The Honda F20B3 is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve design with Honda's VTEC system, engineered for a blend of refinement and responsive performance. Peak output is 107 kW (145 PS) and 178 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range pull for its class.
Fitted primarily to the sixth-generation Honda Accord (CD chassis) in European and Japanese markets, including the Accord 2.0i VTEC trim, the F20B3 was designed for comfortable, spirited highway cruising and daily commuting. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter systems, aligning with Euro 2 standards.
One documented service concern is wear in the VTEC oil pressure switch, potentially causing delayed or failed VTEC engagement and triggering a 'Check Engine' light. This issue, addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 98-055, is often linked to oil contamination or electrical failure, necessitating switch replacement to restore proper function.
Honda
Production years 1997–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8913).
The Honda F20B3 is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1997-2001). It combines SOHC VTEC with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, responsive power and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances everyday performance with efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve, VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 107 kW (145 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 178 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/CF, SAE 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 130 kg |
The VTEC system provides a noticeable power surge in the mid-range but requires clean, high-quality oil to ensure reliable solenoid operation and prevent clogging of the oil passages. Using the specified 5W-30 oil and adhering to 10,000 km service intervals is critical. The timing belt requires replacement every 90,000 km. Fuel injectors may require cleaning if rough idling or hesitation occurs, as per Honda TIS procedure H-FI-016. The engine's non-interference design offers a safety margin if the timing belt fails.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/CF specification, SAE 5W-30 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 1999 Accord).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1997-2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8913).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-008).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-008, H-FI-016, SB 98-055
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8913)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda F20B3 was used across Honda's CD Accord platform 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 F20B3-equipped Accords is typically 'F'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic VTEC solenoid on the cylinder head's rear and a single camshaft cover with 'VTEC' embossed. Critical differentiation from the non-VTEC F20A: The F20B3 has a VTEC rocker arm assembly visible under the valve cover and a specific ECU with a 'P75' code. Service parts like the cylinder head and ECU are not interchangeable with non-VTEC variants.
The F20B3's primary reliability consideration is VTEC system functionality, with potential issues arising from neglected oil changes or electrical faults. While generally robust, UK DVSA data notes ignition coil failure as a common cause of misfires in high-mileage examples. Maintaining clean oil and ignition components is critical for long-term performance.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1997-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001-2011). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F20B3.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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