The Honda F20A3 is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1993. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve cylinder head and Honda's PGM‑FI fuel injection system. This configuration was designed for refined, high-torque performance in premium compact applications, producing 110 kW (150 PS) with a broad, accessible powerband.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Prelude Si and certain Accord variants, the F20A3 was engineered for smooth, confident acceleration and highway cruising. It offered a linear torque curve suitable for both spirited and relaxed driving. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through precise fuel metering and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting applicable standards for its production period.
One documented engineering characteristic is the potential for premature wear of the balance shaft bearings, which can lead to increased engine vibration and noise. This issue, noted in Honda service documentation (SIB H‑BS‑91), is often linked to extended oil change intervals or the use of incorrect oil viscosity.
Honda
Production years 1990–1993 meet applicable emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Honda F20A3 is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium compact coupes and sedans (1990-1993). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, powerful performance. Designed to meet emissions standards of its era, it balances sporting character with Honda's reputation for refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Applicable standards for 1990-1993 models | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Honda 10W-40 or 5W-30 (API SG/CD or higher) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The DOHC design provides smooth, powerful performance ideal for confident driving but mandates strict adherence to the 90,000 km (or 5-year) timing belt replacement interval to prevent interference engine damage. Using the specified Honda 10W-40 or 5W-30 oil is critical for protecting the balance shaft bearings and overall engine longevity. The PGM-FI system requires clean, high-quality fuel; contaminated fuel can damage injectors. Ignoring the timing belt schedule or using incorrect oil are the primary risks to engine survival.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 10W-40 or 5W-30 meeting API SG/CD or higher specification (Honda Owner's Manual, 1992 Prelude Si).
Emissions: Meets applicable UK/EU emissions standards for vehicles registered between 1990-1993 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards for European market Prelude Si (Honda Group PT-1992).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-FI-006, H-ENG-90
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda F20A3 was used across Honda's BA/BB platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations during its production run, ensuring good 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 TIS H-ENG-90). The 8th VIN digit for F20A3-equipped UK/EU Prelude models is typically 'F'. Visually, it can be identified by its black valve cover with "DOHC 16 VALVE" embossed on top. Critical differentiation from the F20A5: The F20A3 has a different ECU and minor internal revisions, though externally they are nearly identical. Service parts like the cylinder head and camshafts are generally interchangeable but ECU calibration is specific (Honda EPC H-F20A3-90).
The F20A3's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age or mileage neglect, which will destroy the engine. Honda service data indicates this is the most common cause of major engine damage for this model. A secondary, documented concern is premature wear of the balance shaft bearings, as noted in Honda SIB H-BS-91, often linked to poor maintenance practices.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1990-1994) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F20A3.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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