If you’re looking at a 2017 Honda Accord, you’re probably wondering about its performance and reliability. What kind of engine is in a 2017 Honda Accord? The answer depends on the specific trim level you choose, as Honda offered two excellent but distinct four-cylinder engines that year.
This was a pivotal model year, marking the end of the ninth-generation Accord. Honda refined these powertrains to be some of the best in their class, focusing on efficiency, smoothness, and longevity. Knowing which engine you have or are considering buying is key to understanding the car’s character, maintenance needs, and capabilities.
We’ll break down both engine options in detail, covering their specs, technology, and what it’s like to drive them. You’ll get a clear picture to help you make an informed decision or simply understand your vehicle better.
What Kind Of Engine Is In A 2017 Honda Accord
The 2017 Accord came standard with a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine across most trims. For buyers seeking more power and features, an available 3.5-liter V6 engine was offered in the top-tier EX-L V6 and Touring V6 trims. Both engines were paired with advanced transmissions and represented the peak of Honda’s engineering for the sedan lineup.
This generation was notable for its commitment to four-cylinder efficiency without sacraficing the option of V6 power for those who wanted it. Let’s look at each engine individually.
The Standard Powerplant: The 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC Inline-4
This engine is the heart of the 2017 Accord lineup. It’s a modern, direct-injected powerplant that balances power with impressive fuel economy. You’ll find it in the LX, Sport, EX, and EX-L trims (in their non-V6 configurations).
Key specifications for the 2.4L engine include:
- Engine Type: 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 185 hp @ 6400 rpm (189 hp in Sport trim due to different exhaust)
- Torque: 181 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
- Fuel Injection: Direct Injection (DI)
- Valvetrain: 16-valve with i-VTEC variable valve timing
This engine features Earth Dreams Technology, Honda’s suite of engineering advancements aimed at reducing friction, improving thermal efficiency, and enhancing overall performance. The direct injection system sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber for a more precise and efficient burn.
Transmission Pairings for the 2.4L Engine
The transmission you got with this engine depended on the trim:
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Standard on LX, EX, and EX-L trims. This CVT is designed for seamless acceleration and maximum fuel economy.
- 6-Speed Manual Transmission: A rare and enthusiast-focused option available exclusively on the Sport trim. This made the Accord Sport a surprisingly engaging car to drive.
The Performance Option: The 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC V6
For those who desired more robust acceleration and passing power, the available V6 was a fantastic choice. It provided the Accord with a smooth, confident character that appealed to drivers who still wanted a traditional six-cylinder feel in a midsize sedan.
Key specifications for the 3.5L V6 engine include:
- Engine Type: 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC V6
- Horsepower: 278 hp @ 6200 rpm
- Torque: 252 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
- Fuel Injection: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
- Valvetrain: 24-valve with i-VTEC
A standout feature of this V6 is Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). This system can deactivate up to three cylinders (switching the engine to run on three, four, or all six cylinders) during light-load driving conditions, like highway cruising. This technology significantly boosts highway fuel economy without the driver noticing the transition.
Transmission for the 3.5L V6 Engine
Every 2017 Accord V6 came equipped with a single transmission option:
- 6-Speed Automatic Transmission: This conventional automatic features paddle shifters on the steering wheel for manual gear control. It’s tuned for smooth shifts and responsive downshifts, complementing the V6’s power band perfectly.
Driving Experience: 4-Cylinder vs. V6
The choice between these engines leads to two different driving personalities.
The 2.4-liter inline-4 is all about smart, efficient performance. With the CVT, acceleration is linear and quiet, with the engine holding at an optimal rpm for the requested power. It never feels slow in daily driving, and the fuel economy is a major benefit. The 2.4L with the 6-speed manual in the Sport trim is a different beast—it’s more engaging and gives you full control, making the car feel lighter and more responsive.
The 3.5-liter V6 delivers a classic, smooth surge of power. Acceleration from a stop and for passing maneuvers is noticeably stronger and more effortless. The engine note is smoother and more refined under hard acceleration. Despite its larger size, the VCM system helps it achieve respectable fuel economy, especially on long trips. The 6-speed automatic is a proven, reliable unit that shifts crisply.
Fuel Economy Comparison
Fuel efficiency is a major consideration. Here’s how the EPA ratings broke down for the 2017 models:
2.4L Inline-4 with CVT:
- 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined
2.4L Inline-4 with 6-Speed Manual (Sport trim):
- 23 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
3.5L V6 with 6-Speed Automatic:
- 21 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
As you can see, the four-cylinder with the CVT is the clear winner for efficiency. The V6’s highway number is impressive for its power output, thanks to VCM.
Reliability and Common Maintenance Points
Both engines in the 2017 Accord have strong reputations for reliability when properly maintained. However, there are some known points to be aware of.
For the 2.4L engine:
- Direct Injection Carbon Buildup: Like all direct-injection engines, carbon can accumulate on the intake valves over time (since fuel no longer washes over them). This may lead to rough idles or reduced performance after 80,000-100,000 miles. A professional walnut blasting service can clean this.
- CVT Maintenance: The Continuously Variable Transmission requires regular fluid changes. Honda initially said it was “lifetime” fluid, but most experts recommend changing it every 60,000 miles to ensure longevity.
For the 3.5L V6 engine:
- Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues: In some earlier models, VCM could lead to increased oil consumption or spark plug fouling in the deactivated cylinders. By the 2017 model year, many of these issues were mitigated, but it’s still something to monitor. Using the correct oil weight and changing it regularly is crucial.
- Power Steering Hose Leaks: Some V6 models have been known to develop leaks in the power steering high-pressure hose. It’s a noticeable issue if you see red fluid dripping on your driveway.
General maintenance for both includes timely oil changes with synthetic blend or full synthetic 0W-20 oil (for the 2.4L) or 0W-20/5W-20 (for the V6), air filter replacements, and spark plug changes around 100,000 miles.
How to Identify Which Engine You Have
Not sure which engine is under your hood? Here are a few easy ways to check:
- Check the Badging: Look at the rear of the car. V6 models will have a “V6” badge on the right side of the trunk lid. Four-cylinder models typically have no engine badging or sometimes an “EX” or other trim badge.
- Look at the Tachometer: Start the car. The V6 engine will have a redline (the red part of the tachometer) starting at 6500 rpm. The 4-cylinder’s redline begins at 6800 rpm.
- Check the VIN: You can decode the Vehicle Identification Number. The 8th character in the VIN indicates the engine code. For the 2017 Accord, common codes are:
- K (e.g., K24W4): 2.4L 4-cylinder
- J (e.g., J35Y6): 3.5L V6
- Open the Hood: The V6 engine will obviously fill the engine bay more completely and has a wider, more complex-looking intake manifold on top.
Which Engine is the Right Choice for You?
Choosing between these two great engines depends on your priorities.
Choose the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder if:
- Fuel economy is your top concern.
- Your driving is mostly city commuting and daily errands.
- You prefer the lower purchase price and potentially lower insurance costs.
- You want the simplicity of a 4-cylinder for long-term maintenance.
Choose the 3.5-liter V6 if:
- You value smooth, readily available power for merging and highway driving.
- You often carry passengers or cargo and want the extra torque.
- You plan on keeping the car for a very long time and appreciate the V6’s refined feel.
- You want the highest trim levels, as the V6 was only available in well-equipped models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the 2017 Honda Accord a 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder?
It can be either. Most 2017 Accords on the road are equipped with the efficient 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. However, the higher EX-L and Touring trims offered an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine for more power.
What is the horsepower of a 2017 Honda Accord?
The horsepower depends on the engine. The standard 2.4L 4-cylinder produces 185 horsepower (189 hp in Sport trim). The available 3.5L V6 engine produces 278 horsepower.
Does the 2017 Accord V6 have cylinder deactivation?
Yes, it does. Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system can deactivate up to three cylinders during light-load conditions to save fuel, making its highway economy surprisingly good.
What kind of gas does a 2017 Honda Accord take?
Honda recommends using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher for both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines. Using premium fuel is not required and provides no significant benefit for these engines.
Is the 2017 Honda Accord engine reliable?
Both the 2.4L 4-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 are generally considered very reliable engines. They are known for lasting well over 200,000 miles with consistent, proper maintenance. Addressing known issues like carbon buildup (4-cylinder) or monitoring oil consumption (V6) is part of that maintenance.
What is the fuel economy of the 2017 Accord?
For the 2.4L CVT: up to 27 city / 36 highway mpg. For the 2.4L manual: 23 city / 32 highway mpg. For the 3.5L V6 automatic: 21 city / 33 highway mpg. Real-world mileage can vary based on driving habits.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Honda Accord offered two compelling engine choices, each with its own strengths. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder stands out as a paragon of efficiency and smart engineering, perfect for the daily commute. The 3.5-liter V6 provides a classic, powerful driving experience that was becoming rare in the midsize sedan class by 2017.
Understanding what kind of engine is in a 2017 Honda Accord helps you appreciate the car’s design goals. Whether you prioritize saving money at the pump or enjoying a stronger burst of acceleration, the Accord had an option to suit your needs. This flexibility, combined with Honda’s renowned reliability, is a big reason why the 2017 Accord remains a popular and smart choice on the used car market today.