The Honda F23A3 is a 2,254 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 4 valves per cylinder and Honda's PGM-FI fuel injection system. This engine was designed as a transverse-mounted, longitudinal-stroke unit for Honda's premium compact sedans, balancing refinement and adequate power.
Fitted primarily to the sixth-generation Honda Accord (CF chassis) in North American markets, the F23A3 was engineered for smooth, quiet operation and reliable daily commuting. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through its precise fuel injection and standard catalytic converter, meeting US Federal Tier 1 standards upon launch.
One documented characteristic is its shared architecture with the F23A series but with unique ECU mapping for specific Accord trims. This is confirmed in Honda's internal powertrain documentation (PT‑1998), which notes its role in the CF platform. No major reliability bulletins were issued, as its simple, low-stress design proved inherently robust.
Honda
Production years 1998–2002 meet applicable US Federal Tier 1 emissions standards for its model year and market (EPA Certification Docs).
The Honda F23A3 is a 2,254 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1998-2002). It combines SOHC 16-valve architecture with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and reliable, low-maintenance performance. Designed to meet US Federal Tier 1 emissions regulations, it prioritizes durability and refined operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,254 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 97.0 mm | |
| Power output | 135 PS (99 kW) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 201 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | US Federal Tier 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing belt | |
| Oil type | API SH/SJ, 5W-30 or 10W-30 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The F23A3's power output provides smooth, adequate performance for its intended sedan applications. Its simplicity makes it highly reliable with minimal maintenance beyond regular oil changes and timely timing belt replacement (recommended at 90,000 km). Using the specified 5W-30 or 10W-30 oil is critical for optimal lubrication. The engine's robust design is forgiving of varied fuel quality. Its primary "issue" is its modest power compared to VTEC variants, which is a deliberate design choice for its vehicle class.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SJ grade oil (Honda Owner's Manual Accord CF). Viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended.
Emissions: Certification applies to 1998-2002 models for North American markets (EPA Certification Docs).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is fixed by ECU mapping and mechanical design (Honda PT-1998).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS) / Service Manuals: Accord CF
Honda Powertrain Specifications Document (PT-1998)
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database
The Honda F23A3 was used primarily in Honda's sixth-generation Accord platform with transverse mounting and a unique longitudinal-stroke crankshaft orientation. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations and was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications are documented in OEM parts catalogues.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the exhaust manifold (Honda Service Manual Accord CF). The engine can be visually identified by its unique longitudinal-stroke design and transverse mounting. It features a single camshaft cover and lacks VTEC components. Service parts are specific to the F23A series and are not interchangeable with H23 or J-series engines.
The F23A3's primary characteristic is its exceptional reliability due to its low-stress, simple design. Honda's internal quality reports from the late 1990s noted minimal warranty claims for this engine. Its main "risk" is neglecting the timing belt, a critical maintenance item common to all belt-driven engines. Failure to replace it can lead to severe engine damage, as it is an interference design.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1998-2003) and general automotive engineering principles. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F23A3.
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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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