaker was finally back to making sporty cars. This is a jab at Toyota for ditching the sports car segment since the ‘90s. They’ve built some pretty awesome cars in this period, sadly that didn’t continue into the 2000s, at least for the North American market. Just like Toyota’s sports cars have developed a reputation, so did their engines.
The cool three-cylinder 300HP engine from the GR Corolla might be a powerhouse, but it is yet to develop a reputation akin to that of 3S-GTE. This is one of the more popular engines used in the previous era of Toyota’s sports cars. Continue reading to find out the strengths and weaknesses of the 3S-GTE engine.
Which Cars Got the Toyota 3S-GTE Engine?
The 3S-GTE engine was used in three Toyota models. This four-cylinder engine was seen in cars made from 1986 to 2007. While the 3S-GTE was put to use for two decades, it continuously evolved to move with the times. Here are the cars that came equipped with the 3S-GTE engine:
Fourth-Generation Toyota Celica
The 3S-GTE engine made its debut on the fourth-generation Toyota Celica built between 1986 and 1989. This engine was used on the top-spec version of the sporty Celica (ST165). Toyota themselves called it the “ultimate Celica” and if you have a look at the specifications, it’s easy to see why. This car featured a full-time, all-wheel-drive system, electronically-locking rear differential, a strut tower brace, an anti-sway bar at both ends, and more.
Fifth-Generation Toyota Celica
Similar to the fourth-generation Celica, the fifth-generation or ST185 (1990-1993) also had an ultimate version. Like the fourth-gen, it made use of the 3S-GTE engine. Along with the engine, it also got an all-wheel-drive system and many upgrades that improved the performance and handling characteristics. This generation of the Celica was also known for its round design language. Celicas equipped with the 3S-GTE engine wore a special GT-Four badge.
Sixth-Generation Toyota Celica
Thanks to the ever-evolving nature of the 3S-GTE, it made its way into one more generation of the Toyota Celica. However, it was only the Japanese market that got this engine in the ST205. Other global markets like North America made use of the 5S FE. That being said, the 3S-GTE engine continued to be found in the top-of-the-line GT-Four variant.
Second-Generation Toyota MR2
In addition to the three generations of the Celica, Toyota’s sporty mid-engined MR2 was also powered by the 3S-GTE engine. The Toyota MR2 is an extremely unique vehicle with its racecar-like configuration. The SW20 Toyota MR2 was available with a few engine options, but the turbocharged 3S-GTE was the most powerful one. Being the sportiest version, it also came fitted with a stronger gearbox, larger brakes, and more. This car was made for a total of 10 years (1989 to 1999).
Second and Third-Generation Toyota Caldina
The Japanese market got an offering called the Caldina, it was essentially a revised version of the European Avensis wagon. Even though it doesn’t have a sporty design, Toyota gave buyers a choice to get it with a fun powertrain. The second gen was sold from 1997 to 2001 while the third-gen 2002 to 2007. This wagon even got a full-time all-wheel-drive system similar to the aforementioned Celica GT-Four.
How to Tell Which 3S-GTE Generation You Have?
Many changes were made to each generation of the 3S-GTE. There are four main generations of the 3S-GTE engine and an additional revision which some consider being the fifth generation.
First-Generation 3S-GTE
For an engine to be around for two decades, it needs some big improvements every few years. Toyota did just that with the 3S-GTE. The first engine came equipped with a single-entry turbo and wastegate port. It also utilized an air flow meter to measure the air. The compression ratio, meanwhile, is 8.5:1. This engine is capable of 182-190 HP and 190 lb-ft of torque.
Second-Generation 3S-GTE
A big change on the second-gen 3S-GTE engine was the twin-entry turbo and wastegate port. While the first gen used a water-to-air intercooler, this one made use of an air-to-air unit. This is also the engine that made heavy use of mass air flow sensor. The compression ratio for this engine is 8.8:1 which allowed it to make between 200-232 HP and 200-224 lb-ft of torque.
Third-Generation 3S-GTE
With the third generation of the 3S-GTE engine, Toyota changed the turbo. This new unit featured a similar design as the earlier ones but came with updates for better performance. This generation of the 3S-GTE engine also did away with the airflow meter and uses a MAP sensor instead. Other changes include a water-to-air intercooler, larger injectors, and more. It also comes equipped with an oil catch can. Interestingly, compression is slightly lower on this generation at 8.5:1. The third-gen 3S-GTE engine is capable of 242-252 HP and 224 lb-ft of torque.
Fourth-Generation 3S-GTE
As for the fourth-gen, it makes use of a different turbocharger. That’s not all, the exhaust housing is also different and cast into the exhaust manifold with this engine. This turbo is said to be compatible with the third-gen 3S-GTE engine, but not the first and second. There are also some other changes including a modern ignition system. It makes use of an air-to-air intercooler and has a compression ratio of 9:1. This version of the engine makes 256 HP and 239 lb-ft.
Fifth-Generation 3S-GTE
Lastly, the fifth-generation 3S-GTE which many don’t consider a complete generation change. This is because it only boasts of minor changes like revised injectors that sit closer to the intake ports and a slightly smaller intercooler. Other changes include a different coil-on-plug ignition and valve cover design. This version of the engine can make 256 HP and 239 lb-ft of torque.
Common Problems of the 3S-GTE Engine
With the generations of the 3S-GTE engine covered, let’s dive into the common problems of this engine.
Blown Turbos
While this problem isn’t exactly common, it has still been reported enough times to make it to this list. As mentioned above, some generations of the 3S-GTE engine have different turbos which have proven to be quite reliable for the most part. But, as with many other parts of this engine, it’s a component that wears out over time. In most cases, these turbos are also being pushed to their limit as they are in sports cars after all.
As a result, the majority of 3S-GTE engines on sale today will require a turbo replacement if it hasn’t been carried out already. Most Celica and MR2 owners also modify their cars which means the engine is already paired to an aftermarket turbo that was installed in a quest for more power. Whatever the case might be, it’s a good idea to inspect for failing turbo symptoms and get it replaced if required.
Bad Engine Block
One of the most widely reported problems of the 3S-GTE engine has to do with its engine block. What is quite surprising is that this problem occurs even though the engine is made from cast iron. Commonly, cast iron engine blocks are known for their strength. Unfortunately, that can’t be said about the 3S-GTE engine as its block is known to crack. This is most often seen on third-gen blocks, but other generations have experienced this issue as well.
According to numerous reports, the casting between cylinders 2 and 3 is quite thin which causes it to crack under load. Keep in mind that Toyota was aware of this problem and made a revision to later generations to fix this. On the flip side, even though this problem is frequently discussed on some forums online, it’s not as common as you might think. Most engines that have experienced this are not stock and have modifications that are pushing them to make double their intended numbers.
Oil Leak Issues
Just like the problem with the turbos, the 3S-GTE gaskets are known to wear out over time and start leaking. When you factor in this engine’s age, especially the early ones which are over 30 years old, oil leaks are to be expected.
You will notice leaks around the oil pan, turbo gasket, valve cover gasket, and other common places. Main seals are also known to cause somewhat serious oil leaks depending on how the engine was maintained, and how it was used up until that point.
Gearshift Crunch
Every North American 3S-GTE engine is only available with a manual gearbox. Sometimes, these gearboxes begin producing a crunching sound during gear shifts. If this occurs while shifting to every gear, it’s usually because of an issue concerning the clutch assembly. Reports online recommend inspecting the clutch pedal adjustment before making any big purchases. If it’s out of spec, your problem can be solved by simply readjusting it.
Owners have also complained of crunching sound with certain gears. This is usually caused by a bad linkage or synchromesh. Fixing the bad linkage problem is not that difficult and can be done for cheap. However, the same can’t be said about the synchromesh damage as that involves disassembling the entire gearbox and replacing them with new units.
Poor Fuel Economy
The 3S-GTE is a four-cylinder engine that’s nowhere near as large as some of its rivals. This means owners have averaged real-world fuel economy figures of around 25 MPG, often more. If you aren’t noticing close to that figure, even after a service, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. There could be a leak in the vacuum system which usually signals the engine to deliver more fuel than necessary.
We Love Modern Classics
If you have a Toyota Celica GT-Four or a turbocharged MR2, keep in mind that it is an appreciating asset. While there’s a lot to like about these modern classics, it’s the 3S-GTE engine that makes them stand out.
Don’t let the world ‘classic’ trick you into thinking that parts for this engine are hard to come by, as that isn’t the case. We sell Genuine Toyota, OEM and quality aftermarket spares for many vehicles and engines. If you’re having trouble finding the right part, feel free to reach from through the Contact option at the bottom of this page.
