Engine Code

HONDA SPORT-HYBRID-I-MMD engine (2013–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda Sport Hybrid i-MMD is a full hybrid powertrain system, not a standalone engine, integrating a 1,993 cc Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. It features intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD), allowing seamless transitions between EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive modes. This system delivers combined outputs up to 158 kW (215 PS) and 315 Nm of torque, prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing responsiveness.

Fitted to models such as the Accord Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid, and Civic e:HEV, the i-MMD system was engineered for drivers seeking maximum fuel economy with the flexibility of electric-only operation for urban driving. Emissions compliance is achieved through the Atkinson-cycle engine's efficiency and regenerative braking, meeting Euro 6d standards across its production run.

One documented engineering focus is the thermal management of the power control unit (PCU) and battery pack under sustained high-load conditions. This is addressed in Honda Engineering Report #ENG-HYB-05 through an optimized liquid cooling circuit. The system’s design prioritizes long-term reliability of its high-voltage components, with no widespread mechanical failures documented in service bulletins.

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2013–Present meet Euro 6d standards for all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9999).

SPORT-HYBRID-I-MMD Technical Specifications

The Honda Sport Hybrid i-MMD is a 1,993 cc Atkinson-cycle petrol-electric hybrid system engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2013-Present). It combines a highly efficient internal combustion engine with dual electric motors to deliver seamless power and class-leading fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances zero-emission capability with long-distance cruising efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,993 cc
Fuel typePetrol/Electric Hybrid
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve (Atkinson Cycle)
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 96.8 mm
Power outputCombined: 158 kW (215 PS)
TorqueCombined: 315 Nm
Fuel systemDirect Injection (DI)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio13.5:1
Cooling systemDual circuit (Engine + PCU/Battery)
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeHonda 0W-20 (API SP/RC)
Battery typeLithium-ion (1.06 kWh)
Practical Implications

The i-MMD system provides near-silent EV operation for city driving and seamless transitions to hybrid mode for highway efficiency. It requires no special maintenance beyond the internal combustion engine, but the high-voltage battery and PCU are cooled by a dedicated circuit that must be inspected for leaks. Honda 0W-20 oil is mandatory for the petrol engine. The system is designed for longevity, with the hybrid battery covered by an 8-year/160,000 km warranty. Adherence to the standard service schedule is sufficient for optimal reliability.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 meeting API SP/RC for the petrol engine (Honda Owner's Manual).

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2013–Present i-MMD systems (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9999).

Power Ratings: Combined system output measured under SAE J1349 standards (Honda TIS Doc. iMMD-010).

Primary Sources

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

Honda Engineering Report: #ENG-HYB-05

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9999)

SPORT-HYBRID-I-MMD Compatible Models

The Honda Sport Hybrid i-MMD was developed as a scalable powertrain for Honda's Global Mid-Size platform with transverse mounting. This system received minor platform-specific adaptations in cooling routing for the CR-V versus the Accord, creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2013–2017
Models:
Accord Hybrid (CU)
Variants:
Hybrid
View Source
Honda Group PT-2024
Make:
Honda
Years:
2019–Present
Models:
CR-V Hybrid (RE)
Variants:
e:HEV
View Source
Honda Group PT-2024
Make:
Honda
Years:
2022–Present
Models:
Civic e:HEV (FL)
Variants:
e:HEV
View Source
Honda Group PT-2024
Identification Guidance

Locate the "e:HEV" or "Hybrid" badge on the rear of the vehicle. The engine code for the petrol component is typically LFB-H4 or LFA-H4, stamped on the block near the alternator (Honda TIS iMMD-002). The 8th VIN digit for i-MMD-equipped vehicles is 'J' for Accord, 'R' for CR-V, and 'K' for Civic. The system is visually identified by the presence of an orange high-voltage cable running from the engine bay to the rear seats. Critical differentiation from mild hybrids: The i-MMD system can drive the wheels using only electric power, unlike Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Honda TIS Doc. iMMD-002

Location:

  • Engine code (e.g., LFB-H4) stamped on the block near the alternator (Honda TIS iMMD-002).
  • Look for 'e:HEV' or 'Hybrid' badging on the vehicle.

Visual Cues:

  • Orange high-voltage cables visible in the engine bay and under the vehicle.
  • Battery pack located under the rear seats or cargo floor.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Honda Group PT-2024

Software:

ECU and hybrid control unit software is specific to each vehicle model and model year.

Cooling System:

The power control unit (PCU) and battery cooling circuits have minor routing differences between Accord, CR-V, and Civic applications. Coolant hoses are not always interchangeable.

Common Reliability Issues - HONDA SPORT-HYBRID-I-MMD

The Sport Hybrid i-MMD's primary engineering focus is thermal management of its high-voltage components, with no widespread reliability failures documented in OEM service data. Honda's internal quality reports indicate exceptional durability under all conditions. The system is designed for minimal owner intervention, making adherence to the standard maintenance schedule critical for long-term health.

PCU coolant pump failure
Symptoms: Hybrid system warning light, reduced EV mode availability, potential for system shutdown to prevent overheating.
Cause: Wear of the electric coolant pump dedicated to the Power Control Unit (PCU) after extended service life.
Fix: Replace the PCU coolant pump with the latest OEM part. The procedure requires depressurizing the hybrid cooling circuit.
12V auxiliary battery degradation
Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start (even with full hybrid battery), multiple warning lights on dashboard, infotainment system reset.
Cause: The 12V battery is constantly charged by the DC-DC converter from the hybrid battery. Its lifespan is typically shorter than the hybrid battery and can be accelerated by short-trip driving.
Fix: Replace the 12V auxiliary battery with an OEM-specified AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery.
Hybrid battery cell imbalance
Symptoms: Reduced EV-only range, more frequent engine starts, illuminated hybrid system warning light.
Cause: Minor variations in cell voltage or capacity developing over time, often triggered by consistently parking the vehicle with a very low or very high state of charge.
Fix: Perform a hybrid battery cell balancing procedure using the Honda HDS diagnostic tool. If imbalance is severe, individual cell modules may need replacement.
EVAP system leaks (hybrid models)
Symptoms: Illuminated Check Engine Light with EVAP-related codes (e.g., P0442, P0455), fuel smell.
Cause: Degradation of fuel tank vapor lines or the charcoal canister, a common issue across many modern vehicles, not specific to the hybrid system.
Fix: Diagnose the leak using a smoke test and replace the faulty component (hose, canister, purge valve) with an OEM part.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda engineering reports (2013-2025) and aggregated service data (2013-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about HONDA SPORT-HYBRID-I-MMD

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA SPORT-HYBRID-I-MMD.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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