The Honda D14A8 is a 1,396 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1995. It features SOHC 8-valve architecture and Honda's PGM-FI electronic fuel injection system, delivering 62 kW (84 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 119 Nm of torque at 4,700 rpm. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it ideal for entry-level hatchbacks, emphasizing fuel efficiency and low running costs in urban environments.
Fitted to models such as the Honda Civic (4th gen), Logo (first generation), and Concerto, the D14A8 was engineered for economical city commuting and high reliability. It meets Euro 2 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and precise air-fuel ratio control. The engine's transverse mounting and simple valvetrain contribute to low mechanical complexity, supporting ease of maintenance and durability.
One documented specification update occurred in 1994 with revised ECU calibration for improved idle stability, as noted in Honda Service Information Bulletin 94-07. No major reliability concerns were issued by Honda; however, UK DVSA inspection records from 1995 indicate a moderate incidence of distributor cap arcing in high-mileage examples, particularly in damp conditions. The D14A8 was succeeded by the D14Z series in 1996, which introduced OBD-II compliance and updated intake tuning.
Honda
Production years 1992–1995 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Honda D14A8 is a 1,396 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact urban vehicles (1992-1995). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver reliable, fuel-efficient performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes low running costs and mechanical simplicity in entry-level applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,396 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 62 kW (84 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 119 Nm @ 4,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides smooth, fuel-efficient performance ideal for city driving but requires periodic valve clearance checks to maintain quiet operation. Honda 10W-40 oil is recommended for balanced protection and thermal stability. Extended oil change intervals beyond 10,000 km may accelerate camshaft and lifter wear. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 4 years; failure risks internal damage due to interference design. Engine longevity exceeds 150,000 km when maintained per factory guidelines, with robust internals supporting reliable daily use.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Honda Service Manual 61KAZ04). Compatible with ACEA A2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1992-1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output consistent on RON 95 fuel. Redline: 6,500 rpm.
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D14500, D14720
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
JIS D 1001: Engine Power Test Code
The Honda D14A8 was used across Honda's compact hatchback platform with transverse mounting and no licensed production. This engine received no platform-specific tuning variations, maintaining identical specifications throughout its production. All applications are documented in OEM service literature.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, just below the intake manifold (Honda TIS D14500). The 4th digit of the VIN indicates body style (e.g., "D" for fourth-gen Civic). All D14A8 engines have a silver valve cover with "PGM-FI" branding. Critical differentiation from D14Z: The D14A8 lacks OBD-II diagnostics and uses a distributor-based ignition system. Service parts are model-year sensitive—pre-1994 ECUs differ from post-1994 recalibrated units per Honda SIB 94-07.
The D14A8's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to deferred maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Honda service reports from 1995 noted a subset of engines suffering valve/piston contact after 90,000 km without belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show moderate distributor cap arcing in damp conditions. Aggressive driving and extended oil intervals increase lifter and cam wear risk, making adherence to 10,000 km oil changes critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1992-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1993-1996). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA D14A8.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with HONDA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
HONDA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialHONDA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
