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What engine is in the 2004 Honda Civic?

Most 2004 Honda Civic models in the U.S. use a 1.7-liter inline-four gasoline engine; base trims (DX/VP/LX) are non-VTEC at about 115 hp, the EX adds VTEC for 127 hp, the HX features a fuel‑saving 1.7L VTEC‑E, the performance‑oriented Si uses a 2.0-liter DOHC i‑VTEC with 160 hp, the GX runs a 1.7L compressed-natural-gas engine, and the Hybrid pairs a 1.3L gasoline engine with an electric motor (about 93 hp combined). This varies by trim and market, so the exact motor depends on the specific Civic you have.

The 2004 Civic engine lineup (U.S. market)

Honda offered several distinct powertrains across Civic trims in 2004. The list below outlines the engine size, technology, typical output, and which models used each configuration.

  • 1.7L SOHC 16-valve I4, non-VTEC (D17A1): ~115 hp, ~110 lb-ft; found in DX, Value Package (VP), and LX trims.
  • 1.7L SOHC 16-valve I4, VTEC (D17A2): ~127 hp, ~114 lb-ft; found in EX trims.
  • 1.7L SOHC 16-valve I4, VTEC-E economy tune (D17A6): ~117 hp with 5-speed manual, ~113 hp with CVT; ~111 lb-ft; found in HX (fuel-economy model).
  • 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC I4 (K20A3): 160 hp, ~132 lb-ft; found in the Si hatchback (performance model).
  • 1.7L SOHC I4, CNG (D17A7): ~100 hp, ~98 lb-ft; found in the GX (natural-gas sedan).
  • 1.3L i-DSI I4 with Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system (LDA + electric motor): gas engine ~85 hp plus 10 kW/13 hp electric motor; ~93 hp combined; found in the Civic Hybrid.

These engines reflect Honda’s broad approach in 2004: efficient daily drivers (DX/LX/EX), a hyper‑miler (HX), an eco-focused CNG variant (GX), a hybrid option, and a sportier hatch (Si) sharing hardware with larger K-series engines.

How to confirm which engine your 2004 Civic has

If you’re unsure which motor is in your specific car, several quick checks can identify it without guesswork.

  1. Check the under‑hood emissions label: It typically lists the engine family and displacement (e.g., 1.7L or 2.0L).
  2. Decode the VIN: A Honda dealer or online VIN decoder can map your VIN to the exact trim and engine.
  3. Look for engine code stamping: On D‑series engines (1.7L), the code (e.g., D17A1/A2/A6/A7) is stamped on the block; K‑series (Si) shows K20A3.
  4. Identify the trim: DX/VP/LX generally have the 1.7L non‑VTEC; EX has the 1.7L VTEC; HX the 1.7L VTEC‑E; GX is clearly labeled; Si hatchback has the 2.0L; Hybrid is badged and has hybrid components under the hood.
  5. Consult original documentation: The window sticker/Monroney, owner’s manual supplement, or Honda’s owner portal (with VIN) will list the engine.

Using one or more of these methods will pinpoint the exact powertrain, especially helpful for cars that may have had badges removed or parts swapped over time.

Notes on other markets

Outside North America, engine offerings differed. For example, some regions received 1.4L or 1.6L petrol engines and various diesel options in hatchbacks built for Europe. If your Civic isn’t U.S.-spec, consult regional documentation or decode the VIN specific to your market.

Summary

The 2004 Honda Civic isn’t a one-engine model year: most sedans and coupes use a 1.7L inline-four (non‑VTEC in DX/VP/LX, VTEC in EX, VTEC‑E in HX). The Si hatchback steps up to a 2.0L DOHC i‑VTEC, the GX runs on CNG with a 1.7L variant, and the Hybrid pairs a 1.3L petrol engine with an electric motor. Identifying your trim—or checking the VIN or under‑hood label—will tell you exactly which motor your car has.

What kind of engine does a 2004 Honda Civic have?

Honda’s high-output i-VTEC (“i” for intelligent) 2.0-liter dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine produces 160 hp and 130 pounds-feet of torque; it drives a close-ratio five-speed-manual gearbox.

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 Honda Civic 2004 engine?

The 1 2004 Honda Civic Remanufactured Engine we have in stock is the Engine Long Block; Honda D17A1 01-05 Engine. It costs $3,489.99.

Is the Honda Civic 2004 a good car?

This gen of Civic is, quite simply put, the ideal commuter and city car. The engine is reasonably smooth and peppy. Very low road noise with Goodyear Affinity Triple-treads. Steering is nicely weighted for city driving.

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