What is the engine code for a 1991 Honda Civic?
There isn’t a single engine code for all 1991 Civics—the code varies by market and trim. In the D-series era, common families include D13, D15, and D16, but the exact code depends on the car’s origin and specification.
In this article, we explain what engine codes mean, outline the typical engine-family options you might encounter for a 1991 Civic, and show you how to identify the exact code on your own vehicle. Readers should verify the precise code on their specific car, since regional and trim differences were common that year.
Understanding engine codes
Engine codes are shorthand used by Honda to identify the exact engine model, displacement, and features in a given car. For 1991 Civics, these codes come from the D-series family and related variants. The code is typically stamped on the engine block or found on a tag near the cylinder head, and it helps with parts compatibility, maintenance intervals, and service documentation.
Common engine code families for 1991 Civics
Here is a quick overview of the main engine families you might encounter on a 1991 Civic, depending on market and trim. This is not an exhaustive list, but it covers the most frequently seen families in that era:
- D13 family — around 1.3 liters; used in smaller or regional variants and early-year Civics.
- D15 family — around 1.5 liters; widely used in many North American Civics for base and mid-range trims.
- D16 family — around 1.6 liters; used in some trims and markets, including higher-output or later-entry variants.
Note: The exact engine code on any given 1991 Civic depends on the market (US, Europe, Asia, etc.) and the specific model/trim. Always verify with a direct check of the engine block or the official documentation for your car.
How to identify your exact engine code
To determine the precise code for your vehicle, follow these steps. The following list helps you locate and confirm the engine code on your 1991 Civic:
- Open the hood and inspect the front side of the engine block or the area around the timing belt/chain cover for a stamped code (e.g., D15B7, D16Z6, etc.).
- Check the valve cover or timing cover for an engraved plate or sticker that lists the engine code.
- Consult the vehicle’s VIN and service records; in some markets, the VIN or build sheet can be correlated to the engine family.
- Cross-check the code with a reputable Honda parts catalog or dealer service bulletin to confirm the exact specification for that year and market.
If you’re unsure after these checks, photograph the engine bay and ask a qualified mechanic or a Honda dealership to verify the exact engine code for your car.
Market variations and trim notes
The 1991 Civic lineup varied by region, so engine options and codes differed between the United States, Europe, Japan, and other markets. Base models commonly used smaller D-series engines, while higher trims and market-specific variants could use different displacements or configurations. For precise matching, rely on the engine stamping, VIN decoding, and official documentation for your car’s market and build date.
Summary
In short, there is no single engine code universal to all 1991 Honda Civics. The correct code depends on the car’s market and trim. Engine codes in that era typically fall within the D-series family, including D13, D15, and D16 varieties, with the exact designation revealed by the engine block stamping or official documentation. Always verify the code on your vehicle to ensure accurate parts and service references.
