What engine is in a 2005 Honda Civic EX?
The 2005 Honda Civic EX (U.S. and Canada) is equipped with a 1.7-liter SOHC VTEC inline-four, engine code D17A2, rated at approximately 127 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. This applies to both sedan and coupe EX models, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Contents
Engine overview
In the 7th-generation Civic lineup (model years 2001–2005), the EX trim sat above DX/LX and below the Si hot hatch. Its D17A2 engine features Honda’s SOHC VTEC system that optimizes valve lift at higher rpm for improved top-end power while maintaining efficiency and drivability in everyday use. The engine uses multi-point fuel injection and a timing belt.
Key engine specifications for the 2005 Civic EX
The following points highlight the main technical details that most owners and shoppers want to know about the EX’s D17A2 engine.
- Engine code: D17A2 (SOHC VTEC)
- Configuration: Inline-4, aluminum head, cast-iron block
- Displacement: 1.7 liters (1,668 cc)
- Valvetrain: SOHC, 16 valves with VTEC on the intake side
- Output: ~127 hp @ 6,300 rpm; ~114 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
- Compression ratio: About 9.9:1
- Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection; regular unleaded (87 AKI) recommended
- Emissions: ULEV/SULEV variants sold in certain states; hardware is similar with emissions-specific calibration
- Timing: Belt-driven camshaft (routine belt replacement required per maintenance schedule)
- Oil spec (factory): 5W-20 conventional or synthetic meeting Honda specifications
- Redline: Approximately 6,800 rpm
Taken together, these specs position the D17A2 as a reliable, efficient daily-driver engine with a modest performance edge over non-VTEC Civic trims of the same era.
Regional variations and trim differences
While the EX uses the D17A2, other 2005 Civic trims use different engines. This can cause confusion when shopping parts or verifying specifications, especially in used-car listings or across regions.
What the other 2005 Civic trims used
The list below outlines which engines were fitted to other trims so you can distinguish the EX from the rest.
- DX/LX/Value Package: D17A1 (1.7L SOHC, non-VTEC; ~115 hp)
- HX: D17A6 (1.7L SOHC VTEC-E for fuel economy; ~115 hp)
- Si (EP3 hatchback): K20A3 (2.0L DOHC i-VTEC; ~160 hp)
- Hybrid: 1.3L IMA-assisted four-cylinder (not part of the D-series)
If your Civic is an EX from the U.S. or Canada, it should have the D17A2. Emissions-calibrated versions sold in certain states maintain the same displacement and overall configuration, with potential minor calibration differences.
How to confirm your specific car’s engine
If you want to be absolutely certain which engine your car has—useful for maintenance or parts ordering—these steps will help you confirm it.
- Check the under-hood emissions label: Located on the underside of the hood or near the radiator support; it lists the engine family and emissions standard.
- Read the engine stamp: The engine code (e.g., “D17A2”) is stamped on the block, typically on a flat machined area below the cylinder head, near the transmission side of the engine, beneath the exhaust manifold.
- Consult service records or the owner’s manual: Prior documentation may explicitly list the engine code.
- Run the VIN through a Honda dealer or OEM service portal: While the VIN doesn’t directly encode “D17A2,” dealer systems can confirm the build data tied to your specific vehicle.
Cross-checking at least two of these sources will eliminate doubt and ensure you order the correct parts and follow the right maintenance intervals.
Summary
The 2005 Honda Civic EX uses the D17A2: a 1.7-liter SOHC VTEC inline-four producing about 127 hp and 114 lb-ft. It’s a belt-driven, fuel-injected, emissions-compliant engine known for reliability and efficiency, distinct from the non-VTEC D17A1 in DX/LX and the economy-focused D17A6 in the HX, as well as the K20A3 used in the Si.
What kind of engine does a Honda Civic EX have?
Turbocharged 1.5-liter Engine (EX and Tou… – 2023 Honda Civic Sedan | Honda Info Center.
What engine is in the 2005 Honda Civic EX?
2005 Honda Civic Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 6 Civic Value Coupe 2D | Save 2 of 6 Civic HX Coupe 2D | Save 6 of 6 Civic EX Special Edition Coupe 2D |
|---|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| Engine | ||
| 4-Cyl, 1.7 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.7 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.7 Liter |
| Cargo Volume |
Is a 2005 Honda Civic EX a good car?
Among the 1902 owners who provided feedback on the 2005 Honda Civic for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 88% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle’s reliability and quality to be its strongest features and styling to be its weakest.
What car has a D17A2 engine?
JDM HONDA CIVIC
2001-2005 JDM HONDA CIVIC ENGINE D17A DOHC VTEC 1.7L MOTOR D17A2.
