Toyota 2GR-FE Engine Guide: Specs, Fitment & Problems

The Toyota GR Engine Family: 1GR, 2GR, 3GR, 4GR and 5GR

The Toyota GR family is a line of V6 engines used across Toyota and Lexus cars, crossovers and trucks since the early 2000s. The “GR” refers to the engine series, not a performance trim. Here is a quick overview of the family:

The 2GR-FE ran in more models and more markets than any other GR engine. That is why used units are this available today.  

2GR-FE Specs at a Glance

One thing worth noting: the 2GR-FE uses port injection, not direct injection. That keeps intake valves cleaner over time and is part of why high-mileage units tend to stay healthy internally.

Which Cars Use the 2GR-FE: Camry, Avalon, RAV4, Highlander, Sienna, Venza, Lexus ES and RX

This engine shows up across a wide range of vehicles. Here is the full fitment list for the US market:

Toyota:

• Camry V6, 2006 to 2017

• Avalon, 2005 to 2018

• RAV4 V6, 2006 to 2012

• Highlander V6, 2007 to 2019

• Sienna, 2007 to 2020

• Venza, 2009 to 2015

Lexus:

• ES 350, 2007 to 2018

• RX 350, 2006 to 2019

If you drive a Camry or Sienna V6, you almost certainly have a 2GR-FE. Our 2AZ-FE Engine Guide breaks down the V6 vs four-cylinder Camry comparison.

Browse Toyota Camry engines, Toyota Highlander engines, Toyota Sienna engines and Lexus engines in stock.

FWD vs AWD, and Oil Cooler vs No Oil Cooler: Why One Engine Code Is Not One Part

This is the section most guides skip, and it matters a lot when you are buying a used unit.

The 2GR-FE is not one universal part. There are hardware differences based on the donor vehicle:

• FWD units (Camry, Avalon, Sienna FWD) have a different oil sump and accessory layout than AWD units.

• AWD units (Highlander AWD, RX 350 AWD) may include an oil cooler built into the block circuit.

• Oil cooler variants have a different block fitting and cannot swap cleanly with non-cooler versions.

When shopping for a used 2GR-FE, you need to match the drive type and oil cooler spec to your vehicle. A FWD Camry engine will not drop straight into an AWD Highlander. 

Send your VIN before buying and the JDM Seattle team will confirm the right unit.

2GR-FE vs 2GR-FSE vs 2GR-FKS: What Is Different

The 2GR family has three main versions. They share the same core architecture but differ in fuel delivery and output:

The 2GR-FKS replaced the 2GR-FE in newer models. If you are replacing a 2GR-FE in a 2006 to 2017 Camry or a 2007 to 2020 Sienna, you want a matching 2GR-FE. The injection systems are not interchangeable without significant modifications.

Is the Toyota 3.5 V6 Reliable? Common 2GR-FE Problems

The 2GR-FE reliability record is strong. It ran for 17 years across high-volume vehicles with no major safety recalls tied to engine failure. Most owners report trouble-free operation well past 150,000 miles.

A few issues do come up on higher-mileage units.

VVT-i oil line leaks: Early 2GR-FE engines from 2005 to 2008 have a known issue with the VVT-i solenoid oil feed line. The plastic line can crack and cause oil to weep near the cam cover on the driver’s side.

Water pump leaks: The 2GR-FE is a timing chain engine and the water pump sits inside the timing cover. At high mileage, the pump seal can fail internally. Watch for coolant level drops and residue on the block face.

Timing cover oil leaks: The front cover gasket can begin to seep oil on units above 120,000 miles. Common enough to check on older units.

Cold start rattle: Some owners report a brief rattle from the VVT-i actuator on the intake camshaft. It clears once oil pressure builds. Paired with low oil level, it could signal wear.

2GR-FE vs 1GR-FE: What Is the Difference?

The 1GR-FE is Toyota’s 4.0L V6 for the Tacoma, 4Runner and FJ Cruiser. The 2GR-FE is the 3.5L version for cars and crossovers. A quick comparison:

They are not swappable. 

Other GR Engines You Will See: 3GR-FSE and 4GR-FSE

Two smaller GR engines show up in JDM Lexus models:

3GR-FSE (3.0L): Found in the JDM Lexus IS300 and GS300. Uses Toyota’s D-4S dual injection and makes around 256 hp. Does not replace the 2GR-FE.

4GR-FSE (2.5L): Found in the Lexus IS250. Smaller displacement, not a common swap engine.

Neither swaps into a Camry or Sienna. Different mounts, sizes and ECU requirements. Browse the Lexus engines collection for what fits your model.

What to Check Before Buying a Used JDM 2GR-FE

Here is your buying checklist:

• Compression test results: 175 to 195 psi per cylinder with balanced readings

• Drive type confirmed: FWD or AWD matched to your vehicle

• Oil cooler spec confirmed: cooler or no cooler before ordering

• Signs of VVT-i line leakage on early engines (oil near the driver’s side cam cover)

• Coolant residue on the timing cover face as a water pump indicator

• Mileage documentation from the Japanese exporter

If you are deciding between a JDM unit and a rebuilt engine, our JDM Engine vs Rebuilt Engine guide walks through the tradeoffs in detail.

Not sure it fits? Send us your VIN and we will confirm fitment before you buy. Call 253-536-6855.

Shop 2GR-FE and Other Toyota V6 Engines

JDM Seattle stocks compression-tested 2GR-FE units imported from Japan. Every engine comes with a compression test report. We ship nationwide by freight. We sell and ship engines but do not offer installation services.

FAQ

Which cars have a 2GR-FE engine?

The Toyota Camry V6 (2006 to 2017), Avalon, RAV4 V6, Highlander V6, Sienna, Venza, Lexus ES 350 and Lexus RX 350 all use the 2GR-FE.

How much horsepower does a 2GR-FE have?

Between 268 and 296 hp depending on the vehicle and model year.

Is the Toyota 3.5L V6 reliable?

Yes. The 2GR-FE is one of the most reliable V6 engines Toyota has ever built. Most units run well past 150,000 miles with standard maintenance.

How long does a 2GR-FE last?

Many 2GR-FE engines reach 200,000 miles or more with consistent oil changes and regular care.

Can a 2GR-FKS replace a 2GR-FE?

Not without significant modifications. The FKS uses direct injection hardware and has a revised valvetrain. It is not a direct swap.

Does a JDM 2GR-FE fit a US Camry or Sienna?

Yes in most cases. Confirm the drive type and oil cooler specification with your VIN before ordering to make sure you get the right variant.