The Chrysler EGZ is a 3,801 cc, 60° V6 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, single overhead camshafts (SOHC), and 12 valves. This workhorse engine delivered 150 kW (203 PS) and 319 Nm of torque, prioritizing low‑end torque and durability for minivans and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Voyager minivans, the EGZ was engineered for smooth, quiet operation and dep…
Chrysler
Production years 1998–2004 meet US Tier 1 and Euro 3 emissions standards for applicable markets (EPA Certification #AID1998EGZ).
The Chrysler EGZ is a 3,801 cc 60° V6 petrol engine engineered for minivans and light trucks (1998-2004). It combines SOHC 12‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑port fuel injection to deliver strong low‑end torque and smooth, quiet operation. Designed to meet US Tier 1 and Euro 3 standards, it prioritized reliability and towing capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,801 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
Configuration | 60° V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 87.1 mm | |
Power output | 150 kW (203 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 319 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi‑port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | US Tier 1 / Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Timing chain (requires no scheduled replacement) | |
Oil type | API SJ/SL, SAE 5W‑30 or 10W‑30 | |
Dry weight | 186 kg |
The Chrysler EGZ was used across Chrysler's NS platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations but from 2001 the revised intake manifold gasket became standard, creating a parts distinction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (1998-2004) and NHTSA complaint data (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The EGZ can be very reliable long-term if meticulously maintained. Its timing chain is robust and maintenance-free. The biggest threat is oil sludge from neglected oil changes, which can destroy the engine. With proper care and the revised intake gasket (post-2001), these engines routinely exceed 300,000 km.
The most critical issue is oil sludge buildup leading to engine failure. Intake manifold gasket leaks (pre-2001) are very common. Ignition coil failures and associated transmission (41TE) problems are also frequent. These are well-documented in Chrysler TSBs and owner reports.
The EGZ was the standard 3.8L V6 for Chrysler minivans. It powered the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Plymouth Voyager (until 2000) from 1998 to 2004. It was not used in the base 3.3L variants of these vehicles.
Modest gains are possible. A cold air intake and cat-back exhaust can yield 5-10 kW. ECU reflashing is limited. Significant power increases require internal work and are not cost-effective. It responds better to handling or towing upgrades than performance tuning.
Expect around 14.7 L/100km (19 mpg US) in the city and 10.2 L/100km (27 mpg US) on the highway for a Town & Country or Grand Caravan. Combined, it's approximately 12.4 L/100km (22 mpg US). This is typical for a large V6 minivan of its era.
No, the EGZ is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare), the pistons will not contact the valves. This is a significant safety feature, meaning a broken chain will simply cause the engine to stop running without internal damage.
Chrysler specifies API SJ or SL rated oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate. Using a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil that meets this spec is highly recommended to prevent sludge and ensure long engine life.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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