2004 Honda CR-V engine problems

Filed Jul 21, 2025 · Engine · MD

I own a 2004 Honda CR-V, a vehicle that has served me well over the years, but I recently faced a harrowing experience that left me quite shaken. While cruising along the highway, I was startled when the engine abruptly shut down. The ominous P1349 code indicated an issue with the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator, a crucial component for maintaining optimal engine performance. Just two years ago, I replaced the VVT solenoid, investing time and resources to ensure my vehicle’s reliability. Yet, here I was again, grappling with the same frustrating problem that, in a split second, nearly caused a catastrophic accident with a speeding truck tailing closely behind me. With my heart pounding and adrenaline surging, I managed to steer my CR-V into the emergency lane, narrowly avoiding disaster. In my quest for answers, I discovered that I’m not alone in this struggle; many other Honda CR-V owners have reported similar incidents of sudden engine shutdowns while driving on the highway. This alarming trend raises serious safety concerns, highlighting the urgent need for a major recall to address the underlying issues with the software and the VVT solenoid assembly. I find myself pondering whether Honda made significant redesigns to the VVT system in models post-2006 to rectify the issues faced by earlier versions, all without triggering the need for a recall. It’s a troubling thought, but one that underscores the importance of safety in our vehicles as we navigate the roads.

Filed Jul 20, 2021 · Engine · CA

My vehicle is been consuming very large amounts of oil, every 450-500 miles I have to add a quart of motor oil.

Filed Jun 24, 2020 · Engine · 198,000 miles · MN · fire

Tl* the contact owned a 2004 honda cr-v. The contact stated that while her son was driving approximately 70 MPH, smoke was suddenly seen coming from under the hood. After stopping the hood was opened and flames were present coming from the engine compartment. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames. An unknown report was filed. The contact was unsure if it was the fire department or police department. The contact mentioned the vehicle was serviced at inver grove honda (4605 s. Robert trl, inver grove heights, mn 55077) weeks before the failure. The cause of the failure was not determined. The contact stated that the vehicle was deemed a total loss. The dealer was notified of the failure however, no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 198,000. *ln

Filed Feb 22, 2016 · Body, Engine · 30,000 miles · TN

Tl* the contact owns a 2004 honda cr-v. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact also stated that a sensor for the catalytic converter also illuminated. The contact also stated that the front passenger's side door lock seized. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 30,000. Consumer stated engine light comes on and off continually. Just had brakes fixed- broken pads, now light is on again, trim around windshield blew off... 50,000 miles light in interior fell down ( it is rotted). It is a lemon with apparent electrical problems, sensors on all the time. Updated 05/31/18

Filed Mar 1, 2015 · Engine · CA

While driving from southern california to northern california, the AC was working just fine when a high pitched squeal started coming from the engine. Lifting my foot off the gas seemed to help and the noise went away, but the noise came back, and a thumping sound started to come through and a small pop happened, sending some sort of black canister shooting out from under my car and onto the freeway. I pulled over and checked the car for damage, not seeing any major marks on the engine and no liquids leaking from the car. Only when I reached my destination and the car would blow boiling hot air out of the vents did I notice and issue. The dealer did an inspection of the car, and told me the AC had literally fallen out of the engine block. I don't understand how a major piece of a vehicle can fall out, and not be able to be replaced without paying $2,000.

Filed Jan 7, 2015 · Engine, Transmission · 137,000 miles · WI

My cr-v ex was serviced by the dealership I bought it from. The engine, cat converter, and cv-boot needs to be replaced, because the engine has a server oil leak internally. This oil leak my also cost me a transmission. These issues cost over $8,400.00 and counting. I only owned the car 66 days before I was told that the engine is junk. A firmly believe that the dealership owes me my money on this issue, because it was brought to there attention less then a week after I purchased this car.

Filed Dec 6, 2014 · Engine · 78,722 miles · CA

I was driving along ,the car started making a noise like an airplane ,I pulled over ,there was an explosion in the engine compartment. On inspection it was found that the air conditioner compressor had a catastrophic failure. The job involved replacing the compressor,the condenser,receiver/dryer,expansion valve, contaminated drive belt, complete flush of the system, evacuation and recharge of system. Quite a costly repair at $2737.02 there have been many complaints filed on this issue, and although it was not a safety issue,unless it had happened at speed on a busy freeway , it was clearly a defective component, that so many crv owners have experienced.

Filed Nov 17, 2014 · Engine · 140,000 miles · IL

Tl* the contact owns a 2004 honda cr-v. While stopped at a traffic light, there was a sudden increase in engine rpms and the oil and battery warning lights illuminated. The failure recurred multiple times. The dealer diagnosed that the imrc valve was at fault and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired and the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000. Updated 01/09/15*lj updated 9/6/2017

Filed Feb 27, 2014 · Brakes, Engine · 53,802 miles · OR · crash

I was driving through my area at or near 15 MPH. When the car suddenly accelerated on its own to a speed of 30-35 MPH. The brake pedal felt very stiff and was difficult to hold the car at 30 MPH with constant braking. There was no traffic and the incident occurred not far from my home, so I proceeded back home. The car would not decelerate. I have a very long driveway that I pulled into, put the car in neutral, turned off the key and pulled the emergency brake. There was a loud grinding noise as the engine wound down. I immediately contacted the dealership where the car was purchased and told them what happened. They sent a tow vehicle to pick up the car since it was not safe to drive it to them. They said they drove the car multiple times and performed diagnostic tests on the vehicle finding no problems after having the car for three days. The invoice however showed identical mileage in and out of their facility when it was picked up jan. 2, 2014. On feb. 11, 2014, I was in traffic stopped at a red light, my right foot pressing on the brake pedal. Without warning the engine revved, the brake pedal stiffened and the car lurched forward hitting the rear of the vehicle in front of me, doing damage to both vehicles. Both the dealership and honda of america have been notified and a claim has been filed. Research shows that this is not an unheard of complaint or occurrence for this make, model, year vehicle as evidence buy complaints to you. This vehicle has been meticulously maintained by the dealership and I am the original owner and only driver. This is my first accident in over 50 yrs of being a licensed driver.

Filed Sep 26, 2013 · Engine · 150,000 miles · TX

Thunk noise from engine on passenger side. Worse with turning, happened intermittently at all speeds. Dealer said "something" was not tightened properly, muttering about engine mount. I was not given a service record for the repair and am in the process of trying to get one after the fact. At the same time hear a grinding noise that was not resolved. Cr-v at repair shop now and said it looks as if air compressor, clutch and fans for AC are not right. If not resolved will blow and damage engine. I have searched and found this is an alarmingly common problem. Is there any move to investigate or initiate a recall?