The 1.2-liter Honda L12A was built in Japan from 2002 to 2008 for the first-generation Jazz and City. This L-series engine has the i-DSI system with two spark plugs per cylinder and produces 78 hp.
L-series family: L13A, L13B, L15B, L15C, L15Z, L15A, L12B, L12A, L13Z, LEA, LEB, LEC.
Specifications
| Production years | 2002-2008 |
| Displacement, cc | 1246 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 78 |
| Torque output, Nm | 110 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 73 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 74.4 |
| Compression ratio | 10.8 |
| Features | i-DSI |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.6 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Honda Jazz 2002) — city — highway — combined |
6.8 4.7 5.5 |
| Weight, kg | 98 |
The engine was installed on:
- Honda City 4 (GD) in 2002 – 2008;
- Honda Jazz 1 (GD) in 2002 – 2008.
Disadvantages of the Honda L12A engine
- A reliable engine with a service life of about 300,000 km that troubles owners only with minor issues;
- Owners often forget to replace all eight spark plugs, and then the ignition coils fail;
- Oil leaks are common, especially through the camshaft plug;
- Brittle wiring and hard starting in winter are known weak points;
- There are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances must be adjusted every 50,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Honda L12A
How much power does the Honda L12A make?
The Honda L12A develops 78 hp and 110 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Honda L12A take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.6 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Honda L12A have a timing belt or chain?
The Honda L12A uses a timing chain.
Is the Honda L12A turbocharged?
No, the Honda L12A is naturally aspirated.
Does the Honda L12A need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
What is the fuel consumption of the Honda L12A?
Honda Jazz 2002: city 6.8, highway 4.7, combined 5.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Honda L12A installed on?
Honda City 4 (GD) in 2002 - 2008; Honda Jazz 1 (GD) in 2002 - 2008.
What are the common problems of the Honda L12A?
A reliable engine with a service life of about 300,000 km that troubles owners only with minor issues. Owners often forget to replace all eight spark plugs, and then the ignition coils fail. All known problems.
