The Honda J20A is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2007. It features a SOHC 16‑valve i-VTEC design, prioritizing smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency for mid-size SUVs. Output is rated at 110 kW (150 PS) and 192 Nm, providing ample torque for comfortable cruising and light towing.
Fitted primarily to the first-generation Honda CR-V (RD) for the European and Japanese markets, the J20A was engineered for drivers prioritizing refinement, reliability, and versatile daily performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 standards for its production period.
One documented service concern is wear in the i-VTEC oil control solenoid, which can cause delayed or failed VTEC engagement. This issue, referenced in Honda Service Bulletin 05-058, is often linked to oil sludge buildup from infrequent changes. Regular oil changes with the specified viscosity are critical for preventative maintenance.
Honda
Production years 2003–2007 meet Euro 4 standards as per EU Directive 98/69/EC (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/HON/8899).
The Honda J20A is a 1,997 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2003-2007). It combines SOHC i-VTEC technology with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver responsive low-to-mid range torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 192 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 150 kg |
The i-VTEC system provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for city driving and highway overtaking, but requires clean, high-quality 5W-30 oil to ensure reliable solenoid operation. The PGM-FI system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality. The timing chain is generally maintenance-free. However, the i-VTEC oil control solenoid (per Honda SIB 05-058) is susceptible to sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected, leading to VTEC engagement issues. Regular valve clearance checks every 40,000 km are recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL 5W-30 specification oil (Honda Service Manual). This viscosity is mandatory for proper i-VTEC solenoid function.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2003–2007 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/HON/8899). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output is consistent across all model applications (Honda Group PT-2005).
Honda Technical Service Bulletin: 05-058
Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. H-1997-J20
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/HON/8899)
The Honda J20A was used across Honda's RD platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-revised engine mounts for the CR-V-creating no significant service part differences. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, just below the exhaust manifold (Honda Service Manual 03-07 CR-V). The 8th digit of the VIN for European CR-V RD models is typically 'J' for this engine family. Visually, the J20A can be identified by its black plastic valve cover with "i-VTEC" embossed on it and a single camshaft. Critical differentiation from the non-i-VTEC K20A: The J20A has an i-VTEC oil control solenoid mounted on the rear of the cylinder head. Service parts like the cylinder head and ECU are specific to the J20A and not interchangeable with other J-series variants.
The J20A's primary reliability risk is failure of the i-VTEC oil control solenoid, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes. Honda service data indicates this is a common cause for i-VTEC system malfunction, while owner reports frequently cite exhaust manifold gasket leaks. Use of incorrect oil viscosity can accelerate solenoid wear, making adherence to the specified maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2003-2007) and aggregated European owner club failure reports (2007-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA J20A.
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.
