Parts for your 2016 Honda Cr-v-Temperature sensors

2016 Honda CR‑V temperature sensors: what they do and how to look after them

Temperature sensors are definitely fitted to the 2016 Honda CR‑V and they’re essential to how the car runs. Honda’s Factory Service Manual for the 2015–2016 CR‑V (K24W Earth Dreams engine) details Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 at the cylinder head and ECT Sensor 2 at the radiator outlet, plus an Intake Air Temperature (IAT) element integrated into the MAP sensor. The automatic transmission uses fluid temperature feedback, and the HVAC system includes ambient and evaporator temperature sensors. The Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for the RM‑series CR‑V lists these items across 2016 VINs, confirming their use.

On this model, temperature sensors let the engine computer trim fuel and ignition, manage cold starts and idle speed, command radiator fans, and display a steady coolant gauge. The IAT helps fine‑tune fuelling as air density changes. Transmission temperature data influences shift timing and protection. In the cabin, ambient and evaporator sensors help the climate control keep temps comfy while preventing evaporator freeze‑up and protecting the A/C compressor.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, most sensors are “fit and forget.” As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to scan live data from cold and check that the ECT and IAT readings match the day’s ambient temperature, then verify smooth, believable warm‑up curves. Odd behaviour such as hard cold starts, surging idle, poor fuel economy, a gauge that never warms up, radiator fans running all the time, the A/C dropping out, or DTCs like P0117/P0118 (ECT) and P0113 (IAT) point to sensor or wiring faults.

If an ECT sensor needs replacing, let the engine cool completely, disconnect the battery, and relieve cooling system pressure. Catch and refill with the correct Honda Type 2 coolant, fit a new O‑ring or sealing washer as applicable, and bleed the system thoroughly with the heater on hot. After refitting, clear codes and confirm the readings are plausible from a cold start. For the IAT on this CR‑V, it’s built into the MAP sensor on the intake manifold—usually a straightforward unplug, unbolt, swap, and reseal job.

Given the value of these sensors, using quality parts and sticking to factory procedures from Honda’s service documentation is the safest bet. A quick check each service can prevent overheating, rough running, or premature A/C and transmission wear—cheap insurance for many more hassle‑free kilometres.

How many temperature sensors does a 2016 CR‑V have and where are they?

Typically you’ll find two engine coolant temperature sensors (cylinder head and radiator outlet), an intake air temperature element inside the MAP sensor on the intake manifold, a transmission fluid temperature sensor inside the auto trans, plus ambient and evaporator temperature sensors for the HVAC system. Exact count can vary slightly by market and trim.

What are the signs a temperature sensor has failed?

Look for hard cold starts, rough idle, poor fuel economy, a temperature gauge that behaves oddly, radiator fans running constantly, the A/C cutting out, or a check‑engine light. Common codes include P0117/P0118 (ECT) and P0113 (IAT). Always check wiring and connectors before condemning the sensor.

Do temperature sensors need regular servicing?

There’s no routine replacement schedule. As part of normal servicing, verify readings with a scan tool from a cold start, inspect connectors for corrosion, and make sure the cooling system is healthy and bled properly. Replace only if faulty or contaminated, and use the correct coolant to protect the ECT sensors.