Honda N22A2 Engine (2009–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda N22A2 is a 2,199 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features i — VTEC variable valve timing, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and PGM — FI fuel injection. This engine delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 206 Nm of torque, with i — VTEC enabling a broad, flat torque curve for responsive everyday drivability.

Fitted primarily to the fourth — generation Honda CR — V (RE) for European and global markets, the N22A2 was engineered…

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2009–2015 meet Euro 5 standards for all applicable markets .

Honda N22A2 Technical Specifications

The Honda N22A2 is a 2,199 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2009-2015). It combines i-VTEC variable valve timing with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances urban agility with highway cruising capability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,199 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
87.0 mm × 92.4 mm
Power output
110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,200 rpm
Torque
206 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel system
PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.1:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
135 kg

Honda N22A2 Compatible Models

The Honda N22A2 was used across Honda's Global SUV platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the CR-V-creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2009–2015
Models:
CR-V (RE5)
Variants:
2.2 i-VTEC
View Source
Honda Group PT-2016

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Common Reliability Issues - HONDA N22A2 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Exhaust camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Reduced engine power, misfires (especially under load), illuminated Check Engine Light, audible tapping from the cylinder head.
Cause: Localized lubrication deficiencies causing premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes in early production engines under sustained high-load conditions.
Fix: Replace the camshaft assembly with the updated part per Honda Service Bulletin A13-008; inspect valve springs and lifters for collateral damage.
VTC actuator rattle (cold start)
Symptoms: Distinct metallic rattle from the front of the engine for 1-2 seconds after a cold start.
Cause: Wear or delayed oil pressure build-up in the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator, a common trait in many Honda engines.
Fix: Replace the VTC actuator with the latest OEM part; ensure correct oil viscosity and level are maintained.
PCV valve clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, oil leaks from valve cover or crankshaft seals, increased oil consumption.
Cause: Carbon and sludge buildup restricting the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, leading to increased crankcase pressure.
Fix: Replace the PCV valve and clean the associated hoses; inspect and replace valve cover gasket if leaking.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant puddles under the front of the engine, sweet smell, low coolant level warning.
Cause: Age-hardened O-ring sealing the plastic thermostat housing, exacerbated by engine heat cycles.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing and O-ring with an OEM part; flush and refill the cooling system with Honda Type 2 coolant.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2011-2014) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

HONDA N22A2 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The N22A2 is generally robust, but early engines (pre-2012) are susceptible to exhaust camshaft lobe wear, leading to performance issues. Later models and those repaired per SIB A13-008 are very reliable. Regular oil changes with the correct specification are paramount for longevity, especially for vehicles used for towing or spirited driving.

The most documented issues are premature exhaust camshaft lobe wear, VTC actuator rattle on cold starts, PCV valve clogging causing oil leaks, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are covered in Honda service bulletins and widely reported in technical forums.

The N22A2 was used exclusively in the fourth-generation Honda CR-V (RE, 2009-2015) for European and global markets. It was not used in North American or Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles, which received different engine variants like the K24.

Tuning potential is limited due to its naturally aspirated, SOHC design. ECU remaps can yield minor gains (5-10 kW) by optimizing ignition and fuel curves. Significant power increases require forced induction, which is complex and costly. Most owners focus on maintenance for reliability rather than performance upgrades.

Good for its class and era. In the Honda CR-V, expect ~9.0 L/100km (city) and ~6.5 L/100km (highway), or about 31 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures are highly dependent on driving style, vehicle condition, and terrain.

Yes. The N22A2 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (an extremely rare event), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime with proper oil maintenance.

Honda recommends 5W-30 synthetic oil for optimal protection, especially in varied climates. 0W-20 is also acceptable for improved fuel economy. The oil must meet API SN/RC or ACEA A5/B5 specifications. Changing oil every 10,000 km or 12 months is critical to prevent camshaft and VTC actuator issues.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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