2002 CR-V Cuts Out @ 2800 RPM

[CTRidgeline]

To start, sorry if this should be in a different area and second it is Off Topic of a RL, but I know we have some good Honda techs here that might have an answer. Also I posted on the CR-V owners club too. So without further delay... here we go....

Anyone see this before? This has happened twice so far.

Start the car as normal, let is sit for a while to warm up (5 min or so), drive away. Notice the check engine light is on, then when driving it reaches 2800 RPM (or so) the engine cuts out completely. Let off the pedal, let the RPM come down and it takes right off again. Get it up to 2800 and it cuts out. This is a 5 speed stick, 70,000 miles, happens in any gear at 2800. The only way to correct it is to turn the vehicle off and restart. The check engine light stayed on, but the RPMs can now go over 2800.

Thanks in advance for the replies!
CT

[Teezer]

I had a similar problem with my 1998 CR-V. Not the exact same (I never noted an RPM limit), but an ignition problem that came and went, marked by missing (which turns on the check engine light) and inability to rev in higher gears.

It was "water in the distributor," according to the dealer. I asked how water could get into the distributor, and they couldn't say, although they allowed as how I could have done it by cleaning the engine with a pressure washer (which I had not done).

The evidence was rust on the internal parts of the distributor (no actual liquid water was found). I had them replace the distributor (75,000 miles, so out of warranty), and it went back to normal. Cost ~$800... :(

[honridgeline]

My 1999 prelude did this. Your car was in safe mode. It does this to protect itself from further damage. When mine did it, the code said cylinder 1,2,3,4 missfire. I replaced the distributor and never had any other problems out of it. I have not had any problems out of honda V6 dist but the 4 cyl dist could use some work. I have had the go out on quite a few hondas. Not saying that is your problem but it is a place to look. Wow, 800 dollars! I have never payed more than 250 for a new one and it takes about 20 min to put in.

[HondaTech]

i have seen this issue a couple of times. First off, you need to get the check engine light diagnosed FIRST. You don't want to be blindly guessing at something without first taking the biggest clue into consideration.

The CR-V engine has v-tec, which allows for a different camshaft profile as well as advancing or retarding the intake camshaft timing. Both of these functions are controlled by a couple of solenoids and switches. The solenoids sent engine oil pressure to the VCT actuator, blah blah blah.... Basically, there are three failures that are possible.

Most likely - Low engine oil level. This does not allow enough oil to actuate the cam timing mechanisms, thereby hindering high RPM operation.

Less likely - A failed VTEC oil pressure switch, or VCT actuator or solenoid.

Unlikely - Failed ECM/PCM.

Near impossible - stretched timing chain. (yes, it happens)


First step is to check the oil level, then make an appointment at the dealer, for the check engine light diagnosis.



HT

[CTRidgeline]

Thanks to all for the replies! I will be checking the oil before I leave tonight and will have to get the light diagnosed!

CT

[k757]

moved to "other cars, trucks" section

[mazzuca66]

There is also a problem with the ignition swiches. Common on the honda odyssey.

[HondaTech]

A failed ignition switch, while not impossible, is not very likely. The OP had said the engine cuts out- not dies, or stalls. On earlier CR-V's there was an issue with ignition switches, but that was isolated to the first generation (up to 2001).

The common failure on the HONDA I4 vtec's, when relating to this particular symptom are vtec oil pressure switches and actuator spool valves. The dtc that will set is a P2646 or P2647 - both of which are vtec oil pressure switch related.


I am eager to hear back from the poster, to see what the problem actually was...


HT

[avenger]

A failed ignition switch, while not impossible, is not very likely. The OP had said the engine cuts out- not dies, or stalls. On earlier CR-V's there was an issue with ignition switches, but that was isolated to the first generation (up to 2001).

The common failure on the HONDA I4 vtec's, when relating to this particular symptom are vtec oil pressure switches and actuator spool valves. The dtc that will set is a P2646 or P2647 - both of which are vtec oil pressure switch related.


I am eager to hear back from the poster, to see what the problem actually was...


HT


.
I don't think this guy ever posted back on the disposition.

.

[CTRidgeline]

I do apologize for not replying back sooner. I have been swamped at work and was able to take care of the problem quickly, with the help of the forum. The problem was in fact low oil. I added oil and the problem went away. Thank you again for the input and great solutions this forum provides!

CT