Engine Code

HONDA K24Z4 engine (2013–2017) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda K24Z4 is a 2,354 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve design with Honda's i-VTEC system engaging at 5,800 rpm and PGM‑FI fuel injection. This configuration prioritizes broad torque delivery and high-RPM power, making it ideal for performance-oriented mid-size applications.

Fitted primarily to the ninth-generation (FB) Honda Accord for the North American market, the K24Z4 was engineered to offer accessible performance with everyday refinement. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through precise fuel metering and ignition control, meeting US EPA Tier 2 and California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards applicable to 2013–2017 model years.

One documented service consideration is the potential for oil consumption due to piston ring design, which can lead to low oil levels if not monitored, as noted in Honda Service Bulletin 14‑028. This is typically caused by ring flutter under high-RPM conditions. The engine was succeeded by the more powerful K24W in 2018.

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2013–2017 meet US EPA Tier 2 and CARB emissions standards for light-duty vehicles (EPA Engine Family K24Z4.5HAX).

K24Z4 Technical Specifications

The Honda K24Z4 is a 2,354 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size performance applications (2013-2017). It combines DOHC i-VTEC architecture with PGM-FI electronic fuel injection to deliver a broad, flat torque curve and a high-RPM power peak. Designed to meet contemporary US emissions standards, it balances sporting character with daily-driver practicality.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,354 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Gasoline)
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke87.0 mm × 99.0 mm
Power output138 kW (187 PS) @ 6,400 rpm
Torque237 Nm @ 3,900 rpm
Fuel systemHonda PGM‑FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Emissions standardUS EPA Tier 2 / CARB
Compression ratio11.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain‑driven DOHC
Oil typeAPI SN 5W‑30
Dry weight140 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC i-VTEC system provides a broad torque curve and high-RPM power but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent excessive consumption and ensure engine longevity. Using the specified API SN 5W-30 oil is critical for protecting the high-compression internals. The chain-driven timing system is robust and maintenance-free for the life of the engine. The PGM-FI system demands a healthy battery for optimal sensor operation. Oil consumption is a known characteristic and levels should be checked monthly, per Honda SIB 14-028.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API SN 5W-30 specification (Honda Owner's Manual). ACEA A5/B5 is an acceptable modern equivalent.

Emissions: Meets US EPA Tier 2 and CARB standards for 2013-2017 model years (EPA Engine Family K24Z4.5HAX).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model variants (Honda Workshop Manual).

Primary Sources

Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manual (2013), SIB 14-028

US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Engine Certification Database

Honda EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Doc. H-K24Z4-13

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

K24Z4 Compatible Models

The Honda K24Z4 was used across Honda's FB platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and engine mounts between trim levels-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2013–2017
Models:
Accord (FB)
Variants:
EX-L, Touring (USDM)
View Source
Honda Group PT-14
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, just below the cylinder head and behind the alternator (Honda Workshop Manual). The 8th VIN digit for K24Z4-equipped FB Accords is typically 'K'. Visually, it features a black or silver valve cover with "i-VTEC" embossed on top. Critical differentiation from the K24Z7: The K24Z4 has a unique intake manifold casting and camshaft profiles tuned for the Accord. The engine harness connector for PGM-FI is unique to this engine family.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Honda Workshop Manual (2013)

Location:

Stamped on the front engine block, below the head and behind the alternator (Honda Workshop Manual).

Visual Cues:

  • Black or silver 'i-VTEC' embossed valve cover.
  • Unique intake manifold casting for the Accord application.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Honda SIB 14-028

Valve Cover:

Valve covers are interchangeable with other K-series engines (e.g., K24Z7, K20Z3).

E C U Compatibility:

PGM-FI ECUs are specific to the K24Z4 and its model application; swapping requires matching harnesses and sensors.
Oil Consumption

Issue:

Some K24Z4 engines exhibit higher-than-average oil consumption due to piston ring design under high-RPM conditions.

Evidence:

Honda SIB 14-028

Recommendation:

Check oil level monthly and top up as needed. Use only specified 5W-30 oil to minimize consumption per Honda SIB 14-028.

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA K24Z4

The K24Z4's primary long-term concern is oil consumption, with elevated incidence in high-RPM driven vehicles. Honda service data indicates this is a design characteristic rather than a defect, while owner reports frequently cite VTC actuator rattle. Aggressive driving and aftermarket exhausts without proper tuning can strain the ECU, making preventative maintenance critical.

Excessive oil consumption
Symptoms: Low oil level between changes, blue smoke from exhaust under hard acceleration, oil smell from engine bay.
Cause: Piston ring design allows for some oil to pass into the combustion chamber under high-RPM, high-load conditions, a characteristic of high-performance engines.
Fix: Check oil level monthly and top up as needed. Use only specified 5W-30 oil. If consumption exceeds 1 liter per 1,000 km, consult a dealer for potential warranty repair or piston ring replacement.
Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator rattle
Symptoms: Distinctive rattle or clatter from the front of the engine on cold start, lasting 1-2 seconds.
Cause: Wear or loss of hydraulic pressure in the VTC actuator, often accelerated by infrequent oil changes or using incorrect oil viscosity.
Fix: Replace the VTC actuator with a new OEM unit; ensure correct oil type and change intervals are followed to prevent recurrence.
Main relay (PGM-FI relay) failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, intermittent starting, or engine stalling while driving, often heat-related.
Cause: Solder joints inside the main relay crack due to repeated thermal expansion and contraction, interrupting power to fuel pump and ECU.
Fix: Replace the main relay with a new OEM unit or a high-quality aftermarket relay designed for higher thermal tolerance.
Throttle body carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, 'Check Engine' light with throttle position sensor (TPS) or idle air control (IAC) fault codes.
Cause: Carbon deposits build up on the throttle plate and bore, preventing it from closing fully or moving smoothly.
Fix: Remove and clean the throttle body with a suitable solvent; perform a throttle position relearn procedure after reinstallation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2013-2017) and aggregated owner workshop data (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HONDA K24Z4

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA K24Z4.

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

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