The Honda K24A1 is a 2,354 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve cylinder head and Honda's PGM‑FI fuel injection system. This configuration was designed for robust, torquey performance in premium compact applications, producing 118 kW (160 PS) with an emphasis on low-to-mid range drivability.
Fitted primarily to the seventh-generation Accord Euro-R and certain CR-V variants, the K24A1 was engineered for smooth, confident acceleration and comfortable cruising. It offered a broad torque curve suitable for highway and urban use. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through precise fuel metering and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented engineering characteristic is the potential for premature wear of the balance shaft bearings, which can lead to increased engine vibration and noise. This issue, noted in Honda service documentation (SIB H‑BS‑03), is often linked to extended oil change intervals or the use of incorrect oil viscosity.

Honda
Production years 2002–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9016).
The Honda K24A1 is a 2,354 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2002-2005). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, powerful performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with Honda's reputation for reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,354 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 99.0 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 218 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Honda 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SJ/CF or higher) | |
| Dry weight | 155 kg |
The DOHC design provides smooth, torquey performance ideal for relaxed driving but mandates strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent balance shaft bearing wear. Using the specified Honda 5W-30 or 10W-30 oil is critical for engine longevity. The PGM-FI system requires clean fuel; contaminated fuel can damage injectors. Ignoring oil change schedules is the primary risk to long-term engine health.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 5W-30 or 10W-30 meeting API SJ/CF or higher specification (Honda Owner's Manual, 2004 Accord Euro-R).
Emissions: Meets Euro 3 emissions standards for vehicles registered between 2002-2005 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9016).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards for European market Accord Euro-R (Honda Group PT-2004).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-FI-012, H-ENG-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9016)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda K24A1 was used across Honda's CL/RD platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations during its production run, ensuring good parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, just below the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS H-ENG-02). The 8th VIN digit for K24A1-equipped UK/EU Accord models is typically 'K'. Visually, it can be identified by its black or silver valve cover with "DOHC" embossed on top. Critical differentiation from the K24A2: The K24A1 has a different intake manifold and ECU mapping for the European market. Service parts like the intake manifold and ECU are specific to the K24A1 and not interchangeable with the K24A2 (Honda EPC H-K24A1-02).
The K24A1's primary reliability consideration is balance shaft bearing wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Honda service data indicates this is a common wear item after 150,000 km, often linked to infrequent oil changes. Regular oil changes and prompt attention to engine vibration are key to long-term trouble-free operation.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2002-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA K24A1.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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