Hi Scotty / everyone!
I'm planning to buy a second hand 2012 HONDA CR-V with 57k miles on it for $9.5k. Is this a good deal? the car has been maintained by the dealer all through out and so the history record of the car is updated. No major repair done. Physically, the car still looks great with minimal scratches from normal use. But my concern is, I saw the forum regarding TOYOTA AND HONDA COMMON PROBLEMS and under that, I found that the 2012 - 2014 Honda CRV has Grinding noise at startup problem, is this something that i need to worry about or this can be fixed easily with few parts to replace? Is there any other issues that i need to wary about particularly with the 2012 model? Any inputs will be great! Also, I'm more of a city driver, 60% city 40% highway, do you think the power of this SUV is enough? sorry for my questions, I'm not really an expert under the hood.
thanks!
Ben
So the grinding issue on those 2012's comes from a defective VTC, or variable valve timing control actuator. Typically it lasts for less than 5 seconds and, while annoying, doesn't cause any damage. Some report this issue at 90k miles or so and continue driving for 100k more miles or more without any additional issues.
This is what it sounds like:
And here is how you fix it:
As for power, I think it is plenty sufficient but that is more of a personal opinion. Test drive it first to make sure it is enough for YOU before you make the purchase.
@Mod_Man thank you! I will test drive it next week to find out. I think I can live with that 3 to 5 seconds noise. Please if there's anything else do let me know. i honestly have less than 20% knowledge under the hood. {black}:cool:
That's ok. That's why we have this forum where we can help you with the things you may not know and tell you how you can go about making repairs. Other than what you've already read about in the forum, there should be no other major problems to keep an eye out for. Just make sure you have it checked out good before you buy. Good luck! {black}:cool:
You did a good job looking at the Common Problems and the price is pretty good. I would have a mechanic check it out. Someone who knows could comment but I'm pretty sure that 2.4 I4 is an Earthdreams design and that is why they had some problems. Price is good and you would always want a pre-purchase inspection done.
More members could add to the grinding noise problems.
I did some research and found that almost EVERYONE who experienced said mechanics and dealers said the issue was with the VCT actuator. The fix is around 500-600 bucks is what they say and a mechanic online says that it doesn't cause any problems but rather is just annoying. I'd still look into more info on it though.
The grinding is less than 5 seconds during the startup, and Honda has issues a TSB for it.
Honda said a while back that they would wait for a recall and then fix it, though I couldn't find the recall and I believe there isn't one yet.
Here is the official service bulletin: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2016/SB-10087883-2280.pdf
When you test it make sure there isn't a rattle or grinding at startup or idle and make sure to have a mechanic check it out.
I'd appreciate if other members also answer as this is all from in depth research and not from personal experience.
Good luck!
@Kerem Ping away. {black}:laughingoutloud:
Thank you @kerem! that was fast. I think if its just making noise for 5 10 seconds that can be ignored right? {black}:shutmouth:
I liked it because its a HONDA and it has a great reputation, I was also looking at the Rav4 but the CR-V is more appealing to my eyes. hihi
Yeah and they also handle better and look more stylish.
Plus I saw a 2012 RAV4 listed for 18 grand so significant savings!
Most describe it as 2-5 seconds so if your fine with that it shouldn't be that bad.
As far as common issues go, the grinding engine noise is the second most complained about, the first is the battery dead.
Honestly you can free yourself from a lot of hassle if a mechanic checks it out which I'm sure you will.
Good thing I made the Common Problem page it definitely pays off.
ohhh I just realized now that its you who created it! haha {black}:shutmouth:
yes! That was very helpful for someone like me.. I was searching for the cars problem online and somehow I ended up on that topic!
hope you guys will never get tired of helping out others!
Yes, I would definitely bring my mechanic friend to help me narrow things down. I'm 80% convinced now to buy it actually. I will just have to test drive it and let my friend check it. Thanks @kerem !
Your welcome, good luck!
@Oxva69 No bother my friend. That is what we are here for. 🙂
Basically the 2012 - 2014 CRV's had the VCT issue, but they were still reliable vehicles as no damage is done by that problem. It is just an annoying sound.
So really I'd go with whichever you like best. There were small cosmetic tweaks but nothing life changing. I suspect you'll also find the prices to be very similar as well.
@kerem @Mod_Man, sorry to bother again, but do you have idea between the 2012 and 2013 HONDA CR-V? because from my own perspective they both the same engine and minor front bumper difference. I know you guys are scientist when it comes to this stuff, please let me know your thoughts. Thanks a million!
Ask away!
Basically what mod_man said 2012-2014 is very similar, though I found that 2014 had not only the grinding problem but also hesitation while accelerating problems. 2012 and 2013 are basically the same so you should be fine with either. You actually found a pretty low mileage low price listing so I would inquire.
Good luck!