2009 Honda Accord Engine Options: Inline-Four or V6, Depending on Trim

The 2009 Honda Accord came with either a 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-four or a 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC V6 (with Variable Cylinder Management on most automatic V6 models). Four-cylinder versions typically make 177–190 horsepower, while V6 models are around 268 horsepower. Which one you have depends on body style and trim.

What’s Under the Hood: The Engine Lineup

Honda offered two primary engines in the 2009 Accord, each tuned for a distinct balance of efficiency and performance. The details below cover the U.S.-market lineup and the most common specifications buyers and owners encounter.

• 2.4-liter inline-4 (K24Z2/K24Z3): DOHC i-VTEC, aluminum block and head. Rated at 177 hp and 161 lb-ft in LX/LX-P sedans; 190 hp and 162 lb-ft in EX/EX-L sedans and most 4-cylinder coupes.
• 3.5-liter V6 (J35Z2/J35Z3): SOHC i-VTEC, aluminum block and head. Typically about 268 hp and 248 lb-ft; most automatic V6 models feature Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for improved efficiency, while 6-speed manual V6 coupes omit VCM and have a slightly higher-output calibration.

In practice, the 2.4-liter engines emphasize daily drivability and fuel economy, while the 3.5-liter V6 delivers notably stronger acceleration, especially in the coupe.

Which Trims Got Which Engine

The specific engine fitted to a 2009 Accord depends on the body style (sedan or coupe) and the trim level. The breakdown below shows the typical factory pairings.

• Sedan LX, LX-P: 2.4L inline-4, 177 hp (5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, model-dependent).
• Sedan EX, EX-L: 2.4L inline-4, 190 hp standard; V6 available on EX V-6/EX-L V-6 with 3.5L V6 (about 268 hp) and VCM when paired with the 5-speed automatic.
• Coupe LX-S, EX: 2.4L inline-4, generally in the 190-hp tune.
• Coupe EX V-6, EX-L V-6: 3.5L V6; 5-speed automatic models use VCM, while 6-speed manual models do not and have a slightly higher-output calibration.

If you’re shopping or verifying a specific vehicle, trims labeled “V-6” or featuring dual exhaust outlets usually indicate the 3.5-liter engine, while non–V-6 trims use the 2.4-liter.

How to Confirm Which Engine Your Accord Has

If you’re unsure which engine is in a particular 2009 Accord, a few quick checks can verify it without guesswork.

• Check the under-hood emissions label: It lists the engine displacement (e.g., “2.4L” or “3.5L”).
• Look at the intake/engine cover: “i-VTEC 2.4” indicates the four-cylinder; V6 covers are wider and often reference VCM on automatic models.
• Review the window sticker (Monroney), owner’s manual supplements, or service records: They typically specify engine size and horsepower.
• Use the VIN with a reputable decoder or dealer: While the VIN itself doesn’t spell out horsepower, a dealer can confirm the engine and build details from it.

These methods are the most reliable way to identify the exact engine, tune, and transmission combination on a given car.

Key Technical Notes

A few engineering features differentiate the two powerplants and influence how they drive and how they’re maintained.

• i-VTEC: Both engines use Honda’s variable valve timing and lift for efficiency and response.
• VCM (V6 only, most automatics): Deactivates cylinders under light loads to save fuel; absent on V6 models with the 6-speed manual.
• Transmissions: Four-cylinders came with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic; V6 sedans used a 5-speed automatic; V6 coupes offered a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.

In day-to-day use, the inline-four favors lower running costs and lighter front-end feel, while the V6 provides stronger highway passing power and a more relaxed effort at speed.

Summary

The 2009 Honda Accord was offered with two engines: a 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC inline-four (177–190 hp, depending on trim) and a 3.5L SOHC i-VTEC V6 (about 268 hp, with VCM on most automatics). Sedans in LX/LX-P form use the 177-hp four; EX/EX-L sedans and most four-cylinder coupes get the 190-hp tune; and V6 power appears on EX V-6/EX-L V-6 sedans and coupes, with the coupe’s 6-speed manual variant skipping VCM. Check the under-hood emissions label or build documentation to confirm the exact engine in any given car.

What engine does my 2009 Honda Accord have?

The 2009 Honda Accord can be purchased with any of three engines: two four-cylinder models or a sportier V6. The four-cylinders can be paired with a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. V6-powered Accord coupes are available with the automatic or a six-speed manual.

What is the common problem with the 2009 Honda Accord?

Common issues reported for the 2009 Honda Accord include excessive oil consumption (sometimes due to worn piston rings or valve issues), transmission problems like rough shifting or warning lights, and electrical issues such as the radio display going dark or failing ignition switches. Other problems include premature brake wear, issues with the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system on the V6 engine, and suspension components like front compliance bushings wearing out over time.
 
Engine & Transmission

• Oil Consumption: The engine, particularly the V6, may consume excessive oil due to worn piston rings or VTEC system issues. 
• VCM Malfunction: The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system on V6 models can foul the spark plugs, leading to issues. 
• Transmission Problems: Some Accords experience shifting problems accompanied by warning lights. 

Electrical & Interior 

• Ignition Switch Failure: The ignition switch can fail, leading to a “no start” condition or the vehicle stalling.
• Radio/Display Failure: The display for the radio and climate control system may go dark.
• Door Lock Actuators: Faulty door lock actuators can cause power door locks to activate intermittently.

Braking & Suspension 

• Warped Brake Rotors: Warping can occur, causing vibrations when braking. 
• Premature Brake Wear: Some owners report that the brakes wear down faster than normal. 
• Suspension Issues: The front compliance bushings can crack over time, impacting handling and ride comfort. 

Other Issues 

• Exhaust System Corrosion: Rust and corrosion can affect the exhaust system.
• Rust: Fading, chalking, or peeling paint, along with rust, can occur.

Preventative Maintenance 

• Regular Oil Changes: . Opens in new tabPerform religious oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil to prolong engine life.
• Address Oil Consumption: . Opens in new tabIf oil consumption is an issue, consider having the timing chain cover resealed and getting the timing chain cover retensioned.

Is a Honda 2.4 L 4 cylinder good?

It’s an excellent, practical engine that delivers both performance and fuel economy in unassuming fashion.”

Which engine is better, 1.5 or 2.0 Honda Accord?

While both engines impress with their own merits, the 1.5L turbocharged engine edges ahead in terms of both power and fuel efficiency. The turbocharger’s internal cooling system helps maintain optimal engine temperature, thereby enhancing performance while minimizing the risk of overheating.