2005 Honda Accord DX: Engine Details and What Owners Should Know

The 2005 Honda Accord DX sold in the United States is equipped with a 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-four engine, known by its engine code K24A4, producing about 160 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque. This base-trim powertrain is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, with an automatic available on some markets and configurations. Below is a closer look at the engine, how it fits into the Accord lineup, and how to verify what’s in your car.

Where the DX Fits in the 2005 Accord Lineup

The DX was the entry-level trim for the 2005 Accord in the U.S. market, positioned below the LX and EX. While features were minimal, the mechanical foundation—including the 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder—matched the rest of the four-cylinder lineup, emphasizing efficiency, reliability, and accessible performance for daily driving.

The Engine at a Glance

The core specifications of the 2005 Accord DX engine highlight its balance of durability and everyday usability. Here are the key details owners and shoppers typically want to know.

• Type: 2.4-liter inline-4, aluminum block and head, DOHC, 16 valves
• Technology: i-VTEC (variable valve timing and lift on the intake side)
• Engine code: K24A4 (U.S.-market four-cylinder for 2003–2005 Accords)
• Output (approx.): 160 hp @ ~5,500 rpm; 161 lb-ft @ ~4,500 rpm
• Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection; regular unleaded recommended
• Transmissions: 5-speed manual standard; 5-speed automatic available in many configurations

Together, these specs define a powertrain known for smooth operation, respectable fuel economy, and long-term reliability when maintained according to schedule.

Market and Model Nuances

While the U.S.-market DX uses the K24A4, trim names and engines can differ in other regions. It’s important to account for market variations when buying parts or checking specifications.

• United States: DX uses the 2.4L K24A4 four-cylinder; V6 engines were reserved for higher trims and different packages.
• Canada: The base models (often labeled DX-G or similar) also used the 2.4L four-cylinder but trim naming and equipment differed.
• Europe/Asia: “Accord” refers to a different chassis in some markets, with available 2.0L or diesel options and distinct engine codes.

If your car was imported or purchased outside the U.S., verify the exact engine code before ordering parts or service.

How to Confirm the Engine in Your Accord

Most owners can verify their engine type and code with a quick check. These steps help ensure you match parts and service information to the correct powertrain.

1. Under-hood label: Look for an emissions or engine information sticker near the radiator support or underside of the hood listing the engine family.
2. Engine stamp: The K-series engines have an alphanumeric engine code (e.g., K24A4) stamped on the block, typically on the front of the engine below the cylinder head.
3. Owner’s manual/window sticker: Original documentation often lists the displacement and sometimes the specific engine family.
4. VIN decoding: Provide your VIN to a Honda dealer or use a reliable VIN decoder to confirm trim and engine.

These steps help eliminate guesswork, especially for cars with swapped engines or unclear trim histories.

Why the Engine Identification Matters

Knowing that a 2005 Accord DX uses the K24A4 2.4L i-VTEC guides proper maintenance and parts selection. Filters, spark plugs, belts, sensors, and fluids are all specified for this engine and differ from the V6 or later four-cylinder revisions introduced for the 2006–2007 refresh.

Maintenance and Longevity

Honda’s K24A4 is widely regarded for reliability. Regular oil changes, timely spark plug replacement, valve clearance checks as specified, and use of the correct coolant and transmission fluid are key to long service life. Many examples exceed 200,000 miles with routine care.

Summary

The 2005 Honda Accord DX in the U.S. is powered by Honda’s 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-four (engine code K24A4), producing about 160 hp and 161 lb-ft. It’s a durable, efficient powerplant shared across the four-cylinder Accord lineup of that era. If there’s any uncertainty—especially with imports or trim variations—confirm the engine via the under-hood label, engine stamp, or VIN.

Does the 2005 Honda Accord have a K24?

The following is a list of all the cars that have come equipped with a K24 engine in the United States: K24A1: 2002-2009 Honda CR-V. K24A2: 2004-2008 Acura TSX. K24A4: 2003-2005 Honda Accord, 2003-2008 Honda Odyssey, 2003-2006 Honda Element.

Which Accord has a 2.0 engine?

2022 Honda Accord Sport
The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, standard in the base model of the 2022 Honda Accord Sport, is a conventional gas engine delivering a compression ratio of 10.8:1 and featuring a multi-point fuel injection.

What does DX mean on a Honda Accord?

The DX is Honda’s base trim model and is also the lowest-priced one. It usually has a manual transmission, but you can opt for an automatic transmission. The DX Honda model features power windows, a single 12-volt power outlet in the front, remote trunk release, and rear window defroster.

What kind of engine does a 2005 Honda Accord have?

A 2005 Honda Accord could have a few different engine options. It could come with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, a 3.0-liter V6 engine, or a 3.0-liter V6 hybrid engine. The four-cylinder engine is a 2.4L inline-4, while the V6 is a 3.0L V6, both featuring Honda’s VTEC technology. The hybrid version also uses a 3.0L V6 engine, but with an electric motor assist.