The Honda D17A2 is a 1,668 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2005. It features a SOHC 16‑valve design with Honda's i-VTEC (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system, optimizing valve timing for both low-end torque and high-RPM efficiency. Output is rated at 90 kW (122 PS) and 155 Nm, making it suitable for compact applications.
Fitted primarily to the seventh-generation Honda Civic (ES/EM) for the European and Japanese markets, the D17A2 was engineered for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented service concern is wear in the i-VTEC oil control solenoid, which can cause delayed or failed VTEC engagement. This issue, referenced in Honda Service Bulletin 03-045, is often linked to oil sludge buildup from infrequent changes. Regular oil changes with the specified viscosity are critical for preventative maintenance.
Honda
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards as per EU Directive 98/69/EC (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/HON/7890).
The Honda D17A2 is a 1,668 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2001-2005). It combines SOHC i-VTEC technology with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances spirited performance with daily reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,668 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 94.4 mm | |
| Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The i-VTEC system provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for city driving, but requires clean, high-quality 5W-30 oil to ensure reliable solenoid operation. The PGM-FI system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; using substandard petrol can lead to injector clogging. The timing chain is generally maintenance-free. However, the i-VTEC oil control solenoid (per Honda SIB 03-045) is susceptible to sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected, leading to VTEC engagement issues. Regular valve clearance checks every 40,000 km are recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL 5W-30 specification oil (Honda Service Manual). This viscosity is mandatory for proper i-VTEC solenoid function.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2001–2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/HON/7890). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output is consistent across all model applications (Honda Group PT-2003).
Honda Technical Service Bulletin: 03-045
Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. H-1668-D17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/HON/7890)
The Honda D17A2 was used across Honda's ES/EM platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised engine mounts for the Civic and a different intake manifold for JDM variants-creating minor service part differences. 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 Service Manual 01-05 Civic). The 8th digit of the VIN for European Civic ES/EM models is typically 'D' for this engine family. Visually, the D17A2 can be identified by its black plastic valve cover with "i-VTEC" embossed on it and a single camshaft. Critical differentiation from the non-i-VTEC D17A1: The D17A2 has an i-VTEC oil control solenoid mounted on the rear of the cylinder head. Service parts like the cylinder head and ECU are specific to the D17A2 and not interchangeable with other D17 variants.
The D17A2's primary reliability risk is failure of the i-VTEC oil control solenoid, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes. Honda service data indicates this is a common cause for i-VTEC system malfunction, while owner reports frequently cite exhaust manifold gasket leaks. Use of incorrect oil viscosity can accelerate solenoid wear, making adherence to the specified maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2001-2005) and aggregated European owner club failure reports (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA D17A2.
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.
