The 4th-generation Honda CR-V , was produced from 2012 to 2016, and is a reliable compact SUV popular with many of our customers. It is powered by a 2.4-liter engine and equipped with either a 5-speed automatic (2012–2014) or a CVT (2015–2016), it’s a common sight at our auto repair shop. However, even this popular model has its share of issues. If you own a 4th-gen CR-V or are considering buying one, here are the most frequent problems we see at Tolima’s Auto Center and how we can help you address them.

The 2.4L engine in the 4th-gen Honda CR-V is solid, but it’s not without flaws.
Here’s what we encounter:

VTC Actuator Noise : A grinding or rattling sound on cold starts is a telltale sign of a faulty Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator. This issue, common in 2013–2015 models, is especially noticeable during Queens New York winters. While it won’t strand you, the noise can be irritating.

Oil Leaks : Leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan, or VTC solenoid are frequent, especially with the heat cycles of NYC’s stop and go traffic.

Oil Consumption : Some CR-Vs burn oil if maintenance is skipped. To avoid these issues you should regularly change your oil. Don’t stretch past 6,500 mile oil changes.

Transmission troubles vary by model year in the 4th-gen CR-V:

Harsh Shifting (2012–2014) : The 5-speed automatic can shift roughly, especially in stop-and-go New York City traffic. Dirty fluid is often the culprit—flush it every 40,000 miles to help keep your transmission shifting smooth.

CVT Vibrations (2015–2016) : The CVT can cause a buzzing sensation at idle. Software updates or mount adjustments might help, but it’s a quirk some owners live with as CVT transmissions aren’t as reliable as traditional automatic transmissions.

Battery Drain : Park your CR-V for a few days, and it might not start. This is caused by a parasitic drain on the battery. We have found a stuck A/C relay to be the most common cause of this issue.

Door Lock Failures : Sticking locks, especially on the driver’s side, are another common issue. The solution is replacing the door lock actuator.

City driving takes a toll on these components:

Warped Brake Rotors : Shaking when braking? Warped front rotors are common around 60,000 miles.

Wheel Bearing Noise : A humming sound on turns usually signals a bad wheel bearing. If the problem gets ignored the sound will get louder and louder. Wheel bearings tend to go more often due to potholes and city driving.

Cabin Water Leaks : Rainy days can reveal leaks into the footwells from a poorly sealed windshield cowling. Resealing or unclogging drains will fix this problem. If you car smells moldy after a rainy day it is better to get the problem fixed as ignoring the issue can lead to sagging headliners and other issues which will require more repairs and cost more.

At Tolima’s Auto center, we’ve seen these 4th-gen Honda CR-V problems firsthand as they are popular with our customers. Whether it’s a noisy VTC actuator, transmission shudders, or warped rotors, our team has the expertise to diagnose and repair your Honda properly. We stock common parts and offer preventative maintenance—like fluid flushes—to save you money down the road.

Check Maintenance History : Look for regular oil and transmission fluid changes.

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection : Stop by our shop before buying a used CR-V—we’ll spot issues early.

Act Fast : Small problems like leaks or noises can snowball if ignored.

The 4th-generation Honda CR-V is a great SUV, but it’s not perfect. From engine rattles to electrical problems, these common issues pop up in New York City’s tough driving conditions. Need a repair or inspection? Contact Tolima’s Auto Center today for expert Honda service in Long Island City Queens.