Honda J32A Engine Specs And Problems

Honda J-series is the 4th generation of V6 gasoline motors, production of which was initiated in 1996, following the C-line with its 3 different modifications. Being constructed by the brand’s American engineers, these motors were manufactured at Anna, Ohio, and Lincoln plants in Alabama.

While C motors were 90° V6, these ones are 60°, being built for transverse mounting. Newer motors are more compact than their foregoers, featuring smaller bore spacing (98 mm/3.86 inches), shorter rods plus especially smaller crankshaft. All motors of J-lineup keep a single overhead camshaft with 4 valves plus VTEC variable valve timing.

J-series’ distinguishing feature is the brand’s Variable Cylinder Management system. It deals with switching off one edge of cylinders under slight loading, converting V6 into a straight-3. Some modifications managed to switch off one edge of cylinders or one cylinder on opposite edges, permitting to employ of 3-cylinder under slight loading and a 4-cylinder under medium loading.

Honda presented its J32A motor, built on a framework of J30A, in 1998. This version employs a V6 J30 cylinder block with an enlarged bore of 89 mm plus an identical 235 mm deck height. These features plus 162 mm piston rods and 30 mm piston compression height led to an additional 200 cm3 of capacity, converting the motor into a 3.2L one.

J32A utilizes two 12-valve single overhead camshaft heads featuring the VTEC system. Exhaust and inlet valves became bigger, 30 mm and 34 mm respectively. Moreover, the motor was supplied with fresh intake plus exhaust manifolds. Note that J32A’s timing belt requires substitution after 60,000 miles are run.

Valves must be regulated every 25,000-30,000 miles. Valve clearances on a cold motor are inlet 0.2-0.24 mm while exhausting 0.28-0.32 mm.

Featuring 240 cc/min fuel injectors and a 64 mm throttle body, the motor’s firing order is 1-4-2-5-3-6.

Contemporaneously with J32A, Honda produced J25, J30, and J35 plus J37.

After the cessation of J32A manufacture in 2008, the motor was substituted by 3.5L J35.

Honda J32A Specs

Honda J32A Engine Oil Capacity

The Honda J32A engine requires 4.6 quarts of 5W-20 oil with a filter replacement.

Honda J35A Engine Modifications

1. J32A1 is a debut motor of the series. Keeping a compression index of 9.8, the VTEC system launches after 3,500 rpm. Being employed for Inspire, Acura TL, and Acura CL automobiles, this motor reaches 225 hp at 5,500 rpm while torque is 264 Nm at 4,800 rpm.
2. J32A2’s main differences from the previous variant are: fresh pistons reaching a compression index of 10.5, enhanced heads flow, and more dynamic and sporty Type S camshafts. VTEC system launches at 4,800 rpm. The enhanced two-stage intake manifold is activated after 3,800 rpm. Moreover, J32A2 features a bigger throttle body of 68 mm, 36 mm inlet valves, tougher valve springs plus a sportier exhaust system. Being utilized for Acura CL Type S plus Acura TL Type S, it reaches the output of 260 hp at 6,100 rpm with a torque of 314 Nm at 3,500 rpm.
3. J32A3 is an enhanced variant of J32A2, while its head is built on a framework of the J32A1 one. Keeping a compression index of 11, this motor employs a cold air intake system plus a 2-stage intake manifold (launched at 4,000 rpm), 35 mm inlet valves, a fresh exhaust manifold plus redesigned exhaust system. VTEC starts to operate after 4,700 rpm. These updates led to more power, to be exact, 270 hp at 6,200 rpm with a torque of 323 Nm at 5,000 rpm. This modification was utilized for Acura TL V6 Generation 3.

What Cars Have A J32A Engine?

• Acura CL
• Acura TL
• Honda Inspire

Honda J32A Engine Problems And Reliability

J32A’s blindside is unsteady rpm. This malfunction is solved by cleaning the throttle body or EGR valve.

On the whole, it’s a reliable motor with a great lifespan. However, almost all motors of this line are pretty old, and so, problems may emerge at any time. The only actions you can do are proper motor maintenance plus the usage of high-quality oil and fuel.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented. The reader is advised to consult a qualified professional, such as a mechanic or dealership, before making any decisions related to their vehicle's engine oil or maintenance.