The 2018-2021 Honda Accord Hybrid features a 2.0 liter Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams with i-VTEC variable cam timing and branded as “Earth Dreams”. It’s factory engine code is LFA1.
It’s mated to a two-motor electrified continuously variable transmission (ECVT) with a permanent magnet traction motor and a motor generator. Together the engine and electric power combine for a total of 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque.
It’s DC/AC power inverter and control unit is mounted atop the ECVT and from it winds the orange high-voltage power cables to various components. These include the ECVT and the AC compressor. Also electrically powered is the engine’s water pump. It is always important to use caution with high-voltage wiring when vehicle is powered on.
Following the airflow, the intake charge comes in through a snorkel behind the grille and over the ECVT through a thin flat plenum and to the rear of the engine where the air filter box is located. From there it travels into the throttle body and into the intake manifold.
The all aluminum engine features an exhaust manifold which is integrated into the head which allows for the catalytic converter and exhaust down pipe to bolt directly to it. Note the heat shield with the oxygen sensor passing through it on top. Always be aware of this spot as a burn hazard when the engine is hot.
Rounding up the maintenance service points, the engine oil and dipstick are located at the top passenger side of the engine in plain sight. The oil filter will be found at the bottom of the engine and requires shielding to be removed to access.
Windshield washing fluid is found at the front passenger side of the engine compartment with the blue cap. Not as easily seen is the main coolant reservoir just next to it with an unmarked white plastic cap. The metal cap at the center front is for the radiator, but not where you would typically top off coolant.
An additional coolant reservoir is found at the driver side rear of the engine compartment for the DC/AC inverter as it has its own cooling system.
Next to it is the brake fluid reservoir, remotely located from the master cylinder motor unit which is actually on the passenger side as the Accord Hybrid has a drive-by-wire braking system. Because of this design it doesn’t need to be ahead of the brake pedal as there’s no mechanical connection.
The 12-volt battery is located at the front driver side of the engine compartment, the ECU situated just next to it and to the rear is the main fuse box. To access fuses simply pop the four plastic clips to open the cover. A fuse pulling tool is provided on the underside of the box cover.
The lithium-ion high voltage battery for the hybrid system is located under the rear seat and is generally not user serviceable.
