The Honda F23A7 is a 2,254 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 16 valves and Honda's PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) system. This design prioritized smooth, linear power delivery and low-end torque for larger Honda sedans, producing 110 kW (150 PS) and 206 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the sixth-generation Honda Accord (CG/CH) for the European and Japanese markets, the F23A7 was engineered for refined, comfortable cruising and dependable daily transportation. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 2 and Japanese 1998 standards.
One documented engineering characteristic is its use of a balance shaft to reduce vibration, detailed in Honda Service Bulletin 98-041. This feature enhanced refinement in the larger Accord platform, distinguishing it from performance-oriented F-series variants.
Honda
Production years 1998–2002 meet applicable European (Euro 2) and Japanese emissions standards for passenger vehicles of that era (Honda Internal Emissions Certification Docs).
The Honda F23A7 is a 2,254 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size to large sedans (1998-2002). It combines SOHC 16-valve architecture with PGM-FI fuel injection and a balance shaft to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising. Designed to meet late-1990s emissions standards, it prioritizes drivability and mechanical simplicity.
| 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 | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 / Japanese 1998 Standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 (API SJ) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The balance shaft provides exceptional smoothness for a large four-cylinder engine but adds complexity. Strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals is critical to prevent catastrophic failure. The PGM-FI system requires clean fuel filters and properly functioning sensors for optimal performance. The distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil packs is generally reliable but individual coils can fail. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity protect the valvetrain and balance shaft bearings.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 meeting API SJ specification (Honda Owner's Manual 1999 Accord).
Emissions: Certification applies to 1998-2002 models for European and Japanese markets (Honda Internal Emissions Certification Docs).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards (Honda Group PT-2001).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manual 1999 Accord, SIB 98-041
Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. H-F23A7-98
Honda Owner's Manual: 1999 Accord
The Honda F23A7 was used across Honda's CG/CH platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and accessory bracket variations between sedan and coupe body styles, creating minor part number differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing belt cover (Honda Workshop Manual 1999 Accord). Visually, it can be identified by its SOHC valve cover and the presence of a balance shaft housing at the bottom of the engine block. Critical differentiation from the F23A1: The F23A7 has a lower compression ratio (9.3:1 vs 9.8:1) and is tuned for torque rather than peak power. It features a distributorless ignition system with coil packs mounted on the valve cover.
The F23A7 is renowned for its durability, with the primary long-term concern being timing belt failure if replacement intervals are neglected. Honda service data indicates that failure to replace the belt at 90,000 km can lead to catastrophic engine damage due to its interference design. The ignition coils and balance shaft seals are also common wear items after 150,000 km.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1998-2002) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA F23A7.
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