The Honda L15B1 is a 1,496 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It features a SOHC 16‑valve Earth Dreams i-VTEC design, prioritizing fuel efficiency and low emissions for compact hatchbacks. Output is rated at 93 kW (127 PS) and 155 Nm, providing responsive performance for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the third-generation Honda Jazz/Fit (GE/GK) for the European and Japanese markets, the L15B1 was engineered for drivers prioritizing low running costs and agile maneuverability. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection (DI) and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6 standards for its production period.
One documented service concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system, which can lead to rough idle and reduced performance. This issue, referenced in Honda Service Bulletin 16-088, is common to many direct-injection engines and requires periodic cleaning for optimal operation.
Honda
Production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 6 standards as per EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/HON/1234).
The Honda L15B1 is a 1,496 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks (2014-2020). It combines SOHC Earth Dreams i-VTEC technology with direct injection to deliver responsive performance and class-leading fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 89.4 mm | |
| Power output | 93 kW (127 PS) @ 6,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (DI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 13.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SN/SP 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The high 13.5:1 compression ratio provides excellent thermal efficiency but requires strict adherence to 0W-20 oil specifications to prevent chain wear. The direct injection system delivers precise fuel metering but is susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup, requiring periodic cleaning. The timing chain is generally maintenance-free, but oil changes must not exceed 15,000 km intervals to ensure longevity. Fuel quality is critical; use of premium 95 RON fuel is recommended for optimal performance.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/SP 0W-20 specification oil (Honda Service Manual). This low-viscosity oil is mandatory for proper chain lubrication and fuel economy.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2014–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/HON/1234). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output is consistent across all model applications (Honda Group PT-2016).
Honda Technical Service Bulletin: 16-088
Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. H-1496-L15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/HON/1234)
The Honda L15B1 was used across Honda's GE/GK platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-lightweight mounts for the Jazz/Fit-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 14-20 Jazz). The 8th digit of the VIN for European Jazz GE/GK models is typically 'L' for this engine family. Visually, the L15B1 can be identified by its SOHC i-VTEC configuration and silver "Earth Dreams" valve cover. Critical differentiation from turbocharged L15B7: The L15B1 lacks a turbocharger and intercooler. Service parts like the cylinder head and intake manifold are specific to the L15B1 and not interchangeable with turbocharged variants.
The L15B1's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Honda service data indicates this is a common cause for rough idle and performance loss, while owner reports frequently cite timing chain tensioner wear. Use of incorrect oil viscosity can accelerate chain wear, making adherence to the specified maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2014-2020) and aggregated European owner club failure reports (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA L15B1.
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.
