Engine Code

Honda K24A2 Engine (2004–2008) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda K24A2 is a 2,354 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2008. It features a DOHC 16‑valve i — VTEC design, prioritizing high torque and refined performance for premium applications. Output is rated at 160 kW (218 PS) and 225 Nm, delivering a broad, responsive powerband ideal for spirited driving.

Fitted primarily to the second — generation Honda Accord (CL) Type S for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), the K24A2 was engineered for enthusiasts se

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2004–2008 meet Japanese Heisei 15 and equivalent European emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/HON/1011).

Honda K24A2 Technical Specifications

The Honda K24A2 is a 2,354 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for premium sports sedans (2004-2008). It combines DOHC i-VTEC technology with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver high-RPM power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet mid-2000s emissions standards, it balances performance with daily reliability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,354 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
87.0 mm × 99.0 mm
Power output
160 kW (218 PS) @ 6,800 rpm
Torque
225 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Honda PGM-FI (Multi-point injection)
Emissions standard
Japanese Heisei 15 / European 2000s
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
API SJ/SL 5W-30
Dry weight
160 kg

Honda K24A2 Compatible Models

The Honda K24A2 was used across Honda's CL platform with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and a performance-tuned ECU for the Accord Type S-creating no significant service part differences. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2004–2008
Models:
Accord Type S (CL2)
Variants:
2.4i VTEC Type S (Japanese Domestic Market)
View Source
Honda Group PT-2006

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA K24A2 Compatible Models

The K24A2's primary reliability risk is failure of the i-VTEC oil control solenoid, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Honda service data indicates this is a common cause for i-VTEC system malfunction, while owner reports frequently cite timing chain tensioner wear. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity can accelerate wear on the i-VTEC system, making adherence to the specified maintenance schedule critical.

i-VTEC oil control solenoid failure
Symptoms: Check Engine Light (CEL) with code P1259, i-VTEC system fails to engage, loss of high-RPM power, rough idle.
Cause: Internal clogging or electrical failure of the i-VTEC oil control solenoid due to oil sludge or age, preventing the ECU from modulating oil pressure for variable valve timing.
Fix: Replace the i-VTEC oil control solenoid with the latest OEM part per Honda service bulletin; flush the engine and perform an oil change with correct specification.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine (especially on cold start), potential for timing chain slack and skipped teeth.
Cause: Wear in the hydraulic timing chain tensioner piston or spring, reducing its ability to maintain proper chain tension.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner with the latest OEM part; inspect the chain and guides for wear during replacement.
Valve clearance adjustment neglect
Symptoms: Ticking noise from the top of the engine (valve train), reduced power and fuel economy, hard starting when cold.
Cause: Valve clearances increasing beyond specification over time due to normal wear, leading to poor valve sealing and altered cam timing.
Fix: Perform a valve clearance adjustment using OEM specified shims and feeler gauges as per the service manual schedule (typically every 40,000 km).
Radiator and cooling system leaks
Symptoms: Overheating, coolant smell, visible coolant leaks from radiator or hoses, low coolant level warning.
Cause: Degradation of plastic radiator end tanks or rubber hoses due to age and heat cycles, leading to cracks and leaks.
Fix: Replace the faulty radiator or hose with a new OEM unit; inspect the entire cooling system for signs of wear during replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2004-2008) and aggregated JDM owner club failure reports (2008-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

HONDA K24A2 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

Yes, the K24A2 is generally reliable long-term when properly maintained. Its DOHC i-VTEC design is robust and can easily surpass 250,000 km. The main concerns are the i-VTEC solenoid and timing chain tensioner, both of which are inexpensive and straightforward to replace. Regular oil changes and valve adjustments are key to its longevity.

The most frequent issues are i-VTEC oil control solenoid failure (causing P1259 code and loss of VTEC), timing chain tensioner wear causing rattling noises, neglected valve clearance adjustments, and radiator leaks. These are all typical wear items for an engine of this age and are straightforward to address.

The K24A2 was exclusively used in the second-generation Honda Accord Type S (chassis code CL2) for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) from 2004 to 2008. It was not used in any other Honda model or standard Accord variant during this period.

Yes, the K24A2 responds exceptionally well to modifications. A performance exhaust header, cold air intake, and ECU remap can yield gains of 20-30 kW. More advanced builds involve head porting, high-lift cams, or forced induction. Its bottom end is very strong and can handle significant power increases without internal modifications.

Fuel economy is moderate for a performance engine. In a manual transmission Accord Type S, expect around 11.0 L/100km in the city and 7.5 L/100km on the highway, translating to approximately 26-38 mpg (UK) combined. Actual figures depend heavily on driving style and vehicle condition.

Yes. The Honda K24A2 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Fortunately, the timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime with proper oil maintenance.

Honda mandates the use of 5W-30 engine oil meeting API SJ or SL specifications. Using this exact viscosity is crucial for the proper operation of the i-VTEC system. Full synthetic oil is highly recommended for optimal protection and longevity, especially for performance use.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialHONDA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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