2004 Honda CR-V Engine: What’s Under the Hood

The 2004 Honda CR-V is powered primarily by a 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-four (engine code K24A1) in North America, rated around 160 hp and 162 lb-ft; in many other regions it came with a 2.0-liter i-VTEC inline-four. There was no V6 option for this model year. Below is a breakdown of the exact engine configurations, key specifications, and how to verify what’s in your specific vehicle.

North America: 2.4-Liter K24A1 i-VTEC

U.S. and Canadian 2004 CR-Vs use Honda’s K24A1, a 2,354 cc aluminum-block/aluminum-head inline-four with dual overhead cams and i-VTEC variable valve timing and lift on the intake side. It’s known for broad low-end torque, chain-driven cams (no timing belt), and long-term reliability. For the 2004 model year, the engine was typically rated at 160 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm, with ratings meeting LEV-II/ULEV emissions standards depending on the state.

Key specifications (U.S./Canada, 2004)

The list below highlights the core technical details most owners and shoppers ask about for the 2.4-liter K24A1 engine.

• Configuration: Inline-4, aluminum block and head
• Displacement: 2.4 liters (2,354 cc)
• Valvetrain: DOHC, 16 valves, i-VTEC (intake cam phasing and variable lift)
• Compression ratio: ~9.6:1
• Output: ~160 hp @ 6,000 rpm; 162 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
• Fuel system: PGM-FI multi-point electronic fuel injection
• Timing: Chain-driven (no scheduled belt replacement)
• Fuel: Regular unleaded
• Emissions: LEV-II/ULEV compliance (varies by certification)
• Engine code: K24A1

Taken together, these specs explain the CR-V’s reputation for smooth, usable power, low maintenance needs, and competitive emissions performance for its era.

Other Markets: 2.0-Liter Petrol, With Diesel Arriving Later

Outside North America, many 2004 CR-Vs were fitted with a 2.0-liter i-VTEC inline-four (commonly from the K20 family). Output varied by market and tuning, typically around 148–150 hp with a manual or automatic transmission. A 2.2-liter i-CTDi diesel became available in Europe around the 2005 model year; for 2004-model CR-Vs, petrol engines were the norm in most regions.

How to Confirm Your Specific CR-V’s Engine

If you’re unsure which engine your 2004 CR-V has—especially outside North America—the following checks will quickly pinpoint the exact specification.

• VIN and under-hood label: The emission control sticker and engine bay ID tags typically list the engine family/code.
• Owner’s manual or service booklet: The engine type and oil specifications are listed by market and trim.
• Dealer or manufacturer database: A dealer can decode your VIN to confirm the engine and certification.
• Engine stamping: The engine code (e.g., K24A1 or K20-series) is stamped on the block at the front of the engine.

Using one or more of these methods ensures you get market-correct information for maintenance, parts, and resale documentation.

What It Means for Ownership

The 2004 CR-V’s i-VTEC four-cylinder is widely regarded as durable and low-maintenance. Routine service includes regular oil changes (originally spec’d 5W-20, many owners and later guidance allow 0W-20), valve clearance checks at recommended intervals, and spark plug replacement at long mileage intervals due to factory iridium plugs. The timing chain design reduces major scheduled service costs compared with belt-driven engines. As always, match parts and fluids to your exact engine code and market certification.

Summary

For 2004, the Honda CR-V’s engine is a naturally aspirated i-VTEC inline-four: a 2.4-liter K24A1 in North America (about 160 hp/162 lb-ft) and commonly a 2.0-liter i-VTEC in other markets. There was no V6 option. Check your VIN, under-hood labels, or owner’s manual to confirm the exact engine for your region and trim.

How many miles will a 2004 CR-V last?

Average Lifespan of a Honda CR-V
A well-maintained Honda CR-V can last well beyond 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting lifespans of 250,000 miles or more. With proper care, you can expect the CR-V to last 15 to 20 years, depending on driving conditions and maintenance.

What year to stay away from CR-V?

Honda CR-V years to avoid due to frequent or serious issues include 2007-2009 (third generation), 2017-2019 (fifth generation), and early models like the 2002-2003, with common problems like engine oil contamination, battery drain, AC failure, and other electrical issues. 
Specific Years and Their Common Issues

• 2002-2003: Engine problems, high oil consumption, and HVAC issues. 
• 2007-2009: Air conditioning failures, suspension issues, and a generally less reliable third generation. 
• 2010-2011: Excessive oil consumption in 2010 models and issues like unintended acceleration and steering problems in the 2011 model. 
• 2012-2014: Engine mount issues, vibrations at idle, and some transmission problems in the 2014 model. 
• 2015-2016: CVT shudder and hesitation, especially with the 1.5L turbo engine. 
• 2017-2019: Significant issues with fuel contaminating engine oil, premature battery drain, electrical problems, and faulty HVAC systems. 
• 2020-2022 (Hybrid Models): Recalled due to a missing fuse that could lead to a fire risk from an overheating 12-volt cable. 

Key Reasons to Avoid These Years

• Engine Problems: . Opens in new tabOverfilled engine oil (2017-2019) and excessive oil consumption (2002-2003) can lead to significant engine damage. 
• Electrical and Battery Issues: . Opens in new tabPremature battery drain (2017-2019) and other electrical system malfunctions are common. 
• HVAC System Failures: . Opens in new tabProblems with the air conditioning and heating systems are reported in multiple years. 
• Transmission and Powertrain Issues: . Opens in new tabCVTs in the 2015-2016 models can shudder, while earlier models had transmission issues as well. 

How much is a 2004 Honda CR-V worth today?

A 2004 Honda CR-V is worth roughly $2,500 to $7,000, but the exact price depends heavily on mileage, condition, and trim level. A vehicle with higher mileage and average condition might be closer to $2,500-$4,000, while a well-maintained, low-mileage vehicle could fetch $5,000-$7,000 or more. To get a precise valuation for your specific CR-V, you should use resources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds and input your vehicle’s details.
 
Factors Influencing Value

• Mileage: Higher mileage generally lowers the price. 
• Condition: The overall condition, including any accidents or damage, significantly impacts value. 
• Trim Level: Different trim levels (like LX or EX) affect the price. 
• Location: Prices can vary by region, with some areas having higher demand. 
• Trade-in vs. Private Sale: You can expect a lower value when trading the car in compared to selling it yourself in a private sale. 

How to Find Your Vehicle’s Value

1. Visit a Valuation Website: Go to kbb.com or edmunds.com. 
2. Enter Your Details: Input the year, make, model, mileage, and condition of your 2004 Honda CR-V. 
3. Check for Listings: Browse sites like TrueCar or Autotrader to see comparable vehicles for sale in your area. 

What engine does a 2004 Honda CR-V have?

The 2004 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve, DOHC 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine producing160-horsepower and 162 lb. -ft. of torque.