The Honda N22B2 is a 2,199 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2015. It features port fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and i — VTEC variable valve timing. This engine delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 202 Nm of torque, with i — VTEC enabling a broad, efficient powerband for smooth urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the ninth — generation Accord (CU) and the second — generation CR — V (RM) across select global market…
Honda
All production years (2012–2015) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/HON/3456).
The Honda N22B2 is a 2,199 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2012-2015). It combines port fuel injection with i-VTEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low-to-mid range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances refinement with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,199 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
Torque | 202 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Port Fuel Injection (PFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Honda 5W-30 | |
Dry weight | Approx. 150 kg |
The Honda N22B2 was used exclusively in Honda's CU/RM platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations, but software calibrations varied slightly between the Accord and CR-V applications. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The N22B2's primary reliability risk is VTC solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes. Honda service data indicates a notable failure rate before 120,000 km in affected batches, while owner reports frequently cite issues after extended service intervals. Poor oil quality or infrequent changes increases solenoid wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2012-2015) and aggregated service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The N22B2 is generally very reliable with a simple, robust design. The main concern is the VTC solenoid, which can fail if oil changes are neglected. With proactive maintenance—using the correct 5W-30 oil and changing it on schedule—it can easily last 250,000+ km. The timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime.
The most frequent issue is VTC solenoid failure, causing rough idle and engine codes. Other common, less critical issues include minor carbon buildup on valves, very minor oil consumption within Honda's specifications, and wear of engine mounts leading to increased vibration. These are documented in Honda service bulletins.
The N22B2 was used in the ninth-generation Honda Accord (CU chassis, 2012-2015) and the fourth-generation Honda CR-V (RM chassis, 2012-2015) in select markets, primarily in Europe and Asia. In the CR-V, it was marketed as the 2.2 i-VTEC.
Tuning potential is very limited due to its naturally aspirated design and focus on refinement. Simple ECU remaps yield minimal gains (5-10 PS). Significant power increases would require forced induction (turbo/supercharger), which is a complex and costly modification not supported by Honda.
Official combined figures are good, typically around 7.5-8.5 L/100km (33-38 mpg UK) for the Accord and 8.0-9.0 L/100km (31-35 mpg UK) for the CR-V. Real-world economy is very good: expect 9-11 L/100km (25-31 mpg UK) in city driving, and 6.5-7.5 L/100km (38-43 mpg UK) on steady highway runs.
Yes. Like virtually all modern Honda engines, the N22B2 is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare), the pistons would collide with the valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable.
Honda recommends 5W-30 synthetic oil for optimal performance and VTC solenoid protection. Always use a high-quality, fully synthetic oil meeting Honda's specifications (ACEA A5/B5 or equivalent).
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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