The Honda EG is a 1,488 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1991. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8‑valve design, prioritizing simplicity and fuel efficiency for Honda's compact vehicles. Peak output is 63 kW (86 PS) and 127 Nm of torque, making it suitable for economical urban mobility.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Honda Civic (EF chassis) and the Honda Concerto, the EG was engineered for reliable, low-cost city and highway 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 mechanical advance mechanism, potentially causing ignition timing drift and reduced performance. This is addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 89-021, which details inspection and replacement procedures for the affected distributor assembly.
Production years 1988–1991 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5677).
The Honda EG is a 1,488 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1988-1991). 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 | 1,488 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SG, SAE 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The 8-valve SOHC design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for daily commuting but lacks the high-RPM performance of 16-valve engines. 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 89-021 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 SG specification, SAE 10W-40 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 1989 Civic).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1988-1991 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5677).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-002).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-002, H-FI-011, SB 89-021
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5677)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda EG was used across Honda's EF Civic and Concerto platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications 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 EG-equipped Civics is typically 'C'. 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 16-valve D15B: The EG has only 8 valves (two per cylinder) and a simpler cylinder head design. Service parts like the cylinder head and distributor are unique to the EG.
The EG'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 (1988-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1991-2001). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA EG.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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HONDA Official Site
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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
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