The Honda D17A8 is a 1,689 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2005. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with four valves per cylinder and Honda's VTEC system, delivering accessible performance and efficiency for compact models. Peak output is 120 PS (88 kW) at 6,300 rpm and 153 Nm of torque, with VTEC engagement enhancing mid-range responsiveness.
Fitted primarily to the seventh-generation Honda Civic (EP, ES) across European and global markets, the D17A8 was engineered for balanced daily driving, combining fuel economy with spirited acceleration. Emissions compliance for its production era was achieved through PGM-FI multi-point fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards as certified for its model years.
One documented service consideration is potential oil consumption in high-mileage units, a characteristic noted in Honda Service Bulletin 03-062 for certain D-series engines under specific operating conditions. This is typically attributed to normal wear of piston rings and valve seals over extended service life. Honda recommended monitoring oil levels and adhering to specified maintenance intervals to manage this.
Honda
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards for applicable markets (Honda Emissions Certification Docs, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 Annex I).
The Honda D17A8 is a 1,689 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2001-2005). It combines SOHC VTEC valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver a broad torque curve and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,689 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve, VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 86.5 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | PGM-FI Multi-point Injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing Belt | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL 5W-30 or 10W-30 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The VTEC system enhances mid-range torque, making the engine feel responsive in daily driving, but requires regular oil changes to maintain hydraulic actuator function. The timing belt is a critical wear item and must be replaced at the manufacturer's specified interval (typically 90,000-105,000 km) to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Using the correct viscosity oil is essential for optimal VTEC operation and engine protection. High-mileage units may exhibit increased oil consumption, a documented characteristic addressed by Honda through maintenance advisories.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL specification oil (Honda Service Manual 01-05 Civic). Viscosity grade depends on ambient temperature.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for model years 2001-2005 (Honda Emissions Certification Docs, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Power figures are for stock, unmodified engines (Honda Group PT-2003).
Honda Technical Information System (Helm): Service Manual 01-05 Civic
Honda Service Bulletin Database: SIB 03-062
Honda Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. H-17A8-001
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda D17A8 was used across Honda's EP/ES platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific ECU calibrations but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. 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 models is typically '8' for the D17A8. Visually, it can be identified by its black or silver valve cover labeled "VTEC". Critical differentiation from the non-VTEC D17A1: The D17A8 has a VTEC solenoid and oil pressure switch on the cylinder head. Service parts like the cylinder head and ECU are specific to the VTEC variant and not interchangeable with non-VTEC D17 engines.
The D17A8's primary maintenance-critical item is its timing belt, with failure resulting in total engine destruction. Honda service data indicates strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount. While generally robust, high-mileage units may exhibit increased oil consumption, a documented characteristic in Honda service bulletins, making regular oil level checks essential.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2001-2005) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA D17A8.
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.
