The 2004 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine from Honda’s K-series family, delivering about 160 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. It was offered with both manual and automatic transmissions and could be configured for front- or all-wheel drive. This article explains the engine’s setup, performance figures, and variations by market.
In more detail, the 2004 CR-V sits in the second generation of the model (2002–2006) and relies on a single major engine option for North American buyers, a naturally aspirated 2.4 L four-cylinder with Honda’s i-VTEC variable valve timing. While power figures are fairly consistent, exact output can vary slightly by market and revision, so it’s worth checking the specific vehicle’s data plate or owner’s manual if you’re shopping a used example.
Engine type and key specifications
Below is a concise rundown of the core specifications for the 2.4-liter engine that powers the 2004 CR-V. The list provides baseline figures commonly cited for US-spec models from that era.
- Displacement: 2.4 L (2354 cc)
- Configuration: Inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Induction: Naturally aspirated
- Fuel delivery: Multi-point fuel injection
- Compression ratio: roughly 9.6:1
- Power: about 160 horsepower (varies slightly by market, commonly cited around 158–166 hp)
- Torque: about 162 lb-ft (219 Nm)
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available
These numbers reflect the typical configuration for US-market CR-Vs in 2004. Engines in other regions share the same basic 2.4 L i-VTEC design but may show minor tuning differences due to emissions and market requirements.
Market variations and engine family
The 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder in the 2004 CR-V belongs to Honda’s K-series, a family of robust, widely used engines. In North America, the engine is commonly identified within the K24 family, with the most frequently referenced US designation being K24A1 for this generation. Other markets sometimes used different K24 variants, reflecting local emission standards and tuning, while preserving the same core architecture and i-VTEC technology.
- Engine family: Honda K-series (K24)
- Common US designation for this generation: K24A1
- Market variations: other K24 variants exist in non-US markets and certain model revisions to meet regional emissions and tuning requirements
If you’re evaluating a 2004 CR-V, the essential engine is the 2.4 L i-VTEC inline-4 from the K-series. Verifying the exact engine code (often stamped on the engine block) can help confirm the precise variant, especially when comparing vehicles from different regions or with different service histories.
Maintenance and reliability notes
To keep the 2.4 L i-VTEC engine healthy over time, consider the following maintenance guidance. The list highlights common-care items that apply to most 2004 CR-V owners and buyers of used examples.
- Follow the manufacturer’s oil-change interval and use the recommended oil grade; synthetic oil is commonly advised for longevity and smooth operation.
- Keep up with timing belt and water-pump replacement per Honda’s maintenance schedule, as the belt is a critical component tied to the engine’s timing; neglect can lead to severe engine damage if the belt fails.
- Inspect and replace worn belts, hoses, and the cooling-system components to prevent overheating, which can be especially damaging to interference engines like the K-series.
- Monitor and service the cooling system, including the radiator, thermostat, and coolant; proper cooling helps maintain heater performance and overall reliability.
- Pay attention to oil leaks around the valve-cover gasket and surrounding seals, which are common wear items with mileage; address leaks promptly to protect the engine.
These maintenance steps are general guidelines. Always consult the owner’s manual or a qualified Honda technician for the exact service intervals and specifications for your vehicle’s engine variant.
Summary: The 2004 Honda CR-V’s engine is a 2.4-liter inline-4 from Honda’s K-series, equipped with i-VTEC. It produces roughly 160 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, offered with manual or automatic transmissions and available in either front- or all-wheel drive. Engine codes can vary by market, with the US often referencing K24A1 for this generation. Regular maintenance—oil changes, timing-belt and water-pump service, and cooling-system upkeep—helps keep this robust engine performing well over time.
What kind of engine does a 2004 Honda CR-V have?
Engine
| Base engine size | 2.4 L |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
What CR-V has a K20 engine?
K20A (i-VTEC)
| Engine | Application | Power |
|---|---|---|
| K20A3 | 2003–2006 Honda Civic 2.0 i-VTEC ( SEA ) | 155 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
| K20A4 | 2002–2006 Honda CR-V | 156 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
| K20A6 | 2003–2006 Honda Accord ( EDM ) | 155 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
| 2003–2006 Honda Accord ( ADM ) | 155 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
Which CR-V year to stay away from?
The first CR-V of the 21st century sees an increase in engine-related issues and the beginning of a series of recalls for defective airbags (the notorious Takata airbag recall). The recall affected numerous model years (mostly 2002-2015), so always check this out if you're buying a used CR-V.
Does the 2004 Honda CR-V have a K24 engine?
It's a K series engine, however only the 2002-2004 m/y have the K24A1. In 2005 the engine was modified to have a drive-by wire butterfly valve operated by the ECU, replacing the original cable-driven throttle body that is connected to the gas pedal.