The Honda L15BB is a 1,498 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with VTEC on the exhaust cam. In standard form, it delivers 134 kW (182 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, with its i-VTEC system optimizing valve timing for efficiency and low-rpm responsiveness.
Fitted primarily to the FK8 Civic Type R and FK7 Civic Si, the L15BB was engineered for high-revving performance and track-capable durability. It offers a linear power delivery characteristic of Honda, paired with strong mid-range torque from its turbocharger. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and precise fuel metering, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump cam follower, which can lead to pump failure and engine stalling. This issue, highlighted in Honda Service Bulletin A17-042, is attributed to insufficient lubrication under high-load conditions. Honda issued revised cam follower and pump designs for affected model years.
Honda
Production years 2015–2023 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-L15BB).
The Honda L15BB is a 1,498 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance hatchbacks (2015-2023). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger and i-VTEC to deliver a broad, flat torque curve and high-revving character. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances track-focused performance with road legality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve, i-VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 89.5 mm | |
| Power output | 134 kW (182 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 2,100–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 (or 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 97 kg |
The turbocharged i-VTEC design provides exhilarating acceleration but requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 95+) to prevent knock and protect the high-pressure fuel system. The 0W-20 oil specification is critical for optimal VTEC operation and turbo bearing lubrication. The high-pressure fuel pump cam follower is a known wear point; owners should heed any fuel pressure warnings and consider preventative replacement per Honda SIB A17-042. The GPF requires the use of low-ash oil to prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 specification (Honda Owner's Manual). 5W-30 is an acceptable alternative in some climates.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-L15BB).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel or higher (Honda TIS Doc. L15BB-A26015).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L15BB-A24680, L15BB-A25142, SIB A17-042
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/HON-L15BB)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda L15BB was used exclusively in Honda's FK7/FK8 Civic platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations but featured model-specific ECU tuning-FK8 Type R for maximum power and FK7 Si for a broader torque curve. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the alternator (Honda TIS L15BB-A24890). The 8th VIN digit for FK8 Type R is 'R'; for FK7 Si, it is 'F'. The L15BB can be visually identified by its red valve cover (Type R) or black valve cover (Si) and the prominent top-mounted intercooler. Critical differentiation from the L15BE: The L15BB uses a mechanical high-pressure fuel pump driven by a cam follower, while the L15BE uses a different pump design. Service parts are generally interchangeable between FK7 and FK8, but ECU software is model-specific.
The L15BB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in high-performance or track-driven applications. Honda service data indicates a notable number of replacements under warranty, while owner reports frequently cite sudden stalling. Sustained high RPM and inadequate lubrication make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2017-2023) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA L15BB.
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.
