×

Honda CR-V recall explained

Ask the Auto Doctor

Dear Doctor: I received a recall notice for my 2018 Honda CR-V. Apparently, there have been complaints about the oil mixing in with the gasoline in these turbocharged vehicles. The recall consisted of performing a software update and changing the oil. The owner’s manual calls for 87 octane or higher gasoline for the turbo engine; however, someone who drives a turbocharged Volkswagen told me not to use 87 octane, but rather to use 93 octane or higher. Will using premium gas damage the CR-V turbo engine? What is your opinion on using premium fuel?

— Norman

Dear Norman: On the use of premium unleaded gasoline in a turbocharged — or supercharged engine — yes, I’m all for it. The 92 octane or higher burns hotter, cleaner, and slower than the 87 octane. The reason for the Honda recall is because too much fuel is being sprayed by the injectors and unburned fuel sliding by the piston rings and into the oil crankcase. A rich mixture of gas in the oil dilutes the oil. The contaminated oil cannot provide the correct lubrication to the internal moving components. The second problem is the overfilled diluted oil can cause engine stalling from a rich engine condition. Next, the catalytic converter is working extra hard to keep the exhaust gases clean. Honda is working on a software update that should solve the extra fuel delivery. Honda should also extend the engine and catalytic converter warranty, in my opinion.

Dear Doctor: I’m an avid reader of your advice column and would like your opinion on a recent recall on my 2017 Honda CR-V with the 1.5-liter turbo engine. I’ve been reading of owners complaining of a gas odor and the oil reading on their dipstick at over the fill line. Many are saying that gas is mixing in the oil and could cause engine issues. I don’t smell gas but I am concerned. Honda’s recall notice on my vehicle states that they will update the software with A/C control unit replacement. Should I be worried about this turbo engine issue? Should I trade this car in?

— Donna

Dear Donna: I would not be worried at all, but please bring your concerns to the attention of your service advisor during your scheduled recall service appointment. Just as a previous the reader wrote in on the turbo issue, the problem does involve too much fuel being sprayed into the cylinders and the excess is dripping into the oil crankcase.

Dear Doctor: I own a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid with 180,000 miles. It’s having a starting problem. I try several times turning the key and it’s becoming harder to get it to catch. I know the Escape Hybrid doesn’t have a traditional starter. What should I do?

— John

Dear John: Your Escape Hybrid is more than 10 years old, and most independent repair shops will likely not get involved with issues related to theses starters or batteries. Special testing equipment and expert understanding of the system is required, so I highly recommend you take the vehicle to a Ford dealer.

Junior Damato is an ASE-certified Master Technician.

E-mail questions for publication to info@motormatters.biz

Mail questions with SASE to: Motor Matters, PO Box 3305, Wilmington, DE 19804

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
     

Starting at $4.85/week.

Subscribe Today