What engine does a 1990 Honda Accord have?
The short answer: a 1990 Honda Accord in most markets used four-cylinder engines of 2.0 or 2.2 liters, depending on trim and region. There was no factory V6 option in the U.S. lineup for that model year.
To understand what your particular car has, you need to know its market and trim. The 1990 Accord spanned several regions with slightly different engines and tuning, but generally relied on reliable inline-four powerplants rather than larger V6 options. This article outlines the typical engine choices and how to verify the exact specification for a given vehicle.
Engine options by market
In the United States, Canada, and most other markets where the fifth-generation Accord was sold in 1990, the two four-cylinder options were commonly used:
- 2.0-liter inline-four engine (a smaller, more fuel-efficient option used on base models).
- 2.2-liter inline-four engine (a larger option typically found on higher-trim models).
Both engines were paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim and buyer preference. The exact horsepower and torque varied slightly by market and emission equipment.
Regional variations and how to verify your engine
Outside North America, engine availability could differ by country, with similar displacement ranges but different tuning, emissions specs, and sometimes minor design changes. If you’re restoring or buying a 1990 Accord, the best way to confirm is to check the engine code plate under the hood or consult theVIN and original window sticker.
Summary
For a 1990 Honda Accord, expect one of two four-cylinder engines: a 2.0-liter or a 2.2-liter inline-four. Your exact configuration depends on the car’s market and trim. Check the engine code or official documentation to identify the precise specification.
What type of engine is in a Honda Accord?
The modern Honda Accord has two primary powertrain options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (192 hp) and a 2.0-liter hybrid system (204 hp). The specific engine depends on the trim level, with the gas engine usually in the base LX and SE models, and the hybrid system in the Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid trims.
Standard gas engine
- Engine: 1.5-liter, turbocharged, inline 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 192 hp
- Torque: 192 lb.-ft.
- Available in: LX and SE trims
Hybrid powertrain
- Engine: 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine combined with a two-motor hybrid system
- Horsepower: 204 hp (system total)
- Torque: 247 lb.-ft.
- Available in: Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid trims
What problems are common in a 1990 Accord?
Top 1990 Honda Accord Problems
- "No Start" Due to Ignition Switch Failure.
- Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing.
- Radio/Climate Control Display May Go Dark.
- Faulty Door Lock Actuator May Cause Power Door Locks to Activate Intermittently.
- Warped Front Brake Rotors May Cause Vibration When Braking.
How much is a 1990 Honda Accord worth?
The value of a used 1990 Honda Accord ranges from $826 to $5,193, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Can I put 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 on a Honda Accord?
You can likely use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in your Honda Accord, but you should check your owner's manual first, as the recommended oil can vary by model year and engine. Using a slightly thicker oil is sometimes done for older or high-mileage engines, but it may slightly decrease fuel economy, as the lighter 5W-20 is often specified for better efficiency.
Potential effects of using 5W-30
- Fuel economy: Thicker oil requires more energy to pump, which can lead to a slight reduction in gas mileage.
- Engine performance: Engineers design engines for specific oil viscosities. Sticking to the recommended 5W-20 ensures optimal performance and protection according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Engine wear: In some cases, using a heavier oil in a high-mileage engine might be beneficial, especially if you're experiencing oil consumption issues. Some mechanics recommend a 5W-30 in older Honda engines to help with this, but it can also increase engine friction if the engine wasn't designed for it.
What to do
- Check your owner's manual: The most important step is to consult your car's owner's manual for the exact oil viscosity recommendation for your specific model and engine.
- Consult a mechanic: If you're concerned about your engine's performance or have a high-mileage vehicle, a mechanic can provide advice tailored to your car's condition.
