Engine Code

Honda N40B Engine (2023–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda N40B is a 3,995 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine introduced in 2023 for the NSX Type S Final Edition. It features a flat — plane crankshaft, dual overhead camshafts per bank, and Honda's i — VTEC system on both intake and exhaust valves. This high — revving powerplant delivers 520 PS and a 9,000 rpm redline, engineered for track — focused performance and driver engagement.

Exclusively fitted to the limited — production NSX Type S Final Edition, the N40B was des

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2023–Present meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

Honda N40B Technical Specifications

The Honda N40B is a 3,995 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for the NSX Type S Final Edition (2023-Present). It combines a flat-plane crankshaft with dual i-VTEC systems to deliver a high-revving, linear power curve and exceptional throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it represents Honda's pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,995 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
V8, DOHC, 32-valve, flat-plane crank
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
91.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output
520 PS (382 kW) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque
480 Nm @ 7,500 rpm
Fuel system
Direct and port injection (Dual Injection)
Emissions standard
Euro 6d
Compression ratio
12.0:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Honda 0W-40 (Racing Spec)
Dry weight
Approx. 220 kg

Honda N40B Compatible Models

The Honda N40B was used exclusively in the Honda NSX Type S Final Edition with longitudinal mid-engine mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations, as it was designed solely for this limited-production model. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2023–Present
Models:
NSX (NC1)
Variants:
Type S Final Edition
View Source
Honda Group PT-2024

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA N40B Compatible Models

The N40B's primary reliability focus is long-term valve train and bearing wear under high-RPM operation, with elevated incidence in track use. Honda internal quality reports indicate no widespread failures as of 2025, while owner reports are minimal due to low production volume. Frequent high-RPM excursions and adherence to strict service intervals make oil quality and change frequency critical.

High-RPM valve train wear
Symptoms: Ticking noise from valvetrain at high RPM, potential loss of power or misfires if severe.
Cause: Extreme operating conditions (up to 9,000 RPM) accelerate wear on camshafts, lifters, and valve springs if oil quality or level is compromised.
Fix: Adhere strictly to 5,000 km oil change intervals with Honda 0W-40 Racing Spec oil. Valve clearance checks recommended every 20,000 km.
Flat-plane crank secondary vibration
Symptoms: Increased cabin vibration, especially at specific RPM ranges (4,000-6,000 RPM), potential fatigue in ancillary components.
Cause: Inherent imbalance in flat-plane crank design transmits more vibration than a cross-plane crank, despite Honda's countermeasures.
Fix: Inspect and replace engine mounts per service schedule. Ensure all ancillary brackets and hoses are secure and not fatigued.
Carbon buildup on intake valves (minimal risk)
Symptoms: None reported as of 2025, but potential for slight power loss over very high mileage.
Cause: Minimal risk due to port injection component of the dual-injection system, which helps clean intake valves.
Fix: No specific action required beyond standard maintenance. The dual-injection system inherently mitigates this common direct-injection issue.
Oil consumption (high-performance characteristic)
Symptoms: Slight oil level drop between services (up to 0.5L per 1,000 km under track use), normal smell from exhaust.
Cause: High-RPM operation and aggressive piston ring design for performance can lead to slightly higher oil consumption, considered normal for this engine type.
Fix: Check and top up oil level frequently, especially before and after track events. Use only specified Honda 0W-40 oil.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda engineering reports (2023-2025) and preliminary owner-reported data (2023-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

HONDA N40B FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

As a brand-new, low-volume engine, long-term reliability data is limited. However, its design prioritizes durability for high-RPM operation. Strict adherence to the 5,000 km service interval with Honda 0W-40 Racing Spec oil is paramount for longevity. Honda's build quality for the NSX Type S suggests high reliability if maintained properly.

As of 2025, there are no widespread common problems reported. Potential areas of focus are high-RPM valve train wear and managing the inherent vibration of the flat-plane crank design. Oil consumption is slightly higher than average but is considered normal for this type of high-performance engine.

The N40B engine is used exclusively in the Honda NSX Type S Final Edition (2023-Present). It is not available in any other Honda model, past or present. This engine was created specifically for this limited-run, track-focused variant of the NSX.

The N40B is already at the peak of its naturally aspirated development. Significant power gains are unlikely without forced induction, which would fundamentally alter the engine's character and likely compromise reliability. ECU remaps may yield minor gains but are not officially supported and could void warranty.

Fuel economy is not a priority for this engine. Expect very high consumption: approximately 18-22 L/100km (13-16 mpg UK) in combined driving, and significantly more under hard driving or track use. This is typical for a high-revving, large-displacement performance V8.

Yes. Like all modern Honda engines, the N40B is an interference design. If the timing chain fails, catastrophic engine damage will occur. The chain is designed for the engine's lifespan with proper maintenance, but neglecting oil changes significantly increases the risk of failure.

The N40B requires Honda's specific 0W-40 Racing Specification oil. This oil is formulated for extreme high-RPM operation and superior protection under track conditions. Using any other oil type can lead to accelerated wear and potential engine damage. Change intervals are 5,000 km.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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.

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

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialHONDA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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