The Honda D16Z2 is a 1,590 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1995. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve design without VTEC, prioritizing smooth, linear power delivery. Peak output is 88 kW (120 PS) and 140 Nm of torque, making it suitable for compact applications.
Fitted primarily to the fifth-generation Honda Civic (EG/ EH chassis), including the 1.6i and 1.6i-VX trims, the D16Z2 was engineered for refined, economical driving. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter systems, aligning with Euro 1 standards.
One documented service concern is wear in the distributor's internal components, potentially causing ignition misfires or failure to start. This is addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 94-032, which details inspection and replacement procedures for the affected distributor assembly.
Honda
Production years 1992–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Honda D16Z2 is a 1,590 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1992-1995). It combines SOHC with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances everyday drivability with efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,590 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SH/CD, SAE 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The non-VTEC design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for daily commuting but lacks the mid-range surge of its VTEC siblings. The timing belt requires replacement every 90,000 km to prevent failure. Using the specified 10W-40 oil and adhering to 10,000 km service intervals is critical. The distributor-based ignition system is susceptible to wear; replacing the cap, rotor, and eventually the entire distributor assembly per Honda SB 94-032 is key for long-term reliability. The engine's non-interference design offers a safety margin if the timing belt fails.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/CD specification, SAE 10W-40 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 1993 Civic).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1992-1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-004).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-004, H-FI-013, SB 94-032
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda D16Z2 was used across Honda's EG/EH Civic platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lightweight mounts for the hatchback and revised exhaust manifolds for the sedan. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, just below the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS H-ENG-ID). The 8th digit of the VIN for D16Z2-equipped Civics is typically 'D'. Visually, the engine features a distributor with a cap and rotor on the cylinder head's rear and a single camshaft cover without 'VTEC' markings. Critical differentiation from the VTEC D16Z6: The D16Z2 lacks the VTEC solenoid on the head and has a simpler ECU (e.g., 'P06'). Service parts like the cylinder head and ECU are not interchangeable with VTEC variants.
The D16Z2's primary reliability consideration is its distributor-based ignition system, with potential issues arising from age and wear. While generally robust, UK DVSA data notes timing belt failure as a critical risk if neglected. Maintaining the ignition system and adhering to the timing belt replacement schedule is critical for long-term performance.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1992-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA D16Z2.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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