Does the 1997 Honda Accord LX Have VTEC?
No. In North America, the 1997 Honda Accord LX does not have VTEC. The LX’s 2.2-liter four-cylinder uses the non-VTEC F22B2 engine, and the LX V6 uses the non-VTEC C27A4. VTEC was standard only on the EX trim’s 2.2-liter four-cylinder (F22B1). If your car is a U.S. or Canadian-spec LX—sedan, coupe, or wagon—it was built without VTEC.
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Where VTEC Fits in the 1997 Accord Lineup
Honda offered several trims and two engine families for the fifth-generation Accord’s 1997 model year in North America. Understanding which trims received VTEC helps clarify what’s in the LX.
The following breakdown shows how VTEC was applied across the 1997 Accord range in the U.S. and Canada:
- DX (2.2L I4, F22B2): Non-VTEC
- LX (2.2L I4, F22B2): Non-VTEC
- LX V6 (2.7L V6, C27A4): Non-VTEC
- EX (2.2L I4, F22B1): VTEC
- EX V6 (2.7L V6, C27A4): Non-VTEC
- LX Wagon (2.2L I4, F22B2): Non-VTEC
- Special Edition (SE, LX-based 2.2L I4, F22B2): Non-VTEC
In short, only the EX four-cylinder featured VTEC. All LX variants—four-cylinder, V6, and wagon—were non-VTEC for 1997 in North America.
How to Confirm What’s in Your Car
If you want to verify your engine, there are several quick checks you can perform without specialized tools.
- Look at the valve cover: Most VTEC-equipped Hondas of this era have “VTEC” cast or printed on the valve cover.
- Check the engine code stamp: On the front of the block (near the exhaust manifold), a flat pad shows the code (e.g., F22B2 = non-VTEC, F22B1 = VTEC).
- Inspect for a VTEC solenoid: A small, round, gold/greenish solenoid assembly with an electrical connector on the cylinder head near the distributor indicates VTEC.
- Read the under-hood emissions label: It often lists the engine family and can hint at VTEC vs. non-VTEC.
- Decode the VIN or consult the owner’s manual/window sticker: These documents identify the trim and engine spec as sold.
These steps will reliably distinguish a VTEC F22B1 from a non-VTEC F22B2, even if parts have been swapped over the years.
Why the Difference Matters
VTEC affects power characteristics and parts compatibility. The VTEC F22B1 (EX) makes more horsepower than the non-VTEC F22B2 (LX) and uses different cylinder head components, ECU tuning, and often different intake/exhaust pieces. Knowing your engine helps with maintenance, tuning, and sourcing the correct parts.
Regional and Import Notes
The “LX” designation is specific to North America. Other markets used different trims, and some—like Japan’s Accord SiR with the H22A—did feature DOHC VTEC in this era. If your car is an import or has had an engine swap, verify by engine code rather than trim name.
Summary
The 1997 Accord LX does not have VTEC. Only the EX four-cylinder used the VTEC-equipped F22B1; all LX four-cylinder (F22B2) and LX V6 (C27A4) models were non-VTEC in North America. To be certain, check your engine code and look for the VTEC solenoid or valve cover markings.
What engine does the 1997 Honda Accord LX have?
1997 Honda Accord Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 4 Accord LX Sedan 4D | Save 2 of 4 Accord Special Edition Sedan 4D | Save 4 of 4 Accord EX Sedan 4D |
|---|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| Engine | ||
| 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.2 Liter |
| Cargo Volume |
Does a 1997 Honda Accord have VTEC?
Yes, the 1997 Honda Accord did have a VTEC engine option, specifically for the EX trim level and some special editions. The 2.2L inline-4 engine in the EX model (and some special editions) utilized Honda’s VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system, which enhanced both fuel efficiency and performance. The non-VTEC 2.2L engine was used in the DX and LX trims.
Here’s a breakdown:
- VTEC Engine: . Opens in new tabThe 1997 Honda Accord EX came with a 2.2L inline-4 engine that featured VTEC. This system allowed the engine to adjust valve timing and lift for optimal performance at different speeds and loads.
- Non-VTEC Engine: . Opens in new tabThe DX and LX trims of the 1997 Accord used a 2.2L inline-4 engine that did not have VTEC.
- V6 Engine: . Opens in new tabA 2.7L V6 engine was also available in the 1997 Accord, but it did not use VTEC.
What year accords have VTEC?
In 1994, VTEC debuted in the Accord family, with a SOHC system featured on the Accord EX Sedan, Coupe and Wagon.
What engine does the Accord LX have?
The Honda Accord LX is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday driving.
Engine Details:
- Engine Type: 1.5L I4 Turbocharged
- Horsepower: 192 hp
- Torque: 192 lb-ft
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Fuel Type: Regular unleaded
Key Characteristics:
- Responsive Performance: The turbocharged engine provides a dynamic driving experience.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 1.5L turbo engine is designed for efficiency, offering good gas mileage.
- Smooth Transmission: The CVT ensures a seamless power delivery.
