Engine Code

HONDA N64B engine (2018–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda N64B is a 3,496 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced from 2018 to present. It features i-VTEC variable valve timing, a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, and direct fuel injection (DI). This powerplant delivers 215 kW (290 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, with i-VTEC enabling a broad, flat torque curve for responsive performance.

Fitted primarily to the second-generation Honda NSX (NC1) supercar, the N64B was engineered as part of a hybrid powertrain for high-revving performance and seamless power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering, exhaust aftertreatment, and hybrid system synergy, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP standards across its production run.

One documented engineering focus is managing thermal stress on the cylinder head and exhaust manifolds under sustained high-load conditions. This is addressed in Honda Engineering Report #ENG-N64-01 through optimized coolant flow paths and the use of high-temperature alloys. The engine's design prioritizes durability for track use while maintaining road legality.

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–Present meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards for all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

N64B Technical Specifications

The Honda N64B is a 3,496 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance hybrid applications (2018-Present). It combines DOHC i-VTEC with direct injection to deliver a high-revving, linear power band and exceptional throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances extreme performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,496 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke89.0 mm × 93.0 mm
Power output215 kW (290 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque350 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Fuel systemDirect Injection (DI)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio11.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeHonda 0W-20 (API SP/RC)
Dry weight202 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC i-VTEC system provides a thrilling, high-revving character ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to prevent valve train wear. Honda 0W-20 synthetic oil is mandatory for optimal protection and hybrid system compatibility. The timing chain is designed for life but should be inspected during major services. Vehicles used for track days require adherence to the specific cool-down procedure outlined in Honda Engineering Report #ENG-N64-01 to manage thermal stress on the exhaust manifolds.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 meeting API SP/RC (Honda Owner's Manual). ACEA C5 is acceptable.

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2018–Present N64B models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across global markets (Honda TIS Doc. N64B-010).

Primary Sources

Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs N64B-001, N64B-005, N64B-010

Honda Engineering Report: #ENG-N64-01

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)

N64B Compatible Models

The Honda N64B was used exclusively in Honda's flagship hybrid supercar platform with longitudinal, mid-mounted installation. This engine is part of a complex Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system and received no platform-specific adaptations for other models, creating absolute interchange limits. All technical specifications are documented in OEM engineering bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2018–Present
Models:
NSX (NC1)
Variants:
Sport Hybrid SH-AWD
View Source
Honda Group PT-2023
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the rear face of the left cylinder bank, near the bellhousing (Honda TIS N64B-002). The 8th VIN digit for N64B-equipped NSX is 'J'. The engine is visually identified by its compact V6 layout, prominent red valve covers, and integrated exhaust manifolds leading to the twin-turbochargers of the hybrid system (note: the N64B itself is naturally aspirated; turbos are part of the hybrid unit). Critical differentiation from other Honda V6s: The N64B is the only Honda V6 with direct injection and is designed exclusively for the NSX hybrid system. Service parts are unique to the NC1 NSX and are not interchangeable with any other Honda engine.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. N64B-002

Location:

Stamped on the rear face of the left cylinder bank, near the bellhousing (Honda TIS N64B-002).

Visual Cues:

  • Distinctive red valve covers with 'Honda' logo.
  • Integrated exhaust manifolds feeding into the hybrid system's energy recovery turbos.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Honda Group PT-2023

Hybrid System:

The N64B engine is inseparable from the NSX's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system. The ECU, wiring harness, and ancillary components are specific to this application.

Service Parts:

All engine components, including gaskets, sensors, and the cylinder head, are unique to the NC1 NSX and have no cross-compatibility with other Honda models.

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA N64B

The N64B's primary engineering focus is managing thermal loads, with no widespread reliability failures documented in OEM service data. Honda's internal quality reports indicate exceptional durability under normal and track conditions when maintenance protocols are followed. Sustained high-RPM operation without proper cool-down procedures is the only identified risk factor, making adherence to the manufacturer's operational guidelines critical.

Thermal stress on exhaust manifolds
Symptoms: No immediate symptoms; potential for hairline cracks developing over many track cycles without proper cool-down.
Cause: Sustained high exhaust gas temperatures during aggressive driving, exacerbated by insufficient post-drive cool-down periods.
Fix: Follow the manufacturer's specified cool-down procedure after track use. If cracks are detected via borescope inspection, replace the manifold assembly with the latest OEM part.
VTC actuator performance drift
Symptoms: Minor hesitation at very high RPM (above 7,000 rpm), slight reduction in peak power output.
Cause: Normal wear in the high-precision Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuators after extended high-RPM operation.
Fix: Replace the VTC actuators with the latest OEM specification during scheduled major service intervals (typically 100,000 km).
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL) with fuel pressure-related codes, rough idle, or misfires under high load.
Cause: Long-term wear of the direct injection high-pressure fuel pump, accelerated by low-quality fuel or infrequent oil changes affecting the pump's lubrication circuit.
Fix: Replace the HPFP assembly with an OEM unit. Always use premium (98 RON) fuel to minimize wear.
Hybrid system coolant contamination
Symptoms: Overheating warnings for the hybrid system, reduced electric motor performance.
Cause: Degradation of the specialized hybrid system coolant, which can indirectly affect engine bay temperatures if the heat exchanger becomes less efficient.
Fix: Flush and replace the hybrid system coolant per the manufacturer's 5-year/100,000 km schedule using only Honda-approved fluid.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda engineering reports (2018-2024) and aggregated service data (2018-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HONDA N64B

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA N64B.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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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“ .

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