The Honda L15B3 is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder and Honda's VTEC system, delivering a potent blend of efficiency and performance for compact applications. Peak output is 182 PS (134 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 240 Nm of torque, with VTEC engagement enhancing mid-range responsiveness.
Fitted primarily to the ninth-generation Honda Civic Type R (FK2) and the Honda Civic Si (facelift), the L15B3 was engineered for spirited, efficient driving with an emphasis on accessible power. Emissions compliance for its production era was achieved through direct fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6 standards as certified for its model years.
One documented service consideration is potential oil dilution under specific short-trip driving conditions, a characteristic noted in Honda Service Bulletin 16-088 for certain turbocharged L-series engines. This is typically attributed to fuel condensing in the crankcase during incomplete warm-up cycles. Honda recommended adhering to specified maintenance intervals and occasionally undertaking longer drives to mitigate this.
Honda
Production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 6 emissions standards for applicable markets (Honda Emissions Certification Docs, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 Annex I).
The Honda L15B3 is a 1,498 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance compact cars (2014-2020). It combines DOHC VTEC valvetrain with direct fuel injection to deliver a broad, responsive power band and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve, VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 89.4 mm | |
| Power output | 134 kW (182 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,900-5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (DI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries TD04HL-15T) | |
| Timing system | Timing Chain | |
| Oil type | API SN/SP 0W-20 or 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The VTEC system and turbocharger provide exhilarating performance but require strict adherence to maintenance schedules. The timing chain is designed for longevity but should be inspected if unusual noise is detected. Using the correct low-viscosity oil is critical for turbocharger health and minimizing oil dilution. High-performance driving demands high-quality fuel and periodic checks of the intercooler and boost system.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/SP specification oil (Honda Service Manual 14-20 Civic Type R). Viscosity grade depends on ambient temperature and driving conditions.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 6 standards for model years 2014-2020 (Honda Emissions Certification Docs, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Power figures are for stock, unmodified engines (Honda Group PT-2016).
Honda Technical Information System (Helm): Service Manual 14-20 Civic Type R
Honda Service Bulletin Database: SIB 16-088
Honda Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. H-L15B3-001
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda L15B3 was used across Honda's FK platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring parts interchangeability across all model years. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing chain cover (Honda Service Manual 14-20 Civic Type R). The 8th digit of the VIN for Civic Type R models is typically 'R' for the L15B3. Visually, it can be identified by its red valve cover labeled "VTEC TURBO" and the prominent turbocharger assembly. Critical differentiation from other L15 variants: The L15B3 is a high-performance turbocharged engine with direct injection, unlike the naturally aspirated L15B7. Service parts like the turbocharger, ECU, and fuel system components are unique to this variant.
The L15B3's primary maintenance consideration is managing oil dilution under specific driving conditions, as documented in Honda service bulletins. While the engine is robust, high-performance use demands strict adherence to maintenance schedules. Aggressive driving without proper warm-up or cool-down can accelerate wear on the turbocharger and clutch.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2014-2020) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA L15B3.
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