The Honda F23Z5 is a 2,254 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve valvetrain and programmed fuel injection (PGM‑FI). This engine was designed for refined, torquey performance in Honda's premium models, producing 110 kW (150 PS) and 206 Nm of torque, offering smooth and relaxed driving characteristics.
Fitted primarily to the sixth‑generation Honda Accord (CF chassis) and the second‑gene…
Honda
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 2 standards as per applicable EU regulations for vehicles of that era (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6791).
The Honda F23Z5 is a 2,254 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for premium sedans and coupes (1998-2002). It combines SOHC 16-valve architecture with programmed fuel injection to deliver smooth, torquey performance and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes drivability and low-RPM responsiveness.
| 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 | Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM‑FI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven | |
Oil type | API SJ/SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 | |
Dry weight | 138 kg |
The Honda F23Z5 was used across Honda's CF platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU tuning for different body styles-and no significant facelift revisions during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The F23Z5's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold cracking due to thermal stress, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban driving. Honda Service Bulletin 99-018 documents this as a common cause of exhaust leaks, while UK DVSA data shows emissions-related faults as a frequent MOT advisory for this generation. Adherence to long highway drives and proactive manifold inspection make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the F23Z5 is a fundamentally robust and reliable engine. Its main weakness is the exhaust manifold, which is prone to cracking. With regular maintenance, especially timely timing belt changes and addressing manifold issues, these engines can easily surpass 250,000 km without major problems.
The most frequent issues are exhaust manifold cracks, distributor (ignition coil) failure, and timing belt wear. Valve cover gasket leaks are also common on higher-mileage engines. All these are well-documented in Honda service literature and are relatively inexpensive to fix.
The F23Z5 was primarily used in the sixth-generation Honda Accord (CF chassis, 1998-2002) in sedan body style, across various trim levels like Executive and VTi. It was also fitted to the fifth-generation Honda Prelude (BB chassis, 1998-2001) in the base 2.3i model.
Modest gains are possible. Basic modifications include a cold air intake, performance exhaust, and ignition system upgrade. For significant power, a head swap to a DOHC VTEC head is possible but complex and requires an ECU swap. The stock ECU cannot be remapped.
Good for its size. Expect around 9.5-10.0 L/100km (28-30 mpg UK) in combined driving for a manual transmission Accord. Highway cruising can return figures closer to 7.0 L/100km (40 mpg UK). Automatic transmission models will be slightly less efficient.
Yes. This is critically important. If the timing belt breaks or jumps time, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe and expensive engine damage. This makes adhering to the 100,000 km replacement interval non-negotiable.
Honda recommends an API SJ or SL specification oil. The viscosity should be SAE 10W-30 for normal conditions, or 5W-30 for colder climates. Using a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil is beneficial for engine longevity and protection.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with HONDA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
HONDA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
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.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialHONDA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.