2013 Honda CR-V: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 99 owner complaints for the 2013 Honda CR-V that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11746350 (filed 06/24/2026): “While our 2013 honda cr‑v was still drivable, we began experiencing a brief but loud rattle or grinding noise at cold start, especially after the vehicle had been sitting. several years ago the dealer replaced the variable timing control (vtc) actuator because of this cold‑start rattle. after a peri…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11733663 (filed 04/24/2026): “Transmission shudders on acceleration at low speeds up to 40 mph…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11704400 (filed 12/11/2025): “My 2013 honda crv completely broke down in late august 2025, as i was backing out of my driveway. our lives were at risk. this could have happened in traffic, causing a terrible collision. my local honda dealership found the chain guides broken and the timing off, and recommended replacement of seve…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Internal engine work (lifters, oil consumption, fuel dilution diagnosis) requires engine teardown or dealer software/tests. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
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