PURPOSE: To obtain the member for internal combustion engine by specifying respective contents of C, Cu, and P in an Fe-base sintered alloy, forming a specific structure, and specifying respective densities in one end part and the other end part.

CONSTITUTION: This valve guide member has a composition consisting of, by weight, 1-4% C, 1.5-6% Cu, 0.1-0.8% P, and the balance Fe. Further, this member is constituted of an Fe-base sintered alloy having a structure, where hard Fe-C-P compound improving hardness and free graphite improving self-lubricity are dispersedly distributed in a matrix composed essentially of pearlite strengthened and stabilized with Cu, and improved in the degree of sintering by means of P. Moreover, the theoretical density ratio in the one end part is regulated to 87-97% to maintain sufficient hardness, and the theoretical density ratio in the other end part or the central part is regulated to a low density of 79-85% having relatively high porosity to give high oil-retentive effect. This member shows superior wear resistance even at the time of practical use under severe conditions.