Where the Starter Is Located on a Honda CR-V

On most non-hybrid Honda CR‑V models, the starter is mounted to the transmission bellhousing on the front (radiator-facing) side of the engine, tucked beneath or just behind the intake manifold; by contrast, CR‑V hybrids (2020 and newer) do not use a conventional 12‑volt starter motor because the engine is started by an electric motor-generator. This overview explains where to find the unit by model year and powertrain, how to identify it in the engine bay, and what to know before attempting access.

What you’re looking for under the hood

The starter is a compact cylindrical electric motor with a smaller, attached solenoid. It sits where it can engage the ring gear at the engine–transmission interface, so you’ll find it at the bellhousing seam rather than out on accessory brackets.

The points below describe visual and tactile cues that help you identify the starter quickly without dismantling major components.

• Follow the thick positive battery cable: one heavy-gauge cable runs directly to the starter’s solenoid terminal.
• Look for the engine–transmission seam: the starter’s nose points into the bellhousing to reach the flywheel/flexplate ring gear.
• Shape and finish: typically a silver or black cylindrical body with an attached smaller cylinder (the solenoid) and two or more electrical connections.
• Position in the bay: on CR‑V gasoline models, it’s on the radiator side of the powertrain, partially obscured by the intake ducting/manifold.

Once you’ve matched the cable routing and the bellhousing position, the starter’s location is usually unambiguous even in a crowded modern engine bay.

Location by generation and powertrain

Non‑hybrid gasoline models (1997–2025)

Across four-cylinder gasoline CR‑Vs from the first through sixth generations, Honda places the starter low to mid-height on the front (radiator) side of the engine, bolted into the transmission bellhousing and generally beneath or slightly behind the intake manifold/throttle body area.

The list below summarizes typical positions by engine family and model years to guide where to look first.

• 1997–2001 (2.0L B-series): At the bellhousing near the engine–transmission seam, on the radiator side but tucked toward the firewall; visibility is limited by intake plumbing.
• 2002–2011 (2.4L K-series): On the radiator side of the bellhousing directly beneath/behind the intake manifold and throttle body area; accessible from above after removing intake ducting, or from below with the splash shield off.
• 2012–2016 (2.4L K-series): Same general spot as 2007–2011—front of the powertrain, bellhousing side under the intake manifold; battery and intake snorkel removal improves access.
• 2017–2022 (1.5L turbo L15B7): Still on the front bellhousing side, partly hidden by charge-air/intake plumbing; often accessed from above by removing the air intake tube and resonator, or from below.
• 2023–2025 (Gen 6, 1.5L turbo): Bolted to the transmission bellhousing on the radiator side beneath the intake tract; airbox/duct removal typically provides top-side access.

While brackets and surrounding components vary by generation, the bellhousing mount point and radiator-side orientation remain consistent on non‑hybrid CR‑Vs.

Hybrid models (2020–2025, e:HEV in many markets)

CR‑V Hybrids use Honda’s two-motor i‑MMD system; the engine is started by the generator motor within the hybrid drive unit, not by a conventional 12‑volt starter. There is no separate, serviceable starter motor mounted on the bellhousing. The vehicle still has a 12‑volt battery to power control systems and accessories, but cranking is handled by the high-voltage motor-generator.

How to spot and access it on non‑hybrids

Access methods vary slightly by generation, but the general approach is similar: clear intake pieces for top-side visibility, or remove the lower splash shield for access from below. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before touching starter wiring.

The steps below outline a typical top-side inspection path that works on many K-series and L15B CR‑Vs.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent shorts.
2. Remove the air intake tube (and resonator, if fitted) between the airbox and throttle body for a clearer view down the front of the engine.
3. Shine a light at the engine–transmission seam below/behind the throttle body: look for the cylindrical starter with the attached solenoid and thick battery cable.
4. If visibility is poor, raise the vehicle safely and remove the lower splash shield to view the bellhousing from below.
5. Confirm the heavy-gauge cable connection and mounting bolts before proceeding with any service.

These steps are for locating and inspecting only; removal procedures vary by model year and may require additional component removal and torque specifications from a service manual.

Safety and service notes

Because the starter carries high current and sits near other critical components, basic precautions are important.

The checklist below highlights considerations before any hands-on work.

• Always disconnect the negative battery terminal first; avoid shorting the main starter terminal to ground.
• Support the vehicle securely if working from below, and remove the undertray cautiously to avoid damaging clips.
• Label connectors and note routing of intake hoses for correct reassembly.
• On hybrids, do not attempt to “find the starter”—there isn’t a separate one; hybrid high-voltage components require specialized procedures.

Following these basics reduces risk and helps ensure you can reassemble everything correctly after inspection or replacement.

Summary

For non‑hybrid Honda CR‑Vs, the starter is consistently mounted on the transmission bellhousing along the front (radiator-facing) side of the engine, typically beneath or just behind the intake manifold area; you can often spot it by following the battery’s thick positive cable. Hybrid CR‑Vs (2020 and newer) don’t have a conventional 12‑volt starter at all—the engine is spun by the hybrid’s motor-generator—so there’s no separate starter to locate or service.

Where is the starter located?

The starter’s location varies by vehicle, but it is generally found on the transmission where it meets the engine block, engaging with the flywheel or flexplate. To locate it, you might need to inspect the area under the engine or near the transmission, sometimes requiring removal of air intake components. Following the positive battery cable can also lead you to the starter solenoid, which is part of the starter.
 
This video shows the location of the starter and how to access it: 43sJavo’s GarageYouTube · Oct 1, 2019
General Location

• Between Engine and Transmission: . Opens in new tabThe starter is typically mounted on the engine’s transmission bell housing, connecting to the engine block. 
• Engages Flywheel/Flexplate: . Opens in new tabIt’s positioned to engage the engine’s flywheel (manual transmission) or flexplate (automatic transmission). 

How to Find It

1. 1. Follow the Battery Cable: The starter motor is connected to a large power cable from the battery. 
2. 2. Look Underneath: In many rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles, the starter is located on the passenger side, often below the exhaust manifold. 
3. 3. Inspect Rear of Engine: It can be found towards the back of the engine, where it connects to the transmission. 
4. 4. Consider Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD): For FWD vehicles, you may need to access it from the driver’s side, above or under the transmission, or in front of the engine, sometimes requiring removal of the intake manifold. 

Tips for Accessing the Starter

• Safety First: Disconnect the car’s negative battery cable before working on the starter. 
• Remove Obstructions: On some vehicles, you may need to remove the airbox, air intake tube, or even the intake manifold to gain access to the starter. 
• Check for Corrosion: Examine the electrical connections for corrosion, as this can affect the starter’s function. 

How much does it cost to replace a starter on a Honda CR-V?

A Honda CR-V starter replacement generally costs between $550 and $1,100, but this can vary significantly depending on the year of your vehicle, whether you use an OEM or aftermarket part, and your local labor rates. For example, a 2024 CR-V might cost over $900, while an older model from the early 2000s could range from $400 to over $2,000. The starter part itself can be anywhere from about $100 for an aftermarket option to over $500 for an OEM part, with labor adding a significant portion of the total cost.
 
This video shows a step-by-step process for replacing the starter in a 2015 Honda CR-V, including removing the tire, exhaust, and accessing the starter bolts: 57sBack to CountryYouTube · Mar 27, 2025
Factors Influencing Cost

• Vehicle Year: The cost of parts and labor can differ between newer and older models. 
• Part Quality: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) starters from Honda are generally more expensive than aftermarket or remanufactured options. 
• Labor Rates: The hourly rate for mechanics varies by location, impacting the total cost. 
• Accessibility: The starter’s location in the CR-V’s engine bay can make it difficult to access, requiring the removal of other components like the intake manifold, skid plate, or exhaust, which adds to the labor time. 

Getting an Accurate Estimate

• Use Online Tools: Websites like RepairPal and Kelley Blue Book allow you to input your vehicle’s year and get a more specific cost estimate for your area. 
• Contact Your Local Mechanic: For a precise quote, contact a trusted local mechanic or dealership and provide them with your vehicle’s specific year and model. 
• Inquire About Parts: Ask your mechanic if they offer different types of starters, such as OEM, or a high-quality aftermarket option like Denso, which is known for its reliability. 

Where is the Honda CR-V starter located?

So what I’m going to do is I’m going to pop these two bolts off i’ll tell you what size they are in a second remove the manifold. And then get underneath. And take out the starter motor.

How do I know if my Honda CR-V starter is bad?

A bad starter on a Honda CRV can manifest as a “no-start” condition, a clicking sound when attempting to start, or a slow engine crank. Other signs include dimming lights or even smoke from the engine area. 
Here’s a more detailed look at potential symptoms and how to diagnose them:
1. No Start Condition: 

• If the engine doesn’t turn over at all when you turn the key, and you hear a click (or clicks) it could indicate a faulty starter. 
• A dead battery can also cause a no-start, so it’s important to rule that out first by checking the battery voltage or trying to jump-start the car, according to Tires Plus. 
• If the battery is good, the issue could be a bad starter, a bad starter relay, or a problem with the ignition switch. 
• A neutral safety switch issue can also cause a no-start, so try starting the car in neutral and wiggling the shifter. 

2. Clicking Sound:

• A clicking sound when you turn the key often indicates the starter solenoid is trying to engage, but not getting enough power to turn the engine. 
• This could be due to a weak battery, a bad connection, a faulty starter, or a starter relay problem. 

3. Slow or Weak Crank:

• If the engine cranks slowly or weakly, it could be a sign of a failing starter motor. 
• This can be caused by worn brushes or other internal issues within the starter. 
• A weak battery or poor connections can also cause a slow crank. 

4. Other Potential Symptoms:

• Dimming lights: If the lights dim significantly when you try to start the car, it could indicate a problem with the electrical system, possibly related to the starter or battery. 
• Smoke from the engine area: Smoke coming from the engine area, especially around the starter, could be a sign of a short circuit or overheating in the starter motor. 
• Intermittent starting: If the car sometimes starts and sometimes doesn’t, with no consistent pattern, it could be a sign of a failing starter or other intermittent issue. 

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. 1. Check the battery: Ensure the battery is properly charged and the terminals are clean. 
2. 2. Jump-start the car: If the car starts with a jump, the battery might be the problem, but if it still doesn’t start, it could point to the starter or other issues, according to Tires Plus. 
3. 3. Listen for clicks: If you hear clicking sounds, try tapping the starter motor with a wrench while someone else tries to start the car (be careful!), says JustAnswer. 
4. 4. Inspect connections: Check the connections to the battery and starter for corrosion or looseness. 
5. 5. Consider professional diagnosis: If you’re not comfortable with electrical troubleshooting, it’s best to have a qualified mechanic diagnose the problem.