Metal head gasket Honda Civic D-series Elring 051.340 – replacement for 12251-P01-004

Metal head gasket Honda Civic D-series Elring 051.340 – replacement for 12251-P01-004

The Elring 051.340 metal head gasket is an upgraded, multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket designed for classic Honda D-series engines used in Civic models from the late 80s and early 90s. It is a direct replacement for the later Honda OEM gasket 12251-P01-004, which superseded older graphite designs. Compared to traditional composite gaskets, the MLS construction offers much better resistance to high cylinder pressure, temperature peaks and detonation.

Why choose the Elring 051.340 metal gasket?

• Modern MLS design – multi-layer steel with elastomer coating for excellent sealing and durability.
• Upgrade over graphite gaskets – recommended as a stronger alternative to older composite gaskets used in stock D-series engines.
• Stable sealing under high load – ideal for daily driving, spirited use and lightly tuned engines.
• Direct OEM replacement – matches the geometry of Honda 12251-P01-004 and the original fire ring positions.
• Backed by Honda bulletin – Honda itself recommends switching from older graphite gaskets to the newer metal design in technical service documentation.

For customers who want to see the details, Honda’s technical bulletin describing the change to metal head gaskets can be viewed here: A97-047 – Honda service bulletin (PDF) .

Compatibility – Honda D-series engines

The Elring 051.340 head gasket fits a wide range of D-series SOHC engines commonly found in Civic models (market and engine codes may vary by region). It is intended as an upgraded replacement everywhere Honda uses head gasket 12251-P01-004 instead of the older graphite versions.

If you are unsure whether this gasket is correct for your engine, send us your VIN – we will confirm compatibility against the official Honda parts catalogue.

OEM reference numbers

• Elring: 051.340
• Honda OEM (direct replacement): 12251-P01-004
• Supersedes older graphite designs used in early D-series applications.

Recommended use and workshop notes

• Perfect choice when rebuilding a D-series engine, upgrading from a worn graphite gasket or increasing load and temperature (spirited driving, mild tuning).
• Always check the cylinder head and block for flatness and surface finish compatible with MLS gaskets.
• Use new head bolts and follow the Honda tightening sequence and torque-plus-angle procedure.
• Clean oil and coolant passages carefully before installation to ensure reliable sealing.

FAQ – most common questions about the Elring 051.340 metal head gasket for Honda Civic D-series

1. Can I use this gasket instead of the old graphite version?
Yes. Elring 051.340 is designed as a modern MLS replacement for older composite/graphite gaskets in the same D-series applications. It offers noticeably better durability and sealing.

2. Do I need to machine the head before installing an MLS gasket?
Not always, but the mating surfaces must be flat and clean. If the engine has overheated or the old gasket has failed, it is strongly recommended to check head flatness and resurface if out of spec.

3. Is this gasket suitable for tuned engines?
For lightly tuned D-series engines the metal Elring 051.340 is a much better choice than a graphite gasket. For very high power levels always follow your engine builder’s recommendation.

4. How do I make sure it fits my car?
The simplest way is to provide your VIN (or exact engine code and model year). We will verify in the Honda catalogue whether 12251-P01-004 is specified for your engine – if yes, this Elring 051.340 gasket is the correct metal replacement.