For owners of CRV 1997-2001

1997 - 2001 CRV Valve Lash Issue

Background on valve lash adjustment

Valve lash adjustment, commonly referred to as a "valve adjustment" is the periodic adjustment of the clearance between the rocker arms and the top of the valve stems. While some motors have "hydraulic lifters" that maintain the optimum clearance and do not require periodic adjustment, many motors manufactured today still utilize a design that requires periodic adjustment to maintain the proper valve lash clearance. Over time (miles driven) the valve lash clearance may increase/decrease, depending on the engine configuration, resulting in a rough idle, poor fuel economy, loss of power, poor driveability, and even premature valve failure. The proper clearance must be maintained and is accomplished by periodic inspection/adjustment.

The story

All Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. from 1973 thru 1994/1995 had a 15K mile valve lash adjustment interval. In 1994/1995 Honda shifted adjustment intervals on most vehicles to 30K miles. The change to 30K mile intervals seemed like a good idea to us because little change in valve clearance was noted during routine service intervals on the newer vehicles. As an added bonus, this also resulted in reduced maintenance cost to the customer. However, in 1997 Honda started shifting the valve lash adjustment intervals up to 105K miles. We were not as comfortable with this change as we were concerned that a vehicle delivered from the factory could have a tight valve clearance or might develop a valve clearance problem prior to the 105K mile inspection/adjustment interval resulting in one or more of the problems noted above.

Our concern seems to have been born out in the fact that we are seeing a number of valve failure problems, resulting in major engine repairs, on the 1997 - 2001 CRVs, typically in the 40-60,000 mile range. As a result, we have sent a number of our customers back to Honda (the dealer) to pursue a remedy for this situation (since this should not be, in our opinion, an issue until at least 105,000 miles). Honda has responded by warranting some repairs and not others. To date we have had no conclusive feedback from these customers, or have we seen any official statement from Honda regarding this matter.

In conclusion, it is our sincere desire that you achieve the maximum benefit out of your vehicle. It is our opinion that having the valve lash clearance inspected/adjusted at an interval of 30K miles (on any vehicle without hydraulic lifters) will provide the best hedge in fending off any potential major engine repairs as a result of valve failure. The typical cost to have the valve lash inspected/adjusted is between $82 - $120. A valve job can cost between $700 - $1800 or more depending on the extent of damage. If we receive any further information on this matter we will post it on our web site. Hopefully, this information will help you make an informed decision.

Sincerely,

The Crew at Hontech