The Honda CR-V is a popular choice for a family car. It’s spacious, efficient, and generally reliable. However, like all cars, the CR-V isn’t perfect. One common issue that owners of this vehicle face are transmission problems.

The first three generations of the Honda CR-V came with a five-speed automatic transmission, while the fourth and fifth generations offer a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is supposed to be more reliable than the five-speed, but the majority of issues that owners face come from the CVT transmission.

In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the most common Honda CR-V transmission problems so that you can be prepared if your car starts to have issues.

Honda CR-V Common Transmission Problems

There are a few common transmission issues that Honda CR-V owners face. Here are some of the more frequently occurring problems.

Shifting Issues

If your Honda CR-V is having difficulty shifting gears, it could be due to a few different things. First, it could be a problem with the clutch. If the clutch is worn out or not functioning properly, it can cause shifting issues. The clutch in older CR-V models has been known to fail prematurely, so it’s important to check the wear on your clutch if you’re experiencing any shifting issues, especially in higher gears.

Another possibility is that there is an issue with the shift cable. The shift cable connects the shifter to the transmission, so if it’s damaged or disconnected, it can prevent the transmission from shifting correctly and prevent power going to the engine.

Finally, there could be a problem with the transmission itself. If the transmission fluid is dirty or low, it can cause shifting problems. If you’re experiencing shifting issues with your Honda CR-V, take it to a mechanic and have them diagnose the problem so that it can be fixed.

Leaking Transmission Fluid

Another common issue that Honda CR-V owners experience is leaking transmission fluid. If your car is leaking transmission fluid, getting it fixed as soon as possible is essential. Otherwise, your car could run out of fluid and suffer severe damage. There are several ways to tell if your car is leaking transmission fluid.

First, check for puddles of reddish-brown liquid under your car. Second, look for stains on your driveway or garage floor. Third, check the level of fluid in the dipstick tube. If it’s low, that means you’re leaking fluid.

Rough Shifting

If your Honda CR-V is experiencing rough shifting – meaning it’s taking longer than usual for the gears to engage – it could be due to a few different things. First, it could be a problem with the clutch actuator rod seal. This seal prevents fluid from leaking out of the actuator rod cylinder, so if it’s damaged or worn out, it can cause shifting issues.

Second, there could be an issue with the internal bushings in the shifter assembly. These bushings help guide the shifter forks and improve shifting quality; if worn out or damaged, they can cause rough shifting.

Finally, there could be a problem with the main shaft bearing in the transmission itself. This bearing helps support the main shaft; if it’s damaged or worn out, it can cause rough shifting.

Excessive Front-End Vibration

On newer models with a CVT transmission (2014 onwards), excessive front-end vibration is a common problem. This can happen while driving or when idle, and some owners have reported that it feels like the car is shaking or shuddering.

The cause of this issue is unknown, but some owners have had success by having the transmission rebuilt or replaced.

Honda CR-V Transmission Problems – Solutions

The transmission on your vehicle is a complex system, and a certified mechanic should do any repairs. However, there are some things you can do to help prevent transmission problems.

Check The Transmission Fluid

You should check the transmission fluid regularly to ensure it is clean and at the proper level. If the fluid is low or dirty, it can cause shifting issues and other problems. Also, make sure to use the proper transmission fluid for your vehicle; using the wrong fluid can cause damage to the transmission.

Use A Diagnostic Tool

A diagnostic tool can check for any potential transmission problems and offer solutions. This can help pinpoint the issue and allow a mechanic to make the necessary repairs.

Regular Maintenance

It’s important to keep up with regular maintenance on your transmission, such as changing the fluid and filter every 30,000 miles. This will help keep the transmission running properly and prevent issues from occurring, such as loss of power.

It’s also a good idea to inspect the shifter assembly and clutch actuator rod seal for wear and tear, as these can cause shifting issues.

Check the Clutch

Worn or damaged clutches can cause shifting issues, so it’s important to check your clutch if you’re having problems. This can be done by a mechanic, who can tell if the clutch needs to be replaced or adjusted.

FAQ

How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Transmission In A Honda CR-V?

The cost to replace the transmission in a Honda CR-V will depend on the year, model, and transmission type. On average, it can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $4,000.

Can I Drive With A Leaking Transmission?

No, driving a vehicle with a leaking transmission is unsafe. Transmission fluid is essential for the proper functioning of your car, and driving it while it’s leaking can cause further damage. It’s important to check it out as soon as possible if you suspect a leak.

How Long Do CR-V Transmissions Last?

The lifespan of a CR-V transmission will depend on how well it is maintained and how often it is serviced. Generally, the transmission can last anywhere from 120,000 to 180,000 miles if well-maintained. Regular maintenance and check-ups can help extend the life of the transmission.

Does A CVT Transmission Require Less Maintenance?

A CVT transmission typically requires less maintenance than a regular automatic transmission. This is because there are fewer moving parts, making it less likely to need repairs. However, it is still important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure that the transmission is running properly and smoothly.