Parts for your 2013 Honda Cr-v-Temperature sensors

2013 Honda CR‑V temperature-sensors

Based on Honda’s 2012–2014 CR‑V Service Manual for the RM series, the Honda Genuine Parts catalogue, and standard OBD‑II data definitions (SAE J1979) used by the CR‑V’s engine control unit, the 2013 Honda CR‑V is fitted with multiple temperature-sensors. These include the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, the intake air temperature (IAT) sensor, the ambient (outside) air temperature sensor for the display and HVAC, and a cabin thermistor for climate control logic. So yes—temperature-sensors are absolutely relevant and used on this model.

On this CR‑V, temperature-sensors help the vehicle start cleanly, run efficiently, and keep its cool on a hot Aussie or Kiwi summer’s day. The ECT sensor tells the ECU how warm the engine is so it can adjust fuel, ignition timing, idle speed, and radiator fan operation. The IAT sensor lets the ECU account for the density of the incoming air—colder air needs different fuelling than warm air. The ambient sensor feeds the dash readout and helps the air‑con behave sensibly, while the cabin thermistor helps the climate control hold the set temperature without the driver fussing.

• Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT): key to cold starts, fan control, mixture, and gauge behaviour.
• Intake Air Temperature (IAT): trims fuelling and timing for changing air temps.
• Ambient Air Temp: informs outside temp display and HVAC strategy.
• Cabin Thermistor: helps auto climate maintain comfy cabin temps.

Replacement and maintenance are straightforward. These sensors aren’t scheduled service items, they’re replaced when faulty. During regular servicing, a good workshop will scan live data to confirm the ECT and IAT readings look sensible (for example, both should read close to ambient when the engine’s been sitting overnight). If the dash gauge behaves oddly, the fans run when they shouldn’t, cold starts are rough, fuel use jumps, or the A/C performance goes pear‑shaped, a tired sensor or a poor connector could be to blame. Common fault codes include P0117/P0118 (ECT circuit) and P0113 (IAT high input).

When an ECT sensor is replaced, fresh Honda Type‑2 coolant and correct bleeding are important so the new sensor sees true coolant flow. Protect connectors from coolant or oil contamination and avoid pulling on the harness. The ambient sensor sits up front, so steer clear of blasting it with a pressure washer. As for intervals, stick with the logbook for coolant changes (often around 5 years/100,000 kilometres) and let diagnostics guide any sensor swaps. Genuine or OEM‑quality parts keep readings accurate and the CR‑V happy.

Where is the engine coolant temperature sensor on a 2013 CR‑V?

It’s typically mounted near the thermostat housing on the engine, close to the upper radiator hose connection. Exact placement can vary slightly by market/engine variant, but it’s on the engine side where it can “see” circulating coolant.

What are the signs a temperature-sensor has failed?

Hard cold starts, rough idle, higher fuel use, radiator fans running when they shouldn’t (or not at all), erratic temperature gauge readings, weak A/C performance, and fault codes like P0117, P0118 or P0113. A quick scan of live data will usually confirm a sensor reading that’s unrealistic.

Do temperature-sensors need routine replacement?

No. They’re not a regular wear item. They’re replaced if faulty or damaged. During servicing, technicians should check live data, inspect connectors, and ensure the cooling system is healthy so sensors report accurately.