Honda N22B2 Engine (2012–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Honda N22B2 is a 2,199 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2015. It features port fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and i — VTEC variable valve timing. This engine delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 202 Nm of torque, with i — VTEC enabling a broad, efficient powerband for smooth urban and highway driving.

Fitted primarily to the ninth — generation Accord (CU) and the second — generation CR — V (RM) across select global market…

Honda Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2012–2015) meet Euro 5 standards .

Honda N22B2 Technical Specifications

The Honda N22B2 is a 2,199 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid-size sedans and SUVs (2012-2015). It combines port fuel injection with i-VTEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low-to-mid range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances refinement with everyday drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,199 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Gasoline)
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke
87.0 mm × 92.0 mm
Power output
110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,200 rpm
Torque
202 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Port Fuel Injection (PFI)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
Approx. 150 kg

Honda N22B2 Compatible Models

The Honda N22B2 was used exclusively in Honda's CU/RM platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations, but software calibrations varied slightly between the Accord and CR-V applications. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Honda
Years:
2012–2015
Models:
Accord (CU)
Variants:
All
View Source
Honda Group PT-2018
Make:
Honda
Years:
2012–2015
Models:
CR-V (RM)
Variants:
2.2 i-VTEC (Europe/Asia)
View Source
Honda EPC Doc. H-N22B2-001

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Common Reliability Issues - HONDA N22B2 Compatible Models

The N22B2's primary reliability risk is VTC solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes. Honda service data indicates a notable failure rate before 120,000 km in affected batches, while owner reports frequently cite issues after extended service intervals. Poor oil quality or infrequent changes increases solenoid wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.

VTC (Variable Timing Control) solenoid failure
Symptoms: Rough or unstable idle, engine hesitation under light load, Check Engine Light illuminated with P0011 or similar VTC-related codes.
Cause: Internal failure or sticking of the VTC solenoid valve, often accelerated by using incorrect oil viscosity, poor-quality oil, or exceeding recommended oil change intervals, leading to contamination and clogging.
Fix: Replace the VTC solenoid with the latest Honda-specified part per service bulletin 13-045. Ensure use of correct oil (5W-30) and adhere to strict oil change intervals.
Carbon buildup on intake valves
Symptoms: Slight loss of power, minor misfires at idle, increased fuel consumption over time.
Cause: Accumulation of carbon deposits on the back of intake valves, a common trait of port-injected engines, exacerbated by frequent short trips and low-quality fuel.
Fix: Perform a chemical intake cleaning or manual valve cleaning. Use high-quality fuel and consider periodic use of fuel system cleaners.
Oil consumption (minor)
Symptoms: Need to top up engine oil between scheduled changes (e.g., 0.5-1.0L per 10,000 km). No visible external leaks or blue smoke from exhaust.
Cause: Minor oil seepage past piston rings or valve stem seals, which can be within Honda's acceptable limits for this engine but may be noticeable to some owners.
Fix: Monitor oil level regularly and top up as needed. If consumption exceeds 1L per 1,000 km, further investigation into piston rings or valve seals is required.
Engine mount wear
Symptoms: Increased vibration felt in the cabin, especially at idle. Possible clunking noise when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
Cause: Natural degradation of the rubber components in the hydraulic engine mounts over time and mileage, leading to reduced damping effectiveness.
Fix: Replace the worn engine mounts with new OEM units. Typically, the front (torque) mount is the first to fail.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2012-2015) and aggregated service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

HONDA N22B2 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The N22B2 is generally very reliable with a simple, robust design. The main concern is the VTC solenoid, which can fail if oil changes are neglected. With proactive maintenance—using the correct 5W-30 oil and changing it on schedule—it can easily last 250,000+ km. The timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime.

The most frequent issue is VTC solenoid failure, causing rough idle and engine codes. Other common, less critical issues include minor carbon buildup on valves, very minor oil consumption within Honda's specifications, and wear of engine mounts leading to increased vibration. These are documented in Honda service bulletins.

The N22B2 was used in the ninth-generation Honda Accord (CU chassis, 2012-2015) and the fourth-generation Honda CR-V (RM chassis, 2012-2015) in select markets, primarily in Europe and Asia. In the CR-V, it was marketed as the 2.2 i-VTEC.

Tuning potential is very limited due to its naturally aspirated design and focus on refinement. Simple ECU remaps yield minimal gains (5-10 PS). Significant power increases would require forced induction (turbo/supercharger), which is a complex and costly modification not supported by Honda.

Official combined figures are good, typically around 7.5-8.5 L/100km (33-38 mpg UK) for the Accord and 8.0-9.0 L/100km (31-35 mpg UK) for the CR-V. Real-world economy is very good: expect 9-11 L/100km (25-31 mpg UK) in city driving, and 6.5-7.5 L/100km (38-43 mpg UK) on steady highway runs.

Yes. Like virtually all modern Honda engines, the N22B2 is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare), the pistons would collide with the valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable.

Honda recommends 5W-30 synthetic oil for optimal performance and VTC solenoid protection. Always use a high-quality, fully synthetic oil meeting Honda's specifications (ACEA A5/B5 or equivalent).

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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