The Honda A20A3 is a 1,956 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1989. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 12 valves and Honda's PGM-FI electronic fuel injection system. This design prioritized smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency for its era, producing 86 kW (117 PS) and 162 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the third-generation Honda Accord (CA chassis) and Vigor models, the A20A3 was engineered for refined, reliable transportation with an emphasis on low-RPM torque for everyday drivability. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through precise fuel metering and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting the applicable standards for Japanese and North American markets at the time.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the balance shaft bearings, which can lead to increased engine vibration and noise. This issue, addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 91-068, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. Honda later revised the bearing material in subsequent A-series engines.
Honda
Production years 1986–1989 meet the emissions standards applicable to their respective markets (e.g., US EPA Tier 0, Japanese 1983 regulations).
The Honda A20A3 is a 1,956 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans (1986-1989). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and dependable fuel economy. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes reliability and refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.0 mm | |
| Power output | 86 kW (117 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 162 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 0 / Japanese 1983 Regulations | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF/CC or equivalent) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The SOHC 12-valve design offers smooth, linear power ideal for daily commuting but requires adherence to 7,500 km oil change intervals to prevent balance shaft bearing wear. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical due to its viscosity protecting the plain bearings in the balance shaft assembly. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup on the intake valves. The PGM-FI system demands clean electrical grounds and a healthy battery for optimal performance. Vehicles exhibiting a low-frequency vibration should have the balance shaft bearings inspected per Honda SIB 91-068.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SF/CC specification (Honda Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents like API SN are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Certification applies to 1986-1989 models for their respective markets (US EPA, Japanese MoT).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is consistent across all markets for this engine code.
Honda Service Manual: A20A3 Engine (Pub. No. 91000-SH3-003)
Honda Owner's Manual: 1987 Accord
Honda Service Information Bulletin: 91-068
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database
The Honda A20A3 was used across Honda's CA platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different exhaust manifolds for sedan vs. coupe variants-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (Honda Service Manual). The 8th VIN digit for US-market Accords is 'E' for the A20A3 engine. Visually, it can be identified by its single camshaft cover and the PGM-FI fuel rail running along the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the A20A1/A2: The A20A3 uses electronic fuel injection (PGM-FI), while A20A1/A2 are carbureted. Service parts for the fuel injection system are specific to the A20A3 and not interchangeable with carbureted variants.
The A20A3's primary reliability risk is balance shaft bearing wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes. Honda SIB 91-068 documents this issue, while owner reports frequently cite it as a source of drivetrain vibration. Extended oil drain intervals make using the correct oil viscosity critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1986-1995) and aggregated owner repair data (1990-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA A20A3.
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