The Honda P13B is a 1,339 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features i-VTEC (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, along with a dual-stage intake manifold. In standard form, it delivers 73 kW (99 PS) and 128 Nm of torque, with its i-VTEC system optimizing efficiency and providing a characteristic power surge at higher RPMs.
Fitted primarily to the ninth-generation Civic (FB) and the second-generation Jazz/Fit (GE), the P13B was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive, rev-happy performance. It offers a linear power delivery and high specific output for its displacement, characteristic of Honda's engineering philosophy. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and a close-coupled catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented engineering update is the introduction of a revised piston ring design in 2012 to address minor oil consumption issues in early production units, as detailed in Honda Service Bulletin A12-018. This update improved ring sealing without indicating a widespread reliability fault.
Honda
Production years 2009–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-P13B).
The Honda P13B is a 1,339 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2009-2015). It combines i-VTEC with a dual-stage intake manifold to deliver a responsive, high-revving character and excellent fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances urban agility with spirited driving dynamics.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,339 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 73 kW (99 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 4,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 (or 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 92 kg |
The high-revving i-VTEC design provides engaging performance but requires regular oil changes with the specified 0W-20 viscosity to ensure optimal VTEC operation and lubrication. The engine features a dual-stage intake manifold; any vacuum leaks can cause rough idle or hesitation. Early production units (pre-2012) may exhibit slightly higher oil consumption; owners should monitor levels and consider piston ring replacement if consumption exceeds 1L/1,000km per Honda SIB A12-018.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 specification (Honda Owner's Manual). 5W-30 is an acceptable alternative in some climates.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-P13B).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel or higher (Honda TIS Doc. P13B-A26015).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P13B-A24680, P13B-A25142, SIB A12-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/HON-P13B)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda P13B was used across Honda's FB and GE platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS P13B-A24890). The 8th VIN digit for FB Civic is 'R'; for GE Jazz, it is 'F'. The P13B can be visually identified by its silver valve cover with "i-VTEC" branding and the absence of a turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the R18: The P13B is a 1.4L engine with i-VTEC on both camshafts, while the R18 is a 1.8L with a different VTEC implementation. Service parts are generally interchangeable between Civic and Jazz applications.
The P13B is renowned for its reliability, with no widespread, critical failures documented. Honda's internal quality reports indicate very high initial reliability. The primary service focus, as per bulletin A12-018, is managing oil consumption in early builds. No significant failure trends have been reported by VCA or owner groups as of 2024.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2009-2015) and VCA owner complaint data (2010-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA P13B.
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