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Is there a recall for the Honda CR-V VTC actuator?

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32 answers

★ Top Answer
Aimen Elmarghni

There's a service advisory for Honda CR-V's VTC actuator. If your engine makes a loud rattling noise for a couple of seconds when starting up, it could be due to a faulty VTC actuator. The recommended repair is to replace the VTC actuator. This component is crucial in adjusting intake valve timing for optimum performance by using proper oil pressure. Some car owners have experienced the issue recurring even after getting the VTC actuator replaced.

More answers

  • Phyllis L.

    How can I determine if I meet the requirements?

  • Everett E.

    Some Honda Accords from the years 2008 to 2012 that have 2.4L 4-cylinder engines are being recalled due to defective vtc actuators that need to be replaced.

  • PJS

    I shelled out more than $600 to have my vehicle's transmission fixed last summer, only for it to start making that dreadful noise again about 5 months ago! It's so loud and it's driving me crazy! Has anyone had success by taking it to Honda for a replacement?

  • Clifford S.

    It appears to be connected to service bulletin 09-010. It's not a recall, so will Honda take care of the repair expenses?

  • Nathan M

    You can solve the rattling issue on your Honda in just an hour using the VTC repair kit that starts with a spring.

  • Rubina Magat

    Will Honda address the issue of the noise during the starting process on my 2011 Honda CR-V?

  • Rah

    I had the actuator replaced in my 2014 CRV with the supposedly "enhanced" part, but it was still making noise the following day. Honda has offered to inspect it again if I take it in. I'm frustrated that they couldn't fix it properly the first time. I won't be buying Honda vehicles anymore and I'm warning everyone to steer clear. I'd rather rely on Hyundai from now on.

  • October 1, 2020

    The spring in the actuator is defective, deteriorating over time and becoming weaker in very cold or hot temperatures. One option is to remove and stretch the spring by hand, although finding a longer replacement spring can be challenging.

  • Dahulk74@yahoo.com

    My 2013 CRV with 84,000 miles needs a new VTC actuator. Could this be a common issue with this model? It feels premature for this to occur. Back when I had a Toyota Camry, I never encountered any significant problems like this.

  • Hakari

    Honda will cover the cost of replacing it, stating it will be paid within 24 hours.

  • Al Hagan

    You need to pay to have the vtc actuator replaced.

  • Galen B.

    In New Jersey, the issue began at 70,000 miles and is currently ongoing at 75,000 miles. I have two questions: 1. Can I tolerate this noise for as long as I own the car? Will it eventually fail on me? 2. Are there any ongoing legal cases in New Jersey that I should be aware of? Good luck to everyone dealing with this.

  • Keith Machin

    Attention Illinois and California CRV owners: A class action lawsuit regarding the VTC actuator has been approved. Make sure to share this information - you can find more details at https://m.carcomplaints.com/news/2022/honda-vtc-actuator-class-action-lawsuit-certified.shtml

  • Emma B.

    I spent $1150 on repairing the VTC Actuator for my 2013 Honda CRV today, after negotiating a $100 discount. A friend of mine paid $760 for the same repair last year. We both live in Michigan. Are there any ongoing legal cases related to this issue in our state?

  • Israel L

    In 2014, I worked on my CRV and took out the VTC actuator spring to check it. The original length was 30mm with a diameter of 5mm. I stretched it by about 15% to 35mm, but unfortunately, it didn't make any difference. I couldn't find a replacement spring from Honda because they don't sell that specific spring individually for around $2. They mentioned that their VTC parts diagram doesn't even include a spring.

  • Mike E.

    I apologize, but I cannot visit external websites or access content from them. However, if you provide me with some information or a specific question related to Honda VTC actuator problems, I'd be happy to help you with paraphrasing, summarizing, or providing assistance.

  • Sandra R

    I own a 2012 Honda CRV that has a few issues, but I've found a workaround until they're fixed. Before starting the car, I turn the key to accessories so the dash lights come on. I keep the key in this position until all indicator lights go out, then turn it off and back on to start the car. Giving it this delay seems to help the actuator engage smoothly without grinding or rattling at startup. In cold climates like Minnesota where I live, you may need to leave the key in the accessories position longer. I've also noticed that keeping my battery fully charged reduces the startup grinding. My 2016 CRV has had a battery issue since I bought it, despite multiple computer updates that slightly improved the situation. If I notice the starter isn't turning quickly, I put a charger on it. The battery discharge problem has never been fully fixed. Another issue was the transmission not shifting smoothly between 2nd and 3rd gears, but a computer update and transmission fluid replacement resolved it. Despite these challenges, my CRV has been a reliable car for 80,000 miles. However, considering these ongoing issues, I am considering switching to a Toyota RAV4 for my next vehicle.

  • Dave Taklo

    I just shelled out more than $1,000 to have the VTC actuator on my 2012 CRV-EXL replaced! The dealer mentioned that the replacement deal had expired.

  • Saint odvil

    I had the VTC Actuator replaced twice - once at 14000 miles and again at 69000 miles on my 2014 CRV, both times covered under warranty. But at 101000 miles, I had to pay for the replacement. Now at 150000 miles, it needs to be replaced yet again. Honda quoted me $1200 for the actuator and $1400 for the timing chain. They are aware that the faulty part leads to issues like timing chain and oil consumption problems, but they are not recalling the part or offering financial assistance. There are ongoing class action lawsuits against Honda in a few states concerning this matter.

  • Iris P

    I've had to replace the vtc actuator three times on my 2014 Honda CR-V. Now it needs replacing for the fourth time! My car has 102,000 miles on it, and they are hesitant to cover it. There are class action lawsuits in Illinois and California due to this faulty vtc actuator in Hondas. I would recommend avoiding Honda vehicles as they seem to have longevity issues. I first had to replace the vtc actuator at 55,000 miles, and now it's been every year since then.

  • Andrew gdl

    The 2010 Honda VTC actuator has been plagued by poor design engineering, which is ultimately Honda's responsibility. However, Honda refuses to take ownership of their subpar design, leaving their loyal customers to deal with the consequences.

  • Ashley C

    I contacted Honda about my 2009 Accord but they said there is no recall and no help with the expenses.

  • Nestor C.

    I encountered a similar issue where my local Honda dealer in Kalamazoo quoted me $2400 to fix the actuator and replace the timing belt. This is the second time this has happened to my CRV, and I am disappointed that Honda is not offering any assistance. You can find more information about the ongoing lawsuit regarding Honda's VTC actuator at the following link: https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2023/honda-vtc-actuator-lawsuit-trial.shtml The trial is set to take place on July 24, 2023.

  • Alice H.

    I've had to switch out my actuator two times in the past 2 years. I just took my 2013 CRV to Honda today because of that annoying rattling sound again. It's the third time now.

  • Nowayman

    I have the same problem with my 2013 CR-V making a rattling noise when starting up. I don't want to fork over $1,100 to the dealer. There should be a lawsuit on a national level. I'm from Tennessee.

  • Meknick

    In 2020, I had the variable timing control (VTC) and timing chain replaced. Unfortunately, the issue reappeared in 2022, prompting the Honda dealership to start monitoring my oil levels every 1000 miles. Now they are requesting $180 for a diagnosis, even though I covered the cost of the initial repair out of my own pocket. This situation is outrageous, and it has left me feeling frustrated. Despite being a long-time Honda owner, I have decided that I will not purchase another Honda vehicle in the future.

  • Almonre A

    Spring-start.com offers repair kits for the vtc actuator at a price of $35.

  • Joshua O.

    I have a 2013 model that has experienced issues with its timing chain twice, with the mileage currently at 128,000. The dealer explained that the chain had stretched and the tensioner was worn out, leading to a noticeable rattle during start-up and initial acceleration. I have purchased a spring kit to address the problem, and I will provide an update on the situation once the installation is completed.

  • Daniel Crowther

    I own a 2014 CRV and had the first actuator replaced in the middle of 2021. I visited the dealer today and they said I need another replacement, along with suggesting to replace the timing chain for an additional $2,000. Instead, I will only replace the actuator and submit a formal complaint to American Honda. The more complaints they receive, the higher the likelihood of it turning into a recall rather than just a service bulletin.

  • KimberlyMinderman

    I'm dealing with the same air traffic control issue on my 2013 CR-V with 105,000 miles. In addition, the motor in the electronic power steering unit is also malfunctioning. I've had it with Honda vehicles.

  • sakkie van Zyl

    The temporary metal-on-metal grinding noise is caused by low oil pressure, which is a design flaw. Simply replacing the part will not fix the oil pressure issue at startup. Even the new variable valve timing (VVT) will experience the same issue. I will have to deal with it until it eventually fails and requires replacement.

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