Engine Code

HONDA K24Z1 engine (2009–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda K24Z1 is a 2,354 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16‑valve design with Honda's i-VTEC system, engineered for a blend of smooth power and efficiency. Peak output is 148 kW (201 PS) and 233 Nm of torque, providing strong, linear acceleration for its class.

Fitted primarily to the eighth-generation Honda Accord (CU chassis) and the CR-V (RE5) in European and North American markets, the K24Z1 was designed for comfortable, economical long-distance driving and daily commuting. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter systems, aligning with Euro 5 standards.

One documented service concern is wear in the VTEC oil pressure switch, potentially causing delayed or failed i-VTEC engagement and triggering a 'Check Engine' light. This issue, addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 10-044, is often linked to oil contamination or electrical failure, necessitating switch replacement to restore proper function.

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2009–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8917).

K24Z1 Technical Specifications

The Honda K24Z1 is a 2,354 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2009-2015). It combines DOHC i-VTEC with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, responsive power and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,354 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke87.0 mm × 99.0 mm
Power output148 kW (201 PS) @ 6,800 rpm
Torque233 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Fuel systemHonda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeAPI SM, SAE 5W-20
Dry weight150 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC i-VTEC design provides a good balance of smoothness and efficiency, ideal for relaxed highway driving. Using the specified 5W-20 oil and adhering to 10,000 km service intervals is critical. The engine's chain-driven valvetrain is generally robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear if engine noise increases. The i-VTEC system requires clean oil for reliable operation; neglecting oil changes can lead to solenoid or oil pressure switch failure. The engine's non-interference design offers a safety margin if the timing chain fails.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API SM specification, SAE 5W-20 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 2012 Accord).

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009-2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8917).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-014).

Primary Sources

Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-014, H-FI-022, SB 10-044

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8917)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

K24Z1 Compatible Models

The Honda K24Z1 was used across Honda's CU Accord and RE5 CR-V platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2009–2015
Models:
Accord Sedan (CU)
Variants:
2.4i
View Source
Honda Group PT-2014
Make:
Honda
Years:
2009–2015
Models:
CR-V (RE5)
Variants:
2.4i
View Source
Honda TIS Doc. H-CRV-001
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing chain cover (Honda TIS H-ENG-ID). The 8th digit of the VIN for K24Z1-equipped vehicles is typically 'K'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic i-VTEC solenoid on the cylinder head's rear and dual camshaft covers with 'i-VTEC' embossed. Critical differentiation from the K24A4: The K24Z1 has a higher compression ratio (10.5:1 vs. 9.7:1) and a specific ECU with a 'PRF' code. Service parts like the cylinder head and ECU are not interchangeable with earlier variants.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-ID

Location:

Stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing chain cover (Honda TIS H-ENG-ID).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic i-VTEC solenoid on the rear of the cylinder head.
  • Dual camshaft covers with 'i-VTEC' embossed.
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

Requires specific i-VTEC-compatible ECU (e.g., PRF). Non-i-VTEC ECUs will not activate the system.

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-014

Cylinder Head:

The cylinder head has a unique combustion chamber design for the higher 10.5:1 compression ratio; not interchangeable with K24A4.
i-VTEC Engagement

Issue:

i-VTEC may fail to engage if oil level is low, oil is degraded, or the oil pressure switch is faulty.

Evidence:

Honda Service Bulletin 10-044

Recommendation:

Maintain correct oil level and quality. Diagnose engagement issues per Honda Service Bulletin 10-044.

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA K24Z1

The K24Z1's primary reliability consideration is i-VTEC system functionality, with potential issues arising from neglected oil changes or electrical faults. While generally robust, UK DVSA data notes timing chain tensioner wear as a common cause of noise in high-mileage examples. Maintaining clean oil and adhering to service intervals is critical for long-term performance.

i-VTEC oil pressure switch failure
Symptoms: Lack of expected power surge at ~4,400 rpm, 'Check Engine' light may illuminate with i-VTEC-related codes (e.g., P2647).
Cause: Internal wear or electrical failure of the oil pressure switch prevents the ECU from confirming sufficient oil pressure for i-VTEC activation.
Fix: Replace the i-VTEC oil pressure switch with the updated part per Honda Service Bulletin 10-044. Ensure correct oil level and specification.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling or whining noise from the front of the engine, especially on cold start or at idle.
Cause: The hydraulic tensioner can wear or lose pressure over time, allowing the timing chain to become slack and rattle against the guides.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner and inspect the chain and guides for wear. Use OEM parts for guaranteed fit and function.
VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator failure
Symptoms: Rattling noise on cold start (lasts 1-2 seconds), 'Check Engine' light with VTC-related codes (e.g., P0011).
Cause: Wear or contamination in the VTC actuator, which controls the intake camshaft timing, can cause it to stick or rattle.
Fix: Replace the VTC actuator with a new OEM unit. Ensure correct oil level and specification to prevent recurrence.
Valve cover gasket leaks
Symptoms: Oil residue on the top/rear of the engine, burning oil smell, potential for oil to drip onto exhaust manifold.
Cause: The rubber gasket hardens and shrinks with age and heat exposure, losing its ability to seal.
Fix: Replace the valve cover gasket. Ensure the valve cover bolts are torqued to specification to prevent warping.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2009-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HONDA K24Z1

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA K24Z1.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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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