Honda Crosstour Starter Location: What Owners Need to Know

The starter on a Honda Crosstour is engine-dependent: on V6 models (2010–2015), it sits beneath the intake manifold in the “V” of the engine on top of the transmission, roughly centered near the firewall; on four-cylinder models (2012–2015), it’s bolted low to the front of the transmission bellhousing on the radiator side, beneath the intake area. In both cases, it’s where the transmission meets the engine, but access differs significantly—buried from above on the V6 and reachable from above or below on the 2.4L. Below is an expanded guide to help you identify it quickly and plan safe access.

Model Years and Engines Affect Placement

The Crosstour shares its mechanical layout with the Accord of the same era, and the starter’s position follows Honda’s typical engine-family design. Knowing which engine you have will tell you where to look and how difficult access will be.

Engines used in the Crosstour

These are the engines you’ll encounter and why their design matters for locating the starter.

• 2010–2015: 3.5L V6 (J35 series), FWD or AWD
• 2012–2015: 2.4L inline-4 (K24 series), FWD

Because the J-series V6 places the starter deep under the intake manifold, access is more involved than the K-series four-cylinder, which mounts the starter lower and more forward in the bay.

Where to Find the Starter by Engine

3.5L V6 (J35): Under the Intake Manifold, Center-Top of Engine Bay

On V6 Crosstours, the starter is mounted high on the transmission case, nestled in the valley between the cylinder banks and hidden beneath the upper intake manifold/plenum. Standing in front of the car, it’s essentially centered and slightly toward the firewall, out of direct sight until the intake components are removed.

Use the following pointers to visually locate it on the V6.

• Remove the plastic engine cover and look beneath the intake plenum at the center of the engine; the starter sits where the engine meets the transmission.
• Identify the thick battery cable and a smaller solenoid control wire leading to a cylindrical motor body—this is the starter.
• Expect to remove the upper intake manifold (and related ducts/sensors) for clear access; plan for new intake gaskets.
• From below, the starter is largely obscured by the transmission case and subframe, making top-side access the norm.

If you can’t see it immediately, don’t be surprised—on J-series V6 Hondas it’s intentionally tucked under the plenum, prioritizing packaging and NVH over serviceability.

2.4L Inline-4 (K24): Low on the Transmission, Radiator Side

On four-cylinder Crosstours, the starter is bolted to the front of the transmission bellhousing toward the radiator side of the engine bay, below the throttle body/intake tube area. It’s visible with a flashlight from above once the intake snorkel is out of the way, and reachable from underneath with the splash shield removed.

Use these cues to locate it on the I4.

• Look down between the radiator and engine, just below the throttle body area; the starter is a small cylindrical motor with a nose cone entering the bellhousing.
• Trace the heavy positive battery cable to the starter’s main terminal; a smaller push-on connector goes to the solenoid.
• From under the car, remove the lower splash shield for a clearer line of sight and tool access.
• It’s near the oil filter area on many K-series layouts, making bottom-side access practical.

Compared with the V6, the K24’s starter is far easier to identify and service, often without major disassembly beyond intake ducting or the lower shield.

Access and Service Considerations

Before you plan a removal, understand the access path and safety basics. The V6 requires more time and parts handling; the I4 is more straightforward but still demands care around wiring and fuel/intake components.

Key points to consider for a safer, smoother job are listed below.

• Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before touching starter wiring.
• V6 (J35): Expect to remove the upper intake manifold; label vacuum lines and connectors, and replace intake gaskets. Observe torque specs and tightening sequence on reassembly to avoid vacuum leaks.
• I4 (K24): Often accessible by removing the intake snorkel/top airbox; from below, remove the undertray for tool clearance.
• Support the vehicle securely on jack stands if working underneath; never rely on a jack alone.
• Note wire routing and heat shields; improper reassembly can lead to chafing or heat damage.

If you’re not equipped to remove intake components (V6) or safely elevate the vehicle, a professional technician may be the prudent choice.

Quick Checks Before Blaming the Starter

Many no-crank issues mimic a failed starter. A few simple checks can save time and money.

• Battery and connections: Verify a fully charged battery and clean, tight terminals and grounds.
• Control signal: Have a helper turn the key while you check for 12V at the starter solenoid trigger wire; no signal points to fuses, relays, ignition switch, brake/neutral safety or shifter range sensor issues.
• Click vs. silence: A single click with dimming lights suggests low voltage or a failing starter; total silence may indicate a control circuit fault.
• Scan for codes: Some immobilizer or transmission range faults will inhibit cranking and set codes.

Confirming power, ground, and control signal at the starter helps distinguish a bad motor from upstream electrical or security issues.

Summary

On the Honda Crosstour, the starter is at the engine-transmission junction but hidden differently depending on the engine. V6 models place it under the intake manifold in the engine’s valley, accessed from above after plenum removal. Four-cylinder models mount it lower on the radiator side of the bellhousing, accessible from above or below with minimal disassembly. Identify your engine, follow the wiring and landmarks noted, and observe battery-disconnect and safety procedures before attempting service.

Where is the starter in a Honda Accord?

Into remove the hold down remove this plastic piece that goes around the battery. And remove the battery.

How long does it take to replace a starter on a Honda Accord?

Replacing a starter on a Honda Accord typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. However, the exact time can vary depending on the specific model year, engine type (4-cylinder or V6), and whether the mechanic is an experienced professional or a DIYer. Some models with a 4-cylinder engine may require slightly longer, around 1.8 to 2.3 hours. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• 4-cylinder engines: Expect the replacement to take roughly 1.8 to 2.3 hours. 
• V6 engines: A V6 engine replacement might be on the shorter end, around 1 hour. 
• DIY vs. Professional: A professional mechanic with experience should be able to complete the job within the typical time frame. A DIY approach might take slightly longer depending on your experience level. 

Factors that can affect the replacement time include:

• Model Year: Older models may have different starter locations or require more steps for removal and installation. 
• Engine Type: 4-cylinder and V6 engines can have different starter locations and access points. 
• Accessibility: The location of the starter on some Honda Accords might make it more difficult to access, potentially extending the replacement time. 

How much does it cost to replace a starter on a Honda Crosstour?

Labor costs are estimated between $98 and $143 while parts are priced between $517 and $719. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

Why is my Honda Crosstour not starting?

The most common reasons a Honda Crosstour won’t start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. Battery: A weak or failing battery can result in difficulty starting the engine and electrical system malfunctions.