The main disadvantages and weaknesses of the Honda HR-V. How to replace the timing belt on a Honda HR-V with your own hands? Weaknesses of the Honda HR-V

This station wagon has not been produced for about ten years, but it also regularly plows the roads of our country. However, nothing is eternal in the world and the repair of the Honda HR-V is very relevant today for the owners of this car. The price of restoration measures in our workshops is relatively affordable and depends on the type of repair, as well as the equipment involved.

We strive to constantly improve the skills and experience of our employees, applying new technological developments to reduce the cost of individual operations and increase the safety of the machine after repair work. All employees of our car service are well acquainted with the design of this car and know all its hidden and implicit shortcomings, so repairing a Honda HRV with us is, first of all, an inexpensive and high-quality option to restore lost performance to the car. We have a full range of catalog spare parts and can replace any part or aggregate unit of a vehicle. Our auto center is one of the few places in Moscow where you can repair Honda HR-V of any modification and year of manufacture at an affordable price.

We treat machines of varying degrees of damage equally professionally and always try to solve the problem with the maximum degree of confidence in a positive result. All work carried out by us is documented by our warranty.

Honda HR-V is a mini-class crossover from Honda. According to the manufacturer, this car combines the qualities of an off-road and comfortable car. The line has two generations, the first was produced from 1998 to 2006, the second generation from 2014 to the present day. The latest generation is based on the Honda Fit platform with an extended wheelbase.

Servicing a Japanese car is no more difficult than a European one, everything has the same meaning. Drain old oil and add fresh oil. Do not forget about replacing the cleaning filter, which cleans the engine oil system from small metal chips.

Routine maintenance should be performed every 15,000 km. Some HR V owners perform maintenance earlier, about every 10-12 thousand. Such a decision is only a plus. Also, if the car is operated in difficult conditions (bad road, extreme ambient temperatures, constant traffic jams, etc.), then the mileage segment must be reduced to 10 thousand.

What kind of oil to pour and how much?

Honda HR-V owners choose mostly synthetic products in 5W-30 and 5W-40 viscosity grades. This is an all-weather type and they can be used in both cold and hot weather, which is very convenient.

  • MOTUL 5w40;
  • Texaco\Havoline 5w40;
  • Petro-Canada 5w30;
  • Mobil Super 3000 5W40;

A four-liter canister is enough for a complete replacement. But you need to remember about further control and, if necessary, gravy level.

Instruction

  1. We warm up the engine to operating temperature. Cold oil has a low viscosity (fluidity). The warmer the liquid, the faster it drains. Our task is to grind off as much dirty, waste liquid as possible.
  2. For easy access to the drain plug (and in some models the oil filter is also attached from the bottom) and the bottom of the car as a whole, you need to jack it up or drive into the inspection hole (the best option). Also, in some models, "protection" of the engine crankcase can be installed.
  3. We open air access to the crankcase by unscrewing the filler cap and dipstick.
  4. Substitutes a large container (equal to the amount of oil being poured).
  5. We unscrew the drain plug with a key. Sometimes the drain plug is made like a conventional “bolt” with an open-end wrench, and sometimes it can be unscrewed with a four or hexagon. Do not forget to wear protective gloves, the oil will most likely wake up warm, but you need to be careful.
  6. We wait about 10-15 minutes until the mining drains into a basin or a cut plastic canister.
  7. An optional item but very effective! Flushing the engine with a special fluid is not included in the maintenance schedule and is not mandatory - but. A little confused, you will much better flush the engine from the old, black oil. At the same time, flushing with the old oil filter is carried out for 5-10 minutes. You will be surprised what black oil will pour out with this liquid. It is very easy to use this liquid. A detailed description must be included on the flush fluid label.
  8. We replace the old filter with a new one. In some models, it is not the filter itself and the filter element that changes (usually yellow). Impregnation of the filter with new oil before installation is a mandatory procedure. Lack of oil in a new filter before starting the engine can cause oil starvation, which in turn can cause filter deformation. In general, this is not a good thing. Remember to also lubricate the rubber o-ring before installation.
  9. Fill in new oil. After making sure that the drain plug is screwed on and a new oil filter is installed, we can start filling in new oil, guided by the dipstick. The level must be between the minimum and maximum marks. Also, you need to remember that after the first start of the engine, a little oil will go away and the level will drop.
  10. In the future, when the engine is running, the oil level will certainly change, be careful the first few days of operation. Recheck the oil level on the dipstick after the first start.

I read somewhere that the factory advertised it as a "four-wheel drive sports and recreational vehicle," says Victor, a former owner of the Honda HR-V. Equipped with a CVT, 1.6 liter engine, four-wheel drive, and at the same time - for sports? I confess that this puzzled me. Add to this a high center of gravity, a short wheelbase and a narrow track - what kind of sport is there? The all-terrain qualities of the Japanese all-wheel drive also raised questions. For example, the HR-V front bumper was lower than on my Honda Civic. With its clearance, not like in the forest - not every curb can be called in ... In a word, I bought it more at the insistence of my wife than at the call of my heart.

Over time, however, I realized that the HR-V was not created at all for sports "grip" or forest walks. If we already divide cars into male and female, then HR-V, of course, is a ladies' option. Attractive appearance, comfort, Japanese quality - on the one hand. Modest running characteristics and zero "professional suitability" - on the other hand. The perfect car for a leisurely shopping trip. Such a beautiful and unpretentious city toy ... Which my wife took away from me! But it's not that. Now my wife does not get tired of repeating that I finally bought the car of her dreams! ”…

Every year there are more and more cars of this model on Russian roads. Three-door all-wheel drive cars with a variator are especially popular with us. "Cute, safe and comfortable" - such is the female assessment.

In its nearly eight-year history, the HR-V has earned a reputation as a reliable all-rounder. It is good for work, and for the market, and for the dacha with children. But not off-road, not abruptly and not forgetting about regular maintenance. Spare parts, as well as repairs of this car, are by no means cheap.

Today we undertook to tell you about the most typical problems Honda HR-V.

perpetuum mobile

Honda engines with proper maintenance almost last forever. The main thing is to use good oil and change it every 10 thousand km. Then after 200 thousand km there will be no problems ...

Two engines were installed on the HR-V, which worked well on the Honda Civic. Until 2000, it was a 1.6-liter unit with a capacity of 105 hp, after - a 125-horsepower VTEC engine of the same volume. Both are simple and reliable.

You can simply forget about adjusting the valves on the HR-V. The plant recommends checking the clearances every 120 thousand km. Practice shows that the valves do not knock even after 240.

Features of national motor building

It is quite difficult to replace the timing belt on the HR-V on your own. There are two reasons for this. First, Honda reverse rotation motors. The pulley is tightened so that it is almost impossible to unscrew it without damaging it without a special puller. However, you can buy a puller, if you don't mind 250 euros. Secondly, on the HR-V, the motor has a tricky mount. It does not lie on the support cushions, but is hung on them. You can get to the pulley only by removing the support. It's not a problem. But in order to return the support to its place, you need to manage to get 8-centimeter rods into special holes. It is not easy to do this even on a lift. That is why in the service, replacing a timing belt on an HR-V is more expensive than on any other Honda model. The service costs 4 - 4.5 thousand rubles. According to the regulations, the belt must be changed every 96 thousand kilometers or 5 years of vehicle service. And certainly it must be changed immediately when buying a 5-7-year-old car.

Honda engines do not like third-party interference. Very often, it seems, according to science, sorted out motors begin to act up.

Liquid option

Honda is one of the few automakers that make their own gearboxes. The plant strongly recommends using only its own original transmission fluids. Proper and timely maintenance guarantees the longevity of any Honda box. The variator installed on the HR-V is no exception. It is comfortable, dynamic, sensitive to changes in speed and, of course, reliable ... That's just not in comparison with the mechanics. Firstly, the resource of the variator is much lower; secondly, it "eats" two and a half times more liquid. If 2 liters are poured into a manual gearbox, then almost five liters are poured into the variator. Honda recommends changing the fluid every 70,000 miles. Practice shows that it is desirable to reduce the interval by at least half. Price - $ 20 per liter of original liquid. Filling in something else can lead to the death of the box.

no options

Sharp accelerations are contraindicated for the variator. If once again, by pressing the gas, you feel jerking and tapping, and the engine speed began to jump - this means the "beginning of the end" of the variator. Oddly enough, the KP can still serve for a long time. A common but usually useless piece of advice is to change the oil in the box. “If it helps, then only for a couple of thousand km,” the service center explained to us.

The variator is a non-repairable unit (do not believe those who will convince you otherwise). The price for a new one is 60% of the cost of the whole box. And this is at least 3 thousand euros (!). It is very difficult to find a variator on disassembly. But if you're lucky, it will cost you a thousand and a half dollars, no less. No one guarantees the quality of the variator from disassembly. It is clear that it is better to treat him gently.

Contrary to popular belief, in extreme cases, you can tow a car with a CVT. True, no more than 40 km at a speed of 30 km / h, pouring an extra liter of liquid into the box. After such a trip, it is necessary to completely replace the fluid in the gearbox.

Not knowing the ford...

Suspension on the HR-V without frills. Front - MacPherson, rear - dependent with four longitudinal rods and one transverse rod. There are no specific problems with the suspension, however, they may arise if you use the car as an all-terrain vehicle. First of all, the lower front levers suffer along with the ball bearings. It is extremely difficult to get a non-original, while original spare parts will cost a pretty penny. They do not like potholes rear gear cushions. Replacing each will cost 30-50 euros, there are six of them in total.

There are almost no problems with the braking system. The front disc and rear drum brakes are very reliable. There are both original and non-original consumables for both.

Summarizing, let's say: Honda HR-V, indeed, is a "cute, safe and comfortable" car, ready to serve for a long time and without any problems ... But only if it is used for its intended purpose and very carefully cared for.

We thank the ROVER-HONDA technical center for the information provided.

The Honda HR-V is one of the most popular cars on the Russian market. It is reliable, easy to operate, economical and does not require frequent repairs. Since the crossover is also designed for driving in extreme conditions, off-road, the car's engine is very powerful.

In order to maintain the health of the motor for many years, it is necessary to change consumables in a timely manner: oil, candles and a timing belt. In the article below we will tell you how to change the timing chain and what is required for this.

When should the timing belt be changed?

The timing chain or timing belt is one of the main parts that determines the correct operation of the engine in a Honda HR-V car. With the help of this spare part, the timely start of the ignition of the fuel-air mixture and the release of the exhaust are ensured.

The timing mechanism consists of the following parts:

  • camshaft;
  • valves;
  • mechanical programmer;
  • chains, links, etc.

The chain, in turn, ensures the smooth rotation of these mechanisms.


Like many others, the timing belt in a Honda CR-V is a consumable part that needs to be changed after a certain period of time. According to the regulations, this must be done every 100 thousand kilometers, and in some cases more often.

The following factors influence the service life of the timing belt:

  • part quality;
  • driving style;
  • road quality;
  • serviceability of the timing mechanism itself.

There are also signs that the timing belt needs to be replaced:

  • unstable operation of the motor;
  • frequent engine shutdown in the middle of the road;
  • concentrated exhaust;
  • noise and vibration when starting the engine.

Any engine failure can be the result of a worn belt. If the element breaks, the car will not be able to drive.

In order not to create emergency situations on the road, drivers are advised to replace the timing belt in a timely manner, without waiting for a breakdown. You can do it yourself.

Belt selection

When replacing the timing belt yourself, the driver will need to purchase a new part. The size, material of manufacture, as well as technical characteristics are indicated in the documentation for the Honda HR-V car. Also, this information can be determined by the VIN code.

It is especially important to choose a part that is suitable in shape and dimensions, since the further operation of the internal combustion engine will depend on this. Incorrect installation is fraught with engine failure.

There are three types of timing chains: wedge, poly-wedge and gear. The last ones are the most durable. The advantage of toothed belts is noise isolation, as well as high efficiency of smoothing vibrations of shaft rotation.

Previously, metal belts were installed in cars. Such parts wore out quite quickly - after 70 thousand kilometers. Now in the vehicle, rubber parts are most often installed that can withstand both high and low temperatures. They are not sensitive to engine oil. The warranty period is 120 thousand kilometers.

Honda HR-V car manufacturers recommend purchasing only original parts. If these are not found, you can choose a high-quality analogue from the company gates. Today it is the highest quality product. According to statistics, the number of marriages per 6 thousand products is 2%. The manufacturer produces reinforced belts made of saturated nitrile. This material is able to withstand temperatures up to 180 degrees C. The period of operation is 130 thousand kilometers.

Self-replacement

Self-replacement of the timing belt consists of the following steps:

  1. Dismantling the old belt;
  2. Checking the timing mechanism for serviceability: roller, toothed skiff;
  3. Installing a new unit.

Important! For safety reasons, all repairs are carried out with the engine turned off.

To complete the job, the driver will need:

  • socket wrenches for 10,14,17 and 19 mm;
  • mounting blades;
  • clean rag;
  • gloves;
  • new item.

Removing the belt on the Honda HR-V step by step

Self-replacing the timing belt in a Honda HR-V car will take no more than 30 minutes. For convenience, the car is driven into a viewing hole or lifted with the help of jacks.

Procedure:

  1. Remove engine protection;
  2. Disconnect drive system belts;
  3. Turn the crankshaft to the compression position of the primary cylinder;
  4. Using 10 and 17 mm wrenches, unscrew the bolts of the automatic transmission protective crankcase and remove it;
  5. Unscrew the bolt securing the pulley, holding the flywheel with a mounting blade. Take out the bolt;
  6. Remove the crankshaft pulley. To do this, scroll the unit;
  7. Remove the cylinder block cover;
  8. Using a 10 mm wrench, unscrew the timing belt mounting bolts;
  9. Remove the spring, then the timing belt itself.

Installing a new element on a Honda HR-V step by step

Step by step instructions for installing a new timing belt:

  1. Install the roller and screw the bolt (do not tighten);
  2. Fix the spring
  3. Put the chain on the pulleys. The mechanism must fit snugly;
  4. Scroll the crankshaft and make sure that all teeth are in the correct position;
  5. Tighten the bolts securing the automatic transmission cover;
  6. Connect the drive belts and install the crankcase protection.

This procedure for replacing the timing belt is identical for all Honda HRV models until 2001.

Consequences of late replacement

Untimely replacement of the timing belt in a Honda HR-V car is fraught with consequences:

  • breakage of the mechanism. In this case, the engine will stall in the middle of the road;
  • deformation of oil seals, crankshafts, camshafts and valves;
  • the formation of cracks in the guide bushings;
  • engine failure.

Troubleshooting will cost the driver dearly, so it is recommended to follow the rules for operating a car and replace the consumable every 100 thousand kilometers.

Subcompact crossover Honda HR-V (Honda HRV) was created in 1998 based on the Logo model. At the time of its appearance, it was a revolutionary car that combined the advantages of a cross-country vehicle (high ground clearance, roomy trunk, high seating position) and a comfortable urban compact car (small dimensions, good maneuverability, fuel efficiency). The first generation model received a light restyling in 2001 and was produced until 2006, after which it was discontinued. The second generation was launched only 9 years later, in 2015.

Despite some shortcomings of the 1st generation Honda SHRV, the car turned out to be interesting and outstanding. In numerous positive reviews from the owners, its reliability, excellent build quality, and indestructibility of the suspension are noted. And, of course, the original exterior, which distinguishes it from a number of faceless cars of the same type. But every technique has its pros and cons.

Weaknesses of the Honda HR-V

  • Engine;
  • Body;
  • Transmission;
  • Suspension;
  • Salon.

The car was equipped with only two engine options, both petrol 4-cylinders of the same volume: 1.6 i SOHC with a capacity of 105 hp. and 1.6 i SOHC VTEC with 124 hp. Engines in the Honda tradition are reliable and high-revving, both spin up to 7000 rpm. But their power at low speeds is not enough. For more or less acceptable dynamics, the tachometer needle has to be kept above 4000 rpm, and this leads to an increase in fuel consumption. You can’t call this car economical, the consumption in the city reaches 12 l / 100 km. Yes, and oil consumption after 3000 rpm increases markedly.

The line is clearly lacking a more powerful gasoline engine. A lot of fans would be added to the HR-V and in the presence of a diesel engine. But what is not, is not.

There are two bodies: a three-door, which was discontinued in 2003, and a five-door. Body imperfections are typical for a compact car. These are even, rather, features: the rear seats are a little cramped, the ceiling is low, the trunk is small. The standard 45 Ah battery is rather weak during operation in cold winters, and installing a larger capacity battery is problematic, since there is no place for it under the hood. For those who are strongly affected by these shortcomings, it is wiser to simply opt for a machine of a different dimension.

There are also two transmission options: a five-speed manual and a stepless variator. And here the lack of a full-fledged automatic gearbox upsets. The manual transmission works reliably, the gears shift clearly, but all gears are quite short and you have to constantly drive the engine at high speeds. Yes, and we are gradually weaning from shifting gears manually, the automatic is still more comfortable.

As for the variator, it is not bad, it switches quite quickly and has a sports mode that provides good dynamics. But the design of the variator itself does not imply constant operation in harsh conditions, it requires high-quality and timely maintenance, including an expensive oil change operation. And even in this case, its resource is less than that of traditional boxes. In addition, in winter, the variator must be warmed up for quite a long time before starting to move.

Chassis

The crossover is available in two versions: 2WD with front-wheel drive only or 4WD - all-wheel drive version with rear-wheel drive automatically connected when the front wheels start to slip. In the case of 4WD, the costs of changing the oil in the rear axle gearbox and maintaining the DPS torque distribution system should be added to the list of fixed costs.

The cross-country ability is surprisingly good, the car confidently overcomes urban obstacles, and it is not afraid of the primer. The short base works to increase cross-country ability, but there is also a downside to the coin - on speed bumps, the back is thrown up so that a passenger in the back seat can hit his head on the ceiling. And do not forget that the crossover is not a full-fledged SUV. It does not have any locks, no center differential, downshift and other mandatory attributes of a serious off-road fighter. Honda HR-V is not suitable for extreme sports, in essence it is a city car.

In the tradition of the Honda company to make the suspension of their cars stiff for better handling and dynamics at the expense of ride comfort. The Honda HR-V is no exception. The suspension is stiff, with deep travel, impenetrable and indestructible, but when driving, every bump on the road is felt.

Salon Spartan, you can’t call it comfortable. Hard plastic, uncomfortable seats without height adjustment. The steering wheel is height adjustable, but there is no reach adjustment, so not everyone will be able to adjust the driver's seat for themselves. The panels fit neatly in Japanese style, there are no “crickets”. But if they were, it would be impossible to hear them on the go, since there is practically no sound insulation in the cabin.

Disadvantages of the 1st generation Honda HRV

  1. First of all, this, of course, is the variator - the main sore of the model. The resource of the variator, even with proper operation, does not exceed 70,000 - 100,000 km, so be careful when buying a used HR-V. The oil must be checked twice, on a cold and on a warm variator. The level should be correct, the oil should not be cloudy, dark. Bad signs are the smell of burning and foreign inclusions in the oil. Additionally, the variator must be checked on the go, carefully monitoring the absence of jerks and shocks. If the results are suspicious, the best advice would be to stop buying.
  2. A manual transmission can also fail prematurely. To repair or replace the box, you must be prepared if there are difficulties with the reverse gear.
  3. In the vulnerable places of the Honda HR-V, the rear axle gearbox (for all-wheel drive versions) should also be added, which in a fully serviceable car should not make extraneous sounds. Reducer wear is accelerated if different tires are on the rear wheels.

Outcome.

In general, the Honda HR-V is a reliable, predictable and unpretentious car. But very small, so when choosing "HR-V or CR-V" in most cases, the decision is made in favor of the CR-V model, which is half a meter longer and 250 kg heavier.