Parts for your 2018 Honda Cr-v-Temperature sensors

2018 Honda CR‑V Temperature Sensors

Based on Honda’s technical literature for the 2017–2019 CR‑V range, temperature sensors are absolutely fitted and actively used on the 2018 Honda CR‑V. Technical references include the Honda CR‑V Service Manual sections covering: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor, Intake Air Temperature (IAT) within the MAP sensor, Outside/Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor, and the CVT Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor. The 2018 Owner’s Manual details the outside temperature display and related warnings, and Honda’s OBD‑II DTC listings for this model cite codes such as P0117/P0118 (ECT), P0113 (IAT), and P0072/P0073 (ambient), confirming these sensors are part of the vehicle’s control systems.

On a 2018 CR‑V, temperature sensors help the car think on its feet. They inform the engine computer, transmission control, and climate system so the SUV can start cleanly on cold mornings, keep its cool in Aussie and Kiwi summers, shift the CVT smoothly, and deliver honest fuel economy. If a sensor goes out of whack, the CR‑V might run rich, hesitate, kick on the cooling fans at the wrong time, or misreport the outside temperature. Left unchecked, a faulty ECT sensor can even contribute to overheating, so it’s worth nipping issues in the bud.

As part of routine servicing, there’s no set replacement interval for temperature sensors—replace on condition. Good practice includes:

• Visual checks: look for damaged wiring or brittle connectors around the ECT, MAP/IAT, and ambient sensor behind the grille.
• Cooling system health: fresh Honda‑approved coolant and a leak‑free system help the ECT read accurately.
• Cleanliness: gently clear debris from the front grille so the ambient sensor isn’t heat‑soaked by trapped leaves or bugs.
• Scan data: a quick look at live temps with a scan tool during services can spot a lazy or spiky sensor early.

If the ECT needs replacing, let the engine cool, relieve system pressure, and drain enough coolant to drop below the sensor. Fit a new sealing washer/O‑ring, torque to the spec in the Honda manual, refill with the correct coolant, and bleed air. Avoid spraying cleaners into the MAP/IAT—if readings are off, test and replace rather than “clean”. The ambient sensor near the front bumper can be swapped easily if it’s giving dodgy readings or physically damaged. The CVT fluid temperature sensor is internal and not a routine service item, if it sets a fault, diagnosis is best left to a technician.

Genuine or high‑quality equivalent parts are a smart choice. After any replacement, clear codes, verify readings on a scan tool, and road‑test to confirm proper behaviour.

Popular questions about 2018 Honda CR‑V temperature sensors

Where is the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor located?
It’s threaded into the engine near the thermostat/outlet area on the cylinder head. Access varies slightly by engine variant, so it’s worth checking the service manual diagram. Always work on a cool engine and expect a little coolant loss when removing it.

Do temperature sensors need regular replacement?
No. They’re not a scheduled item. Replace only when faulty, but include quick inspections of wiring and live‑data checks during routine services. Healthy coolant and clean front‑end airflow help sensors read correctly and last longer.

Is it safe to drive with a bad temperature sensor?
It’s not ideal. A failing ECT or IAT can cause rough running, poor economy, and in worst cases contribute to overheating. If the check‑engine light’s on or temps look odd, get it scanned and sorted promptly to avoid bigger bills.