2.2 i-CTDi / i-DTEC (N22)
2004–2008 · diesel · 2204cc · 140hp
Engine codes: N22A, N22B
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Honda Accord 2.2 i-CTDi / i-DTEC (N22). Check this before you buy used.
The earlier i-CTDi (7th gen, pre-DPF on many) — one of Honda's better diesels, strong and capable of high mileage. Watch the EGR, DMF and high-pressure pump at higher mileage, but free of the worst DPF headaches of the later i-DTEC. Solid with maintenance.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (N22A) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
DPF blocks on predominantly urban use.
Fix / Workaround: Regular motorway runs; clean/replace if blocked.
Repair cost: €300–€1200
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
EGR and injectors wear at high mileage.
Fix / Workaround: Service as needed.
Repair cost: €200–€900
The all-alloy N22 is mechanically superb, but city use soots the EGR and (on i-DTEC) blinds the DPF — hesitation, limp mode, failed regenerations. Motorway cars barely see it.
Fix / Workaround: EGR clean is straightforward; DPF needs a forced regen or cleaning. Buy on usage profile, not just mileage.
Repair cost: €100–€700
Typically appears after: 130,000 km
Injector seals can leak combustion gases at very high mileage (chuffing noise, tar around injectors) — a service job, not a failure of the injectors themselves.
Fix / Workaround: Reseat injectors with new washers when the telltale chuff/tar appears.
Repair cost: €150–€400
Typically appears after: 200,000 km
EGR clogs; DMF and HP pump wear at higher mileage.
Fix / Workaround: Clean EGR; replace DMF/clutch; service HP pump.
Repair cost: €300–€1300
Typically appears after: 180,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 300,000 km: Owners report trouble-free high mileage.
After 250,000 km: Chain-driven bottom end shrugs this off; it's all about EGR/DPF state and clutch/DMF wear by now.
Fault Codes to Scan
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐DPF history; prefer motorway use
- ☐Scan for EGR/injector codes
- ☐A genuinely tough diesel
- ☐EGR / DMF condition
- ☐Pre-DPF examples simpler to own
- ☐A good Honda diesel
Frequently asked questions
Is the Honda Accord 2.2 i-CTDi / i-DTEC (N22) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The earlier i-CTDi (7th gen, pre-DPF on many) — one of Honda's better diesels, strong and capable of high mileage. Watch the EGR, DMF and high-pressure pump at higher mileage, but free of the worst DPF headaches of the later i-DTEC. Solid with maintenance.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Honda Accord 2.2 i-CTDi / i-DTEC (N22)?
The most commonly reported problems: DPF clogging (short trips), EGR / injector wear (high mileage), EGR valve fouling and DPF clogging (city cars), Injector reseating / washer service at high mileage, EGR / DMF / HP pump wear.
Is a used Honda Accord 2.2 i-CTDi / i-DTEC (N22) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.