What motor is in a 2001 Honda Civic LX?

The 2001 Honda Civic LX in the U.S. and Canada is equipped with a 1.7-liter SOHC 16-valve inline-four engine, engine code D17A1, a non-VTEC unit rated at about 115 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. This overview explains the engine configuration, how it differs from other trims, and how to verify what’s under your hood.

The engine at a glance

Honda’s seventh-generation Civic (2001–2005) introduced the D17 engine family. In the LX trim for North America, Honda fitted the D17A1, a straightforward, efficient four-cylinder designed for reliability and everyday drivability rather than performance.

The following quick facts summarize the core specs owners most often ask about.

• Engine family/code: D17A1 (Honda D-series)
• Configuration: 1.7-liter inline-4, SOHC, 16 valves
• Induction/valvetrain: Non-VTEC
• Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection
• Output (factory rating): approx. 115 hp @ 6,100 rpm; 110 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
• Compression ratio: approximately 9.5:1
• Materials: Aluminum head and block with iron cylinder liners
• Drive type: Transverse, front-wheel drive

These specifications align with factory references and period documentation for the North American-market LX trim in the 2001 model year.

How the LX engine differs from other 2001 Civic trims

Honda offered multiple engines across the 2001 Civic lineup, and it’s common to mix them up. Here’s how the LX compares with its siblings from that year.

Below is a concise comparison to help distinguish the LX’s D17A1 from other trims’ engines.

• DX: Also used a D17A1 (non-VTEC) with similar power to the LX.
• EX: Upgraded to the D17A2 with VTEC, typically rated around 127 hp.
• HX: Used the D17A6 (VTEC-E) focused on fuel economy.
• Si: Not applicable for 2001 in North America; the Si returned for 2002 with a 2.0L K20A3.

While the LX shares its basic engine architecture with the DX, it differs notably from the EX and HX, which use VTEC variants for performance or efficiency tuning.

Regional variations and exceptions

Outside North America, engine offerings for the 2001 Civic could differ (including certain 1.5L or 1.6L variants). If your vehicle is a non-U.S./Canada model or was imported, verify the engine code directly on the engine or via documentation.

How to verify your engine

If you want to confirm your Civic’s exact engine, these are the most reliable ways to check.

1. Under-hood emissions label: Typically lists engine family and displacement.
2. Engine block stamping: “D17A1” is stamped on the block (look on the front of the engine near the transmission bellhousing area).
3. Owner’s manual and build sheet: May list the engine code; a dealer can confirm using your VIN.

Cross-referencing at least two sources (label plus stamping or VIN inquiry) provides the most definitive verification.

Maintenance notes owners ask about

While the question focuses on which engine the car has, owners often ask about basic service expectations for the D17A1. Key points include regular oil changes, cooling system upkeep, and timing belt service according to the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual.

Here are commonly referenced items for this engine family.

• Timing belt: The D17 uses a belt. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual (commonly around the 105,000–110,000-mile range or by time, whichever comes first).
• Spark plugs: Standard plugs at recommended intervals; use the specified heat range/type.
• Fluids: Engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid (ATF or manual gear oil) per Honda specifications.

Adhering to Honda’s official maintenance intervals helps preserve the D17A1’s longevity and prevents costly repairs.

Bottom line

The 2001 Honda Civic LX in North America is equipped with Honda’s D17A1 engine—a 1.7-liter SOHC, non-VTEC inline-four rated at around 115 hp. It’s a durable, efficient powerplant distinct from the EX’s VTEC-equipped D17A2 and the HX’s fuel-sipping VTEC-E variant.

Summary

Answer: 2001 Honda Civic LX (U.S./Canada) uses the D17A1 1.7L SOHC 16-valve non-VTEC inline-four, about 115 hp and 110 lb-ft. This engine prioritizes reliability and efficiency, differing from other 2001 Civic trims that employed VTEC variants. Verify via the under-hood emissions label, block stamping, or VIN for absolute confirmation.

What kind of engine does a Honda Civic LX have?

The CX, DX and LX all have SOHC (D16Y7) 4-cylinder engines; whereas the EX has a 1.6L 16-valve SOHC VTEC (D16Y8) engine producing 127 hp (95 kW), and the HX has a D16Y5 VTEC-E engine producing 115 hp (86 kW).

What engine does a 2001 Honda Civic LX have?

2001 Honda Civic Specs, Features & Options

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Engine
4-Cyl, 1.7 Liter	4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.7 Liter	4-Cyl, 1.7 Liter
Cargo Volume

Does a Honda Civic LX 2001 have a VTEC?

Rims this car comes with Honda’s d17 A2 1.7 L single overhead cam 16 valve in line four with Honda’s VTEC System the engine produces 123 horsepower at 6300 RPM and 154 nton M of torque at 4,800 RPM

What does lx mean in civic lx?

On a Honda Civic, LX refers to a trim level, generally the base or entry-level model, offering essential features and a focus on comfort and convenience over performance or luxury options. While the exact features vary by model year, an LX Civic typically includes standard equipment like a rearview camera, Bluetooth, power windows and locks, and a basic sound system, distinguishing it from higher trims like the Sport or EX.
 
Key Characteristics of the LX Trim

• Entry-Level Standard: The LX is often the least expensive trim level, providing a balance of affordability and necessary features for daily driving. 
• Essential Features: It comes equipped with fundamental amenities such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and basic audio controls on the steering wheel. 
• Focus on Comfort: The LX provides core comfort and convenience features like cruise control, a security system with remote entry, and a fold-down rear seat. 
• Technology: Depending on the model year, an LX Civic will have standard tech, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a multi-angle rearview camera, and a central display screen. 

Examples of LX Features by Model Year

• 2025 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabIncludes standard driver-assist features, 16-inch steel wheels, a 5-inch color display, and a four-speaker audio system. 
• 2018 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabFeatured automatic headlights, cruise control, Bluetooth, and steering-wheel controls. 
• 2013 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabCame with a fold-down back seat, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth, while the EX trim added alloy wheels and a moonroof. 

In summary, the “LX” on a Honda Civic indicates a well-equipped, entry-level trim that offers a solid foundation of standard features.