Engine Code

HONDA F22A3 engine (1993–1997) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda F22A3 is a 2,156 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1997. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve design, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery in Honda's executive sedans. Peak output is 105 kW (143 PS) and 192 Nm of torque, providing a balance of refinement and adequate performance for highway cruising.

Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Honda Accord (CD chassis) in European markets, including the Accord 2.2i trim, the F22A3 was designed for comfortable, economical long-distance driving 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 mechanical advance weights and springs, potentially causing ignition timing inaccuracy and reduced power. This issue, addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 94-038, is often linked to age and heat cycles, necessitating distributor replacement to restore optimal engine performance.

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1993–1997 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).

F22A3 Technical Specifications

The Honda F22A3 is a 2,156 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1993-1997). 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.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,156 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke85.0 mm × 95.0 mm
Power output105 kW (143 PS) @ 5,600 rpm
Torque192 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemHonda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Emissions standardEuro 1
Compression ratio9.3:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt-driven
Oil typeAPI SH/CD, SAE 10W-40
Dry weight135 kg
Practical Implications

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 94-038 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.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API SH/CD specification, SAE 10W-40 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 1995 Accord).

Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1993-1997 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-009).

Primary Sources

Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-009, H-FI-017, SB 94-038

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

F22A3 Compatible Models

The Honda F22A3 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.

Make:
Honda
Years:
1993–1997
Models:
Accord Sedan (CD)
Variants:
2.2i
View Source
Honda Group PT-1996
Identification Guidance

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 F22A3-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 F22A1: The F22A3 has a slightly different intake manifold and ECU mapping for European emissions. Service parts like the cylinder head are generally interchangeable, but the ECU is specific to the F22A3.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-ID

Location:

Stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing belt cover (Honda TIS H-ENG-ID).

Visual Cues:

  • Distributor with cap and rotor located on the rear of the cylinder head.
  • Single camshaft cover without 'VTEC' embossing.
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

Uses a specific ECU calibrated for European emissions standards. Swapping with a non-European ECU may cause drivability or emissions issues.

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-009

Ignition System:

The distributor assembly is specific to this engine variant. Using an incorrect distributor can lead to timing inaccuracies.
Ignition Timing

Issue:

The mechanical advance mechanism in the distributor is prone to wear, causing ignition timing to drift and resulting in reduced power or poor fuel economy.

Evidence:

Honda Service Bulletin 94-038

Recommendation:

Inspect and replace the distributor assembly as a unit per Honda Service Bulletin 94-038 if symptoms arise.

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA F22A3

The F22A3'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.

Distributor mechanical advance failure
Symptoms: Loss of power, poor fuel economy, hesitation under acceleration, difficulty passing emissions tests.
Cause: Wear of the springs and weights in the distributor's mechanical advance mechanism, preventing it from advancing ignition timing correctly as engine speed increases.
Fix: Replace the entire distributor assembly with a new or remanufactured OEM unit per Honda SB 94-038. Do not attempt to rebuild unless specialized tools are available.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine suddenly stops running with a clattering noise, will not restart.
Cause: Neglecting the 90,000 km replacement interval, leading to belt teeth shearing or the belt snapping.
Fix: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a set. While non-interference, a broken belt will still leave the vehicle stranded.
Water pump failure
Symptoms: Coolant leak from the front of the engine (near the timing belt cover), engine overheating, whining noise from the pump.
Cause: The mechanical seal in the water pump fails due to age and wear, allowing coolant to leak. The pump is driven by the timing belt, so failure can also contaminate the belt.
Fix: Replace the water pump. It is highly recommended to replace the timing belt and tensioner at the same time, as the pump must be removed to access the belt.
Valve cover gasket leaks
Symptoms: Oil residue on the top/rear of the engine, burning oil smell, potential for oil to drip onto exhaust manifold.
Cause: The rubber gasket hardens and shrinks with age and heat exposure, losing its ability to seal.
Fix: Replace the valve cover gasket. Ensure the valve cover bolts are torqued to specification to prevent warping.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1993-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1997-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HONDA F22A3

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F22A3.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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HONDA Official Site

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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.

Official Documentation

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Regulatory Context

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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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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