The Honda L15ZA is a 1,498 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2022. 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 127 kW (173 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, with its i-VTEC system optimizing valve timing for efficiency and low-rpm responsiveness.
Fitted primarily to the tenth-generation Civic (FC) and CR-V (RV5), the L15ZA was engineered for a balance of spirited performance and daily drivability. It offers a broad torque curve characteristic of modern turbocharged engines, paired with the fuel efficiency expected from Honda. 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 2015–2022 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-L15ZA).
The Honda L15ZA is a 1,498 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and crossover SUVs (2015-2022). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger and i-VTEC to deliver a responsive, broad torque curve and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances urban agility with highway cruising capability.
| 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 | 127 kW (173 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1,700–5,500 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. 95 kg |
The turbocharged i-VTEC design provides strong, accessible performance 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 2015–2022 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-L15ZA).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel or higher (Honda TIS Doc. L15ZA-A26015).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L15ZA-A24680, L15ZA-A25142, SIB A17-042
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/HON-L15ZA)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda L15ZA was used across Honda's FC and RV5 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations but featured model-specific ECU tuning for the Civic and CR-V. 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 L15ZA-A24890). The 8th VIN digit for FC Civic is 'R'; for RV5 CR-V, it is 'F'. The L15ZA can be visually identified by its black valve cover and the prominent top-mounted intercooler. Critical differentiation from the L15B: The L15ZA uses a slightly lower state of tune (173 PS vs. 182 PS) and different ECU mapping. Service parts are generally interchangeable between Civic and CR-V applications.
The L15ZA'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 (2017-2022) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA L15ZA.
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