The Honda F16A is a 1,590 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1995. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve design, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery in Honda's compact executive vehicles. Peak output is 85 kW (116 PS) and 140 Nm of torque, providing a balance of refinement and adequate performance.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Honda Accord (CB chassis) and the Honda Ascot Innova, the F16A was designed for comfortable, economical highway cruising and daily commuting. 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 advance mechanism, potentially causing ignition timing inaccuracies and reduced power. This issue, addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 92-041, is often linked to age and heat cycles, necessitating distributor replacement to restore optimal performance.
Honda
Production years 1990–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Honda F16A is a 1,590 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and coupes (1990-1995). 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 | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SH/CD, SAE 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The SOHC 16-valve design provides a good balance of smoothness and efficiency, ideal for relaxed highway driving. 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 92-041 is key for maintaining accurate ignition timing and 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, 1992 Accord).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1990-1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-007).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-007, H-FI-014, SB 92-041
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda F16A was used across Honda's CB Accord and Ascot Innova platforms with longitudinal 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, near the timing belt cover (Honda TIS H-ENG-ID). The 8th digit of the VIN for F16A-equipped Accords is typically 'F'. 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 F20A: The F16A has a smaller displacement (1.6L vs. 2.0L) and a distinct intake manifold design. Service parts like the cylinder head and block are unique to the F16A.
The F16A'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 (1990-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F16A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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