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Honda The Other Side

Two Sides to Every Story

How Does The Honda i-VTEC Engine Work?

By Richard Craver Updated on May 1, 2024

VTEC, short for “Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control,” is a technology that allows engines to optimize performance and efficiency by adjusting valve timing and lift.

The Honda i-VTEC® engine is known for delivering a thrilling driving experience while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. But have you ever wondered how this advanced technology actually works?

Unlike traditional valve timing systems that rely on a single camshaft, the i-VTEC® system uses two camshafts and an electronic control unit (ECU) to control valve timing and lift precisely.

This allows the engine to switch between different operating modes, depending on the driving conditions, to optimize performance and efficiency.

Let’s take a closer look at the inner workings of the Honda i-VTEC® engine and explore how it provides drivers with a perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Table of Contents

The Honda i-VTEC® Engine Explained

Honda’s engineer Ikuo Kajitani came up with the idea for Honda’s original VTEC system. A solution to the problem of getting high output out of small displacement engines while maintaining fuel efficiency was achieved.

As a result of adjusting the internal valve lift and timing, Kajitani could boost performance without adding costly turbochargers or superchargers.

What’s the trick?

The engine computer selects between low and high-performance camshafts using VTEC (Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control) technology.

Instead of just changing the valve timing as in normal VVT (variable valve timing) systems, separate camshaft profiles allow adjusting the lift and the duration of the valve opening.

Understanding VTEC Engines

Four elements are required to generate horsepower in gasoline-powered engines: air, fuel, compression, and spark. To fully understand the VTEC system, we’ll mainly focus on the air component.

Camshafts are part of the engine and control when and how the valves open and close, determining how much air goes into it.

The rocker arms on this camshaft move the valves open and closed when the camshaft rotates. Those with larger lobes can open their valves more widely than those with smaller ones.

You might have missed the last paragraph if you aren’t familiar with engine internals. Here’s a primer on the parts of an engine, as well as an explanation of camshafts and valves.

• Camshaft & Valves

An engine’s camshaft opens the intake and exhaust channels by turning valves on an engine’s long rod. It usually sits above the cylinder and the piston.

When you rotate the intake channel, fuel and air can enter your engine’s cylinders. In another rotation, your spark plug discharges, allowing the fuel to ignite, and the exhaust channel opens as your intake channel closes, releasing exhaust gasses.

In this process, pistons move up and down in the cylinders. An engine can use one camshaft or two, driven either by a timing chain or a timing belt.

Engines produce power in various ways that vary according to several variables. When more air enters the engine, the combustion process accelerates, but too much air doesn’t necessarily make the engine more powerful.

As the engine grows, the valves open and close so quickly that performance is adversely affected. The process described above works well at low revolutions per minute (rpm), but as the engine speeds up, the valves open and close so quickly that performance is adversely affected.

A Brief History of Honda’s VTEC

As part of Honda’s DOHC (Dual OverHead Camshaft) engines in 1989, the VTEC system was introduced in the Honda Integra XSi and was first available in the United States in 1991 with the Acura NSX.

An incredible 197 horsepower was produced by the 1995 Integra Type R (available only in the Japanese market). There was more horsepower per liter of displacement in the engine than in most supercars at the time.

It evolved into Honda i-VTEC® (intelligent-VTEC) after Honda continued to improve the original VTEC system. A Honda four-cylinder vehicle using i-VTEC® was most likely to be sold in 2002. This technology was first available in 2001.

Honda’s VTC (Variable Timing Control) is combined with the original VTEC® system in i-VTEC®. In addition to introducing two camshaft profiles, Honda also introduced variable valve timing to optimize performance.

However, the VTEC system cannot select between low- and high-RPM profiles, even though it controls valve lift duration. Moreover, the intake cam can advance 25 to 50 degrees, giving you optimal valve timing no matter your RPM range.

How Does It Work?

An original VTEC system replaced a single cam lobe and rocker with a locking multi-part rocker arm and two cam profiles. One was optimized for low-RPM stability and fuel efficiency, while the other was designed to maximize power at higher RPMs.

VTEC balances low-RPM fuel efficiency with a high-RPM performance by combining low-RPM fuel efficiency with low-RPM stability. The seamless transition ensures smooth performance across the entire power range.

The engine computer is responsible for switching between the two cam lobes. A computer switches between the efficient and high-performance cam based on speed, load, and engine RPM.

During high-performance cam operation, a solenoid engages the rocker’s arms. After that, the valves are opened and closed per the high-lift profile, allowing the valves to open further and for a longer period.

Increasing the air and fuel entering the engine creates more torque and horsepower. A valve timing, duration, or lift optimized for low-speed performance differs greatly from one for high RPM performance.

The engine produces poor performance at high RPM settings, while at low RPM settings, it produces a rough idle and poor performance.

Because the camshaft is optimized for maximum power at those higher revolutions, muscle cars have rough idles and barely run at low RPMs but scream down the racetrack at high RPMs.

Compared with super-efficient commuter cars that idle smoothly and may even have “zippy” performance, cars that do not lose power at mid- and high-RPMs quickly lose power.

i-VTEC Configurations

It was decided that Honda would offer two types of i-VTEC configurations. These were unofficially referred to as performance i-VTEC and economy i-VTEC. VTC is an extra feature of performance i-VTEC engines. These engines work much like conventional VTEC engines.

There are, however, some oddball engines on economy models that use i-VTEC technology. During development, Honda placed little importance on impressive power figures, similar to its emissions-conscious VTEC-E from the mid-1990s.

The most notable difference between their exhaust camshafts and intake camshafts is that their exhaust camshafts lack VTEC, and their intake camshafts feature only two lobes and two rocker arms per cylinder instead of three.

Even though the cylinder heads are 16-valved, economy-i-VTEC engines have only one intake valve per cylinder before VTEC engagement.

There is just a small crack on the remaining intake valve, which prevents unburnt fuel from collecting behind it.

When both valves open and close normally, the process is also known as valve idling. It allows the engine to sip fuel at lower speeds and generate more power at higher speeds.

It is even tuned differently to produce low emissions through VTC. Therefore, a swirl develops within the combustion chambers, and a lean air/fuel mixture results in stunning combustion and fuel efficiency but not much power.

Upon opening the secondary intake valve, the valvetrain operates as expected. Unlike traditional VTEC engines, there is no overall increase in lift or duration. Honda fans everywhere will be disappointed to learn that economy i-VTEC engines will only dominate the 2012 model year.

Does VTEC Really Do Anything?

Is it safe to drive in the city? It depends on how you drive. When driven correctly, Honda cars equipped with VTEC technology tend to be more efficient over a wide rpm range than many comparable cars.

The majority of motorists won’t notice their VTEC kicks in , however. Normally, you rarely reach this rev range under normal driving conditions, especially if you have an automatic transmission.

It is active when the engine is running relatively high up in the rev range. The VTEC makes a noticeable difference if you like twisting roads and shifting your own gears.

How VTEC Is Different

Traditional engines have camshafts with lobes that are exactly the same size and open and close valves.

An engine with Honda’s VTEC has a camshaft with two different lobe sizes: two standard outer lobes and a larger center lobe.

When the engine runs at low rpm, the outer lobes are the only ones controlling the valves.

A sudden burst of speed and better performance can be achieved when the center lobe takes over, and the valves open sooner and closer as the engine speeds up.

Also, because of this change, the engine’s pitch suddenly changes – this is the VTEC kicking in.

Final Words

It was Honda’s goal to improve its cars with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) technology so that they would be faster, more efficient, and more enjoyable to drive.

Fast and Furious movies have featured this technology repeatedly in recent years, making it a widely known meme. There is a great deal of buzz around the phrase “VTEC just kicked in, yo! Many people have heard about it, but few understand how it works. It’s now easier for you to do.

About Richard Craver

I worked as Honda service technician for a long time. I am currently enjoying a second career in industrial manufacturing. I spent a few years in aviation manufacturing after 34 years in the Acura and Honda repair field. I am using the same skill sets that I honed over the years in the automotive industry in an industry that not only expects, but demands quality workmanship and attention to detail. LinkedIn

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• Sat. Jun 1st, 2024

Unleashing the Power: Understanding Honda’s VTEC and i-VTEC Systems

Honda’s VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system has been one of the most revolutionary innovations in the automotive industry. The VTEC system was first introduced in 1989 on the Honda Integra, and since then, it has become a trademark feature of Honda’s high-performance engines. In 1998, Honda introduced i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) as an evolution of the VTEC system, which further improved the engine’s performance and fuel efficiency. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at both VTEC and i-VTEC and how they work.

The VTEC system is a valvetrain system that allows engines to achieve higher power and efficiency by optimizing the timing and lift of the intake and exhaust valves. The system works by having two sets of camshaft profiles for each cylinder, with one set designed for low-speed operation and the other set for high-speed operation. At low speeds, the camshaft profiles provide a low lift and duration, which maximizes fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. At high speeds, the VTEC system engages the high-lift and long-duration camshaft profiles, which increases the engine’s power output.

The VTEC system uses a solenoid to control oil pressure, which in turn, operates a locking pin that connects the low-speed camshaft profile with the high-speed camshaft profile. When the engine reaches a certain RPM, the solenoid sends oil pressure to the locking pin, which engages and locks the high-speed camshaft profile with the low-speed camshaft profile. This causes the valves to open further and for a longer period, which improves airflow into and out of the engine, resulting in more power.

The VTEC system was initially designed for high-performance engines, but it has since been used in a wide range of Honda’s engines, from economy cars to sports cars. The VTEC system has become a hallmark of Honda’s engineering and is often associated with the brand’s high-performance models.

Honda’s i-VTEC system is an evolution of the VTEC system and features intelligent variable valve timing and lift electronic control. The i-VTEC system uses a camshaft profile that continuously varies the valve lift and timing, providing optimal performance across a wider range of engine speeds. The i-VTEC system also includes an electronic throttle control, which works in conjunction with the variable valve timing and lift control to provide even more precise control of the engine’s performance.

The i-VTEC system features a variable timing control (VTC) actuator, which is responsible for varying the camshaft timing. The VTC actuator uses hydraulic pressure to rotate the camshaft, allowing for a continuously variable valve timing system. The i-VTEC system also uses a variable lift control (VTEC) mechanism that works in conjunction with the VTC actuator to vary the valve lift. The VTEC mechanism has two camshaft profiles, similar to the VTEC system, but with the added ability to vary the lift of the valves.

The i-VTEC system provides a wider range of performance capabilities compared to the VTEC system. The continuously variable valve timing and lift control allow for more precise control over the engine’s performance, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and power output. The i-VTEC system is used in a range of Honda’s engines, from small four-cylinder engines to high-performance V6 engines.

In conclusion, Honda’s VTEC and i-VTEC technologies are impressive feats of engineering that have transformed the automotive industry. By allowing engines to operate efficiently across a wide range of driving conditions, they have provided drivers with increased performance, better fuel economy, and lower emissions. As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even greater advances in automotive engineering in the years to come.

The Advantages of Honda’s VTEC and i-VTEC Engine Systems

One of the main advantages of the VTEC system is its ability to provide high performance and fuel efficiency at the same time. By adjusting the valve timing and lift, the VTEC system is able to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency at all RPM ranges. This means that the engine can deliver power when needed while maintaining fuel efficiency during normal driving conditions.

Another advantage of the VTEC system is its reliability. The VTEC system is a mechanical system that does not require any additional electronic components to operate. This means that it is less prone to electrical and mechanical failures. The VTEC system also has a simple design, which makes it easy to maintain and repair.

In the late 1990s, Honda introduced the i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system. This system was an improvement over the VTEC system, as it provided even more precise control over the valve timing and lift. The i-VTEC system uses a combination of hydraulic and electronic controls to adjust the valve timing and lift based on the engine’s load and speed.

One of the advantages of the i-VTEC system is its ability to provide a wider power band. The i-VTEC system is able to provide high torque at low RPMs, which makes it suitable for city driving. At higher RPMs, the i-VTEC system provides high horsepower, which makes it suitable for high-speed driving. The i-VTEC system also provides better fuel efficiency than the VTEC system, as it can adjust the valve timing and lift more precisely.

Another advantage of the i-VTEC system is its ability to reduce emissions. The i-VTEC system uses a lean-burn combustion system that reduces the amount of fuel needed to run the engine. This results in lower emissions and better fuel efficiency.

Drawbacks of VTEC and i-VTEC Engines

VTEC and i-VTEC engines have been praised for their impressive performance and fuel efficiency. However, like any other technology, they also come with certain drawbacks that need to be considered. In this article, we will discuss some of the common drawbacks of VTEC and i-VTEC engines.

• Cost One of the major drawbacks of VTEC and i-VTEC engines is their cost. These engines are more expensive to manufacture than conventional engines due to the complexity of their design. This can make them more expensive to purchase and maintain.
• Maintenance Another drawback of VTEC and i-VTEC engines is that they require more maintenance than conventional engines. This is because these engines have more components and moving parts, which can wear out over time. Regular maintenance is required to keep these engines in good condition.
• Complexity VTEC and i-VTEC engines are more complex than conventional engines. This complexity can make them harder to diagnose and repair. This can also make them more difficult to work on for home mechanics and do-it-yourselfers.
• Noise VTEC and i-VTEC engines can produce more noise than conventional engines. This is because these engines have more moving parts and can operate at higher RPMs. This can be a concern for some drivers who prefer a quieter ride.
• Powerband VTEC and i-VTEC engines are designed to provide maximum power at higher RPMs. This means that they may not perform as well at lower RPMs. This can make them less suitable for city driving or for drivers who prefer low-end torque.
• Fuel Efficiency While VTEC and i-VTEC engines are known for their fuel efficiency, they may not be as efficient in real-world driving conditions. This is because these engines are designed to deliver maximum power at higher RPMs, which can result in increased fuel consumption.
• Reliability VTEC and i-VTEC engines are generally reliable, but they can be more prone to certain issues than conventional engines. For example, the variable valve timing components in these engines can sometimes fail, which can lead to reduced performance and engine damage.

Conclusion VTEC and i-VTEC engines offer many benefits, including increased power and fuel efficiency. However, they also come with certain drawbacks that need to be considered. These engines are more complex, require more maintenance, and can be more expensive to purchase and repair. Drivers should weigh these pros and cons carefully before deciding whether a VTEC or i-VTEC engine is right for them.

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Honda VTEC: What It Is And How It Works

While most enthusiasts have heard about VTEC, not everyone knows exactly how it works. We dig deeper to understand Honda's legendary engine tech

• Honda's variable valve timing and lift technology, VTEC, was developed in the late 1980s to increase horsepower and torque in small-displacement engines without sacrificing fuel efficiency and emissions.
• VTEC works by utilizing a special camshaft with three different lobes, allowing for different valve lift and timing at different engine speeds. This prioritizes low-end torque at lower RPMs and high-end horsepower at higher RPMs.
• The introduction of the VTEC system in the Honda Integra XSi in 1989 marked a significant milestone for the Japanese automaker and helped establish Honda as a performance brand in the 1990s. Over the years, VTEC has been used in various Honda models and has earned a reputation for giving engines a unique and enjoyable character.

The Japanese auto industry has earned a reputation for building quality products that stand the test of time. Their cars are appreciated around the world, and not just the mainstream ones. Most of their sports cars are quite brilliant and unique in their way, and some of the technology developed by the Japanese gave them that much character. Honda's variable valve timing and lift technology, also known as VTEC is a prime example of that.

First introduced in the late 1980s, VTEC has evolved over the years, while always maintaining its core focus, to improve fuel efficiency and emissions, and add power. More fuel efficiency and more power don't usually go together, but that's exactly what VTEC accomplishes. How it does it is what we're going to be discussing in this article. It is surprisingly clever and simple, truly an elegant solution to a challenge Honda decided to tackle at the time.

All technical specifications and information on how the VTEC engine works featured in this article were provided by Honda. An explanation video from the YouTube channel, Engineering Explained, is also available.

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What is vtec.

Back in the 1980s , Honda was looking for ways to increase horsepower and torque for its small-displacement engines. Japan historically taxed vehicle engines based on their displacement, so increasing engine size was out of the question, and was precisely the reason Honda was looking at alternatives to pump out more output from its engines. A program called the New Concept Engine (NCE) was launched, and it eventually led to the development of four-valve per cylinder double overhead cam (DOHC) engines.

This created a problem, however, since generally high-revving multi-valve-per-cylinder engines did make more horsepower at higher rpm, but at the cost of sacrificing torque in the low rpm range. In short, the problem was that the timing of the intake and exhaust valves in a DOHC engine designed to make high rpm horsepower hurt low-end torque.

So a Honda engineer, Ikuo Kajitani, understood that the solution for this problem had to be to create a mechanism that could alter how long (timing) and how much lift the valves would be allowed to have so that low-end torque would not need to be sacrificed to achieve high rpm power and thus Honda VTEC was born.

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The four strokes and where vtec enters.

Understanding VTEC is easy once you understand the four strokes of a common internal combustion engine . For an engine to function properly, some things are needed:

• Compression

The first stroke of the engine is the intake when the piston moves down through the cylinder and pulls air and fuel with it. On the second stroke, the piston moves up, compressing the air/fuel mixture. When the piston reaches the top of the cylinder and the air/fuel mix is compressed, the spark plug (or plugs) ignite that mixture, creating a controlled explosion, with the resulting expanding gases moving the piston down. This is the power stroke and what makes a four-stroke engine create power to move a vehicle. Finally, after the power stroke is finished, the piston moves up again, releasing the remaining exhaust gases.

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The camshaft in a honda vtec engine.

Now, VTEC can work during the 'air' strokes. Whether during the intake stroke, the exhaust stroke, or both. This is achieved with a special camshaft that features three different cam lobes. The two outer cams produce a moderate lift, and shorter time of valve opening, helping with high-end torque and also making the engine idle smoothly. The center cam, on the other hand, allows for a higher lift and a longer time for the valves to stay open, prioritizing high rpm horsepower.

During low rpm, the outer cams are working in opening and closing the valves, while the center cam is inactive. By restricting the airflow, the air is forced to speed up and the resulting air/fuel mixture is more efficient. As the RPMs increase, you will want more air going in so that more fuel can be mixed to produce more powerful explosions, i.e. power.

So when the rpm rises, the engine electronic control unit (ECU) signals a spool valve to direct oil pressure that activates a pin that locks each cam's rocker arms, forcing the center to act instead of the smaller, outer ones. That transition is usually noticeable in Honda's more sporty, high-revving VTEC engines, and that's where the expression of 'VTEC kicking in' came from.

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Vtec debut and subsequent variations.

The year was 1989 and the car in question was the Honda Integra XSi, released in Japan, being the first ever production vehicle featuring a VTEC engine, code B16A. Its DOHC 1.6-liter engine had VTEC on both 'air' strokes, the intake, and the exhaust, and it produced mind-blowing results, particularly for that time, and most would agree, still impressive for a naturally aspirated engine today.

B16A Engine Specifications

(Specifications sourced from Honda)

The specific power of 100 hp. per liter was a big deal for a naturally aspirated engine, and although the torque peaked at 7,000 rpm, due to the VTEC technology, a lot of that torque was already available from a low rpm. It was only a short time later that the VTEC was introduced in the legendary 1991 Acura NSX , which had a 3.0-liter V-6 and made 270 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque.

Over the decades, several variations of the VTEC system were made. Turbocharged engines, such as the one used on the current Civic Type R, for example, only have a VTEC camshaft on the exhaust valves, and the reason for that is simple. Since it's turbocharged, forcing air intake is rather easy and VTEC isn't needed. Now for the exhaust it is still useful to use VTEC so that you get more efficiency at lower rpm and a more free flow of air and power in the higher rpm range.

Despite its many variations, the original DOHC VTEC helped put Honda on the map as a performance brand in the 1990s. The double personality of VTEC engines gave them a lot of character and earned a lot of fans over the years. You have a well-behaved, and docile engine at low rpm, and if you provoke it, you wake up a roaring beast as the rpm rises and the VTEC crosses over to the higher rpm cam. The first Honda to use a DOHC VTEC in the U.S. was the 1993 Honda Prelude. Its small 2.2-liter inline-four engine made 190 horsepower and 158 pound-feet of torque. On this particular model, the VTEC "kicked in" at 4,800 rpm.

The 1.6-liter engine with 160 horsepower finally came Stateside in 1994, in the Honda Del Sol hardtop convertible. Another version of this engine with the same output powered the 1999-2001 Civic Si. The final engine to feature this original configuration of DOHC VTEC was the memorable 2000 Honda S2000 with a 2.0-liter inline-four that made 240 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque, with a redline of 9,000 rpm. Regardless of the vehicle, any Honda VTEC can be a fun car to drive, and we all have to thank Honda for bringing this variable valve timing tech to production vehicles as so many good engines came out of it.

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How VTEC works: Why Hondas have that sudden burst of speed

Honda developed its Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) technology to make its cars quicker, more efficient, and more enjoyable to drive overall. The technology’s frequent appearance in Fast and Furious movies has turned it into a widely known meme . Many have heard the phrase “VTEC just kicked in, yo!” but few know how it works. Here’s what you need to know about the system.

Engine basics

How vtec is different, does vtec really do anything.

Gasoline-powered engines require four things to generate horsepower: Air, fuel, compression, and spark. For the purposes of understanding the VTEC system, we’ll focus mainly on the air part of that equation. A part of the engine known as the camshaft controls when and how much the valves open and close, and therefore how much air goes into the engine. On this camshaft are raised points known as lobes, which, as the camshaft rotates, will push the valves open and then closed via rocker arms. Larger lobes will open the valves further than smaller ones.

Unless you’re familiar with engine internals, you might have gotten a bit lost in that last paragraph, so let’s define both what camshafts and valves are, and give you a crash course on how an engine works.

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In an engine, the camshaft is a long rod that normally sits above the cylinder and the piston, and that operates the valves which plug up both an intake channel and an exhaust channel. One rotation opens the intake channel, allowing fuel and air into your engine’s cylinders. Your spark plug discharges, allowing the fuel inside to combust, and another rotation opens the exhaust channel as the intake channel is closed, pushing out the exhaust gasses.

During this process, the pistons move up and down in the cylinders. Engines can use either one or two camshafts, and they’re driven either by a timing chain or a timing belt.

The below video explains what we just talked about (start at about 49 seconds).

Quite a few variables control how an engine produces the power needed to make a car move. More air into the engine means more power, since the combustion process is accelerated, but too much of it isn’t necessarily a good thing. The process of opening and closing the valves that we just described works well at low revolutions per minute (rpm), but the valves open and close so quickly as the engine builds up speed that performance ultimately starts suffering.

Honda’s Australian division published the video below to explain how its VTEC technology works. We suggest you watch it before reading the rest, because it will help our explanation make a whole lot more sense.

In a traditional engine, the camshaft opens and closes the valves, and its lobes are all the same size. In Honda’s VTEC engine, the camshaft has two different lobe sizes: Two standard-sized outer lobes and a larger center lobe. At lower rpm, only the outer lobes are controlling the valves. As the engine begins to spin more quickly, the center lobe takes over and the valves open sooner and closer later, which results in a sudden burst of speed and better performance.

This change also causes the engine to have a sudden change in pitch — that’s “VTEC kicking in.”

Yes and no; it depends on how you drive. Honda cars equipped with VTEC technology tend to be more efficient across a wider rpm range than many comparable vehicles, and they’re a lot of fun to drive in the right conditions, but most motorists won’t notice their VTEC kicking in. It’s active when the engine is operating relatively high in the rev range, and you rarely get there in normal driving conditions, especially if your car has an automatic transmission. But, if you’re the shift-your-own-gears type and you like twisty roads, VTEC makes a noticeable difference.

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4 Most Common Honda VTEC Engine Problems, Solutions & Reliability

Ever since Honda came up with their VTEC system, discussions have been stirred in the automotive industry, both in a positive and negative direction.

The Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control system is definitely innovative to the field, being specific to Honda cars which are well-known for their power.

This internal combustion monster is not lacking problems though. As strong as it may be, anyone should be aware of the Honda VTEC engine problems raised below.

What Is The Honda VTEC Engine?

Simply put, VTEC is the engine system that Honda developed a few years back.

To be exact, it translates into Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control, which speaks for itself in terms of mechanic used.

The history of the VTEC engine dates back as far as 1983 when its first-ever version appeared as a successor of the famous REV.

Other common versions of the VTEC include the DOHC, SOHC, VTEC-E, the 3-Stage VTEC, the i-VTEC, as well as the K and R series.

It took quite a long time to get to the VTEC used today, but it is now a popular engine that you’ll find on most Honda cars.

Features of the Honda VTEC engine

Here’s a list of Honda VTEC engine features:

• It has a high RPM power and a low RPM torque
• It is a preponderantly mechanical engine
• It features a completely new approach to valve operation regulation
• Its main innovation is that it opens the valves less at low engine spends and more as engine speed increases
• The latest VTEC have turbocharged versions of 1.0-2.0L, with 192 to 295 lb-ft of torque and 192 to 306 hp (with an emphasis on Honda Civic Type R engines)

Honda VTEC Engine Reliability

The automotive world welcomed VTEC engines with open arms a few decades back.

The mechanics of this engine system improved exponentially as time went by, not to mention the amazing popularity it gained in the industry.

There’s no doubt when saying that Honda’s VTEC engines are reliable, especially when taking into account their longevity on the market and the constant demand.

VTEC engines are heavily used on Civics and CRX vehicles, all of them much appreciated in the light of Honda’s reputation.

There are, of course, a few Honda VTEC Engine Problems that are worth discussing, but it’s important to focus on the engine’s reliability level first.

Would it be a good investment in the long run? Are people happy with how the engine performs considering its latest improvements? Let’s dig in.

The main reason why we can state that Honda VTEC engines are truly reliable and worth buying is their proven efficiency.

Considering that the VTEC is a naturally aspirated engine, with 4 or 6 cylinders respectively, you wouldn’t expect a very high horsepower.

But here’s where VTEC surprises automotive lovers and comes in with impressive horsepower numbers.

Even so, a VTEC engine has to be properly maintained in good condition by consistent oil changes. It is an extraordinarily powerful engine, with a complex mechanic, giving out tremendous efficiency.

People who have second thoughts when it comes to whether to purchase a VTEC engine-powered vehicle or not should know that this concept was worked on for years and years until finally being perfected.

There are little to no chances of failure, and it comes with many factors that really differentiate this engine type from others available out there.

As it was being developed, what shocked people most about VTEC compared to conventional engines at that time, is the amount of horsepower it could produce per liter.

In the 80s, thinking of an engine that could produce 100 hp per liter was the biggest goal, the holy grail of the automotive world.

A few years later, we’d see the VTEC Integra engine goals set for no less than 160 pm at 8,000 rpm, pushing the bar even higher.

Time passed and bringing those numbers to reality became clearer and clearer, all that while not compromising one single aspect of the regular 15-year quality assurance process.

The small changes and improvements in time brough VTEC engines so close to perfection today.

There are also negative opinions and theories, as there’s no way Honda VTEC engine problems are inexistent.

In fact, people question whether Honda’s VTEC engines are much better than their pre-VTEC series.

They were using almost the same mechanic, yet without the valve train, so what did really change? Well, it’s all about efficiency and reliability.

The improvements and small changes happening as Honda specialists worked on the VTEC are what brought it its fame, so it’s all about how strong these offices really are in the long run.

4 Common Honda VTEC Engine Problems

Despite its extreme popularity, many people are interested in finding out what the Honda VTEC engine problems are and whether they are solvable or not.

It is known that there are some Honda car models that are notorious for their failing transmissions or the need for replacing the exhaust manifold often.

Luckily, VTEC engine problems are not as severe and there’s no major aspect to worry about.

Even so, it’s important to get informed about what might happen after years and years of usage and how can you prevent these potential issues from occurring.

01. Short drive belt live span

Since there are so many VTEC engine examples, let’s take just one specific model as an example.

The R18 series, especially the A and Z engines, are known for producing a certain knocking sound.

The reason behind this sound is a valve that has to be adjusted in terms of clearance every now and then to avert it from getting worse in time.

Another problem would be that these models specifically have a short drive belt life span. It would take only around 100,000 kilometers of driving before it gets faulty.

02. Engine vibrations

This model of VTEC might also worry its owners with some heavy vibrations. If not used in proper conditions, the engine might start vibrating, with the left engine mount being at risk of damage.

The lifespan of these engine models is around 300,000 kilometers, so quite reasonable but not shockingly efficient either.

03. Replacing the timing belt

SOHC VTEC engines are also usually equipped with a timing belt, and this required often replacement.

It’s important to get informed about the maintenance schedule which is pretty specific for Honda vehicles.

The timing belt usually has a lifespan of approximately 150,000 km, but this really depends on the conditions in which the engine was used.

The temperature would matter the most in this case – the hotter the conditions, the faster the belt will have to be changed.

In order to avoid Honda VTEC engine problems, you must make sure you follow the correct maintenance steps.

04. Frequent oil changes

As previously mentioned, frequent oil changes are mandatory for VTEC engines, regardless of the Honda model they are on.

This engine type is very sensitive to overheating, so you might want to check the water pump, which is responsible for preventing the engine from high temperatures.

Keep an eye on the coolant factor here, as it will determine the conditions in which you will be using the car.

Without controlling its temperature, you risk damage even though you’re not driving in harsh environments. The engine itself will start getting hot because the parts are not working properly or are not maintained properly.

Potential Solutions of Honda VTEC Engine Problems

Listing all Honda VTEC engine problems will only lead to one big conclusion – respecting maintenance is absolutely mandatory.

Honda cars are super reliable, and so are the VTEC engines, but there’s a small price to pay: careful attention to all maintenance steps and timings.

By following all maintenance advice carefully, there’s nothing to worry about in terms of engine problems.

It’s also paramount to mention that no warranty claims were filed in for one of Honda’s VTEC systems. Isn’t that the supreme reliability proof?

01. Proper maintenance

What’s also mandatory to note here is that despite the engine itself being close to “bulletproof” if used in correct conditions, there are still parts of the engine that might fail.

For instance, you can expect bearings, gaskets, or other parts of the engine to fail in time, just as they would with any engine out there.

This doesn’t have anything to do with the system per se, but with normal usage and the damage that comes with kilometers of driving.

You can’t put this on Honda’s shoulders though – it’s just a normal occurrence with all engines out there.

02. Replacing parts regularly when required

Of course, there are some aspects like vibrations and noise that you can’t necessarily control through your way of driving.

As mentioned before, you need to control the heat of your engine. Make sure that the water pump and the overall coolant system works fine and try not to abuse your car.

The same goes for valve adjustments. These are done to avoid getting a noisier engine in the future, as well as to keep vibrations within limits.

We can’t reinforce enough the extra attention being directed towards oil changes. Oil is the very life of a VTEC system, so give it the attention it deserves in order to extent its lifespan.

People Also Ask For

How does vtec work.

VTEC stands for Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control. This engine system was built by Honda and what it does is changing between cam profiles.

For instance, at a high speed, the profile opens the valves more, letting more air into the engine and therefore allowing for more power.

At a slower speed, the cam profile allows less air in the engine through valve control. The camshaft timing shifts through increased oil pressure, hence the highlight on oil changes.

Which Honda VTEC engine is the best?

Any newer variant of VTEC will most likely perform better than its successor, but to name some of the best VTEC engines:

– the i-VTEC and the entire K series

– the i-VTEC that uses VCM (usually met on the 2005 Hondas, especially the Odyssey model)

– the famous VTEC Turbo that you can find on 2017 and newer Civics

Can you swap to a VTEC engine?

No. To make it clear, VTEC is not a system that you can simply add to any engine out there. VTEC is a system that was built especially for Honda’s engines.

To put it simply, VTEC is the engine itself, so it cannot be added to a separate, non-Honda engine.

However, VTEC engines can be bought as a whole and added to a vehicle.

But this means tuning and it involves electronic adjustments in order to work as well, which is definitely a niche rather than just an upgrade you can do on a regular car.

How long would a Honda VTEC engine last?

The durability of a VTEC engine is directly proportional to the conditions in which it will be used, but – generally – VTECs are very reliable engines.

They last quite a lot, but they do start to burn a lot of oil as time goes by. If the first 250,000 km it will work perfectly fine, after that, you might notice an increase in oil consumption.

There are cases in which VTEC engines lasted no less than an astonishing distance driven of 650,000 km, which is absolutely shocking for any vehicle, be it Honda or not.

All in all, it is a durable engine, but your driving style and conditions might alter the numbers you get.

Can you solve the Honda VTEC engine problems?

There’s nothing to specifically solve, but to prevent. The accent falls on maintenance and respecting all the official advice that Honda gives on treating a VTEC system.

If the engine does indeed encounter problems, they will not be different in any way from issues that are generally seen with automotive engines, be them VTEC or not.

In that case, the best shot would be to see a specialized auto repair shop and get the problem fixed by someone who knows how to handle it professionally.

Final Words

As you probably can tell yourself, the VTEC engine is for sure one to consider.

Even though it might feature some potential issues here and there, it is an overall reliable product and it deserves the fame it gained.

Honda produced and perfected its VTEC engines over the last decades, so it’s only natural for their breakthrough system to maintain its popularity.

https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/how-a-cars-engine-works/

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The History Behind One Of Honda's Best Inventions: VTEC

Honda's Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) is arguably the most well-known engine type in the world. The essence of Honda's VTEC system  lies in its ingenious approach to valve control — it operates by altering the valve timing, lift, and duration, adapting to the engine's RPM and load to optimize performance. At lower RPMs, VTEC prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth operation, utilizing a cam profile that opens and closes the valves earlier. When the engine reaches higher RPMs, VTEC activates a different cam profile, allowing the valves to open wider and longer, unleashing additional power and performance.

This real-time adjustment of valve operations enables the engine to breathe more efficiently, ensuring optimal air-fuel mixture and combustion at varying speeds and loads. The brilliance of VTEC is its ability to provide the best of both worlds: it delivers enhanced fuel efficiency at lower speeds and increased power output at higher speeds. This dual nature makes VTEC a versatile and invaluable asset in engine technology.

VTEC's innovative mechanics have had a profound impact on automotive engineering, inspiring subsequent advancements in variable valve timing technologies. Its introduction marked a paradigm shift in engine design — but how did it all come to be?

[Featured image by Nheyob via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY-SA 4.0 ]

The origins of VTEC

The VTEC system has roots in the early 1980s, stemming from research and development in Honda's motorcycle division. The genesis of VTEC was fueled by the aspiration to meld high-performance capabilities with optimal fuel efficiency within internal combustion engines. This was also in the aftermath of the 1979 oil crisis when Japanese engineers were pressured to develop a lower fuel consumption system. These circumstances and Honda's New Concept Engine program led to the invention of the 4-valve per cylinder double overhead cam (DOHC) that was functioning in the Honda and Acura automobiles in 1986.

In the past, four-valve-per-cylinder engines with high revs gave up low-end torque to generate higher revving horsepower. According to Honda , low-end torque suffers because of the complex interactions between the timing, lift, and duration of the intake and exhaust valves when tuned to provide high-revving horsepower. An engine's high-end horsepower would suffer if the valvetrain were reset and adjusted for low-end torque. An engineer at Honda named Ikuo Kajitani found an answer to this problem by designing a mechanism that could change both the timing and lift of the valves, preventing low-end torque from being traded for high-end power or vice versa — VTEC was the result.

[Featured image by Aero777 via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY-SA 2.5 ]

Introduction to the automotive world

VTEC technology made its entrance into the automotive sphere with the release of the 1989 Integra XSi, symbolizing a pivotal advancement in engine technology. This inaugural implementation of VTEC demonstrated its transformative capabilities, optimizing engine performance and efficiency and highlighting its adaptability to automobile engines.

Following the introduction of the Integra XSi, VTEC quickly proliferated across Honda's automotive lineup, being incorporated into other models like the NSX, Accord, and Civic, which were modified to employ the DOHC/VTEC engine. These vehicles were equipped with the B16A engine, showcasing the versatility and impact of VTEC technology on varying car models and types. This period saw VTEC garnering acclaim and recognition, with automotive enthusiasts and experts acknowledging the balance of power and fuel economy it brought to the table.

After the SOHC/VTEC engine, which was subsequently succeeded by the VTEC-E engine in 1992, this innovation was developed into the three-stage VTEC engine, which was released in 1995 and showed an even higher level of output control efficiency.

Impact on the automotive industry

VTEC sparked a push in the automotive sector to adopt variable valve timing in engines since it was the first feasible, dependable, and commercially viable variable valve timing and lift technology. For maximum responsiveness and power, VTEC is combined with turbochargers while simultaneously assisting cars meet fuel economy criteria. The technology has not only enhanced the driving experience by providing more power and better fuel efficiency but has also contributed to environmental conservation by reducing emissions. Another notable feature of VTEC is its use in Honda bikes' undercarriage, like the Honda VFR 800, which sets this engine apart from others.

The ripple effects of VTEC's innovation have been far-reaching, inspiring a wave of research and development in variable valve timing technologies across the industry, too. Its influence is evident in the multitude of advanced valve control systems developed by competitors, aiming to replicate or surpass the benefits offered by VTEC.

Evolution and legacy of VTEC

Over the years, Honda's VTEC technology has undergone extensive refinement and evolution. Each iteration of VTEC has built upon the successes of its predecessors, introducing enhancements and innovations to meet the evolving demands of drivers and environmental standards. Early variants emphasized performance above everything else, but more recent versions focus on fuel efficiency and provide a good balance. In fact, VTEC was even called the "dream engine," given its industry-leading characteristics at the time. 

The Japanese manufacturer realized they had succeeded with VTEC. They proceeded to develop it because of its popularity and most likely continue to do so. A great example is the fact that it powers the 2023 Honda Civic Type-R . The Type-R's 2L motor has increased its output to 315 horsepower thanks to the VTEC and the turbo. Because of this setup, the Civic Type-R quickly claimed the title of the fastest front-wheel drive car to lap the Nurburgring and is arguably its most formidable rival in the hot hatch category.

Honda Pilot Engine Oil Change Guide How to change the motor oil and filter on the VTEC 3.5L V6 engine in a 1st generation 2003 to 2008 Honda Pilot.

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10 Reasons Why The Honda 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo Inline-4 Is A Unique Engine

H onda Motor Co. has been striving for ICE efficiency ever since its very first Honda Civic debuted in 1973. Mastering the task, arguably, Honda came out with an exceptional powerplant in 2015. It is a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4, known by your mechanic as a K20C1. It is one of Honda’s best K-series engines, a species of inline-fours that spawned many successful Honda and Acura vehicles.

The Honda 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged inline-4 (K20C1), trademarked "Earth Dreams VTEC Turbo," is unique because it creates efficiency by micromanaging three tasks: direct injection, turbocharging, and variable timing. In 2017, the Civic Type R, powered by the K20C1, scored a record Nürburgring Nordschleife track time of less than eight minutes. Also in 2017, the flexible engine made its way into the Honda Accord, which is a de-tuned version of it, named the K20C4.

The Honda 2.0-Liter VTEC Turbo Inline-4 runs 16 valves, four valves per cylinder, with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine is so efficient that it consumes every drop of fuel. Let’s get into it.

Related: 10 Things Gearheads Should Know About The Honda K-Series Engine

Just The Facts: The Honda 2.0-Liter VTEC Turbo Inline-4 Engine

One reason Honda’s 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine succeeds is because it is well constructed. Durable factors include a pressure-cast aluminum alloy cylinder block and cast iron cylinders. A forged steel crankshaft provides lightweight power and durability. Lightweight pistons have internal cooling oil channels to reduce heat. A liquid-cooled exhaust manifold incorporates exhaust ports directly into the cylinder head, reducing weight as a single unit. The K20C1 is a 4-stroke engine with a compression ratio of 9.8:1. Bore size is 86.0 mm and stroke measures 85.9 mm.

Honda is confident of its reliability. The engine does not require scheduled maintenance until 100,000 miles. Of course, there is fine print. The point remains – the K20C1 is a uniquely constructed engine .

Engine Specs

The first application: the k20c1 engine is in the 2015 honda civic type r.

The K20C1 engine debuted in the 2015 Honda Civic Type R. Impressively, it lapped Nurburgring in 7:51.42, challenging the fastest sports cars in the world. By 2017, its mix of efficiency and power got the attention of Wards. The industry-leading automotive publication was so excited about it, they headlined the review, “Honda Civic Type R Satisfies a Primal Urge.” The automotive publication made the point that it was the most powerful Civic ever in the U.S.

Finally, in 2018, Wards Auto gave the engine accolades in its 2018 Honda Civic Type R application. The 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo inline-4 K20C1 was given a 10 Best Engines award. The 2018 Honda Civic Type R was tuned to 306 hp. The engine was praised for practically eliminating turbo lag. Peak torque kicked in at 2,500 rpm.

Related: The Original Civic Type R Revolutionized Sports Cars

The Most Recent Application: K20C1 Powers The 2024 Integra Type S

The newest application of the Honda 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo inline-4 engine is the 2024 Acura Integra Type S. It’s exciting, too. It is a capable sports car arriving at dealerships soon. The Type S is the most powerful application ever , with 320 hp @ 6,500 rpm. An upgraded turbocharger handles 10 percent more air pressure. It has a remarkable power-to-weight ratio. Per horsepower, it’s 10.1 lbs.

Cooling on the Type S is accomplished, in part, by a hood vent and an expanded grille vent, necessary to cool the larger intake system. A set of three circular exhaust tips resonate the enchanting JDM sound you’d expect. It is offered with Acura's impressive 6-speed manual transmission, the only stick shift in its class.

Additional applications of the K20C1 include the 2023 Acura Integra RDX and the 2023 Acura Integra TLX. The RDX has used the powerplant since 2019 and the TLX from 2021 to 2023.

The Honda 2.0-Liter VTEC Turbo Inline-4 Has Honda’s Dual VTC Technology

Honda Motor Co. introduced its VTEC engine in 1984, inspiring variable valve timing control (VTC) engines industry-wide eventually. Today, Toyota uses it in its VVTL-i engines. VTC technology is perfected in Honda’s K20C1 engine. The goal? Increase efficiency and boost simultaneously.

The system works by timing valve action electronically , (VTC), to create ideal situations for both output and lower emissions. Under oil pressure, both intake and exhaust valves, are timed to open together, increasing the duration window. VTC happens at specifically timed rotations. It is significant because it creates effective boost. Uniquely, it is able to act as a supercharger, even at low engine revs. It works by increasing air and fuel inside the combustion chamber.

Related: These Are Our Favorite Supercharged Engines

How The Honda 2.0-Liter VTEC Turbo Inline-4 Makes Peak Torque

Recall, VTEC technology adjusts valve lift, valve timing, and the duration of those. The Honda 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo inline-4 engine systems use various sensors that monitor rpm, throttle, and air-to-fuel ratios. Factoring into the process is a high pressure fuel injection system that injects fuel during the intake stroke. Smaller, scaled down multi-hole fuel injectors, with small-diameter bores, are mounted to the cylinder head. These unique fuel injectors are able to spray at high-pressure.

High pressure fuel injection, combined with a high fuel-flow direct-injection pump, play a part in creating an optimal fuel mixture for efficient consumption. Essentially, efficient fuel combustion creates power. And power creates torque.

The Honda 2.0-Liter VTEC Turbo Inline-4 Has Unique Cooling Functionality

The design of the cylinder head in the inline-4 K20C1 engine was created to reduce heat. There is a built-in “water jacket” which is a water-cooled exhaust manifold . It’s built efficiently right into the pressure-cast aluminum alloy DOHC cylinder head, taking the place of exhaust ports. It cools the exhaust temperature. Sodium filled exhaust valves bring down the heat of both the valve head and the entire valve. It employs multi-functional cooling, and it’s directly connected to the turbo.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S Performance

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S makes impressive use of the power and torque of its 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo inline-4 engine. This Acura is the most powerful iteration ever. It’s mounted on dual-axis strut suspension with front stabilizer bar, tuned by engineering experts at Acura Motorsport. Also on board is the ADS system, Adaptive Damper System, which is exclusive to the Type S.

The Acura Integra Type S has a new high-flow exhaust system , contributing to the inline-4 engine’s top horsepower rating. The 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo leads the pack with a 160 hp/liter output. It’s tuned for performance. Expect the comfort of a luxury interior and refined handling.

Related: Here’s The Difference Between Turbochargers And Superchargers

The Honda 2.0-Liter VTEC Turbo Engine Uses A MHI TD04 Turbocharger

The crowning beauty of them 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo inline-4 is the turbo. It makes this four-cylinder into one of the best fuel-injected engines ever made .

The Honda powerplant uses a low-mass turbine. The turbocharger features electric wastegates, small fans propelled by exhaust, which control boost pressure with precision. It’s a low-inertia high-flow mono scroll turbocharger made by Mitsubishi. The MHI TD04 turbo, which has a small diameter opening, works with the VTEC engine to virtually eliminate turbo lag. Peak torque kicks in at 2,500 rpm, an astounding statistic.

Airflow enters through exterior hood and front air intake vents, flows into the turbocharger compressor, is sent through the intercooler, and finally flows into the engine ports.

The K-Series Engine: Unique Problems

The Honda 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo inline-4 engine is a K-series powerplant that goes back to 2015. There have been a few weaknesses detected in some of these engines through the years. Specifically, it’s been subject to rough idling and worn engine mounts that cause vibration. Also, front main crankshaft seal oil leaks have been a problem. Earlier in the configuration’s manufacture, exhaust cam lobe galling was a frequent glitch.

Vehicle History lists gear grinding as a known issue and persisting problem. Car And Driver magazine reviewed a 2019 Honda Civic Type R and had the unanticipated and unfortunate matter of gear grinding at hand. Multiple trips to the Honda service center were had.

The Good News: You Can Swap For A K20C1 Crate Engine

The good news is that K-Series engines in general are highly reliable and great performers. The K20C1 engine is a performance engine developed by Honda Motor Sports. Many a Honda Civic owner has dreamed of swapping one of these 300+ hp Acura powerplants into their rides. And now it’s possible. Moreover, making it totally feasible, Hondas are highly tunable. The good news is a racecar grade Type R crate engine is available for purchase. It even comes with a swap harness. The engine goes for about $7,000.