Honda K24A8 Engine Specs and Performance
The K24A8 engine is a well-known member of Honda’s popular K-series family. It’s widely recognized for its reliability, performance, and longevity.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the K24A8 engine, from its specifications to common problems, and what makes it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
What is the K24A8 Engine?
The K24A8 is a 2.4-liter, inline 4-cylinder engine produced by Honda, which is part of the larger K-series engine family.
This engine was commonly found in the Honda Accord between 2003 and 2007, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily drivers.
K24A8 Engine Specifications
If you’re interested in the detailed specs of the K24A8, here’s what you need to know:
- Engine Type: Inline-4, 2.4 liters
- Displacement: 2,354 cc
- Bore x Stroke: 87 mm x 99 mm
- Compression Ratio: 9.7:1
- Horsepower: 166 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 160 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
- Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
- Valve Train: DOHC, 16-valve i-VTEC
- Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection
This engine is known for delivering decent power while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency, making it a practical option for everyday use.
K24A8 Engine Features
The K24A8 engine comes equipped with several features that enhance both performance and efficiency:
- i-VTEC Technology: Honda’s Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control system optimizes the engine’s valve timing to enhance performance and fuel economy.
- DOHC Configuration: The Double Overhead Camshaft design improves airflow to the engine, boosting power output without sacrificing efficiency.
- Multi-Point Fuel Injection: Ensures precise fuel delivery, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
- Aluminum Block and Cylinder Head: These lightweight materials contribute to better fuel economy and handling.
Applications of the K24A8 Engine
The K24A8 engine is most commonly found in the following vehicles:
- 2003-2007 Honda Accord (EX and LX): This is the most popular application of the K24A8. It provided Accord drivers with a reliable, fuel-efficient engine that had enough power for daily commuting and highway driving.
Why is the K24A8 Popular Among Enthusiasts?
The K24A8 may not be the most powerful engine in Honda’s K-series lineup, but it has developed a strong following among car enthusiasts for several reasons:
- Reliability: Honda engines are known for their longevity, and the K24A8 is no exception. Many owners report these engines lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
- Fuel Efficiency: Despite its size, the K24A8 engine delivers excellent fuel economy, making it a great choice for those who want to save on fuel costs.
- Aftermarket Support: Thanks to the popularity of Honda’s K-series engines, the K24A8 has a wealth of aftermarket support. Whether you’re looking to boost performance or improve reliability, there are plenty of parts available.
- Capability: The K24A8 engine is also popular in the Honda swap community. Its relatively simple design makes it easier to swap into other vehicles for those looking for a reliable yet powerful upgrade.
Common Problems with the K24A8 Engine
Even though the K24A8 is highly reliable, it’s not without its common issues. Here are some potential problems you may encounter:
1. Oil Consumption
Some users report that the K24A8 engine can burn oil, especially in high-mileage vehicles. This is often due to wear on the piston rings or valve seals.
2. Timing Chain Wear
While the K24A8 uses a timing chain instead of a timing belt, which generally requires less maintenance, the timing chain can stretch over time, leading to engine performance issues.
3. Exhaust Manifold Cracking
Another commonly reported issue is the cracking of the exhaust manifold. This can cause an increase in engine noise and lead to a decrease in engine performance if not addressed.
4. Faulty Oxygen Sensors
Like many modern engines, the K24A8 relies on oxygen sensors to regulate the air-fuel mixture. Faulty sensors can lead to poor fuel economy and rough idling.
Maintenance Tips for K24A8 Engine
To keep your K24A8 engine running smoothly for years to come, here are a few essential maintenance tips:
- Regular Oil Changes: Ensure that you’re changing your oil every 5,000-7,500 miles to prevent excessive engine wear.
- Monitor the Timing Chain: While timing chains generally last longer than belts, it’s a good idea to have yours checked every 100,000 miles.
- Keep an Eye on the Exhaust: If you notice an unusual noise from the exhaust, have it inspected for cracks in the manifold.
- Check Oxygen Sensors: If your engine is idling roughly or your fuel economy takes a sudden hit, it may be time to replace your oxygen sensors.
Performance Upgrades for K24A8
If you’re looking to get more power out of your K24A8 engine, here are a few performance upgrades you can consider:
1. Cold Air Intake
Upgrading to a cold air intake can improve airflow to the engine, boosting horsepower and improving throttle response.
2. Exhaust System Upgrade
Swapping out the stock exhaust system for a performance exhaust can help reduce back pressure, allowing the engine to breathe more freely and produce more power.
3. ECU Tuning
An ECU (Engine Control Unit) tune can optimize the air-fuel mixture and ignition timing for better performance. A professional tune can significantly increase both horsepower and torque.
4. Turbocharging
For those looking for serious power gains, adding a turbocharger can give the K24A8 engine a significant boost in performance. Keep in mind that this modification requires additional supporting upgrades, like a stronger fuel system and upgraded internals.
People also ask
What car did the K24A8 come in?
The K24A8 engine was primarily found in the 2003-2007 Honda Accord models, specifically in the EX and LX trims.
It was known for its balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for daily drivers.
What is the difference between K24A8 and K24Z2?
The main difference between the K24A8 and K24Z2 engines lies in their design and technology.
The K24A8 is an older engine, found in 2003-2007 Honda Accords, featuring a simpler i-VTEC system that only operates on the intake camshaft.
In contrast, the K24Z2, used in the 2008-2012 Accords, has a more advanced i-VTEC system, improved emissions, and slightly better fuel efficiency due to its modern design and better integration of emissions controls.
The K24Z2 also has a different exhaust manifold and more refined performance characteristics.
How much horsepower does a K24A have?
The K24A engine typically produces between 160 to 220 horsepower, depending on the specific variant and the vehicle it’s installed in.
What is the most desirable K24?
The K24A2 is considered the most desirable K24 engine, thanks to its higher performance output.
Found in the Acura TSX, it produces around 200-205 horsepower and features a more advanced i-VTEC system, making it popular for performance builds and engine swaps.
Conclusion
The K24A8 engine is a versatile and reliable engine that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re driving a stock Honda Accord or looking to boost your car’s performance, the K24A8 is an excellent choice. With its balance of power, efficiency, and reliability, it’s no surprise that this engine has earned a loyal following among Honda enthusiasts.
I’m Henry Leclerc, a passionate professional car mechanic with a deep love for Honda cars. With years of hands-on experience and extensive knowledge about all Honda car models, I’ve created this website to share my expertise and help fellow Honda enthusiasts keep their vehicles in top-notch condition.
