Rep Power: 0

Hello, I'm in the market for a replacement engine.

When looking for a used engine, many have the following in their title:

(VIN 2, 6th digit)

What does that mean and does it mean the sixth character from the VIN number has to be a 2 for the engine
to fit in my car?

I have a 2002 Honda Civic EX coupe, which is a 4-speed automatic.

Will a "base" model engine work with my car?

Any info is greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

 
Rep Power: 229

Check your engine, there is a stamp next to the upper radiator hose connection to the block. The stamp will say D17a1 or D17a2.

It's best to get the same engine because one is vtec the other is not (different head, ecu, exhaust, and o2 positions).

Worse case scenario, It is possible to convert from one to the other.

 
Rep Power: 0

Thank you for the response!

I ran the VIN number and it's a D17a2.

I've checked all over eBay and many are "base" engines, so I assume they won't work with my car?

 
Rep Power: 229

Base is the d17a1, non-vtec.

 
Rep Power: 0

Thank you for the clarification.

Some of the eBay auctions have fine print that has the following:

For a 2002 HONDA CIVIC 1.7L (single overhead camshaft), gasoline, VTEC, Canada market, EX (vehicle identification number 2, 6th digit); For a 2002 HONDA CIVIC 1.7L (single overhead camshaft), gasoline, VTEC, US market, EX (vehicle identification number 2, 6th digit).

Does that mean the engine came from Canada?

Thanks again!

 
Rep Power: 229

The US Canada thing is probably due to the naming scheme being different in each country.

-US Si civics have a k20 engine
-Canadian Si civics have a D17a2
-Canadian Si-R civics have a k20

just focus on the engine name, D17a2 and you'll be fine.