The Honda F23A4 is a 2,254 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve design, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery in Honda's executive sedans. Peak output is 110 kW (150 PS) and 206 Nm of torque, providing a balance of refinement and adequate performance for highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the sixth-generation Honda Accord (CF chassis) in European markets, including the Accord 2.3i trim, the F23A4 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 2 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 99-048, is often linked to age and heat cycles, necessitating distributor replacement to restore optimal engine performance.
Honda
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8914).
The Honda F23A4 is a 2,254 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1998-2002). It combines SOHC with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances everyday drivability with efficiency.
| 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 4,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/CF, SAE 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 140 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 5W-30 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 99-048 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 SJ/CF specification, SAE 5W-30 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 2000 Accord).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1998-2002 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8914).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-010).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-010, H-FI-018, SB 99-048
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8914)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda F23A4 was used across Honda's CF 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 F23A4-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 F23A1: The F23A4 has a different ECU calibration for European emissions and fuel mapping. Service parts like the cylinder head are generally interchangeable, but the ECU is specific to the F23A4.
The F23A4'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 (1998-2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F23A4.
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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