Is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good?

Yes—generally, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder is a solid, well-balanced engine size for compact and midsize vehicles, offering adequate power and efficiency. How good it is in your case depends on whether it’s naturally aspirated or turbocharged, the weight and purpose of the vehicle, and the specific engine family’s reliability record.

What a 2.4-liter four-cylinder means in 2025

“2.4-liter four-cylinder” describes displacement and cylinder count, not performance or reliability by itself. In today’s market, older naturally aspirated 2.4L engines (common in the 2000s–mid‑2010s) are being phased out, while newer 2.4L turbocharged units power many mainstream SUVs and trucks. That shift has changed expectations around torque, towing, and efficiency.

Performance: what to expect

Output varies widely by design, tuning, and whether the engine is naturally aspirated (NA) or turbocharged. In real-world driving, torque delivery and gearing matter as much as peak horsepower.

Typical power and torque ranges

For naturally aspirated 2.4L engines commonly found in 2010s sedans and small SUVs, expect roughly 160–190 horsepower and 160–180 lb-ft of torque, translating to 0–60 mph times around 8.5–10.5 seconds in midsize cars and 9–11 seconds in small crossovers. Modern turbocharged 2.4L engines—like Toyota’s 2.4T and Subaru’s 2.4T—typically deliver 228–275 horsepower and 258–317 lb-ft of torque, often cutting 0–60 mph to the low-7s to mid‑6s depending on vehicle and drivetrain. Hybridized versions (e.g., Toyota’s i‑Force Max with a 2.4T) can exceed 300 horsepower and add substantial low-end torque.

Drivability, towing, and altitude

Turbocharged 2.4s offer stronger low-end torque than older NA engines, improving highway merging, hill climbs, and towing in compact/midsize vehicles. At altitude, turbos retain more power than NA engines. For light to moderate towing in crossovers or midsize trucks, a modern 2.4T is typically sufficient, though cooling and transmission capacity still limit sustained heavy loads.

Fuel economy and operating costs

NA 2.4s are simple and can be economical in steady commuting. Turbos can match or beat NA figures in certification cycles, but real-world consumption often rises under load or spirited driving. Many newer 2.4s are direct-injected, which can introduce intake-valve carbon buildup over time; some brands mitigate this with dual injection. Synthetic oil and timely maintenance are essential, and some turbo variants may recommend premium fuel for best performance.

Reliability: it depends on the engine family

The reputation of a 2.4L four-cylinder varies by automaker and generation. Below are notable examples to help set expectations.

• Honda K24 (various Accords, CR‑Vs through mid‑2010s): Generally robust with proper maintenance; known for longevity. Watch for VTC actuator rattle on cold starts and routine timing-chain care.
• Toyota 2AZ‑FE (early/mid‑2000s Camry/RAV4/Scion): Broadly reliable but some years had oil-consumption concerns and, on certain early applications, cylinder head-bolt thread issues; many engines run well past 200,000 miles when maintained.
• Toyota 2.4T T24A‑FTS (2022–present Toyota/Lexus, e.g., Highlander, Tacoma, NX): Strong torque and efficiency; still early in the lifecycle for long-term data. Isolated owner reports of noises and component TSBs exist, but no systemic failures have been established at scale as of 2025.
• Subaru FA24 turbo (Ascent, Outback XT, WRX): Good midrange torque and improved reliability over earlier FA20 turbos. Direct injection can lead to carbon buildup over time; pairing with CVT requires attentive cooling if towing.
• Chrysler/Stellantis 2.4 “Tigershark” (Dart, 200, Compass, Renegade, Cherokee pre‑2023): Documented oil-consumption issues led to class actions, TSBs, and extended coverage; phased out in many models by 2023.
• Hyundai/Kia 2.4 Theta II GDI (many 2011–2019 models): Subject to major recalls and extended warranties for bearing wear and potential engine failure; verify recall completion and consider warranty status.
• GM 2.4 Ecotec (Malibu, Equinox/Terrain, others): Known for timing-chain and balance-shaft chain issues, oil consumption in some years, and PCV-related rear main seal failures in extreme cold; maintenance history is critical.
• Mitsubishi 2.4 (Outlander, Lancer 4B12): Generally serviceable and durable when maintained; reports of oil consumption and typical aging-seal leaks on higher mileage examples.

The takeaway: a 2.4 can be exceptionally durable or problematic depending on lineage and maintenance. Check specific engine codes, service records, and recall/TSB histories.

When a 2.4L four-cylinder is a good choice

Consider how you’ll use the vehicle. These scenarios highlight where a 2.4L engine shines.

• Daily commuting and family duty in compact/midsize cars and crossovers where balance and economy matter more than outright speed.
• Light towing or frequent hill driving with a modern 2.4 turbo, thanks to strong low-end torque.
• Higher-altitude regions, where turbos maintain performance better than NA engines.
• Long-term ownership of proven NA designs (e.g., Honda K24) with a strong reliability track record.

In these use cases, a 2.4L often offers a sweet spot between cost, performance, and efficiency, especially in vehicles appropriately sized for the engine.

When a 2.4L might not be ideal

There are also situations where a 2.4L may be a compromise.

• Heavy towing or hauling in larger SUVs/trucks where a V6, a torquier turbo system, or a hybrid powertrain is better suited.
• Performance-focused driving without a turbocharged or hybridized 2.4, where acceleration may feel modest.
• Known-problem engine families (e.g., certain Tigershark, Theta II GDI, or specific GM Ecotec years) unless issues are verified and covered.
• Vehicles that are significantly heavier than their class peers, which can strain an NA 2.4 and blunt efficiency.

If your needs include sustained towing, maximum performance, or you’re considering a 2.4 from a family with documented systemic issues, you may be better served by a different engine or a specific newer 2.4T/hybrid.

How to evaluate a specific vehicle with a 2.4L

Before deciding, a targeted checklist helps separate a “good” 2.4L setup from a mediocre one.

• Match the engine to the vehicle’s weight, gearing, and transmission; look for robust torque figures if you drive hilly routes or carry loads.
• Test drive at highway speeds and on grades; check response from 40–70 mph and how the transmission behaves.
• Review maintenance history (oil changes, timing-chain/belt service, coolant, spark plugs) and look for oil-consumption records.
• Search for recalls and TSBs by VIN; confirm completion, especially for engines with known campaigns.
• Inspect for leaks, unusual noises on cold start, and, on direct-injected engines, ask about carbon-cleaning history.
• Note fuel recommendations; some 2.4 turbos strongly prefer premium for rated performance.

Completing this checklist will give you a realistic picture of performance, costs, and risk before you buy.

Bottom line

A 2.4L four-cylinder can be an excellent choice—particularly in compact and midsize vehicles—if it’s from a dependable engine family and properly matched to the vehicle. Newer 2.4 turbos deliver strong torque and competitive efficiency, while older NA 2.4s are often simple and durable. As always, the specific engine’s track record and the vehicle’s use case determine whether it’s “good” for you.

Summary

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder is generally good: it offers balanced power and economy in the right vehicle, with modern turbo versions adding robust torque for towing and hills. Reliability ranges from excellent (e.g., Honda K24, many Toyotas) to mixed (e.g., certain GM Ecotec) to problematic (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Theta II GDI, Stellantis Tigershark). Evaluate the exact engine family, maintenance history, recalls, and how you plan to use the vehicle to decide if a given 2.4L is the right fit.

Is the i force 2.4 l 4 cyl turbo engine a good engine?

The i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo engine in the fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma is praised for its significant torque increase, low-end power delivery, smooth 8-speed transmission, and improved fuel efficiency compared to the previous V6. While early reviews highlight strong performance for daily driving and some low-end turbo lag, the long-term reliability is still an unknown, as with any new engine design. 
Key Aspects & Performance

• Torque Focus: The engine delivers impressive low-end torque, reaching peak power at a low 1,700 RPM, which is beneficial for city driving, trailer pulling, and off-road performance. 
• Power Output: The standard engine produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase from the prior generation. 
• Smooth Drivability: The integration with the Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive shifting, contributing to a refined driving experience. 
• Fuel Efficiency: The engine is designed for improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, with features like a long stroke, thin piston rings, variable displacement oil pump, and low-viscosity oil. 
• Performance Tuning: The tuning prioritizes low-end power, which makes the acceleration feel lively in everyday situations but can make full-throttle acceleration less immediate compared to winding out the previous V6. 

Reliability & Longevity 

• New Technology: While the engine uses a combination of direct and port injection (D4ST), similar to other Toyota applications, its long-term reliability compared to the older V6 is a primary concern for buyers.
• Engineering Focus: Toyota’s focus on fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a lightweight design may have led to trade-offs in terms of durability, but the engine is used in other Toyota and Lexus models, which suggests a focus on overall reliability.
• Maintenance: The direct injection system’s components, particularly the high-pressure fuel injectors, may complicate future maintenance, such as valve cover removal.

Driving Experience

• Quiet and Smooth: The engine is surprisingly quiet and smooth for a four-cylinder, offering a more refined experience than previous models. 
• Responsive Acceleration: Despite a slight potential for turbo lag, the engine offers quick throttle response and feels more agile and lively, especially in the mid-range and at lower speeds. 

How good is a 2.4 L 4-cylinder engine?

Reviews of 2.4L 4-cylinder engines are varied, with specific model and manufacturer reviews being crucial. For example, the Toyota 2.4L I-Force Turbo is praised for strong low-end torque, improved acceleration, and advanced features like dual injection, although concerns exist regarding the longevity of its polymer balance shaft gears and fuel economy in cold weather. The Subaru 2.4L engine is noted for excellent reliability but can experience oil starvation and oil leaks. In contrast, the GM 2.4L EcoTec is generally considered problematic, known for issues like excessive oil consumption, oil leaks from various seals, and timing chain problems, especially in high-mileage vehicles. 
Toyota 2.4L I-Force Turbo Engine (Example: 2024 Tacoma)

• Pros:
  • Strong Low-End Torque: The engine delivers peak torque at a low RPM, providing immediate power and responsive acceleration. 
  • Advanced Technology: Features include dual direct and port injection, a dual-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing for improved performance and efficiency. 
  • Improved Drivability: Offers better acceleration and a more responsive feel compared to previous V6 engines. 
• Cons:
  • Polymer Gear Concerns: The longevity of the polymer gears that drive the balance shaft and variable displacement oil pump is a potential long-term concern. 
  • Fuel Economy: Real-world fuel economy isn’t significantly better than older engines and can drop noticeably in cold weather. 

Subaru 2.4L Engine 

• Pros:
  • Exceptional Reliability: Known for outstanding reliability, even beyond 150,000 miles. 
• Cons:
  • Oil Starvation: Can occur if oil supply bolts aren’t checked, leading to clogging. 
  • Oil Leaks: Gasket oil leaks are a normal, albeit potentially costly, occurrence in higher-mileage engines. 

General 2.4L 4-Cylinder Engines 

• Pros:
  • Good for Smaller Vehicles: Sufficient engine size for small pickups, SUVs, and some cars, offering a good balance of power and economy. 
• Cons:
  • Variable Quality: Quality and reliability vary significantly by manufacturer and specific engine design. 
  • High RPM Use: In some applications, the engine may need to be revved higher to deliver peak power. 

How long does a 2.4 L 4-cylinder engine last?

With proper oil changes and maintenance, a 2.4L TigerShark engine should last between 130,000 and 200,000 miles. However, the oil consumption issues and piston ring failures can severely limit the lifespan of these engines before they need significant repair or fail completely.

What is the most reliable 4-cylinder engine?

There is no single “most reliable” 4-cylinder engine, but consistently highly-regarded engines include Honda’s K-Series (K20, K24), known for its bulletproof design and high longevity, and Toyota’s 22RE (2.4L) and Dynamic Force (2.0L, 2.5L) engines, noted for their durability and straightforward design. The older Volvo B230 (“Red Block”) is another legendary option for its exceptional dependability, while the Honda K20C1 stands out as a highly reliable turbocharged 4-cylinder.
 
Highly Reliable 4-Cylinder Engines 

• Honda K-Series (K20, K24): Opens in new tabThese naturally aspirated engines are celebrated for their lightweight aluminum construction, integrated bed plate for rigidity, and timing chain for durability. 
• Toyota 22RE: Opens in new tabA 2.4-liter engine with a cast-iron block and aluminum heads, featuring a durable timing chain for excellent reliability and smooth operation. 
• Toyota Dynamic Force (2.0L, 2.5L): Opens in new tabModern, naturally aspirated engines found in models like the Corolla and RAV4, these are known for their reliability and minimal issues with proper maintenance. 
• Volvo B230 “Red Block”: Opens in new tabA robust and timeless engine from the 1980s and 90s, designed for exceptional long-term durability with basic maintenance. 
• Honda K20C1: Opens in new tabA turbocharged version of the K-Series, this engine combines high-performance thrills with the same dependable reliability Honda is known for. 

Key Factors for Reliability

• Timing Chain vs. Belt: Engines with timing chains are generally more reliable because the chain is designed to last the life of the engine, unlike rubber timing belts that require periodic replacement. 
• Robust Construction: A solid, well-engineered engine block, whether cast-iron or advanced aluminum alloys, contributes significantly to a long lifespan. 
• Proven Design: Engines with a long history of use, like the Honda K-Series and Toyota 22RE, have had time to work out any potential issues and are well-sorted.