Aims: To evaluate the centering ability, canal transportation and surface modifications of F2 and F3 ProTaper Universal (PT) instruments used in continuous rotation (CR) and reciprocating motion (RM) for the preparation of curved root canals. Material and methods: sixty mesiobuccal root canals of upper molars with curvatures between 25º and 35° were divided into three groups: I - PT in CR up to F3; II - PT in RM up to F3; III - F2 and F3 PT instruments in RM. Cone Beam Computed Tomography images were obtained before and after instrumentation. The scans were superimposed to determine the centering ability and canal transportation in apical, medium and cervical thirds. The apical 6 mm of the F2 and F3 files were evaluated under Scanning Electron Microscope before and after 1, 3 and 6 uses to assess distortion, surface wear and fracture. The statistical analysis of centering ability and canal transportation were performed by Kruskal–Wallis and ANOVA, respectively. The scores for deformation and surface wear were compared using ANOVA. Fisher’s exact test was used for the evaluation of instrument fracture. Results: there were no significant differences between groups regarding centering ability and canal transportation, as well as, for distortion, surface wear and fracture (p>.05). Conclusion: F2 and F3 instruments can be used for curved canals instrumentation. However, when used for entire canal preparation, F2 and F3 should be discarded after single use.