Engine Computers for Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V Engine Computers

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Honda that has gone through four generations since production started in 1995. The CR-V engine computer has had to interface with many powertrain variations and versions of Hondas VTEC or variable valve timing and lift electronic control, making it important to verify the compatibility for the computer you intend to replace on your CR-V. You can find Honda computers that will match the requirements for your Honda CR-V engine computers.

The terms ECU, also known as engine control unit, and ECM, also known as engine control module, are terms that are often used interchangeably in the automobile industry. Manufacturers generally have a preferred term, and Honda itself uses the term ECM in reference to the Honda CR-V. However, you may find that some parts refer to the Honda ECM as an ECU or ECM ECU in recognition of how common the terms are interchanged.

The Honda ECM is in charge of horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. It accomplishes this by electronically controlling the air-fuel mixture, ignition timing, and idle speed of the vehicle in response to sensor readings for oxygen level, throttle position, mass airflow, crankshaft position, and coolant temperature. The Honda CR-V has always had an ECM from its first generation. However, due to upgrades and modifications, the ECM for a given year and version of a CR-V may not be compatible for a CR-V of a different year and version. For example, a 2.4-liter ECM will not interchange with a 1.5-liter ECM while turbocharged engines require ECM modification as well.

The check engine light on the dashboard of your CR-V will sometimes come on when there is a problem with the ECM itself. Likewise, a problem with the ECM could manifest itself with starting problems, a lack of spark or fuel injection, and suddenly turning off. A faulty ECM may cause transmission problems in the form of slipping gears. For driver safety concerns, a vehicle with a bad ECM should be repaired as quickly as possible, including replacing the ECM.

Most replacement ECMs for a specific year and version of a Honda CR-V can be used in your vehicle. However, some ECMs are more generic and require reprogramming for your vehicle. If you have had aftermarket modifications to your CR-V powertrain, your ECM may require reprogramming as well.