What is the engine code on a Honda?
The engine code is the alphanumeric identifier that designates Honda's engine family and variant (for example B16A or K20A2).
In Honda vehicles, this code is stamped on the engine block or listed on a plate in the engine bay. It helps you identify the exact engine you have for parts, maintenance, and swaps.
What the engine code means
Honda uses letter-number combinations to designate engine families and generations. The first letter identifies the family (B, D, F, H, J, K, L, etc.); the numbers indicate displacement and generation; trailing letters (and sometimes a final number) denote revisions, region-specific variants, or performance specs. A few common examples include B16A (1.6L from the B-series), K20A2 (2.0L from the K-series), and F20C (2.0L used in the S2000).
Decoding the format
Understanding the code helps you match parts and manuals across years. In general:
- The initial letter points to the engine family (e.g., B-, D-, K-).
- The numbers indicate displacement and generation within that family.
- Trailing letters or digits show revisions, market-specific variants, or performance tweaks.
With this knowledge, you can more accurately source compatible components and service information.
Where to find the engine code
The engine code can be found in several places on a Honda, depending on model year and engine family. The following locations are the most reliable starting points:
- Stamped onto the engine block near the transmission bellhousing (often on the front or side of the block).
- On the valve cover or a plate attached to the cylinder head.
- On a metal tag or sticker under the hood within the engine bay, sometimes on the radiator support or near the emissions/VIN label.
- In the owner’s manual or service brochure, and on the under-hood emissions label in newer models.
Locating the code is the first step to confirm exact specifications and parts compatibility.
Common Honda engine code families and example codes
Below are the major engine families Honda used over the years, with representative codes to illustrate the format. The exact code on your car may vary by model and year.
Representative engine families
- B-series: B16A, B18C (1.6–1.8L engines used in Civics, Integras, and many Honda/Acura models).
- D-series: D16Y8, D17A (1.3–1.7L engines used in Civics and related compact models).
- K-series: K20A, K24A (modern, widely used across Civics, Accords, and more for performance and efficiency).
- H-series: H22A, H23A (older, larger-displacement engines used in various chassis).
- F-series: F20C (2.0L introduced in the S2000, known for high-rev performance).
- J-series: J35A (3.5L V6 used in certain Honda/Acura models).
- L-series: L15B7, L15B (1.5L variants used in newer small Hondas).
These codes help you identify compatibility for parts, manuals, and engine swaps. The exact variant depends on year, market, and trim level.
How to use the engine code in practice
When you need parts or service information, the engine code is your primary reference. Use it to search Honda's official parts catalogs, repair manuals, and cross-reference guides. If you're swapping or ordering a remanufactured engine, verify that the code matches the target vehicle's year and market.
- Find and note your engine code from the engine block, valve cover, or under-hood label.
- Use the code along with your model year to search official Honda catalogs and reputable parts retailers.
- Cross-check part numbers, service bulletins, and compatibility notes to ensure a correct match.
- When in doubt, consult a dealer or accredited shop with your VIN and engine code to confirm compatibility.
Having the correct engine code saves time and reduces the risk of ordering incorrect parts or mis-matching engines.
Summary
In short, the engine code on a Honda is the alphanumeric identifier of the engine family and variant, found stamped on the block or on a hood/inbay label. It’s essential for ordering parts, looking up service information, and ensuring compatibility when swapping engines. Check common locations and use the code with model-year context when researching parts or manuals.
