CRV Transmission problem

[Rimmer]

We have two Honda CRVs my wife drives the older one which has developed a problem.

After it has been standing for maybe two days the shift lever will not move into drive, pumping the brake pedal and letting the engine run for a minute seems to work then it goes in to drive with no problem.

Only happens when the car has been standing.

Honda really don't know what it is and want to replace the entire transmission unit.

I feel it could be related to low levels in the transmission or maybe hydraulic fluid though they seem to be OK.

Any suggestions before I replace the unit

[Carl58]

I would try something like this at first. it should solve most problems.

[bkkjames]

I wonder if they would want to replace it if it was still under warranty?

[sotsira]

Sounds more like an electrical fault not mechanical or fluid level related.

[sotsira]

Here's some info on the electrical system typically found on modern auto trans systems,

notice in the diagram below at the top is states INHIBITOR SWITCH and in brackets states

selector lever position.

That is what needs to be checked with the symptom that you described.

You could have a fault with the Gearbox ECU or the Inhibitor switch

it could also be a fault from the Engine ECU inhibitor signal to the gearbox ECU.

Notice in the diagram, 4th line down, between the two ECU's.

Transmission Control System

The operation of a typical electronically controlled transmission system is illustrated on Fig. 25.66, which has been installed by a number of vehicle manufacturers, including Mazda, Nissan and Rover. The system offers four forward gears, controlled by a transmission ECU, which communicates with the engine ECU to provide total power train management. The transmission ECU takes decisions based on electrical signals received from various sensors located on the engine and gearbox. ECU’s microcomputer stores data relating to the ideal gear for every speed and load condition, along with correction factors for engine and transmission temperatures, brake pedal depression and so on. Using this corrected data the transmission ECU energizes solenoid valves to engage the most suitable gear ratio for the existing driving conditions. The transmission ECU also provides a self-diagnosis function on some of the sensors and operates a fail-safe mode if a fault is found. This electronically controlled automatic transmission offers some typical features as follows.

[NanLaew]

If I recall, the OP's older CR-V is indeed quite old; maybe 3 models ago? Since that model is way out of warranty, I can imagine Honda charging an arm and a leg for a new transmission. Having said that, better check that the transmission is the same as the one in your newer CR-V or you may not be getting a 'new' transmission at all.

Point arising: when I was in the US, you took any transmission problems to a transmission shop rather than any garage. You could either get a repair or swap it for a rebuilt or new transmission. I honestly haven't seen any dedicated transmission shops anywhere I have been in LOS. Maybe in the big cities?

[sotsira]

If I recall, the OP's older CR-V is indeed quite old; maybe 3 models ago? Since that model is way out of warranty, I can imagine Honda charging an arm and a leg for a new transmission. Having said that, better check that the transmission is the same as the one in your newer CR-V or you may not be getting a 'new' transmission at all. Point arising: when I was in the US, you took any transmission problems to a transmission shop rather than any garage. You could either get a repair or swap it for a rebuilt or new transmission. I honestly haven't seen any dedicated transmission shops anywhere I have been in LOS. Maybe in the big cities?

Chances are that replacing the gearbox will not rectify the problem as i have noted earlier that

the fault is more likely electrical and not within the workings of the gearbox, but ECU or Inhibitor sw

related.

[ClutchClark]

Rimmer,

If it takes a couple days to occur then I think you were right to first check your fluid level. Ofcourse, this needs to be done while vehicle running and on a flat surface.

Do you recall the last time you had the trans flushed?

Thanks

[Gonsalviz]

Once again, it has nothing to do with the transmission or it's oil level. If the gear lever will not move there is a problem with the lever lock.

This was installed on all cars for morons that want to step on the accellerator instead of the brake when shifting from park to any gear.

[ClutchClark]

Once again, it has nothing to do with the transmission or it's oil level. If the gear lever will not move there is a problem with the lever lock.

This was installed on all cars for morons that want to step on the accellerator instead of the brake when shifting from park to any gear.

I have never met a mechanic that does not eliminate the simple stuff first--you are the first.

I would be more likely to agree with you except the OP states it takes a couple of days of not being used before it occurs.

I personally don't make 100% statements of fact when I attempt to diagnose a mechanical issue on a vehicle I have not personally worked on. Since you are so certain it is the lever lock, then please explain why it does not fail to function properly when used daily or when the accelerator is applied?

Thanks

[Rimmer]

Thanks guys for all the input.

Following the suggestions I tried it this morning and it was locked, put the key in the unlock hole on he steering column and it unlocked, took it out and turned the engine on and it went into the R position as normal so what would that suggest?

[transam]

The sensor via your brake pedal. I do not have a clue how that system works but try my PM thingy first, costs very little and is the first thing I would do before delving further...

[sotsira]

Thanks guys for all the input.

Following the suggestions I tried it this morning and it was locked, put the key in the unlock hole on he steering column and it unlocked, took it out and turned the engine on and it went into the R position as normal so what would that suggest?

First and foremost, have you checked that the brake lights are working as soon as you press the brake pedal, i'm assuming that they do, so lets move on.

If the inhibitor lock unlocks every time you use the override unlock slot, then it's indicating the problem is electrical.

I would suspect the following:

1) Brake pedal switch (inhibitor switch) faulty ( you may have two switches at the brake pedal, one for the brake lights and another for the inhibitor lock solenoid).

2) Open circuit between brake pedal sw (inhibitor sw) to the inhibitor lock solenoid.

3) A faulty Neutral Safety switch, (that would also cause the gear lever to stay in the lock position).

4) A fault with the ECU that controls the gear lever safety lock.

Note:

This fault can only be diagnosed when the lever is stuck in the lock P position as described by the OP.

[losworld]

I would try something like this at first. it should solve most problems.

I would not be so sure I have talked to a reliable mechanic who stresses to never use these machines as the pressures can ruin seals in the transmission. Makes sense to me better to just drain and replace the traditional way. I doubt the problem with the vehicles is as simple as fluid unless of course it is low.

[ClutchClark]

I would try something like this at first. it should solve most problems.

I would not be so sure I have talked to a reliable mechanic who stresses to never use these machines as the pressures can ruin seals in the transmission. Makes sense to me better to just drain and replace the traditional way. I doubt the problem with the vehicles is as simple as fluid unless of course it is low.

There are a few variations on flushing the system. The technique that uses the vehicles own pump to create pressure is safe. Some of the other external pumps can be safe but should not be assumed to be so.

As you state, low fluid level can be an issue but so can very old fluid. The flushing procedure has its advantages depending on history of previous fluid changes and miles on the car.

As Transam pointed out, and most posters advice has suggested, its best to eliminate the simplest possible causes before immediately diving into the more complex and costly.

For that reason, I will ask the obvious: Is the vehicle kept parked on a hill in an inclined position? Doing this can apply pressure on the transmission lock pin and make it difficult to disengage. Ofcourse, it is vital in this scenario that the paerking brake be engaged prior to releasing foot from brake pedal when parking the car and shifting into Park.

Again, it is assumed OP is aware of this, just starting simple.

[Ace of Pop]

I would find another Honda Service that knows what its doing.Never heard of Honda not pin pointing the fault,and showing the customer exactly what's wrong. .

[Rimmer]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem, they told us to take the car to Honda in N Pattaya which we did this morning, told them the symptoms and suspect Brake pedal switch (inhibitor switch) they want the car all night so they can reproduce the problem in the morning.

So that's where the car is now

[sotsira]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem, they told us to take the car to Honda in N Pattaya which we did this morning, told them the symptoms and suspect Brake pedal switch (inhibitor switch) they want the car all night so they can reproduce the problem in the morning.

So that's where the car is now

Sounds like your on the right track there Rimmer.

What they told you makes sense, especially having to keep the car until the problem becomes apparent, otherwise they won't be able to diagnose exactly where the fault is.

[seedy]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem,

No offense intended or inferred, but this is the first time I have ever heard this in LOS

Kudos to them

[Ace of Pop]

Me neither Seedy. Honda and Toyota are rather fussy about their Credibility. But as Kawasaki said a while back Its Only as good as its Manager. I rate Honda Krabi , Hua Hin, and Phitsanulok + Ubon Rat as superb.

[Rimmer]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem,

No offense intended or inferred, but this is the first time I have ever heard this in LOS

Kudos to them

Its a fairly new operation on Sukhumvit Road just past the Ambassador Hotel on the South bound carriageway, everything spotlessly clean, beautiful workshops with their own huge multi storey car park behind it to store new cars, show rooms at the front and upstairs coffee and computers so you can watch your car being serviced.

In fairness to them they probably do not yet have the benefit of many years of experience that the North Pattaya staff have.

[pgrahmm]

I would try something like this at first. it should solve most problems.

I would not be so sure I have talked to a reliable mechanic who stresses to never use these machines as the pressures can ruin seals in the transmission. Makes sense to me better to just drain and replace the traditional way. I doubt the problem with the vehicles is as simple as fluid unless of course it is low.

At the dealership level they do not use these......they plug into one of the cooler lines and run the engine/trans on a rack going through the system as the old fluid/valve body/torque convertor is flushed using the normal pressures of the operating system......it's the sensible way to due it as the pressures are good and the entire system is purged and replenished......

Do not know who does it in LOS though......

Things like the flush machines are aimed at the secondary market where you can sell a service using a dab a lube tray & have a marginally trained individual do the work/service/flush in an 8x10 glossy way......B Quick comes to mind - like the Firestone/Goodyear stores in the US

[pgrahmm]

The interlock or lockout device answer is the best - on point answer in the thread......some have their own individual adjustment specs.......

Make sure whoever drives the car does not put it into park prematurely (full complete stop) before ramming the lever to "P"........

If the car is parked on a slope - full stop - set the brake......

[sotsira]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem,

No offense intended or inferred, but this is the first time I have ever heard this in LOS

Kudos to them

Its a fairly new operation on Sukhumvit Road just past the Ambassador Hotel on the South bound carriageway, everything spotlessly clean, beautiful workshops with their own huge multi storey car park behind it to store new cars, show rooms at the front and upstairs coffee and computers so you can watch your car being serviced.

In fairness to them they probably do not yet have the benefit of many years of experience that the North Pattaya staff have.

Both Franchise's are under the same ownership that's why they work in tandem.

[bkkjames]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem,

No offense intended or inferred, but this is the first time I have ever heard this in LOS

Kudos to them

Its a fairly new operation on Sukhumvit Road just past the Ambassador Hotel on the South bound carriageway, everything spotlessly clean, beautiful workshops with their own huge multi storey car park behind it to store new cars, show rooms at the front and upstairs coffee and computers so you can watch your car being serviced.

In fairness to them they probably do not yet have the benefit of many years of experience that the North Pattaya staff have.

So you are saying the mechanics are straight out of uni?

[Rimmer]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem,

No offense intended or inferred, but this is the first time I have ever heard this in LOS

Kudos to them

Its a fairly new operation on Sukhumvit Road just past the Ambassador Hotel on the South bound carriageway, everything spotlessly clean, beautiful workshops with their own huge multi storey car park behind it to store new cars, show rooms at the front and upstairs coffee and computers so you can watch your car being serviced.

In fairness to them they probably do not yet have the benefit of many years of experience that the North Pattaya staff have.

So you are saying the mechanics are straight out of uni?

That is not what I have written. Please stop trolling in the topic

[bkkjames]

The new Honda place in Ban Ampur said they do not have the staff that knows how to deal with the problem,

No offense intended or inferred, but this is the first time I have ever heard this in LOS

Kudos to them

Its a fairly new operation on Sukhumvit Road just past the Ambassador Hotel on the South bound carriageway, everything spotlessly clean, beautiful workshops with their own huge multi storey car park behind it to store new cars, show rooms at the front and upstairs coffee and computers so you can watch your car being serviced.

In fairness to them they probably do not yet have the benefit of many years of experience that the North Pattaya staff have.

So you are saying the mechanics are straight out of uni?

That is not what I have written. Please stop trolling in the topic

Put whatever spin on it you like. Your previous reply suggests because it's New dealership they may not be able diagnose your issue. I find it a bit strange that the dealer in question would expect its mechanics to learn on the go...New or not. But this being th, nothing surprises me.

[Rimmer]

Honda duplicated the problem this morning after the car was left standing overnight, from what I can understand from my wife when they called her just now there is a problem with the Brake pedal switch (inhibitor switch) cost to fix around baht4000

Big thanks to everyone suggesting this is the problem which allowed me to put them on the right track to find the fault quickly.

I will tell you more when we have picked it up.

[transam]

Honda duplicated the problem this morning after the car was left standing overnight, from what I can understand from my wife when they called her just now there is a problem with the Brake pedal switch (inhibitor switch) cost to fix around baht4000

Big thanks to everyone suggesting this is the problem which allowed me to put them on the right track to find the fault quickly.

I will tell you more when we have picked it up.

As I suggested, If you haven't had it done lately get them to change the brake fluid, just a hunch....

[ClutchClark]

Honda duplicated the problem this morning after the car was left standing overnight, from what I can understand from my wife when they called her just now there is a problem with the Brake pedal switch (inhibitor switch) cost to fix around baht4000

Big thanks to everyone suggesting this is the problem which allowed me to put them on the right track to find the fault quickly.

I will tell you more when we have picked it up.

As I suggested, If you haven't had it done lately get them to change the brake fluid, just a hunch....

Changed fluid in my CR-V last time I was home. Even with changes at scheduled intervals I can feel improvement in the brakes with a fresh flush & fill--less squishy.