Top 5 Honda CR-V Problems: 4th Generation (2012 to 2016)

Do you or does someone you know own a 4th Gen CR-V? In today’s post, we highlight the top 5 Honda CR-V problems that most drivers come across. This covers the model years 2012 to 2016.

You may have already encountered some of these problems. If not, this post will help you know what to expect. We also provide possible fixes to each of these issues that you can do yourself.

Fix common 4th gen Honda CR-V problems yourself with quality auto parts at 1aauto.com

Diagnose and Fix Common 4th Gen 2012 to 2016 Honda CR-V Problems 

1. A/C Compressor Failure

A/C compressor on the 2012 to 2016 Honda CR-V
A/C compressor on the 2012 to 2016 Honda CR-V

Symptoms of A/C Compressor Failure

  • A/C is not as cool or doesn’t work

A common symptom that you’re likely to notice when this happens is having an AC system that is not as cool as normal or doesn’t work at all. 

Causes of A/C Problems in the 2012 to 2016 Honda CR-V

The A/C compressor is responsible for circulating the refrigerant within the A/C system at high pressure. It ensures that the system functions at peak performance. One of the most common Honda CR-V problems is having an A/C compressor that has gone bad. 

When the compressors internal components fail, metal particles will circulate throughout the A/C system. These can be difficult to remove or clean and you may need to have some components replaced.

How to Fix A/C Compressor Failure

The compressor is located at the bottom of the engine where it’s driven by the alternator. If the compressor has failed, replace it.

Read more about how to diagnose an A/C Compressor

2. Automatic Transmission Problems

Symptoms of Transmission Problems

  • Harsh shifting

The automatic transmission is also another common Honda CR-V problem that a lot of owners complain about. The most common symptom reported is noticing a harsh shift from the first to the second gear.

How to Fix Automatic Transmission Problems on the 4th Gen Honda CR-V

We recommend flushing the transmission and replacing the linear solenoid. This should help fix the problem.

You may also have other internal components that are damaged. This includes a misalignment of the gear shaft that might even cause the system to make noise or cause the vehicle to stall. The entire transmission will need to be overhauled and replaced to permanently fix the problem. 

3. Front Brake Rotors Failing 

Wheel on the 4th gen Honda CR-V

Symptoms of Bad Brake Rotors

  • Steering wheel shakes
  • Brake pedal pulsation

The brake rotors in the 4th Gen CR-V work together with the brake pads to help stop the vehicle. When you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads press against the rotor and create the friction needed to bring you to a stop. 

Sometimes, you may notice that your steering wheel shakes slightly back and forth. Other times, you may feel the brake pedal jump up and down. This is caused by front brake rotors that are warped or varied in thickness. They may have a wavy surface that stops the brake pads from compressing properly.

How to Fix Bad Brake Rotors

To fix the problem, the brake rotors can be machined back to their original state. You may be required to replace them entirely if this is not possible. 

Read more on how to tell if brake rotors need to be resurfaced or replaced

4. Oil Pressure Switch 

Oil pressure switch on the 2012 to 2016 Honda CR-V

Symptoms of a Bad Oil Pressure Switch

  • Oil leaking

The oil pressure switch is located near the valve cover in the 4th Gen Honda CR-V. It is used to monitor the pressure in the engine’s oil circuit. It works as an actuator that turns on a warning light when the oil pressure falls below the required level. 

A lot of owners report seeing oil leaking from where the switch is located in their CR-V.

How to Fix a Bad Oil Pressure Switch

Inspect the switch and the valve cover. If the problem lies with the switch, a simple replacement should fix it. 

5. Water Leaking into the Cabin 

4th gen Honda CR-V driver side floor

Symptoms of Water Leaking into the Cabin

  • Water collected on the driver or passenger side floor

For our last Honda CRV problem, we’ll address an issue that a lot of drivers have. Sometimes water tends to get into the cabin and leaks onto the carpet. You’ll mostly find drops of water on the floor on your driver or passenger side. 

Causes of Water Leaking into the Cabin

Water leaks are caused by rainwater dripping past the cowl and into the cabin. The cowl is the space located between your windshield and hood. It’s where you’ll find your wipers.

How to Fix Water Leaking into the Cabin

The best solution for this is to reseal the cowl to prevent water from getting through. 

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4th Generation Honda CR-V Model Years

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Top 5 Honda CR-V Problems - 4th Generation (2012 to 2016) - 1A Auto
Article Name
Top 5 Honda CR-V Problems - 4th Generation (2012 to 2016) - 1A Auto
Description
Here are the top 5 Honda CRV problems that a lot of owners have come across in the 4th Gen CRV. This article and video covers the model years 2012 to 2016.
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1A Auto
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