I've got a 97 civic EX and i read everywhere that those have vtec, but it doesn't say it anywhere on my head. where would it show it at?

 

If you do.. Which i have no idea if you do or not... You should be able to feel it kick in at 5100 RPMS, What's your engine code?

 

Your engine code should be stamped on the front of the block, Check it.

 

This method will most-likely give you an accurate answer, but there is also a possibility the head was changed. The best way is to look for a VTEC solenoid.

 

Word. the solenoid is located in the back left coner of the head. Really easy to spot.

 

look at your VIN number: if there is EJ6 or EJ8 it is VTEC congrats! if EJ7 NON VTEC

 

look for the sensor on back side of the head towards the throttle body. is has a green plug on it. engine code should be D16Y8.

 

well call me old school or just simple minded but isnt it the ex and lx that are the vtec motors and the dx the non-vtec i mean thats how i was explained to look at it.

 

No the EX has a d16y8= VTEC. LX,DX have d16y7=non VTEC. Take some pics maybe someone swapped stuff around on your engine.

 

it is VTEC, u should feel or hear it engage, or even easier see if theres a selenoid, just because it doesnt say VTEC doesnt mean its not, just like the d16z6 it didnt say VTEC on the VC until 94-95, but there was vtec with the d16z6

 

My 97 civic EX has vtec, and same thing, it doesn't say vtec on the valve cover. You most likely have it.

 

... yeah not all ex's have a vtec label stamped on the head. Mines didnt, its normal.



The vtec solenoid is the cylinder thing in the middle of the picture. It's located on the top left corner of your head. look for it hope it helps

 

d-16 y7=no vtec
d16-y8= vtec

unless somone swapped the head for what ever reason