Are CRVs known for having timing chain tensioner issues?

Tensioner? not that I remember. The chains have been known to stretch if the oil has repeatedly run low. but before that causes an issue, a CEL should set.

If she can verify the oil level and it is within the hash marks on the dipstick, she could certainly wait 2 weeks until you return and hear the noise yourself.

 

I believe oil levels are fine and never run low. But the plan is what you say to hold off on this until I get back.

 

PLEASE post a follow up...

 

I'll try. I texted her to open the hood, start the motor and listen. She said she hears a continuous rattle. Hard to tell from here whether that is normal valve train noise or not. But this shop is reputable so perhaps the tensioner is the issue. But even if so how do you replace the tensioner in just a couple of hours for $348? Is there a way to access that somehow without pulling the entire front cover?

 

Had the same problem with my 2012 CRV. It rattled when I started it and when switching from Park to Reverse, or Park to Drive.
It was the tensioner which was fixed that day...the rattle was gone.
At the time there was around 70K miles, more or less.

 

Yes , you can change the tensioner without removing the chain cover. There is an inspection/service plate on the cover that gives you access to the tensioner. You access the inspection plate via the right wheel well.

 

Continuous rattle, not just at startup, then.

 

So she says but she is not mechanical at all and I am not sure she checked it later while warm. All valve trains make noise so I can't say from here that what she is hearing is abnormal. But I am feeling better about this. The shop specializes in Hondas, has a good rep and she has had service there for many years. And the cost estimate is in line for this work. Glad to learn that there is an easier access to the tensioner w/o removing the entire engine cover. Smart engineering from Honda.