The Honda N36A is a 3,664 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features port fuel injection, single overhead camshafts (SOHC) per bank, and VTEC variable valve timing. In standard applications, it delivers 206 kW (280 PS) and 367 Nm of torque, with VTEC enabling a broad power band for relaxed highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the second — generation Honda Accord (CP2/3) and the Acura TL (UA8) in North America, the N36A was engineere…
Honda
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards across all applicable markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
The Honda N36A is a 3,664 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engineered for executive sedans (2008-2015). It combines port fuel injection with SOHC VTEC to deliver smooth, linear power and exceptional refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes comfort and long-distance capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,664 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, SOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 90.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
Power output | 206 kW (280 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
Torque | 367 Nm @ 5,000 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-20 (or 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 176 kg |
The Honda N36A was used across Honda's CP/UA platform with transverse mounting and was exclusive to Honda/Acura. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the TL for higher performance-and from 2011 the facelifted Accord received minor ECU and emissions revisions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The N36A's primary reliability consideration is oil consumption in high-mileage engines, with elevated incidence in vehicles with over 160,000 km. Honda service data indicates this is often due to normal wear, while owner reports frequently cite timing chain tensioner noise. Consistent use of correct oil and adherence to service intervals mitigates most long-term concerns.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2008-2015) and aggregated owner-reported data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Generally, yes. The N36A is a robust and smooth engine. Its main long-term consideration is potential oil consumption in high-mileage examples, which is a documented wear issue rather than a design flaw. With regular oil changes using the correct specification, these engines can easily surpass 250,000 km. The timing chain is generally very durable.
The most common issues are oil consumption in high-mileage engines, timing chain tensioner noise (often due to poor maintenance), VTEC solenoid failures, and worn engine mounts. These are well-documented in Honda service bulletins and are generally manageable with proper servicing.
The N36A was used in the eighth-generation Honda Accord (2008-2015) and the fourth-generation Acura TL (2009-2014) for the North American and European markets. It was not used in the CR-V, Pilot, or any other Honda/Acura model during this period.
Moderately. As a large naturally aspirated engine, significant power gains require forced induction (supercharger/turbo kit), which is complex and expensive. Simple bolt-ons (intake, exhaust, ECU tune) yield modest gains (10-20 PS). The engine responds well to these for a more responsive feel, but major power increases are not cost-effective.
Moderate for its size. A Honda Accord 3.5 V6 typically achieves 9.5-11.5 L/100km (25-30 mpg UK) combined. The heavier Acura TL averages 10.5-12.5 L/100km (23-27 mpg UK). Real-world economy is highly dependent on driving style, with careful driving yielding figures at the lower end of the range.
Yes. Like virtually all modern Honda engines, the N36A is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare with proper maintenance), significant internal engine damage would occur. Regular oil changes are critical for chain longevity.
Honda recommends 5W-20 synthetic oil for optimal fuel economy and engine protection. 5W-30 is also an approved alternative, especially in hotter climates or for high-mileage engines experiencing minor oil consumption. Always use a high-quality, API-certified synthetic oil and change it at recommended intervals.
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