1999 Honda Civic Engine Guide: What’s Under the Hood?
Most 1999 Honda Civics use a 1.6-liter inline-four from Honda’s D-series, but the exact engine depends on the trim: DX/LX/VP typically have the D16Y7 (SOHC, non-VTEC), EX has the D16Y8 (SOHC, VTEC), HX uses the D16Y5 (SOHC, VTEC‑E/lean-burn), and the performance Si coupe carries the B16A2 (DOHC, VTEC). Below is a breakdown by market and trim, plus tips to identify what’s in your car.
Contents
U.S.-Market 1999 Civic: Engines and Key Specs
The U.S. lineup spanned economy to sport, and each trim carried a distinct engine with different performance and efficiency characteristics. Here’s how they map out.
- DX, LX, VP: D16Y7 — 1.6L SOHC, non‑VTEC; approximately 106 hp and 103 lb‑ft.
- EX: D16Y8 — 1.6L SOHC, VTEC; approximately 127 hp and 107 lb‑ft.
- HX (fuel‑economy model): D16Y5 — 1.6L SOHC, VTEC‑E (lean‑burn); approximately 115 hp and 104 lb‑ft.
- Si (EM1 coupe): B16A2 — 1.6L DOHC, VTEC; approximately 160 hp and 111 lb‑ft.
These figures are the period’s SAE net ratings and can vary slightly with transmission and testing conditions, but they reflect the typical outputs owners and parts catalogs reference.
Outside the U.S.: Common Variations
Engines differed in Canada, Europe, and Japan, even within the same sixth‑generation (1996–2000) Civic. Examples below illustrate common alternatives you may encounter on import models or in non‑U.S. markets.
- Canada: Broadly similar to the U.S. range (D16Y7, D16Y8, D16Y5) with comparable trims and specs.
- Europe: Wider mix including D14 (1.4L), D15 (1.5L VTEC‑E such as D15Z6), D16 variants, and performance grades with B16A2 (often badged “VTi,” ~160 hp).
- Japan: Models like the Civic Ferio and SiR commonly used D15B (three‑stage VTEC) and B16A (SiR), the latter typically rated higher in PS than U.S. hp numbers.
If your car was sold new outside the U.S. or is an import, verify the engine code directly—published trim charts won’t always match your vehicle.
How to Identify Which Engine Your 1999 Civic Has
If you’re unsure of the exact engine in your Civic, these steps will help you confirm the code and avoid ordering the wrong parts.
- Check the under‑hood emissions/engine label: On the underside of the hood or near the radiator support, Honda lists the engine family/code.
- Find the engine stamp: The alphanumeric code (e.g., D16Y7, D16Y8, D16Y5, B16A2) is stamped on a flat pad at the front of the engine block, below the cylinder head.
- Cross‑check documentation: Your registration, build sheet, or a Honda dealer parts lookup (using VIN) can confirm the original engine.
- Visual cues (helpful but secondary): EX has a SOHC VTEC cover/intake layout; Si’s DOHC head and red/black valve cover are distinctive.
Confirming the stamped engine code is the most reliable method, especially on older cars that may have engine swaps.
Why Engine Type Matters
Correctly identifying your engine ensures you get the right parts and service procedures—spark plugs, timing belt kits, sensors, gaskets, and ECU calibrations can differ across D16Y5/Y7/Y8 and B16A2. It also affects expected performance, fuel economy, and emissions compliance.
Maintenance notes to keep in mind
All 1999 Civic gasoline engines use a timing belt; Honda service schedules from the era commonly call for replacement around 90,000–105,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first). Use the oil grade specified in your owner’s manual (commonly 5W‑30 in the U.S.), and stick with quality plugs (NGK is the OEM supplier). The B16A2 is an interference engine; treat timing belt service as critical. Always verify intervals for your specific engine and market.
Summary
A 1999 Honda Civic typically has a 1.6L inline‑four, with the exact engine tied to trim: D16Y7 (DX/LX/VP), D16Y8 (EX), D16Y5 (HX), and B16A2 (Si). Non‑U.S. models may vary. To be certain, read the engine code stamped on the block or the under‑hood label before buying parts or planning maintenance.
What year of Civic to stay away from?
Which Honda Civic Years to Avoid
| Model Year | Main Issues |
|---|---|
| 2001 | Transmission failure, airbag recall, engine concerns |
| 2006 | Cracked engine blocks, coolant leaks |
| 2007–2008 | Premature tire wear, engine and body integrity issues |
| 2012 | Poor interior quality, underwhelming ride and build |
How much is a 1999 Honda Civic engine?
The average price for a 1999 Honda Civic Remanufactured Engine at Advance Auto Parts is around $2,507.99, with a range that starts at $2,446.99 and goes up to $2,751.99. With 2 options in stock from one trusted brand, finding the right fit is easy.
What engine comes in a 1999 Honda Civic?
1999 Honda Civic Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 4 Civic DX Coupe 2D | Save 2 of 4 Civic HX Coupe 2D | Save 4 of 4 Civic Si Coupe 2D |
|---|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| Engine | ||
| 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.6 Liter |
| Cargo Volume |
Does the 1999 Civic have VTEC?
Four different versions of the 1.6-liter SOHC four-cylinder aluminum engine are available on the Civic. The most common variety has an output of 106 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. EX models get 127 VTEC-inspired horsepower at 6,600 rpm, and the HX Coupe uses an economical VTEC-E engine with 115 horsepower at 6,300 rpm.
