What's Killing Your Toyota G16E GTS Engine? GR Yaris & GR Corolla

Summary

The video script discusses the issues with the G16E-GTS engine in Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla, which often leads to engine failures. It explains the problem of incorrect piston ring tolerancing causing 'mega blow-by' and potential engine fires. The narrator advises using the correct oil viscosity and changing it frequently, and suggests engine forging as a preventive measure. The script also mentions Toyota's warranty claims and the potential for new technologies to address the issue.

Takeaways

• 🔧 The Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla have had issues with their G16E-GTS engines blowing up under various conditions.
• 🏎️ The three-cylinder engine design allows for better scavenging and higher power output at higher revs while maintaining stability at low RPM.
• ⚙️ The issue stems from incorrect tolerancing in the piston rings of the Gen.1 GR Yaris engines, leading to excessive spacing.
• 💥 The excessive piston ring spacing can cause oil to be forced into the combustion chamber, leading to mega detonation and engine failure.
• 🔍 The engine failure is not due to normal knocking or component failure but is a specific issue with the piston ring design.
• 🔥 Mega detonation can cause severe engine damage, including piston destruction and conrod ejection, which can lead to engine fires.
• ⚠️ The problem affects both stock and tuned engines, and there is no specific repeatable condition that causes the failure.
• 👨‍🔧 To prevent engine failure, it's recommended to have the engine forged with new, correctly toleranced pistons and conrods.
• 🏁 It's crucial to use the correct oil viscosity (5W30 API SP) and to change the oil frequently to prevent blow-by.
• 📈 There are ongoing developments, such as HKS's new long-block engine and combustion technology, to address the issue.

Q & A

What is the main issue with the G16E-GTS engine in the Toyota GR Yaris?

The main issue is the incorrect tolerancing of the piston rings, leading to excessive spacing and causing mega blow-by, which can result in engine damage or failure.

Why did Toyota choose a three-cylinder engine for the GR Yaris?

Toyota chose a three-cylinder engine for better scavenging and the ability to make more power higher up in the revs while retaining stability at low end.

What is meant by 'mega blow-by' in the context of the GR Yaris engine?

'Mega blow-by' refers to excessive amounts of oil and combustion gases bypassing the piston rings and entering the crankcase, leading to abnormal pressure and potential engine damage.

How does the piston ring issue lead to engine fires in the GR Yaris?

The piston ring issue can cause mega detonation, which destroys the piston and rod, potentially pushing the rod through the engine block and causing oil to leak out and ignite, leading to fires.

What is the recommended oil viscosity for the GR Yaris engine?

The recommended oil viscosity for the GR Yaris engine is 5W30 API SP.

What is the significance of the piston crown being very black on the GR Yaris engine?

The blackening of the piston crown is due to carbon build-up from the piston rings, indicating excessive blow-by and potential ring issues.

What is the suggested preventative measure for engine failure in the GR Yaris?

The suggested preventative measure is to have the engine forged with new, correctly toleranced pistons and rings.

What is the role of the oil squirters in the engine failure of the GR Yaris?

The oil squirters can contribute to the issue by spraying oil upwards, which can pass through the incorrectly spaced piston rings and cause combustion issues.

What is the condition that puts the most strain on the GR Yaris engine?

The condition that puts the most strain on the engine is spooling the turbo in fifth or sixth gear from low RPM outside of the compressor map’s optimal points.

What is the current solution offered by aftermarket companies like HKS for the GR Yaris engine issue?

HKS is developing a new long engine with improved combustion technology, similar to strategies used by Ferrari, to address the engine issues.

What is the advice for drivers of the GR Yaris to prevent engine issues?

Drivers should ensure proper heating and cooling of the engine, use the correct oil viscosity, and consider engine modifications such as forging for added safety.