Honda CR-V Owners Accessories & Modifications

mrhonda

Hey - thanks for the info. By the way, I stopped at my local Honda dealer today and looked at the '05 CR-V. It was wearing 215/65R16's that really filled out the wheel wells nicely. The bigger new alloy wheels really look sharp on the V. I knew I had a good reason to want to exchange the originals for bigger.
< Varmit>
You sure that it's only 0.3" or less than 1/2" of the original tire?
That doesn't sound right or even look right. They looked bigger.

kyfdx

The mathematical difference in diameter is 26.3"-27.0" or 0.7"

Certain tire manufacturers may list a smaller difference between the sizes, but that is what it "should" be, in a strictly mathematical calculation...

17.9 mm to keep it strictly metric... the difference is about 2.6%

If you were changing to 16" and wanted to keep the height close to stock, then 215/60-16 or 225/60-16 would both be closer in overall height than 215/65-16.

varmint

Guess my memory is not what it use to be. You're right, the difference is 0.7".

gigi

We have had our CRV-SE for a week, and your description of the Fog Lights is very accurate. While there may be some positive aspects of having a flat wide horizontal beam, I am surprised and disappointed in their performance. Had I actually seen this before buying, I would not have had them installed.

The factory fog lights in all my other vehicles were much more illuminating and helpful on dark (and rainy) roads -- often more useful than the high beams.

Are you aware are of any adjustments the dealer can make to direct them more forward?

kizhe

Regular lights and "classic" Fog Lights serve different purposes. Regular lights give us high, broad beam on the road while fogs should be LOW, flat, sharp focused and "look" UNDER fog, so reflection from fog would not blind you.
And you are not suppose to drive 65 m/h during fog, right? :-)
Some people use fog lights as an ADDITIONAL lights, but IMHO using fogs during regular weather would not give you much benefit. And the regular Honda lights are good.
Several times I was driving during fog and blizzard conditions and I appreciated performance of my fog lights.
Honda fogs also "look" at sides of the road (i.e. at dividing white lines), which sometimes is very helpful.
I agree that Honda fogs might be more bright, but I can only judge what I have.

jesseg

I had the Honda dealer install the 1 1/4" hitch (as an option with the new car purchase) and then after looking at the available hitch mount bike racks I concluded that the Thule Hitching Post Pro model 937 "might" fit. Good information regarding the fit (because of the CR-V spare tire) is hard to come by :-( In talking to bike shops I was told that a hitch extender is generally not a good idea, and both Thule and Yakima explicitly frown on using one. Without an extender most available racks don't fit. Well the Thule 937 fits well without an extender. There is sufficient clearance from the spare tire (3-4 inches) to fit two bike. And when the hitch is folded down the rear door opens with 3/4" to spare! Non-honda hitches may be mounted a bit higher so the clearance for the door may not be sufficent for them.

The Thule bike tack is relatively inexpensive (between $125-$150 depending where you buy it) and it works well.

Maybe on some future CR-V model Honda will find an alternate way to store the spare tire.

rhouser2

i think this has been discussed here before, but i was wondering if anyone has had any experience with the armrest with storage available for the 2005 crv. looks like something to consider. has any aftermarket company come up with anything else? how about a floor mounted console? how about daytime running lights and automatic on/off headlights? any suggestions or ideas would be great.

hnjjz

I'm planning to purchase some tire chains for my CR-V. The owners manual tells me that I'm supposed to only use cable-type chains with rubber tensioners, but the people at the auto parts store tells me that cable-type chains don't have rubber tensioners. I have no clue about tire chains, so I'm really confused about this conflicting information. Can anyone help clarify this for me? Thanks!

speedo1

i have one but my car is honda 2004
i think is great idea to buy one
You will see and additionally is not that expensive

http://www.collegehillshonda.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CT- GY&Store_Code=CHHAC&Category_Code=600I

jim12

I purchased the black armrest/console from H&A Accessories for my 2004 CRV. It is made by Honda and is a perfect color match for my CRV. It is a tremendous improvement over the standard armrests. The height is adjustable, it was very easy to install, it is very comfortable and does not obstruct the cup holders at all. I highly recommend it!

jmolinsky

Folks,

Looking at the PDF for the 2004 CR-V console, it looks like it should fit a 2003 as well. However, HandA specifically say it is for 2004. Any thoughts?

Also, how is this console different than the one for the Element that folks were also putting in their CR-Vs previously?

Thanks for the info.

speedo1

hi where did You find installation manual from
crutchfield, i can not find it
i just need subwoofer harness for my honda 04
thanks

jim12

From what I can tell from reading about the armrest for the Element, is that it is longer than the new CRV armrest being sold by H&A. Also, according to people who have purchased the Element armrest, the colors are not perfect matches. The armrest I purchased from H&A matches my interior perfectly (silver 2004 CRV with black interior) and it is made by Honda for the CRV.

totallycewl

I ordered the wheel flares/body cladding as it was pictured in "Build your Honda" on the Canadian site and listed in the salesman's brochure. But when it arrived only the wheel flares were present. Not a great way to be initiated into the world of Honda. I guess we all get a picture of the car we want to drive in our heads and it's disappointing when it arrives in a very different form. The salesman was embarrassed, although it was not his fault. Honda Customer Relations was apologetic, saying they don't make they discontinued the body cladding. They had forgotten to correct their web site and inform the sales department. Still unhappy, I accepted their offer of a full refund of the $800CAD that I paid. (Canadian option prices are over 2X the US for the same thing and Handa doesn't ship to Canada.)

 

Does anyone know if body cladding is still available for the Honda. Honda head office here (Canada) seems to think it will not fit but aren't the body shapes virtually the same? I would really like to find a source for body cladding since I put on the wheel flares and the running boards to go together. I like the sporty look of it. Were they available last year? Are their 3rd party products? Any suggestions? What else should I try?

bshel

try collegehillshonda.com. They may be able to ship to Canada.

varmint

Interesting. H and A accessories (link above) still has the side cladding listed on their site for the 2002 through 2004 vehicles. However, the 2005 only displays the wheel arches. (Doesn't look like both can be fitted to same vehicle.)

 

I doubt the side cladding will not fit the 2005 model. But I'm not aware of many sites that will ship to Canada.

richk6

Is it possible the wider door armrest sections (on the back part of the 05 door armrest) could be ordered as a part to add on my 02 armrests. It seems to be a separate piece. Sure looks more comfortable for my elbow.

lorelei2

Has anyone used/purchased Lloyd Rubbertite Custom Fit floor mats? I am considering them because all you can get from Honda is black and I can order the Lloyds in Taupe.

mikev

Just picked up an SE, and was surprised to see that the hard cover is not key-locked on. The dealer says these retail for $500. That's a lot of $$ to just secure with a zipper. Much easier to steal and more expensive than a tire/rim. Am I just being paranoid? Has anyone heard of these being stolen? Is there a fix anyone has developed to reduce likelihood?

 

Thanks for your thoughts!

jewels_2472

I have the body cladding on my 04 CR-V. It was installed at my local dealer when I purchased it new in Dec of 03. Try mankatohonda.com If nothing else, maybe they could ship them to you to have installed on your own.

I also have the running boards and fog lights along with the front bumper/grille guard that was also a dealer install. They look great together and i wish you the best of luck in locating a dealer to install the cladding for you. I have yet to see another in my area with it applied, so it does help mine stand out from the rest! Does anyone have any advice or pros v.s. cons of having a remote start installed? I live in Minnesota and work overnights...so it's always sitting out overnight and VERY cold in the am. Let me know if you find the cladding.

Jewels

varmint

There should be a set of grommet-like holes by the zipper. Run a simple lock through both holes and keep the key in the glove box.

mikev

Thanks for your response. I looked and don't see any grommet-like holes by the zipper. I guess I could get a really small lock and lock the zipper ends together.

 

Thanks again.

spanman

I love my '05 EX's moonroof, and want it open as much as possible. I'm contemplating adding the moonroof visor. Some questions:

 

1) Is the visor opaque or tinted/translucent?

2) Does the visor significantly reduce noise/buffeting?

3) Does the visor reduce airflow into the cabin?

4) Does the visor significantly reduce the amount of 'visible sky'?

5) Generally, will the visor ease use of the moonroof where it might otherwise not be useful, e.g., highway speeds, or will it detract from the moonroof's 'open sky' qualities? Or both?

bshel

1. tinted

2. yes

3. no

4. no

reitdude

I just purchased Lloyd RubberTite Custom Fit floor mats in black for my '05 CR-V from www.autoanything.com. I considered the Husky Liners and Weathertechs, but went with the RubberTites from strong recommendations from the knowledgeable salesman. He explained that the RubberTites were very substantial and heavy, highly customized (they take 5 days to ship the retailers), available in one or two pieces for the front and one piece for the back, and have a good feel under-foot when driving.

The one piece front and back were $100 and free shipping - Woo Hoo!

zsigmond

Hi cybernut04,

 

I bought my new CR-V last December and I feel unfortunately the same miss comfort with the driver's seat. Have you guys succeeded in finding a solution for the problem in the meantime? Look forward to receiving your news.

kizhe

I installed a Honda black leather steering wheel cover (on my EX 03), which I bought on-line for about $45.00. I enjoy it - looks good and feels good! Matches perfectly to my black leather seats too.
Installing it takes about an hour (lace, needle and instruction included). Wear gloves while lacing it.

dglozman

I would like to replace wipers on my 2002 CR-V. What is the best wipers available?

paulk1

I'd love to get a sunroof installed in my 2001 CRV. Has anyone else done this? Where did you have it done, at the dealer? What brand of sunroof, and were there any problems?

glory

Purchased '05 CR-V and dealer said Honda had highest theft problem and pushed the Lo/Jack stolen vehicle recovery system at price of $595. ($100 discount.

Would anyone invest in this protection. My understanding is that the anti-theft system in the CR-V is very good. My concern is when I drive to Boston or other city and park for the day, although I'm advised by police in town I live, there is not problem with car thefts here of any significance whatsoever. Thanks for input.

kyfdx

Hmmm.... Let me see.. You come out after work, and your car is gone.. Maybe it has been 4-5 hours since it was stolen.. Was it just a joy ride, with teenagers drinking and smoking in it? Or maybe professionals that took it to a chop shop? Or, perhaps it was used in an armed robbery, then taken cross country and dumped in a field?..

Assuming you didn't leave your child buckled up in the back seat... do you really want it back?

Put the $595 in the bank.. raise your collision/comprehensive deductibles to $1000, and save $100/year on your car insurance..

Just my $0.02
kyfdx

douge3

I just purchased a Foglamp kit (OEM) for my 2005 CRV SE; however, it appears that the instructions were not in the box, or - more likely - I have misplaced them. Does anyone have a copy of the foglamp installation instructions that could be emailed or faxed to me? Thanks!

kyfdx

Try collegehillshonda.com

I think they have the pdf. instructions on-line..

Good luck.. I think it is a fairly involved process...

varmint

I would actually recommend LoJack, but not because it'll help you get your car back (it might).

When I bought my CR-V back in 1999, it cost me about $500 for the installation along with an aftermarket alarm system. Having LoJack saved me about $300 per year on my insurance for the first few years. So It actually saved me $100 after two years. The savings decreased after that. I have no idea what, if any, discount I'm getting now. But the system saved me money over the long run.

Of course, you'll have to check with your insurance provider and do that math yourself.

varmint

Here you go.

College Hills is good, but I got these from the H and A Accessories link at the top of this thread.

http://www.handa-accessories.com/crv/05CRVFOGLIGHT.pdf

scooter4

I've started to research some of the available iPod interfaces for Honda factory radios. There appear to be several solutions on the market, but as I understand it, they all interface with the CD changer mulit-plug that is found on the back of Honda factory audio units. HOWEVER, apparently the Honda 6 disc CD changer doesn't have this plug. Has anyone installed an iPod interface with the 6 CD changer, and if so, what did you use?

BTW, I'm aware of the cassette and FM adapters available for the iPod, but I want a direct-wired solution.

Thanks.

maferna

Hi,
Living in AZ :shades: , I just can't drive around with the clear windows on my LX.
I would like to keep the look as OEM as possible. Does anybody know the % of the window tinting on the EX and SE?

On another note, after driving a Freelander which has a very thick steering wheel, I find the one in the CR-V a little skinny. Has anybody tried the leather steering wheel cover? Does it fit well? Hard to install? OEM or aftermarket?

Thanks again,

theracoon

The following link is for an adapter that is being used by someone with an '05 CR-V SE. It plugs into the back of the head unit replacing the wiring harness for the Honda XM radio option. This information was posted on another Honda CR-V website, but Edmunds.com posting policies won't allow me to post a link to that message board.

http://www.autotoys.com/x/cust/product.php?productid=200&cat=101&page=1

(edit: use your imagination to insert a non-car smiley face here)

theracoon

On another note, after driving a Freelander which has a very thick steering wheel, I find the one in the CR-V a little skinny. Has anybody tried the leather steering wheel cover? Does it fit well? Hard to install? OEM or aftermarket?

I've had the Honda leather steering wheel cover on my '99 CR-V since we bought it new. When we bought my significant other's '02 Civic it was one of the first things we added. It takes time, patience, and a pair of gloves (to protect your hands) to lace it on, but it's not very difficult.

(board owners: I definitely don't like the new feature that replaces my smiley with the silly car. FYI)

blueiedgod

Purchased '05 CR-V and dealer said Honda had highest theft problem and pushed the Lo/Jack stolen vehicle recovery system at price of $595. ($100 discount.

Would anyone invest in this protection. My understanding is that the anti-theft system in the CR-V is very good. My concern is when I drive to Boston or other city and park for the day, although I'm advised by police in town I live, there is not problem with car thefts here of any significance whatsoever. Thanks for input.

Save your money and decline LoJack. It is worthless. First of all not all police departments have the tracking systems. Secondly, do you really want your car back after it has been broken in, the column punched, the immobilizer shorted out, and other stuff done to it?

LoJack has not stopped professional, yet. When my CR-V was stolen, and then found, the main fuse was punched with a screwdriver. The steering column was smashed completley. The car had no rims, no seats, no radio, no A/c controls, no air bags, nothing but gaping holes. It was a shell with an engine in it. I sure wish the police never found it. When I rebuilt it myself (pocketed the $10,000 insurance company gave me), I left a note behind the radio. It read: "Dear thief, if you got this far, please torch the car when done. Thank you, the owner"

tomk17

I purchased and installed a steering wheel cover made under the name "Wheel Skins". Got it thru Autoanything.com for about $38 and free shipping. I got the charcoal color that contrasts the black interior well. The cover is high quality, fit perfectly, and realy beefs up the wheel. Took about 1.5 hrs to install, not real hard just tedious. Even my wife who is generally impervious to and new goodies commented that she likes it. that's high praise.

varmint

Add me to the list fo folks who have an aftermarket leather wrap on the wheel. Like Racoon, I have the older first generation CR-V, so it's not the same cover.

That said, it's a simply install. It takes a bit of time, but it's not difficult. And, like Racoon suggested, wear gloves. Pulling the stitching tight can cause the thread to cut into your fingers.

maferna

Thanks all,
Now, once I am done with the thread, is there a special knot,to be done? How do I hide this knot or knots?

theracoon

Now, once I am done with the thread, is there a special knot,to be done? How do I hide this knot or knots?

Nothing special, just something that won't come undone.

Think about the way you lace your shoes. You probably tie the "knot" using ends of the lace that are on the outside of the shoe (as compared to the side closest to your skin).

On the steering wheel cover, if you tie the knot using ends that are "inside" the cover (closest to the steering wheel) it'll be a little bit harder to tie, but then it's not exposed. When you cut the lace ends don't cut them too close to the knot. Leave an inch or so, then tuck the ends under the edges of the cover. A small flat blade screwdriver works well for tucking in the ends.

Oh, and don't forget a good leather cleaner/conditioner. I've been very happy with Turtle Wax Emerald Series.

(use your imagination to insert a non-car smiley here)

maferna

racoon,
Thanks for your note. I'll go ahead and order it.

Re: window tint, does anybody know the % on the EX/SE windows? I'd like to keep it as stock as possible.
Thanks again,

varmint

I just looped the thread through the same holes several times and buried the working end under the leather cover.

I dunno how the 2nd gen wheel is shaped, but here's something to consider. With the 1st gen CR-V, the thread passed over the wheel spokes and could either be seen. Or, if you passed the thread under the spokes, it could be felt with your fingertips. I was not a fan of that. What I did was start and stop new pieces of thread for each section between the wheel spokes. It means more knots, but the results were better.

Re: Tint

I have never seen the tint percentage published, but a good shop aught to be able to match the stock windows.

pina

I just purchased a 2005 CRV and was hoping to install a trailer hitch bike rack. Comments and suggestions as to which brand and models to consider/avoid would be most helpful.

I've nixed the roof rack idea because it's too high up for my wife to reach and put bikes on top if I'm not around.

Thank you.

theracoon

I just purchased a 2005 CRV and was hoping to install a trailer hitch bike rack. Comments and suggestions as to which brand and models to consider/avoid would be most helpful.

Actually, U-Haul sells and installs a nice Class II hitch for the CR-V with a 2" receiver. The Honda trailer hitch is a Class I and has a 1 1/4" receiver. Finding accessories (like a hitch mount bike rack) for a 1 1/4" receiver is more difficult, as they are less common than 2" receivers.

Just remember that even though the hitch is a Class II (and thus rated for more weight), the CR-V is still only rated for a 1,500 lb trailer (without trailer brakes).

(use your imagination to insert a non-car smiley here)

varmint

The Curt brand hitch is another good 2" receiver for the 2nd gen CR-V.

As for the rack, there are many options. I have used none. That said, I do have a hitch-mounted basket which I use for hauling cargo. And this type of basket can be outfitted with a bike attachment. It will likely be more expensive, but you get a dual use piece of hardware.

Here's a link so you can see what I mean.

http://www.drawtite-hitches.com/cargo_carriers/cargo_carrier_accessories.htm

ecotrklvr

Hi - I really like my Thule Spare-Me rack. It bolts to the spare tire mount (very secure), and has foldable arms to carry two bikes. Yes, you still have the spare in place. Check out Thule!