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SH-VPTSSH-VPTR

2.2 Skyactiv-D 150/175 (SH-VPTS, 2012-2017) engine: faults and reliability

Mazda Skyactiv-D 1.5/1.8/2.2 (S5-DPTS, S8-DPTS, SH-VPTS) version

With caution

The first CX-5s (built up to January 2013) had higher oil dilution than expected, which Mazda corrected with a free dipstick and software campaign; German-language Wikipedia also documents insufficiently hardened camshafts on 2013-2014 models that damaged turbos. A reasonable buy if you verify that the 2013 campaign was carried out and check the oil change history.[1][2][3]

Years
2012–2017
Power
150–175 hp
Faults that affect it
4
3 of high or critical severity
Cars that use it
3
in our database

8 sourcesHow we work

What changes in this version

This is the first generation of the Skyactiv-D 2.2, with a two-stage sequential turbo (a small turbo and a large one working according to engine speed) and a very low compression ratio for a diesel (around 14:1), designed to reduce emissions without depending on urea from the start. In 2013 Mazda launched a campaign to replace the oil dipstick and update the injection software on CX-5 units built between January 2012 and January 2013.[1][4][5]

Engine codes of this version: SH-VPTS, SH-VPTR.

Faults of the SH-VPTS engine

The documented engine faults that affect this version and its years, from most to least important.

  1. 1High severityFrequency: CommonLubricationOil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerationsOn the Skyactiv-D (1.5, 1.8 and 2.2), particulate filter regenerations can let diesel into the sump and raise the oil level. Mazda accepts some dilution as normal, but on short urban journeys the expected margin can be exceeded and harm the lubrication of the turbo and the camshaft.
  2. 2High severityFrequency: CommonTurboTurbo wear or failure from lack of lubricationThe two-stage sequential turbo of the 2.2 Skyactiv-D appears as one of the most cited faults by CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 owners, especially when the oil has lost lubricating ability through dilution or when the camshaft on 2013-2014 units sheds metal particles.
  3. 3Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalTimingOil pump chain breakage and camshaft wearIn the worst cases, lack of lubrication on the 2.2 Skyactiv-D (from diluted or degraded oil) can end up breaking the oil pump chain or damaging the camshaft, cutting off oil pressure and potentially destroying the engine; fiches-auto.fr documents this breakage on the CX-5, the Mazda6 and the Mazda3.
  4. 4Medium severityFrequency: CommonIntakeCarbon build-up in the intake, EGR and injectorsUrban use and short journeys encourage carbon build-up in the intake manifold, EGR valve and injectors of the Skyactiv-D, with loss of power and uneven running; it is documented on the CX-5, the Mazda6, the Mazda3, the CX-3 and the CX-30.

Cars fitted with the SH-VPTS engine

Open each car to see all its faults with this engine and what to check before buying it.

Mazda

Frequently asked questions

Is the SH-VPTS engine reliable?

Our verdict is “With caution”. The first CX-5s (built up to January 2013) had higher oil dilution than expected, which Mazda corrected with a free dipstick and software campaign; German-language Wikipedia also documents insufficiently hardened camshafts on 2013-2014 models that damaged turbos. A reasonable buy if you verify that the 2013 campaign was carried out and check the oil change history.[1][2][3]

What faults does the SH-VPTS engine have?

The documented ones that affect this version, by importance: oil dilution with diesel during DPF regenerations (high severity), turbo wear or failure from lack of lubrication (high severity), oil pump chain breakage and camshaft wear (critical severity) and carbon build-up in the intake, EGR and injectors (medium severity).

Which cars use the SH-VPTS engine?

Mazda 6 III (2012–2023), Mazda CX-5 I (2012–2017) and Mazda 3 III (2013–2019).[1][2][3][5][6][7][8]

Are you buying a car with the SH-VPTS engine?

We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.

Do you have a car with this engine? Tell us which faults you have had and at how many kilometres. Report your fault.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. Aviso a todos los propietarios de Mazda CX-5 Dieselkm77 · Motoring press · published 22 May 2013 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
  2. Mazda6Wikipedia (alemán) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  3. Fiabilité Mazda CX-5 (2012-2017)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  4. SkyActivWikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
  5. Mazda CX-5Wikipedia (alemán) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  6. Fiabilité Mazda 6 (2012-2022)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  7. Mazda3Wikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
  8. Fiabilité Mazda 3 (2013-2019)Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French