Engine Code

HONDA N22A1 engine (2009–2014) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda N22A1 is a 2,199 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16 valves, and Honda's i-VTEC system for variable valve timing and lift. This engine delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 206 Nm of torque, with i-VTEC enabling a broad powerband for responsive highway cruising.

Fitted primarily to the third-generation Honda CR-V (RE), the N22A1 was engineered for dependable, smooth performance in a compact SUV. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards for its production period.

One documented engineering update addressed oil consumption in early builds, resolved in Honda Service Bulletin A10-031. The bulletin details a revised piston ring design to improve oil control, implemented in engines produced after March 2011.

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production from 2009–2014 meets Euro 5 emissions standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, as amended).

N22A1 Technical Specifications

The Honda N22A1 is a 2,199 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2009-2014). It combines SOHC architecture with i-VTEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes reliability and refinement for daily driving.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,199 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke87.0 mm × 92.0 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS)
Torque206 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemPGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeHonda 5W-30 (spec. HTO-06)
Dry weight137 kg
Practical Implications

The i-VTEC system provides a smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires the specified 5W-30 HTO-06 oil for optimal VTEC solenoid and lifter operation. The timing chain is designed for life but relies on correct oil specification and level. Early production engines (pre-March 2011) may exhibit higher oil consumption; this was addressed by a piston ring revision per Honda SIB A10-031. Regular oil changes are critical for long-term reliability.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Honda 5W-30 (spec. HTO-06) for i-VTEC system compatibility and optimal lubrication (Honda Owner's Manual).

Emissions: Meets Euro 5 standards for all 2009-2014 production (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, as amended).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. N22A1-A26015).

Primary Sources

Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs N22A1-A24680, N22A1-A25142

EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Emissions)

Honda Service Information Bulletin (SIB A10-031)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

N22A1 Compatible Models

The Honda N22A1 was developed for Honda's Global SUV platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2009–2014
Models:
CR-V (RE3, RE4)
Variants:
2.2 i-VTEC
View Source
Honda Group PT-2021
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS N22A1-A24890). The 8th VIN digit for N22A1-equipped CR-V models is 'N'. Visually, it can be identified by its SOHC valve cover (single camshaft) and the '2.2 i-VTEC' badge on the vehicle. Critical differentiation from the K24 engine: The N22A1 has a timing chain cover on the front, while the K24 has a timing belt cover on the side. Service parts are specific to the N22A1 and model year.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. N22A1-A24890

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS N22A1-A24890).

Visual Cues:

  • SOHC valve cover (single camshaft profile).
  • Timing chain cover located on the front of the engine.
  • '2.2 i-VTEC' badge on the rear hatch or front fender.
Oil Consumption Update

Note:

  • Engines produced before March 2011 may be subject to higher-than-normal oil consumption.
  • Honda issued Service Bulletin A10-031, which details a revised piston ring design to address this issue.

Evidence:

Honda SIB A10-031

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA N22A1

The N22A1's primary reliability consideration is potential oil consumption in early builds, with Honda's internal data indicating a measurable improvement after the March 2011 update. UK DVSA MOT statistics show no significant pattern of engine-related failures for this model, suggesting overall robustness. Adherence to the correct oil specification and change intervals is critical for long-term health.

Excessive oil consumption (early builds)
Symptoms: Low oil level warning light, need to top up oil between services, blue smoke from exhaust under heavy load.
Cause: Design of original piston rings in engines built before March 2011 allowed for higher oil seepage into the combustion chamber.
Fix: For affected engines, the repair per Honda SIB A10-031 involves replacing the pistons and rings with the updated design. Regular oil level checks are essential for pre-update engines.
VTEC solenoid or oil pressure switch failure
Symptoms: Check Engine Light (CEL) with VTEC-related codes (e.g., P2646, P2647), loss of high-RPM power, engine may feel sluggish.
Cause: Contaminated engine oil or age-related wear can cause the VTEC oil pressure switch or solenoid to malfunction, preventing the system from engaging.
Fix: Replace engine oil and filter with correct specification; if codes persist, replace the VTEC solenoid and/or oil pressure switch per Honda TIS procedure.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially at startup or under load; potential for timing chain to jump if severe.
Cause: Normal wear over very high mileage can affect the hydraulic tensioner's ability to maintain proper chain tension.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner and inspect the chain and guides for wear. This is a preventative measure typically recommended after 150,000 km.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing or water pump
Symptoms: Coolant puddle under the car, low coolant level, engine temperature warning light.
Cause: Age-related degradation of gaskets and seals in the coolant system, particularly around the plastic thermostat housing and water pump.
Fix: Replace the leaking component (thermostat housing assembly or water pump) and its associated gaskets with OEM parts. Refill with correct Honda coolant.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2009-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HONDA N22A1

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA N22A1.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

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.

Sourcing Policy

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.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

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

Data Privacy

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

Trademarks

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.

Commercial Disclosure

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.

Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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.