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Why Not All K24A Engines Are the Same – JDM vs USDM Breakdown
🔧 JDM K24A vs USDM K24A2: What’s the Real Difference?
If you’ve been shopping for a Honda K24 engine swap, you’ve probably come across listings for the JDM K24A. But here’s the problem: not all K24As are created equal.
In fact, the name K24A is used in Japan to describe several different versions of the engine, even though in the U.S. Honda used specific suffixes like K24A2, K24A4, K24A8, etc. So how do you know which one you’re really buying?
🧠 What is a K24 Engine?
The K24 is a 2.4L inline-4 DOHC i-VTEC engine from Honda’s legendary K-series family, known for its strength, aftermarket support, and affordability. It was used across a wide range of Honda and Acura vehicles between 2002 and 2015, in both JDM and USDM markets.
🇯🇵 What Is a JDM K24A?
In Japan, all K24 engines are labeled simply "K24A" — whether they come from an Accord, Odyssey, CR-V, or Stepwagon. This differs from the U.S., where engine codes like K24A2 or K24A4 designate specific cam profiles, intake manifolds, compression ratios, and more.
🔍 Common USDM K24 Engine Codes & Differences
| Engine Code | VTEC | Head Type | Compression | Cars It Came In | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K24A (JDM) | Yes | Varies | 9.7–11.0 | Accord, Odyssey | Base JDM K24 – some are high-comp |
| K24A2 (200hp) | Yes | Performance | 10.5 | Acura TSX (2004–08) | Strongest K24, great for swaps |
| K24A4 (160hp) | Yes | Economy | 9.7 | Accord (2003–07) | Low-performance, good for hybrid builds |
|
K24Z3 (190hp) |
Yes | Mid-range | 10.5 | Accord (2008–12), CR-V | Slightly weaker head, good street build |
| K24A8 (166hp) | Yes | EarthDreams | 11.1 | Accord (2013+) | Newer tech, less aftermarket support |
🔍 Major Differences Between JDM K24As
| JDM K24A Source | Intake Manifold | VTEC Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accord Euro R (CL7) | Aluminum, High-Flow | Performance VTEC | Closest to USDM K24A2 — ~200hp |
| Honda Odyssey/Stepwgn/CR-V | Plastic/Composite | Economy VTEC | Lower redline, tuned for torque ~166hp |
| Honda Element (Japan) | Plastic manifold | Mild VTEC | Similar to USDM K24A4 ~160hp |
| Honda Accord Wagon (Japan) | Mix of plastic/aluminum | Economy VTEC | Some have higher compression ~190hp |
👉 Same engine code, but very different components. Intake manifold, cam profiles, throttle body size, oil pump, and ECU behavior can all vary.
🇯🇵 JDM vs USDM K24 Engines
JDM K24s (K24A) are often lower mileage, cleaner, and sometimes higher compression than their USDM counterparts. They also come with different manifolds, sensors, and ECU requirements — so wiring and tuning are important considerations.
🧪 Key Things to Watch For When Buying a JDM K24A
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Intake Manifold Type – Plastic = lower-performance, Aluminum = better airflow
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Cam Cover & Sensors – Check for VTC oil pressure sensor location (differs by gen)
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Transmission Bolt Pattern – Some JDM variants come from AWD platforms
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Oil Pump Type – Want high-flow version for revving past 7k
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ECU Compatibility – You’ll likely need Hondata K-Pro or standalone ECU
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No VTEC on exhaust cam? → You likely have a low-VTEC or econ version
🔁 Want a K24 That’s Ready to Swap?
Our JDM K24A engines are:
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Compression-tested and inspected
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Ready for custom swaps (EG, EK, DC2, Miata, etc.)
🔗 Browse Available K24 Engines →
✅ Final Thoughts
The K24 is a proven, affordable, and highly modifiable engine. Whether you're building a boosted street car, a high-revving all-motor civic, or a rear-wheel-drive swapped project, there’s a K24 variant that fits your goals — and your budget.
Have questions about what K24 is best for your swap? Contact us anytime.