What is the engine code for the 10th generation Civic?
In brief: there isn’t a single engine code for the 10th-generation Civic. Honda used two main codes depending on variant: L15B7 for the 1.5-liter turbo, and K20C1 for the 2.0-liter turbo used in the Civic Type R. The Civic Si generally relies on the 1.5-liter turbo with a performance-oriented calibration.
Overview of the 10th-generation engines
The 10th-generation Civic lineup relies on two core powertrain themes, identified by engine codes rather than a single model-wide label.
L15B7 — 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
The 1.5L turbo engine, part of Honda’s Earth Dreams technology, powers most mainstream Civics (LX, EX, EX-L, Touring) and serves as the basis for the sportier Si in many markets. The engine code for this family is L15B7.
- Used across the majority of trims with turbocharged efficiency and responsive performance.
- In several markets, the same engine family is tuned differently for the Si, delivering a sportier calibration while retaining the L15B7 code.
The L15B7 family represents the backbone of the 10th-generation Civics, with engine code identification helping with parts, service, and recalls.
K20C1 — 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
The Civic Type R (FK8) uses a higher-performance 2.0-liter turbo engine, whose official code is K20C1. This engine marks the performance pinnacle of the 10th-generation Civic lineup.
- Pairing with a high-output calibration and typically a performance-focused transmission setup.
- Distinct from the L15B7 family, it represents Honda’s dedicated high-performance powerplant within the same generation.
The K20C1 engine code signals the Type R’s unique powertrain within the 10th-generation Civic family.
How to verify the engine code on your Civic
Because model years and markets vary, it’s wise to confirm your specific engine code directly on the vehicle.
- Check the under-hood stamping or engine bay label for the engine family and code.
- Consult the owner’s manual or service booklet, which lists the engine code for your VIN.
- Use the VIN with Honda’s official tools or a dealer’s system to retrieve the exact engine code for your car.
Accurate engine code identification helps with parts compatibility, service notes, and recall notices.
Additional notes by market
In many regions, the mainstream Civic runs the 1.5-liter turbo (L15B7) with local emissions-compliant tuning, while the Type R maintains the dedicated 2.0-liter turbo (K20C1) for performance-focused variants. The Si often employs the same 1.5-liter turbo family with a sport-oriented calibration, depending on the market.
Summary
The 10th-generation Honda Civic does not have a single engine code. The most common code is L15B7 for the 1.5-liter turbo powering most trims, and the high-performance Civic Type R uses K20C1 for its 2.0-liter turbo engine. Always verify the exact code for your vehicle via the owner's manual, data plate, or VIN lookup to ensure accuracy for parts, service, and recalls.
