2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

according2me · March 2003

Lots of inspections. The sandpaper sounds legit, they probably scuffed up the rotors to remove any glazing and to avoid any chattering caused by tracks.

I would imagine it's still very cold up there, so doing your own oil change may be life threatening. Down South here, today it got into the high 70's.

I have always taken the approach of being my own "inspection tech" while lying under my car changing the oil. But those inspections could be done by any reputable mechanic for much less(probably a half hour of his time).

I've only let my dealership adjust my valves @50K miles. That's it. Now at 90K+ miles.

I don't know if you have Mastercare service centers in Canada, but for $40(USD) you can have your tires rotated for life, no matter what OEM tires are on the vehicle. Every 5K, I just drive in and they do it without trying to upsell me.

As with most things in life, if you take a hands off approach, you have to pay the piper.

crucial · March 2003

Thanks for the info.

dindak · March 2003

Can anyone in the GTA tell be what they are paying for insurance on a CR-V?

lisaj1354 · March 2003

I bought a used, Honda certified 2001 CRV and I love it...except for the fact that it pulls to the right and has a vibration at 20mph. I've brought it back to the dealership twice, and they've basically told me that the vibration happens when the gears shift, and that the pulling to the right is due to road conditions and not a mechanical issue.

That beinbg said, I keep seeing mentions about CRV's pulling to the right. Have any of you had this problem, and what did you do to fix it?

One more question....The drivers seat fabric (blue) is beginning to wear terribly. Any suggestions as to where I can buy seat covers made for a 2001 CRV?

Thanks in advance for your help to a new Honda owner.

;-)

icvci · March 2003

Go to another dealer. Don't put up with any crap. The only way to make dealers understand is to go somewhere else. It's not like they don't get paid to fix your certified CR-V, they are compensated through Honda.

Take your money and run. Or, talk to the owner of the dealership. Most dealerships are now on line and a well place email can really get people off their butts.

varmint · March 2003

Lisaj - The pull to the right (known as PTTR) is not a problem with road conditions. Nor is it a safety feature as some dealers have professed (if you were to fall asleep, the CR-V would drift off the road rather than into oncoming traffic - puhleez!). Anyway, many owners have corrected PTTR by having the tires rotated or balanced. If your dealer is unwilling to try this, go somewhere else.

If you like leather, I had mine done by this guy. He works out of Maryland, but will ship the materials to you, where you can have a local installer put them in. There are others, but this is the only one I have experience with.

lisaj1354 · March 2003

Thanks for your responses... They've done the tire thing - balancing, air/no air/too much air/not enough air.

Apparently, the air is not only in the tires, but in my head (according to the techs at the dealership) because the techs insist that any pull (as I said before) is due to road conditions. If that's so, then I'd better make a call to the New Jersey Highway Authority to advise them that ALL their roads are tilted!!!!

I'm going to take your advice and speak with the manager of the service department. I'm only dealing with this dealership because I bought the car there a few months ago and wanted to make sure I don't get charged for the work since I'm a new customer.

Other than the rotating and balancing of the tires, do you have any other suggestions as to what could be causing the PTTR? Or for that matter, the light vibration/shimmy when I hit 20 mph? The dealership doesn't seem to think there is any connection between the pull and the shimmy, but I think there is.

Re: the seat covers - I do love leather, but the economy beong what it is, I'm going to have to settle for fabric (until the job market gets better). Any aftermarket sites or locations in Northern NJ you would recommend for seat covers?

Thanks again for your quick responses. This place is great!!!

icvci · March 2003

Don't worry about being charged. If it's a Honda certified vehicle you can take it to any Honda dealer.

My sister bought a certified Civic EX in November. The CD player quit and the power mirror quit. After talking to 4 people at Honda I finally talked to someone who was pissed for me not at me. He told me not to even deal with the dealership anymore cause they were clueless.

I know dealing with the people at Honda care can be a PITA but, with persistance, you'll get exactly what you want. Don't worry after this is fixed your CR-V will provide lots of trouble free fun.

Remember to always get names of people you talk to too. A paper trail is your best tool against jerks.

stever · March 2003

Actually all the roads are "tilted." They are made with a crown in the middle so that rain will drain off to the sides. So even a perfectly aligned car will eventually drift off the side of the road.

That said, crowns these days are just 1 or 2%, so it should take some time before you have to correct the steering wheel, and you shouldn't have to keep pressure on the steering wheel to keep the car going straight. The car shouldn't immediately veer off to one side or the other when you take your hands off the wheel.

So I'd look again at a balance (make them remove any old weights too before doing this). Some other things to check would be a bent rim, and you can try removing the tires from the rims entirely and reseating and rebalancing them.

There are other things that can cause a pull I guess (frame alignment?), but the 20 mph shimmy points to the tires to me too. Icvci, Varmint? Anyone else have suggestions? Dragging brake caliper maybe?

Steve, Host

ateixeira · March 2003

I wonder if the dealer has one of these:

http://www.gsp9700.com/

Hunter makes a wheel balancer that works like a dyno and puts weight on the tire while it rotates, it's more accurate that a normal spinning model.

A link allows you to search for a nearby shop that has one. Maybe you could get Honda to reimburse you if something is "off"?

-juice

dave_cl · March 2003

Thanks for the link, Steve. Unfortunately, they don't like my postal code, so I can't get in. Also I see that there is no such thing as a CR-V AWD with automatic transmission. Funny - I've got one.
In terms of priority, this issue is, for the moment, deep down on my list. I have a much more serious problem.
When I went outside this morning, the left front tire on the CR-V was flat! I jacked up the car, removed the flat and took it into a local tire specialist. When I went to pick it up later, he beckoned me into the rear of the shop and announced that I had a "defective" wheel. He sprayed a soapy mixture on the inside of the alloy rim and, sure enough, I saw the bubbles. I couldn't see or feel any imperfections on the rim, and he said that it must have been a faulty casting. The car is 15 months old and has 32000km on it. I checked the warranty booklet, and it appears that it should be covered.
Any caveats before I go visit my "friendly" dealer?
(I wish I were making this stuff up!)

dindak - I'll get back to you about insurance rates when I've sorted out this mess.

stever · March 2003

Guess I overlooked your flag. You must have one of those "Get2Vacuums4Home1" or "Milton 5, Shakespeare 1, after 5 innings" postal codes that's not in our database :-)

Please zap a Feedback Form about site errors so they can get fixed. Thanks, and I hope your luck improves soon!

Steve, Host

robmarch · March 2003

for neoprene, try wetokole.com.

ateixeira · March 2003

I hope the dealer doesn't blame a pot-hole. Note down the expert's name and keep his number handy so if the dealer resists you can call him.

-juice

dave_cl · March 2003

Thank you for the advice.
I just called my "expert", and he said it is a defective wheel, and he is prepared to say so in court.

dave_cl · March 2003

Re: GTA insurance.

I live just outside Barrie, and have recently (March 12) updated my insurance info with my broker, but so far, nothing has happened.

My wife and I own 2 vehicles (a 2002 CR-V and a 1994 Pontiac Sunbird), are both over 60 and retired. Our insurance coverage has not been updated in a while. Previously, we each drove 20 km. to work, and our three teenage children (now over 25, living away from home, and owning their own cars) were included under our policies.
We were (are) paying $121.19 CDN on the CR-V, and $61.42 CDN on the Sunbird, each month. Our deductible is $300. I fully expect a sizeable reduction in these premiums, now that I have updated my info with the broker.
I'll let you know when it happens.

varmint · March 2003

Steve makes a good point about the crown in the road, but I'm guessing this is not the first car Lisaj has driven. If the crown in the road is pronounced, she'd have felt the problem in other vehicles. Also the crown in the road will typically cause a "drift". PTTR is definitely a "pull".

Honda recently released a TSB on PTTR, but it only applies to certain VINs for the 2002 and 2003 models (very different design than the 1996-2001 CR-V). For anyone with a new model, check your VIN against these.

2002 CR-V 4WD (auto) - All England produced (VIN begins with SHS)
2003 CR-V 4WD EX (auto) - From VIN SHSRD788.3U100001 thru SHSRD78X.3U108790
2003 CR-V 4WD LX (auto) - From VIN SHSRD788.3U100001 thru SHSRD78X.3U108913

Anyway, many owners of the first generation CR-V have fixed PTTR by having the tires balanced and aligned properly. There used to be a copy of the alignment specs on line, but the article is no longer available.

Others have gone through several alignments and still not fixed the problem.

varmint · March 2003

Lisa - Does it vibrate at certain speeds, or at about 2,200 - 2,500 rpms? I had to look this one up as it's been a while since I've seen it.

This was reported a few times back in 98 and 99. At first, people reported it as sounding like the rattle of a loose heat shield. They described it happening at certain speeds, but we eventually tracked it down to a specific range of rpms.

Eventually, we found that the timing belt had been adjusted too tightly at the factory. It didn't happen to all vehicles, just a few (PTTR was more common). Have your dealer set it back to factory specs and you should be fine.

Good luck Lisa. If anyone has more questions on these, send me an e-mail. I can you directions on where to find more info.

rockycow · March 2003

The oil change interval for the 2002 Crv is not correct, it refects the first generation (second notice)

stever · March 2003

Guess I'd do another Feedback Form. Feel free to join me :-)

Steve, Host

kentwong · March 2003

Any advice on buying a bug shield for a 02 CRV? I found one made by WeatherTech on the internet. A company by the name Lund also makes hoodshield for the 02-03 CRV. Anyone has a picture of it to share?

rockycow · March 2003

I've installed two different models of bug shields. One is called "perfect fit" the other is "form fit". They are hard to tell apart about the only difference I could tell is the form fit is farther away from the hood in the center of the shield. This is because there is a greater angle. The perfect fit is closer to the hood in the center. I don't know if the greater angle is better or not, but I do know it is easier to get a rag between the hood and the shield because the gap is bigger. You might also consider 3M's almost invisible clear plastic strip across the front. Most Companies that install window tint can install the clear hood strip.

johnnyrf · March 2003

I'm going to buy a CRV-EX shortly and I keep flip flopping between the automatic and manual transmission. I'm leaning towards the manual as it should deliver better acceleration and control in the snow. Looks like mpg is a virtual wash.
Any suggestions from any more knowing owners?

Thanks in advance.

kyfdx · March 2003

I had a manual in a 98 CRV and currently have an automatic in an 02 CRV. Although in general, I prefer manuals, do not make that decision because of acceleration. The automatic will dust most 4-cylinder cars and even some V6..plenty of torque. I agree about more control in snow, but I think thats true about any manual/auto argument. If you enjoy a manual, and no one else in the family has a problem with it (thats why I have auto), I'd go that way for lower price alone. Although, if you turn cars over frequently, you will lose that back in depreciation.

kyfdx

dave_cl · March 2003

I went to my Honda dealer on Monday morning about the leaking alloy wheel and met with no resistance.
On Tuesday morning I went in and had the tire installed on the new rim which was ordered yesterday.
No arguments; no charges.

So far, so good.

ateixeira · March 2003

Uh-oh, all those affected vehicles were built in England? Hmm... ;-)

Cool, Dave.

-juice

jfigueroa1 · March 2003

Good morning, AS owner of a 02 cr-v a/t lx, went to the dealer to see if they can do something about the cel light and they were "like always" surprise that the problem exist "the dumm game" they say that they do not re-program the comp but replaced the comp, Question for you that had this problem in the past. What steps did the dealer took to fix the problem , and did it work? by the way mine was made in Japan.
Greetings from sunny Miami.
v/r
fig.

dave_cl · March 2003

No. Mine was built in Japan. (Or were you trying to make a point?)

ateixeira · March 2003

Nah, I was just kiddin'.

I love a good conspiracy theory, though.

-juice

crv139 · March 2003

has anyone change there tires on there 02 crv if so what did ou change them to. I am looking to put on michlens x ones. any comments on these tires.

varmint · March 2003

Mich X Ones - Good handling. Quiet. Decent tread life. Not recommended for use in snowy territory.

Because I live in the Northeast (and need snow traction), I went with Aquatred 3 tires. I've found these to be a step up from stock, but not remarkable.

If you can afford a second set of tires, the ideal scenario is to get the X-Ones and put snow tires on during the Winter.

lisaj1354 · March 2003

Varmint....

I tracked the vibration and it only seems to happen at around 20mph while at 2000-2500 rpms....

Any ideas?

saber86 · March 2003

I was at the local honda dealer yesterday getting an oil change and i noticed on some of the 03 ex models they have dunlop tires. The 03 lx model still has the duehlers on them . Is this something new with the 03 ex models? I also noticed all of the 03 models had pin stripes on them without the famous extra side charges next to msrp. When we got our 02 lx, we don't recall seeing pin stripes as a standard feature on lx or ex models.

budgell · March 2003

My wife and I test drove a CRV EX-L (Canada)last night, she drove and I sat in the passenger seat. We liked the ride, styling and value for the money, however her first commment when the sales person was out of "ear shot" was that for $32,000 (MSRP)the vehicle was not very comfortable. She thought that the seats were hard. Does the leather soften up over time, adding more comfort? My only negative comment was that the front seats do not go back very far and I did not have alot of legroom, I am 6'-2" tall. I am looking for feed back from other tall poeple who are CRV owners and drivers. Lastly do the seats become more comfortable over time.

Thanks,
Budgell

surfbabe1977 · March 2003

We have 2 CRVs, both autos, and they've been great in the snow, no complains and we've had 2x the normal amount of snow in Connecticut so far this year (with more to come this week). The auto has handled the snow extremely well in my opinion (and I'm no snow driver).

We have a 2003 model and it has the Duelers and no pinstriping. So I don't know if it's new for 2003 or what...

Knock on wood, our 2002 CRV was included in that PTTR thing, but we've never had that problem.

varmint · March 2003

Lisa - The only fix I know for the vibration/rattle at low rpms is to tighten the belts (see earlier post). I haven't found anything else.

tomf11 · March 2003

Is there a kit to install body clading to the 01 CR-V?

Thanks Tom

inkie · March 2003

My CRV's windshield took a rock and put a hairline crack in it and its spreading so I guess I will have to replace it. I called a few glass shops to inquire about o.e.m or Honda windshields and they seemed to hedge and say they have equivalants. I am going to call the dealer and talk to my insurance co about this but, I would like to ask your opinion if there is Honda windshield replacements? I am concerned about distortion, and the replacements should have the same tinting and black decorations or whatever they are all around the CRV's windshield. Thanks

varmint · March 2003

I had mine replaced a few years back and had them do it with OEM glass. Honda uses something they call "greenshield" glass on their cars. You might even see the "green" when the car has a fine mist on the windshield. The glass is supposed to block UV rays. This is the quote from their press kit:

"The CR-V features glass that filters Ultra Violet (U.V.) light. This style of glass results in less interior fade over time, lower cabin temperatures on hot days and more efficient interior cooling."

I dunno if other types of replacement glass have the same properties.

NSORIC · March 2003

great vehicle, but i think the 15" wheels and tires look like donuts... anyone try upgrading to the 16" Element wheels? is the offset the same?

inkie · March 2003

Thanks for your response, I remember reading about special glass for the CRV but could not remember the details. I figured correctly when I queried you. You know your CRV's. Two dealers use local installers and did not know anything about any special glass. Thanks again.

surfbabe1977 · April 2003

Hubby and I are having a disagreement on tire pressure. I'd like to ask you guys what tire pressures you are using on your CRVs? Both of our CRVs have the Duelers on them, if it makes any difference.

varmint · April 2003

28 psi

mikefm58 · April 2003

I've got a '99 CRV with 75K miles. I know the owner's manual says to change the timing belt at 105K miles, but I live in Florida where it's hot. Are there any Honda recommendations for changing the timing belt before 105K miles?

robmarch · April 2003

I like 33psi, but the ride gets smoother towards 29. I figure if I start at 33, they get to 29 by the time I get around to checking them again.

just out of curiosity, what's the debate?

ateixeira · April 2003

Just don't go lower than the psi Honda recommends. The Dueler is rated "B" for temperature resistance, so you don't want it running flat and hotter than intended.

You can go a little higher if you're willing to trade off a little bit of the soft ride for better handling, but again do not exceed the maximum pressure listed by Bridgestone on the sidewall.

-juice

varmint · April 2003

Mikefm - Most owners with high mileage have done the belt at 90K, but that's probably just being safe rather than sorry.

jrdowney · April 2003

What are people able to purchase a new CRV for these days? Anything close to invoice?

Thanks

surfbabe1977 · April 2003

I was asking about the tire pressures because hubby's CRV has a tire that keeps going almost flat. He took it to our Honda dealer and they told him nothing was wrong with it, that it was supposed to be like that. All of the tires on his CRV look like they are underinflated, they have that bulge at the bottom where the tire connects with the pavement. My CRV tires look fine. The dealer told hubby that the tire pressure should be around 26psi (what is in the door), but the tires themselves say 40-44psi. So we were wondering what the correct psi would be or what others were running their tires at. I've never had tires any lower than 35 psi, but I've never had an SUV before either....

slugline · April 2003

The tires do not say what the proper inflation pressure should be. They only tell you a pressure that should not be exceeded -- an important difference.

Here's an analogy that I think illustrates the concept: In the building where I work, the elevators have signs reading "MAX. CAPACITY 3000 LBS." This does not mean that you need to load the elevator with that much weight for optimal operation. As it happens, it works fine even with just one or two people. <GRIN>

Anyway, feel free to experiment with pressures between Honda's 26 psi and the tire manufacturer's max. pressre. At each level there will be tradeoffs among, fuel economy, handling, and ride comfort. I've found that many owners find their "happy zone" in the 28-32 psi range; there's a good chance you will too.

2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

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