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What is the engine code for a 2002 Honda Accord 2.3 L?

For a 2002 Honda Accord with the 2.3-liter four-cylinder, the engine code is from Honda’s F23 series: most LX/EX/SE models use the F23A1 (federal emissions) or F23A4 (ULEV/California emissions), while the base DX typically uses the non‑VTEC F23A5. The exact code depends on trim and the emissions package your car was built with.

The 2.3L engine codes you’re likely to find on a 2002 Accord (U.S. models)

Honda offered several closely related 2.3L engines in the final model year of the sixth‑generation Accord. Here’s how they break down by common trims and emissions packages sold in the United States.

  • F23A1 — 2.3L SOHC VTEC (approx. 150 hp); common on LX and EX models with federal emissions
  • F23A4 — 2.3L SOHC VTEC ULEV (approx. 148–150 hp); used in California and other ULEV states, often on LX/EX/SE
  • F23A5 — 2.3L SOHC non‑VTEC (approx. 135 hp); typically found on base DX models

All three are part of the F23 family and share much of their architecture; the main differences are VTEC presence and emissions calibration, which affect horsepower ratings and certain service parts.

How to confirm your exact engine code

If you need certainty for parts or technical work, you can verify the engine code directly on the car and with documentation. The code is not always obvious from the VIN alone on Hondas of this era.

  • Check the engine block stamping: Look for a machined flat pad on the front of the engine block (radiator side), below the exhaust manifold. It will read something like “F23A1” followed by a serial number.
  • Review the under‑hood emissions label: It lists the emissions family and certification; while it may not print “F23A1/A4/A5,” it can confirm whether your car is ULEV (often indicating F23A4).
  • Use your VIN with a Honda parts catalog or dealer: Dealers and reputable online parts systems can map your VIN to the precise engine variant used at build time.
  • Trim clues: DX models are commonly non‑VTEC (F23A5), while LX/EX/SE with VTEC are typically F23A1 or F23A4 depending on emissions state.

Confirming the stamping on the block is the most direct method; combine it with emissions labeling and a VIN lookup for complete confidence.

Specs at a glance for reference

While performance varies slightly with emissions calibration, these are the typical figures associated with the 2002 Accord’s 2.3L engines.

  • F23A1: SOHC VTEC; about 150 hp @ 5,700 rpm and 152 lb‑ft @ 4,900 rpm
  • F23A4: SOHC VTEC ULEV; roughly 148–150 hp with similar torque, tuned for lower emissions
  • F23A5: SOHC non‑VTEC; about 135 hp and 145 lb‑ft

These differences can affect parts like oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, and some ECU calibrations, even though many mechanical components (e.g., timing belt) are shared across the F23 family.

Outside North America

In other markets, the 2.3L Accord also used F23-series variants with market-specific codes and calibrations. If your car is not a U.S. model, check the block stamping and local service literature, as codes and outputs may differ slightly from the U.S. F23A1/A4/A5 lineup.

Summary

A 2002 Honda Accord 2.3L typically carries an F23-series engine: F23A1 or F23A4 for VTEC models (LX/EX/SE) and F23A5 for the non‑VTEC DX. Verify the exact code on the engine block stamping and via emissions labeling or a VIN-based parts lookup to ensure the right identification and parts compatibility.

What cars have a J32A2 engine?

J Engine Codes

ENGINE VEHICLE
J32A2 01-03 CL Type S, 02-03 TL Type S
J32A3 04-08 TL
J35A1 99-01 Odyssey
J35A3 01-02 MDX, 04-07 Saturn Vue

What engine is in a 2002 Honda Accord?

The 2002 Honda Accord offers two engine options: a 2.3-liter inline-4 and a 3.0-liter V6. The 2.3L engine is available in the DX, LX, and SE trims, while the 3.0L V6 is available in the EX trim and some LX trims, particularly in coupes. Both engines utilize Honda’s VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology. 
Engine Details:

  • 2.3L Inline-4: . Opens in new tabThis engine is a 2.3-liter, 16-valve, single-overhead cam (SOHC) engine. It produces 135 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 145 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. 
  • 3.0L V6: . Opens in new tabThis engine is a 3.0-liter, 24-valve, single-overhead cam (SOHC) V6 engine. It delivers 200 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine was derived from the Acura 3.0 CL. 

What is the engine code for the 2002 Honda Accord 2.3 L?

F23A1. This engine was used in the 1998-2002 Honda Accord LX, EX, and SE, LEV models, and in the Acura 2.3CL in North America.

What cars have a J32A3 engine?

J32A3

  • 2004–2008 Acura TL.
  • 3.2-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine.
  • Bore Stroke (All J32’s) : 89mm x 86mm (3.5in x 3.386 in)
  • 11:1 Compression (High Compression Piston Domes)
  • (2004–2005) 270 hp (201 kW) at 6200 rpm and 238 lb⋅ft (323 N⋅m) of torque at 5000 rpm.

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