The 1.5-liter Honda LEA was produced in Japan from 2010 to 2016 for hybrid versions of the Civic, Fit, Freed and Insight, but it is best known as the engine of the CR-Z Hybrid coupe. It works together with the IMA electric motor; the combustion engine produces 99-124 hp depending on the version.
L-series family: L13A, L13B, L15B, L15C, L15Z, L15A, L12B, L12A, L13Z, LEA, LEB, LEC.
Specifications
| Production years | 2010-2016 |
| Displacement, cc | 1497 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 99 – 124 |
| Torque output, Nm | 159 – 188 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 73 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 89.4 |
| Compression ratio | 10.4 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | i-VTEC |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.6 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Honda CR-Z 2011) — city — highway — combined |
6.1 4.4 5.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 103 |
The engine was installed on:
- Honda Civic 9 (FB) in 2011 – 2015;
- Honda CR-Z 1 (ZF) in 2010 – 2016;
- Honda Fit 2 (GE) in 2011 – 2013;
- Honda Freed 1 (GB) in 2011 – 2016;
- Honda Insight 2 (ZE2) in 2011 – 2014.
Disadvantages of the Honda LEA engine
- A very reliable engine: 300,000 km without major repairs is not unusual;
- Typical small issues are a dirty throttle body and a whistling purge valve;
- Keep an eye on the cooling of both the engine and the high-voltage battery;
- After 300,000 km oil consumption and timing chain stretch may appear;
- There are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances must be adjusted every 50,000 km.
Frequently asked questions about the Honda LEA
How much power does the Honda LEA make?
The Honda LEA develops 99 - 124 hp and 159 - 188 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Honda LEA take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.6 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Honda LEA have a timing belt or chain?
The Honda LEA uses a timing chain.
Is the Honda LEA turbocharged?
No, the Honda LEA is naturally aspirated.
Does the Honda LEA need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Honda LEA last?
The typical lifespan of the Honda LEA is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Honda LEA?
Honda CR-Z 2011: city 6.1, highway 4.4, combined 5.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Honda LEA installed on?
Honda Civic 9 (FB) in 2011 - 2015; Honda CR-Z 1 (ZF) in 2010 - 2016; Honda Fit 2 (GE) in 2011 - 2013; Honda Freed 1 (GB) in 2011 - 2016; Honda Insight 2 (ZE2) in 2011 - 2014.
What are the common problems of the Honda LEA?
A very reliable engine: 300,000 km without major repairs is not unusual. Typical small issues are a dirty throttle body and a whistling purge valve. All known problems.
