Is a 2.4‑liter 4‑cylinder engine good?

Yes—when well-designed and maintained, a 2.4‑liter four-cylinder is a solid, efficient, and affordable choice for everyday driving. That said, “good” depends on the specific engine family, model year, and how it’s been cared for. Below is what to know in 2025 about performance, reliability, and which 2.4‑liter engines have the best (and worst) reputations.

What “good” means for a 2.4‑liter four-cylinder

For most buyers, “good” comes down to a blend of reliability, fuel economy, performance, emissions, and total cost of ownership. A 2.4‑liter four has historically powered midsize sedans and crossovers with adequate torque for daily use, manageable running costs, and simpler packaging than larger multi-cylinder engines. Today, the same displacement exists in two broad flavors: older naturally aspirated (non‑turbo) units common from the early 2000s to late 2010s, and newer turbocharged 2.4s that replace V6s in larger vehicles.

How 2.4‑liter engines stack up in 2025

Automakers have shifted lineups toward smaller turbo engines, hybrids, and slightly larger 2.5‑liter non‑turbo fours. New non‑turbo 2.4s are rare in passenger cars, but 2.4‑liter turbos are increasingly common in SUVs and trucks. Typical non‑turbo 2.4s deliver roughly 160–190 hp and 160–180 lb‑ft of torque with real‑world fuel economy in the mid‑20s mpg combined, while modern 2.4‑liter turbos produce 255–310+ hp and 270–350 lb‑ft, often matching or outperforming older V6s with similar or better efficiency when driven moderately.

Strengths of a 2.4‑liter four

The following list highlights common advantages buyers and owners report with well-executed 2.4‑liter engines, especially in mainstream daily driving.

• Balanced performance: Adequate torque for city and highway use; turbo versions comfortably handle larger SUVs and towing.
• Efficiency and emissions: Typically more fuel‑efficient than larger V6s; many meet stringent emissions standards without costly aftertreatment.
• Lower ownership costs: Fewer cylinders mean fewer parts, often easier access for maintenance, and lower insurance/registration in some markets.
• Proven platforms: Long production runs (e.g., Honda K‑series, Toyota 2AZ in its later years) mean mature aftermarket support and known service procedures.
• Modern adaptability: Turbo 2.4s can deliver V6‑like torque at low rpm, improving drivability with multi‑gear automatics or CVTs.

When matched to an appropriate vehicle and driven within its design envelope, a 2.4‑liter four can offer a sweet spot of usability, efficiency, and cost.

Trade‑offs and caveats

It’s equally important to consider the potential drawbacks—some of which are engine‑family‑specific—before deciding.

• Variability by engine family: Reliability can differ dramatically among brands and model years; some 2.4s have known oil‑consumption or bearing issues.
• GDI maintenance: Many later 2.4s use gasoline direct injection, which can lead to intake valve deposits without periodic cleaning or dual‑injection strategies.
• NVH: Older designs may transmit more vibration/noise than refined 2.5‑liter successors or six‑cylinders.
• Tow/haul limits (NA versions): Naturally aspirated 2.4s in heavier crossovers can feel strained when fully loaded or at altitude; turbos fare better.
• Fuel requirements (turbos): Some 2.4‑liter turbos recommend or require premium fuel for peak performance and efficiency.

These factors don’t disqualify a 2.4‑liter engine, but they underscore why it’s crucial to evaluate the specific engine code and usage profile.

Notable 2.4‑liter engine families: reputations to know

While displacement alone doesn’t guarantee outcomes, owners and technicians have formed clear views on certain 2.4‑liter families. The list below summarizes widely reported patterns; always verify for the exact model year, engine code, and service history.

• Stronger reputation
  – Honda K24 (approx. 2002–2015, various Accords/CR‑Vs): Durable with regular service; timing chain; popular in performance circles.
  – Subaru FA24F turbo (2019–present: Ascent, Outback/Forester/WRX variants): Strong low‑rpm torque; good match for larger Subarus; still comparatively new but generally positive so far.
• Mixed/conditional
  – Toyota 2AZ‑FE (early‑2000s to early‑2010s: Camry/RAV4): Broadly reliable later in life; earlier years saw head‑bolt thread and oil‑consumption concerns—many addressed by TSBs/repairs.
  – Subaru FB25 (2011–present, NA): Early units were involved in oil‑consumption complaints; later revisions improved outcomes.
  – GM 2.4 Ecotec (various Chevy/GMC/Buick through mid‑2010s): Noted for timing‑chain and oil‑consumption issues in certain years; condition varies with maintenance.
• Problem‑prone reports
  – Hyundai/Kia Theta II 2.4 GDI (late‑2000s–2010s): Subject to multiple recalls/extended warranties for bearing wear and related failures; check VIN for recall status and proof of corrective work.
  – FCA/Stellantis Tigershark 2.4 MultiAir II (approx. 2013–2020: Dodge/Jeep/Chrysler): Widespread oil‑consumption complaints and emission‑system implications; verify service history and consumption tests.
• Newer 2.4‑liter turbos beyond Subaru
  – Toyota/Lexus 2.4‑liter turbo (T24A‑FTS, 2023‑present in models like Highlander, NX350, Tacoma variants): Designed to replace V6s with strong torque and better efficiency; long‑term reliability data is still accumulating—monitor TSBs and maintenance guidance.

These snapshots reflect commonly reported experiences. The best predictor of your outcome is the particular engine’s maintenance record, software updates, and any factory repairs or recalls completed.

What to check before buying a 2.4‑liter vehicle (new or used)

Due diligence can make the difference between a great ownership experience and a costly one. Use this checklist to evaluate a specific vehicle and engine.

1. Identify the exact engine code and generation; research known issues for those years.
2. Review maintenance history: oil change intervals, PCV service, coolant, spark plugs, and any GDI intake cleaning.
3. Check for open recalls and completed TSBs; confirm documentation for any warranty or recall engine work.
4. Assess oil consumption: ask for records; perform a pre‑purchase inspection and compression/leak‑down if concerns arise.
5. Scan for diagnostic codes and inspect for vacuum, boost (if turbo), or cooling system leaks.
6. Evaluate transmission pairing (CVT vs. automatic) and driving feel on a thorough test drive, including highway merges and hills.
7. Confirm fuel requirements (regular vs. premium) and factor into running costs.

Completing these steps reduces surprises and helps you separate a solid 2.4‑liter example from one that may require immediate investment.

Who is a 2.4‑liter four good for?

If you want a dependable daily driver with reasonable performance and budget‑friendly ownership, a well‑vetted 2.4‑liter can be an excellent fit. Naturally aspirated versions suit compact/midsize sedans and lighter crossovers focused on value and simplicity. Turbo 2.4s suit larger crossovers and trucks where extra torque, towing capacity, and highway confidence matter.

Bottom line

A 2.4‑liter four‑cylinder can absolutely be “good”—even great—provided you choose the right engine family and keep up with maintenance. Focus on model‑specific reliability data, verify service history, and match the engine type (NA vs. turbo) to your needs. In today’s market, well‑kept Honda K24s and newer Subaru/Toyota 2.4‑liter turbos stand out, while certain Hyundai/Kia Theta II and FCA/Stellantis Tigershark 2.4s warrant extra scrutiny.

Summary

In 2025, a 2.4‑liter four is a smart, efficient choice when sourced from a reputable engine family and maintained correctly. Non‑turbo versions offer simplicity and low costs; turbo versions bring V6‑like torque with competitive fuel economy. Research the exact engine code, check records and recalls, and test thoroughly—the specifics matter far more than the displacement badge.

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. 

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 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.