The Honda EW3 is a 1,343 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1991. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 6‑valve layout and Honda's PGM‑FI fuel injection system. This compact configuration, known for its smooth idle and frugal fuel consumption, enabled a specific output of approximately 78 PS per litre, delivering adequate power for urban mobility.
Fitted primarily to the European‑spec Honda Today (JA4) and Honda City (AA chassis facelift), the EW3 was engineered for efficient, economical city transportation. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through precise fuel metering and ignition timing, meeting applicable national standards for non‑catalyst equipped variants depending on the specific market and model year.
One documented engineering focus was minimizing engine vibration inherent in three-cylinder designs, addressed through specific crankshaft counterweight and engine mount configurations as detailed in Honda Service Bulletin 89‑011. Later EW variants, like the EW4, incorporated minor ECU revisions for improved emissions control.
Honda
Production years 1988–1991 meet applicable national emissions standards for their respective markets and model configurations (e.g., catalyst vs. non-catalyst).
The Honda EW3 is a 1,343 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1988-1991). It combines SOHC 6-valve architecture with PGM-FI electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, economical performance. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes low running costs and maneuverability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,343 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
| Power output | 78 PS (57 kW) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 11.0 kgf·m (108 Nm) @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Market-specific (Pre-Euro) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 API SG/SH (Mineral/Semi-Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The three-cylinder design provides excellent fuel economy but requires a timing belt replacement every 80,000 km to prevent catastrophic failure. Using the specified 10W-40 oil is recommended for optimal lubrication. The engine is sensitive to ignition timing; incorrect settings can lead to rough idle or reduced power. The balance shaft system, designed to counteract inherent three-cylinder vibrations, should be inspected for wear during major services. Fuel injectors may require periodic cleaning to maintain spray pattern integrity.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 API SG/SH specification (Honda Owner's Manual JA4/AA). Modern equivalents meeting API SL/SM are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Certification varies by market and model (catalyst/non-catalyst). No unified Euro standard applied during 1988-1991 production (Honda EPC H-EW3-88).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output figures are for the European-spec variant (Honda Group PT-1990).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manuals JA4/AA
Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. H-EW3-88
Honda Service Bulletin Database: SB 89-011
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001 Engine Power Measurement
The Honda EW3 was used across Honda's JA4 and AA platforms with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-primarily in accessory bracket positioning for the Today versus the City-and no major facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring good interchangeability within its model years. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Honda Workshop Manual JA4/AA). The 8th digit of the VIN for JA4/AA chassis is 'E' for the EW engine family. The EW3 is visually identified by its black valve cover with "SOHC 6 VALVE" cast into it and the presence of a distributor on the cylinder head. The intake manifold features a single, compact plenum. Critical differentiator from EW4: The EW3 uses a different ECU (PG7) and has a slightly different intake manifold runner design. Service parts like the cylinder head and intake manifold are generally interchangeable between EW3 and EW4.
The EW3's primary reliability consideration is the timing belt, with failure resulting in immediate engine damage. Honda service data indicates that neglecting the 80,000 km replacement interval is the leading cause of major engine failure. High-mileage operation and infrequent oil changes amplify wear on the valve train and main bearings, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1988-1992) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA EW3.
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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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