Thank you for this video! As a non mechanical person I understand much better what is going on with my 2013 crv with the same noise at 120k miles. Fun fact, my independent mechanic was booked up so I took it to the dealer (I’m in the greater Boston area), who informed me it would be $5700 to replace the actuator… so I should just buy a new car. Nice.
Go to a different dealer. This shouldn’t be more than 1000$ on the high end if they ONLY do the actuator. If they do the chain stuff it might be 3500$…
That's what I was talking about at the beginning but it only fixes the issue if the timing chain has not stretched. If it has it will only mask it for a short time and it will come back. Once the chain is stretched you must replace the chain, tensioner and VTC or at least the VTC spring.
@@forestpassineau Thanks. I just left a long post that for some reason didn't get sent, so I'll try again. It seems part of the problem is knowing whether the timing chain has been stretched or not. As the creator of the video mentioned, if it has stretched then doing the 'spring fix' won't ultimately matter. I guess the only way to know if the chain is stretched or not is to have it diagnosed. I'd rather go to the dentist. I'll give the spring fix a shot, and keep my fingers crossed that the chain hasn't already been compromised. Thanks again.
@@094340 it's actually really easy to see if you have a chain that is stretched or not. Just pull the valve cover off which you need to do anyways in order to replace the spring when you take appart the vtc gear but before you take the vtc gear appart just line up the engine to top dead center by aligning the two horizontal lines on each intake and exhaust camshafts sprocket and then look down at the crankshaft pull to see if the little white arrow is lined up with the corresponding arrow stamped into the block and if everything lines up your chain is not stretched. Hope that all makes sense. Let me know if not. Cheers.
I just did my vtc replacement the other day and I'm not a mechanic, but a very technical person. Right off the bay when you mentioned this was a new vtc and it made that noise I knew the person that worked on this engine did not make sure it was top dea center before replacing it. That's why I had to learn how to work on my car. Only you can rely on yourself to do it right.
Had a 2010 CRV with this issue that I purchased used. Dealer claimed nothing was wrong. I always thought Honda was special I guess not. Didn’t seem to get any worse over time. Sold it after 3 years.
2012 crv ex here. Bought at 71K and now at 102K. Rattle exist since day 1. At first I was worried but basically every K24 motor past 2008 has this exact motor including the Civic Si (models 2015 and earlier). I've read somewhere that the oil burning is also due to the VTC gear consuming oil at the same time with those cold start cranks. Though within the last 2 weeks I've noticed the oil kinda stopped burning fast but im not 100% sure. I have had a valve adjustment, new ngk spark plugs, cleaned both MAP and MAF sensors within the last 3k miles. Other than that my car runs mint. VTEC rips all day long and overall happy how it performs. Though if someone find a actual fix to this major dilemma, im all ears.
The only permanent fix is for Honda to manufacture the actuator backing plate out of hardened steel. It will add $5 to the cost of making each car so it will never happen.
Mine just started to make the noise and it’s mostly an annoyance. Still the local Honda dealership quoted me everything you’re mentioning like replacing the timing chain since the labor hours are the same but the bill is $2900. My 2012 Crv only has 57k miles 😢
With our 2013 CRV we noticed the sound in 2016, The local Honda service department said they could not notice the sound and charged us $200.00. Took it in again, same thing. I want to sell the car now and took it in (again) last week Sept 2024 regarding the TH-cam videos on this because I had visited them twice in the past and they brushed me off for $400.00, they said their is no recall or known problem and wanted to charge me over $1100.00. The service dept. manager asked me to bring it in again the night before for a cold start inspection, when I emailed him asking if there would be a charge just to start the car and listen for the noise when starting he replied that the inspection cost would be deducted after the VTC replacment was performed all in CAPS like he was pissed that I actually asked a question after he gave me his card to do so if I had questions. I won't be buying or recommending Honda of Anchorage in the future.
@@aaronsalomon6981 from amazon Handyman Springs SP 9722 Compression Spring, Spring Steel Construction, Nickel-Plated Finish, 0.028 GA x 7/32 In. x 1-3/8 In. (4 Pack)
@@gfriedman99 I'm living with it for now. Dealership gave me a quote of $2200 which includes replacing the timing chain and someone suggested since the engine is apart I should also do a valve adjustment. The vehicle has 84,000 miles on it and since I'm retired I don't travel that far anymore. The rattling noise can be loud at times. I've had people walking by turn around and look at me as I started it up.
My 2012 just started making the noise yesterday after 160k miles. I thought maybe I lucked out but this is going to eventually hit every engine with this design.
Make sure u guys are using a good quality synthetic i use mobil 1 sometimes Castrol and motul is another good oil and i use lubegard engine protection .. .protects the change it has esters in it engine is super quiet i cant even hear my crv engine thats how good it is
My 2012 crv started doing it at 220k it now has 255k makes TC noise bit not so much in warm weather been 3 yrs 35k slightly over fill crankcase use 0W5 syn oil and detergent additive. it's a minor issue for now. Car has org motor tranny . has cost me nothing it's been amazing my 2008 CRV has 220k no issues runs great amazing power
I own a 2014 Accord. Had the startup rattle problem. I myself just finished replacing tensioner, intake cam, actuator, exhaust sprocket, all guides and chain. Car purrs like a kitten now. Used Cloyes timing components. They have good reputation. Be careful on small chain tensioner guide bolt. They break easily. Replace that bolt.
Thanks for the vid. I have a 2009 4-cylinder Accord making the same noise, is that the same engine? Do I need the same fix as you, or is it just the tensioner? Also, does that sound ALWAYS indicate a stretched timing chain, or is it possible that the new 'spring fix' in the actuator can eliminate the problem?
Yes same issue. The only way to tell if you actually need a timing chain is to do an inspection. This is what a Honda dealer would do if you took it to them. You can try the spring and if that fixes it great but if it doesn't it's because the chain is stretched. If you catch it early enough you can prevent the chain stretch.
Thank you for the video and all the information! I have 2015 crv with the same noise. 65k miles on it, bought new, regular oil changes, a half of the time car was in the garage. Hope its just the tensioner, will need to talk to my mechanic about it. He was thinking sprocket originally, will try to show him the video
Thanks for the video, very helpful information, I’ve also been doing research on this, I have a 2016 Honda CRV LX at 160,000 miles that makes the startup noise because of the vct actuator, I plan on replacing the spring in it around some time next week.
This does not apply to the 2016 CRV. You have a different problem. It usually only requires a new tensioner that can be replaced rather easily. Starting in 2015 they switched to the new "Earth Dreams" 2.4 with direct injection. Completely different VTC actuator than the previous models.
@@JackofAllMasterofNone Thanks for the reply, I am actually a home DIY mechanic, and thanks to your previous videos I was able to install a new Joying Head Unit and also add Remote Start to my car, can you please tell me which tensioner are you referring to, and point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it. Thanks.
thanks, much appreciated, I ordered the chain tensioner, and Honda bond from the Honda dealer, and will replace them sometime next week, and let you know how it goes.@@JackofAllMasterofNone
Wow...my 2017 Accord is occasionally making that noise at 70k miles. I haven't done the tensioner or VTC spring yet. Should have traded this one in a while back.
my 2012 crv ex has this vtc rattle problem. I'm at 100k miles recently. But my rattle sound happens even when its only been 20 minutes since I last started the car and it lasts a lot longer than yours.
Two things, including an uneducated / silly question: 1.) Thank god we got rid of our 2014 CR-V after 3 years 2.) Do these issues apply to the 2.4 VTEC in the Civic Si and the Acura TSX? We have a 2012 TSX wagon and it's good so far, but wondering if it's susceptible to this problem.
HOW IS IT WORKING NOW? AFTER THE CHANGES? WHATS YOUR MPG NOW? IS IT WORTH THE CHANGE WITH REPLACING THE NEW ACTUATOR THAT HAS THE SAME DEFECTIVE ACTUATOR DESIGN? THANK YOU
So me and my fiance just test drove a 2013 crv with 140k miles. I started it up cold with the hood open when we got to the dealership to see if it was making the noise you’re referring to in your videos. Sounded smooth as brand new. We really wanted it but they are asking 13k and would not budge on the price. Kbb is 11k tops. Is it possible that this one has had the timing chain replaced? Or is it more likely that it just hasn’t started yet? Clean carfax but no mention of a timing replacement ever being done.
Thanks for the information. I just bought a 2014 CRV in January. It has 90,000 miles on it and made the VTC actuator noise on the first morning I started it. With my 90 warranty they replaced the VTC actuator, should or can I have them take this car back or what would you do? Seems to run great at the moment.
I'm sure they will not take it back and it's probably not that big of a deal as long as they replaced it and it's not doing it. Just understand that it will probably happen again if you keep it long enough. Keep an eye on the oil level. Worst case youll be doing a timing chain some day.
My 2014 CRV does it only once in a while, mostly when it’s cold out, even then it hardly does it. I have 70K miles on it. I’ve just learned you can change the actuator spring only to correct this. Is it ok to just replace the spring with an upgrade one, like from spring start?
Hi Jack, we had just bought a 2013 Honda CRV LX last night with 51k miles on it. I did check the NHTSA service bulletin and did not see the vin on our crv on the affected list. We didn't hear any rattling noise when we started it (it was a cold start). Does the VTC actuator issue affect ALL 2012 to 2014 CRV units or is it possible that some are not affected?
@JackofAllMasterofNone the precious owner was an old lady who drove maybe 4k a year. Oil change was done every 5 to 6k miles but the interval was of course longer than 6 months. Is there a permanent fix or is this repair going to required ever 50k to 100k?
Some people have had good luck with a aftermarket spring for the VTC actuator. You can Google that for more information. Best thing to do is to keep oil changed regularly
Dont use 20 weight oil use 5w30 in summer and 0w30 in winter change your oil every 4000km u will never an issue people leave the oil im too long i have over 200,000 miles never changed this issue people are having
Think of the chain tensioner like a spring loaded ratcheting device, except on a CRV it has oil pressure as well to help expand it. It can only go so far. Once the chain is stretched passed the limits of the tensioner, the chain is just loose as the tensioner can only travel so far
@@TocaCintaRecords My 2010 Honda Accord EX 4 cyl with 126K miles made that cold start rattle for a second..So last week I changed the spark plugs with NGK's, had a valve adjust, replaced the timing chain, replaced the tensioners and an oil change and it runs great ..but didn't change the VCT spring and gear and it still makes that noise but not as bad on cold starts. I'll need to change the VTC spring and gear soon before it affects the chain I guess.
You need to fill up the engine level all the way so that chain will always in oil because without oil the chain will wear out very fast and causes stretch.
My honda crv 2013 lx has the same problem ,i ordered spring, and i will change 2 weeks from now . 123000 mileage .Plus, start consumption oil after 11000
@@JackofAllMasterofNone I changed the spring and the noise came back in a couple of weeks. The problem is the actuator backing plate. It needs to be made out of hardened steel so the spring doesn't wear a groove where it rubs on it.
There are plenty of other videos out there that detail the procedure. Its a time consuming process and I dont always have time to film the entire thing.
I have a 2013 same color ,it does it too. It's not bad. Get in there and stretch that spring on the vtc. No damage has been done. Just drive the dam thing.
I’m looking at one of these at a dealership. It’s kind of overpriced but it has low miles 62k and it’s one owner, I’m just wondering how I’m going to deal with this BS after a while
i have a 2016 crv and was wondering about it..i am unsure of what to look or listen for ..is there a video that has the sounds to listen for..only issue i have is car likes to idle a little rough at lights..
2016 is not affected by this. They had a different issue that can cause a cold start rattle. It is just the chain tensioner, which is very easy to replace compared to this.
@@JackofAllMasterofNone i bought it used from honda a year and half ago and it had that sound but i didnt catch it at the dealer ...par for their course..the only other thing is a rough idle at lights..i flip the headlights on..these two things are warned about in a few videos on this generation ..they made the 2015 as the one that behaves the worst..no other issues ...it runs great and out of under 20000 miles i put on i have changed the oil 5 times..for the gdi issue...its at 84500..honda just ignores it..i mentioned it and the advisor said they would put it up on the computer which is over 100 dollars...they are less than what they were..
And according to instructions, check valve clearance. I did and they were fine prior. At least verify with cylinder 1 value clearance before. Especially if you had no value slapping before.
Just did it today on my own 14 Honda CRV as an A technician and needed research. Not much on All data but better explain was needed to unlock cam before removing. It was well worth looking into before removing. You don't want it letting go while taking off with an impact in your hands.
Tie small zip tie closet to lobe hole on cam and push compressed air on hole on cam behind to unlock cam gear using a crap of rags so you don't cut your hands before unbolting. You wouldn't get hurt releasing it if an impact or weak spring kicks back talking a lot of skin from your husband.
I had 75,000 miles. It was almost time for my 3000 mile oil change. I started to hear the start rattle. Just for poop and laughter, I checked my oil level. There wasn't any oil on the dis stick. When I drained the oil, I measured less than 2.5 quarts. I thought that was weird. After completing the oil change, the sound wasn't as severe. But, the damage was already done. I ALWAYS have the rattle, especially on cold startup. I am a loyal Toyota and Honda customer. My T-100 frame rotted out from underneath me with both control arms collapsing simultaneously while driving it. Toyota screwed 1000s with the frame rot issues. Honda is doing the same.
3000 damn. Seriously if you're in the Buffalo/ upstate NY area hit me up I'll do it for $800 and show you how to do it so you know its done right. I already have the tools.
I did the whole timing set and VTC. I am a mechanic. My point was for the average person to go to the dealer and have this done, it will be at least that much.
Never had this issue cause i change my oil every 4000km i dont go by oil life is the issue and people should follow the old school method and i use 5w30 in summer and 0w30 in winter i dont use 0w20 too thin of an oil
Thank you for this video! As a non mechanical person I understand much better what is going on with my 2013 crv with the same noise at 120k miles. Fun fact, my independent mechanic was booked up so I took it to the dealer (I’m in the greater Boston area), who informed me it would be $5700 to replace the actuator… so I should just buy a new car. Nice.
Wow. That dealer is a sheister for sure. That's insane.
Go to a different dealer. This shouldn’t be more than 1000$ on the high end if they ONLY do the actuator. If they do the chain stuff it might be 3500$…
NO WAY THAT MUCH $$$$$ I will drive to your house from SE Michigan and do it for $2k and that is still too much money. What did you end up doing?
@@groovymoonIt would be about $120-$140 just in fuel to drive there.
@@JackofAllMasterofNone this only happened to me like 2 times in cold weather it never does it during the fall or spring or summer only winter.
The upgraded high rebound replacement vtc spring sold by spring start fixes this issue... Your welcome. Confirmed fixed on my 2014 crv.
That's what I was talking about at the beginning but it only fixes the issue if the timing chain has not stretched. If it has it will only mask it for a short time and it will come back. Once the chain is stretched you must replace the chain, tensioner and VTC or at least the VTC spring.
@@JackofAllMasterofNone So, are you saying that in EVERY case the chain has been stretched if this sound is heard???
@@094340 the chain is not always stretched as in my case I just replaced the spring and I haven't had the cold start vtc rattle in months.
@@forestpassineau Thanks. I just left a long post that for some reason didn't get sent, so I'll try again.
It seems part of the problem is knowing whether the timing chain has been stretched or not. As the creator of the video mentioned, if it has stretched then doing the 'spring fix' won't ultimately matter. I guess the only way to know if the chain is stretched or not is to have it diagnosed.
I'd rather go to the dentist.
I'll give the spring fix a shot, and keep my fingers crossed that the chain hasn't already been compromised. Thanks again.
@@094340 it's actually really easy to see if you have a chain that is stretched or not. Just pull the valve cover off which you need to do anyways in order to replace the spring when you take appart the vtc gear but before you take the vtc gear appart just line up the engine to top dead center by aligning the two horizontal lines on each intake and exhaust camshafts sprocket and then look down at the crankshaft pull to see if the little white arrow is lined up with the corresponding arrow stamped into the block and if everything lines up your chain is not stretched. Hope that all makes sense. Let me know if not. Cheers.
I just did my vtc replacement the other day and I'm not a mechanic, but a very technical person. Right off the bay when you mentioned this was a new vtc and it made that noise I knew the person that worked on this engine did not make sure it was top dea center before replacing it. That's why I had to learn how to work on my car. Only you can rely on yourself to do it right.
Had a 2010 CRV with this issue that I purchased used. Dealer claimed nothing was wrong. I always thought Honda was special I guess not. Didn’t seem to get any worse over time. Sold it after 3 years.
I have a 2011 2.4L 4 cylinder Honda Accord and it has had this issue for 3+ years now. It is not limited to 2012.
Nobody said its only 2012. It's all 4 cyl with these actuators from 2008-2018.
2012 crv ex here. Bought at 71K and now at 102K. Rattle exist since day 1. At first I was worried but basically every K24 motor past 2008 has this exact motor including the Civic Si (models 2015 and earlier). I've read somewhere that the oil burning is also due to the VTC gear consuming oil at the same time with those cold start cranks. Though within the last 2 weeks I've noticed the oil kinda stopped burning fast but im not 100% sure. I have had a valve adjustment, new ngk spark plugs, cleaned both MAP and MAF sensors within the last 3k miles. Other than that my car runs mint. VTEC rips all day long and overall happy how it performs. Though if someone find a actual fix to this major dilemma, im all ears.
The only permanent fix is for Honda to manufacture the actuator backing plate out of hardened steel. It will add $5 to the cost of making each car so it will never happen.
Mine just started to make the noise and it’s mostly an annoyance. Still the local Honda dealership quoted me everything you’re mentioning like replacing the timing chain since the labor hours are the same but the bill is $2900. My 2012 Crv only has 57k miles 😢
It's every 2.4 4 cylinder. 2008 through 2017 Accords as well.
Yup my 2008 same shit dealer I bought it from said oh that normal bullshit 2.4 is junk sold it before the grenade went off
With our 2013 CRV we noticed the sound in 2016, The local Honda service department said they could not notice the sound and charged us $200.00. Took it in again, same thing. I want to sell the car now and took it in (again) last week Sept 2024 regarding the TH-cam videos on this because I had visited them twice in the past and they brushed me off for $400.00, they said their is no recall or known problem and wanted to charge me over $1100.00. The service dept. manager asked me to bring it in again the night before for a cold start inspection, when I emailed him asking if there would be a charge just to start the car and listen for the noise when starting he replied that the inspection cost would be deducted after the VTC replacment was performed all in CAPS like he was pissed that I actually asked a question after he gave me his card to do so if I had questions. I won't be buying or recommending Honda of Anchorage in the future.
i fixed my 2014 crv, it was the weak spring in the vtc actuator. I wonder why they did not take care of it, shame on Honda
Did you order from Springstart?
@@aaronsalomon6981 from amazon
Handyman Springs SP 9722 Compression Spring, Spring Steel Construction, Nickel-Plated Finish, 0.028 GA x 7/32 In. x 1-3/8 In. (4 Pack)
@@aaronsalomon6981 just cut some of the excess length when you have the old and new springs side by side
Spring start fixes this issue.
The problem is a lot wider than that! I have a 2018 Fit with the same VTC problem.
I have a 2015 Honda fit. The problem has gotten much worse in the last year. Car only needs to sit for a couple of hours to hear the rattling noise.
@@wpepp What u gonna do?
@@gfriedman99 I'm living with it for now. Dealership gave me a quote of $2200 which includes replacing the timing chain and someone suggested since the engine is apart I should also do a valve adjustment.
The vehicle has 84,000 miles on it and since I'm retired I don't travel that far anymore. The rattling noise can be loud at times. I've had people walking by turn around and look at me as I started it up.
My 2012 just started making the noise yesterday after 160k miles. I thought maybe I lucked out but this is going to eventually hit every engine with this design.
It is a design flaw. It will affect every engine under the right conditions. There is no lucking out unfortunately
Make sure u guys are using a good quality synthetic i use mobil 1 sometimes Castrol and motul is another good oil and i use lubegard engine protection ..
.protects the change it has esters in it engine is super quiet i cant even hear my crv engine thats how good it is
@@fortnite360HZ Has nothing to do with lubrication. The problem is a weak VVT spring
@@gfriedman99 I don't have the problem at all can't relate to this sorry
@@fortnite360HZ You will eventually. Mine didn't start until 160k miles. Will happen to every Honda from 2008-16.
My 2012 crv started doing it at 220k it now has 255k makes TC noise bit not so much in warm weather been 3 yrs 35k slightly over fill crankcase use 0W5 syn oil and detergent additive. it's a minor issue for now. Car has org motor tranny . has cost me nothing it's been amazing my 2008 CRV has 220k no issues runs great amazing power
I own a 2014 Accord. Had the startup rattle problem. I myself just finished replacing tensioner, intake cam, actuator, exhaust sprocket, all guides and chain. Car purrs like a kitten now. Used Cloyes timing components. They have good reputation. Be careful on small chain tensioner guide bolt. They break easily. Replace that bolt.
Thanks for the vid. I have a 2009 4-cylinder Accord making the same noise, is that the same engine? Do I need the same fix as you, or is it just the tensioner? Also, does that sound ALWAYS indicate a stretched timing chain, or is it possible that the new 'spring fix' in the actuator can eliminate the problem?
Yes same issue. The only way to tell if you actually need a timing chain is to do an inspection. This is what a Honda dealer would do if you took it to them. You can try the spring and if that fixes it great but if it doesn't it's because the chain is stretched. If you catch it early enough you can prevent the chain stretch.
I wish I had the guts to do a job like this. Anything with the valve cover off freaks me out.. haha
Same man, same. I'm so afraid that I will eff up my car.
Thank you for the video and all the information! I have 2015 crv with the same noise. 65k miles on it, bought new, regular oil changes, a half of the time car was in the garage. Hope its just the tensioner, will need to talk to my mechanic about it. He was thinking sprocket originally, will try to show him the video
2015 is a completely different engine. Usually on the 2015 it just needs a timing chain tensioner.
Thank you very much!
Thanks for the video, very helpful information, I’ve also been doing research on this, I have a 2016 Honda CRV LX at 160,000 miles that makes the startup noise because of the vct actuator, I plan on replacing the spring in it around some time next week.
This does not apply to the 2016 CRV. You have a different problem. It usually only requires a new tensioner that can be replaced rather easily. Starting in 2015 they switched to the new "Earth Dreams" 2.4 with direct injection. Completely different VTC actuator than the previous models.
@@JackofAllMasterofNone Thanks for the reply, I am actually a home DIY mechanic, and thanks to your previous videos I was able to install a new Joying Head Unit and also add Remote Start to my car, can you please tell me which tensioner are you referring to, and point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it. Thanks.
Knocking or Clicking From Engine During Cold Startup - Drive Accord www.driveaccord.net/attachments/tsb-19-019-pdf.519603/
thanks, much appreciated, I ordered the chain tensioner, and Honda bond from the Honda dealer, and will replace them sometime next week, and let you know how it goes.@@JackofAllMasterofNone
@JackofAllMasterofNone Both the VTC Actuator spring and the timing chain tensioner wear out on these. For a long term fix it is best to replace both.
Wow...my 2017 Accord is occasionally making that noise at 70k miles. I haven't done the tensioner or VTC spring yet. Should have traded this one in a while back.
my 2012 crv ex has this vtc rattle problem. I'm at 100k miles recently.
But my rattle sound happens even when its only been 20 minutes since I last started the car and it lasts a lot longer than yours.
You are probably about to have bigger problems unfortunately
@@JackofAllMasterofNone I am thinking about having the time chaing and vtc actuator replaced before anything terrible happens.
Two things, including an uneducated / silly question:
1.) Thank god we got rid of our 2014 CR-V after 3 years
2.) Do these issues apply to the 2.4 VTEC in the Civic Si and the Acura TSX? We have a 2012 TSX wagon and it's good so far, but wondering if it's susceptible to this problem.
They can have the same problem with the VTC yes
The Acura TSX? Yes for sure. I have the 1st generation.
HOW IS IT WORKING NOW? AFTER THE CHANGES? WHATS YOUR MPG NOW? IS IT WORTH THE CHANGE WITH REPLACING THE NEW ACTUATOR THAT HAS THE SAME DEFECTIVE ACTUATOR DESIGN? THANK YOU
Had to replace the timing chain also. That was the main thing. The vehicle has more power and runs fine now, for now. MPG is around 27 average.
Thank you
I have a 2013 crv exl my car needs what you just did . Thx for your video .
What about the civics with the same engine? I have a 2012 civic si and it has that problem too
Wondering the same thing for a 2012 TSX. Hoping to learn more!
😢my just started doing this noise, no recall yet from Honda dealer it looks like is defective from them?
So me and my fiance just test drove a 2013 crv with 140k miles. I started it up cold with the hood open when we got to the dealership to see if it was making the noise you’re referring to in your videos. Sounded smooth as brand new. We really wanted it but they are asking 13k and would not budge on the price. Kbb is 11k tops. Is it possible that this one has had the timing chain replaced? Or is it more likely that it just hasn’t started yet? Clean carfax but no mention of a timing replacement ever being done.
Mine didn't start making noise till 160k miles.
Thanks for the information. I just bought a 2014 CRV in January. It has 90,000 miles on it and made the VTC actuator noise on the first morning I started it. With my 90 warranty they replaced the VTC actuator, should or can I have them take this car back or what would you do? Seems to run great at the moment.
I'm sure they will not take it back and it's probably not that big of a deal as long as they replaced it and it's not doing it. Just understand that it will probably happen again if you keep it long enough. Keep an eye on the oil level. Worst case youll be doing a timing chain some day.
My 2014 CRV does it only once in a while, mostly when it’s cold out, even then it hardly does it. I have 70K miles on it. I’ve just learned you can change the actuator spring only to correct this. Is it ok to just replace the spring with an upgrade one, like from spring start?
Replacing the VTC actuator spring usually solves the rattle but good to check the chain for stretch as well.
Hi Jack, we had just bought a 2013 Honda CRV LX last night with 51k miles on it. I did check the NHTSA service bulletin and did not see the vin on our crv on the affected list. We didn't hear any rattling noise when we started it (it was a cold start). Does the VTC actuator issue affect ALL 2012 to 2014 CRV units or is it possible that some are not affected?
It does affect them all but doesn't necessarily mean that yours has a problem yet. Especially with the low miles if the maintenance was good it helps.
@JackofAllMasterofNone the precious owner was an old lady who drove maybe 4k a year. Oil change was done every 5 to 6k miles but the interval was of course longer than 6 months. Is there a permanent fix or is this repair going to required ever 50k to 100k?
Some people have had good luck with a aftermarket spring for the VTC actuator. You can Google that for more information. Best thing to do is to keep oil changed regularly
@@JackofAllMasterofNone. Yeah, I changed the oil right on schedule with synthetic lube and got to 160k until the noise started.
Dont use 20 weight oil use 5w30 in summer and 0w30 in winter change your oil every 4000km u will never an issue people leave the oil im too long i have over 200,000 miles never changed this issue people are having
My 2.4 liter engine with 250 K still runs fine no noise whatsoever.
what year?
I'm no machanic so this could be dumb question. If my time chain is stretched why can't I just tighten the chain tensioner vs replacing chain?
Think of the chain tensioner like a spring loaded ratcheting device, except on a CRV it has oil pressure as well to help expand it. It can only go so far. Once the chain is stretched passed the limits of the tensioner, the chain is just loose as the tensioner can only travel so far
@@JackofAllMasterofNone rgr that
I just replace the VTC Actuator
2010 honda cdv noise went away
@@TocaCintaRecords My 2010 Honda Accord EX 4 cyl with 126K miles made that cold start rattle for a second..So last week I changed the spark plugs with NGK's, had a valve adjust, replaced the timing chain, replaced the tensioners and an oil change and it runs great ..but didn't change the VCT spring and gear and it still makes that noise but not as bad on cold starts. I'll need to change the VTC spring and gear soon before it affects the chain I guess.
What happens if still driving with the problem I have 6 years and now notice little noise when accelerate
Thats a different problem. Probably your serpentine tensioner
You need to fill up the engine level all the way so that chain will always in oil because without oil the chain will wear out very fast and causes stretch.
I did already I pour 5 quarts and stick shows maximum and now still doing noise but not all the time 😑 😒
I'm going to buy a used 2012-2014 CR-V with around 120k miles. How can I know if it's affected by this problem to skip it?
My honda crv 2013 lx has the same problem ,i ordered spring, and i will change 2 weeks from now . 123000 mileage .Plus, start consumption oil after 11000
Report back here and let us know if the spring fixed it please
@@JackofAllMasterofNone I will
Buy Toyota
@@JackofAllMasterofNone I changed the spring and the noise came back in a couple of weeks. The problem is the actuator backing plate. It needs to be made out of hardened steel so the spring doesn't wear a groove where it rubs on it.
I wish you would have done a step by step video, including the torque specs and everything.
There are plenty of other videos out there that detail the procedure. Its a time consuming process and I dont always have time to film the entire thing.
Hi guys I want to buy 2008 crv does it have the same problem? Or should I go for a 2005 crv?
Should be ok
I have a 2013 same color ,it does it too. It's not bad. Get in there and stretch that spring on the vtc. No damage has been done. Just drive the dam thing.
I’m looking at one of these at a dealership. It’s kind of overpriced but it has low miles 62k and it’s one owner, I’m just wondering how I’m going to deal with this BS after a while
Thanks for making this video.
i have a 2016 crv and was wondering about it..i am unsure of what to look or listen for ..is there a video that has the sounds to listen for..only issue i have is car likes to idle a little rough at lights..
2016 is not affected by this. They had a different issue that can cause a cold start rattle. It is just the chain tensioner, which is very easy to replace compared to this.
@@JackofAllMasterofNonethanks..
@@JackofAllMasterofNone is there problems that will arise if not taken care of or is less of a deal than the accuator in 2014 etc?
@@tracy2762 Eventually you could break the chain. It's an easy repair. I wouldn't put it off for long if you notice it.
@@JackofAllMasterofNone i bought it used from honda a year and half ago and it had that sound but i didnt catch it at the dealer ...par for their course..the only other thing is a rough idle at lights..i flip the headlights on..these two things are warned about in a few videos on this generation ..they made the 2015 as the one that behaves the worst..no other issues ...it runs great and out of under 20000 miles i put on i have changed the oil 5 times..for the gdi issue...its at 84500..honda just ignores it..i mentioned it and the advisor said they would put it up on the computer which is over 100 dollars...they are less than what they were..
Very helpful thank you 🙏🏼 so much
Put good quality oil in my accord, runs great this issue is due to people not doing maintenance correctly
Um no.
I’m coming over… I’ll bring some good brews…
I live in Illinois, will HONDA fix mine?? Ty
Is it still under warranty?
@@gfriedman99 ???
Just lived through this with my daughters Accord. $3200 dollars later.
Sorry to hear that
my 2011 is having the same issue
😂 glad i watched before taking it to a shop getting ready to fix this issue that they should have fixed before they sold me the car
Also people should be replacing there pcv valves so they should not be getting oil burn i never add oil never burns
Rock auto sells a perfect kit. Just don't use the VVT cam bolt. Wrong thread. It is ok to torque the old one onto the cam... So far ....
And according to instructions, check valve clearance. I did and they were fine prior. At least verify with cylinder 1 value clearance before. Especially if you had no value slapping before.
Don't forget to unlock cam prior to removal, then lock cam gear prior to install.
Unlocking cam gear prevents you from ripping finger tips off...
Just did it today on my own 14 Honda CRV as an A technician and needed research. Not much on All data but better explain was needed to unlock cam before removing. It was well worth looking into before removing. You don't want it letting go while taking off with an impact in your hands.
Tie small zip tie closet to lobe hole on cam and push compressed air on hole on cam behind to unlock cam gear using a crap of rags so you don't cut your hands before unbolting. You wouldn't get hurt releasing it if an impact or weak spring kicks back talking a lot of skin from your husband.
I had 75,000 miles. It was almost time for my 3000 mile oil change. I started to hear the start rattle. Just for poop and laughter, I checked my oil level. There wasn't any oil on the dis stick. When I drained the oil, I measured less than 2.5 quarts. I thought that was weird. After completing the oil change, the sound wasn't as severe. But, the damage was already done. I ALWAYS have the rattle, especially on cold startup. I am a loyal Toyota and Honda customer. My T-100 frame rotted out from underneath me with both control arms collapsing simultaneously while driving it. Toyota screwed 1000s with the frame rot issues. Honda is doing the same.
Dont use 0w20 oil thats the issue and dont go by oil life
Toyota and Honda does NOT make the best cars. Nobody does. General public is dumb
@@mediaguy4037 What cars or truck models are the best in your opinion??
3000 damn. Seriously if you're in the Buffalo/ upstate NY area hit me up I'll do it for $800 and show you how to do it so you know its done right. I already have the tools.
I did the whole timing set and VTC. I am a mechanic. My point was for the average person to go to the dealer and have this done, it will be at least that much.
I got it fixed at Honda cost me 1600 chain & actuater
If you don't mind sharing what part of the country you live in and was this recent?
Seems prices have really skyrocketed lately
That’s a good deal. Many of the shops are crooks.
Getting a quote for actuator and Tensioner for 1600+ - wondering if I should just do the actuator
I have a 2014 crv. Have to agree, don't buy these cars.
Never had this issue cause i change my oil every 4000km i dont go by oil life is the issue and people should follow the old school method and i use 5w30 in summer and 0w30 in winter i dont use 0w20 too thin of an oil
The actuator is not the issue but only a symptom of oil consumption.
Nah