The intermittent issue with your 2007-2011 Honda CR-V 2.2 i-DTEC 4WD EX starting but not running could stem from several potential causes. Below are the most likely culprits and solutions based on the symptoms you described:

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## Possible Causes

### 1. Ignition System Issues
- A faulty ignition switch or ignition cylinder could cause inconsistent operation, where the car starts sometimes but not others. Over time, wear in the ignition lock or electronic components can lead to such problems[3][8].
- Symptoms include difficulty turning the key, inconsistent starting behavior, or no response when turning the key.

### 2. Fuel Delivery Problems
- If the engine cranks but doesn’t run, it could be due to an issue in the fuel system:
- Clogged Fuel Filter: Restricts fuel flow to the engine.
- Faulty Fuel Pump: Fails to deliver adequate fuel pressure.
- Fuel Rail Pressure Issues: Diesel engines like the i-DTEC rely on high-pressure fuel systems, and a malfunctioning pressure regulator or solenoid can cause intermittent failures[2][10].
- Listen for the fuel pump priming (a humming sound) when you turn the key to "On." If silent, it may indicate a problem.

### 3. Electrical/Starter Issues
- A weak battery, corroded battery terminals, or a failing starter motor could result in intermittent starting problems. However, since your car starts after retrying, this is less likely unless there’s a poor electrical connection[1][9].
- A faulty starter relay or solenoid could also cause intermittent behavior.

### 4. Immobilizer or Key Chip Malfunction
- If your key’s chip is malfunctioning or not being read properly by the immobilizer system, it might prevent the engine from running even after starting. This would typically not trigger warning lights but can cause erratic starting behavior[3][8].

### 5. Sensor or ECU Issues
- Faulty sensors like the crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor can intermittently fail, disrupting engine timing and preventing it from running consistently[9].
- The ECU (engine control unit) could also have intermittent faults that affect starting.

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## Recommended Solutions

### Step-by-Step Diagnosis
1. Inspect the Ignition System:
- Check if the key turns smoothly and consistently in the ignition.
- If you notice sticking or inconsistent operation, consider having the ignition cylinder inspected and possibly replaced[3][8].

2. Check Fuel System:
- Listen for the fuel pump priming when turning the key to "On."
- Have a mechanic check for proper fuel pressure at the rail and inspect filters and regulators for clogs or malfunctions[2].

3. Test Battery and Starter:
- Ensure battery terminals are clean and connections are tight.
- Test battery voltage (should be around 12.6V when off) and alternator output (13.8–14.5V when running).
- Inspect starter motor and relay for wear or intermittent failure[1][7].

4. Verify Immobilizer Functionality:
- Try using a spare key to rule out issues with your current key’s chip.
- If immobilizer issues are suspected, consult a Honda technician to reprogram or replace affected components.

5. Scan for Error Codes:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to check for stored error codes even if no warning lights are present.
- Pay attention to codes related to sensors (e.g., crankshaft position sensor) or fuel system components.

6. Inspect Sensors and ECU:
- Have a mechanic test critical sensors like crankshaft and camshaft position sensors.
- Ensure ECU connections are secure and free of corrosion.

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## When to Seek Professional Help
If DIY troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, consult a professional mechanic with experience in Honda diesel engines. They can perform advanced diagnostics on fuel pressure systems, immobilizers, and ECU functionality.

By systematically addressing these potential causes, you should be able to identify and resolve this intermittent starting issue effectively.

Citations:
[1] Honda CR-V Starter Problems: Causes & Possible Solutions
[2] https://www.civinfo.com/threads/cr-v-2-2-i-dtec-not-starting.136978/
[3] Common Failures in Honda Locks and Ignitions: Symptoms, Prevention, and Solutions
[4]
[5] My car won't start and is silent when turning the key and the lights are ok. What's the most likely reason?
[6]
[7]

[8] Honda Ignition Cylinders: A Common Problem and How CarSMARTT Can Help - CarSMARTT
[9] Car Won't Start, Here's A Troubleshooting Guide - NRA Blog
[10] https://blog.1aauto.com/3rd-gen-honda-crv-problems/

 

Thank You so much for complet info !!
This helps a lot to find a right direction to solve this problem !
I think ingnition lock and camshaft sensor ,must check at first.
I had earlier one Renault Megane 1,6l which had camsaft sensor problems as well.

Thanks and have a Happy New Year to everyone reading this

 

Sounds like a collapsed fuel filter! When was the last time it was changed, was it a genuine Honda one and do you have any fault codes?

 

No fault codes.Filter changed 2000km ago ,not genuine, but this problem has happened earlier .
Where is this camsaft sensor situated ?
I will put a new genuine filter and then see what happens. It`s anyway cheapist thing to start.
Thank you for your time.

 

It's not the filter. Need to check fuel pressure at the rail to see if your pump is priming the system properly right before you start cranking the engine over. If the pressure is low, then the vehicle can have a hard start issue until the pump is able to provide enough fuel for the car to run.

And it won't throw a code either.

 

It's not the filter. Need to check fuel pressure at the rail to see if your pump is priming the system properly right before you start cranking the engine over. If the pressure is low, then the vehicle can have a hard start issue until the pump is able to provide enough fuel for the car to run.

And it won't throw a code either.

Sorry but you are wrong – Fact the 2.2 Honda diesel engine will throw a P0087 low fuel pressure if the fuel rail pressure does not achieve its operating pressure.

 

Hi, and thanks .
Anyway it´s not happening when I start "cold" engine first time of the day, or when it has been standing for about 30min or longer after engine had reached normal temp. !?
What about electric ? Any sensor? No leaks found.
Mysterios , but good car.

 

I'm not familiar with these engines (only with my diesel tractor 🤠), do they have glow plugs for cold starts?

 

If it definitely is a diesel it has glow plugs. But the OP just stated that on cold starts its fine. I don't know then other than checking fuel pressure at the fuel line port. My 09 cranks a couple of times before it starts sometimes too.

 

@older boy

Have a read of this blog >>> https://www.crvownersclub.com/threa...m/threads/no-fuel-pressure-troubleshooting.240304/?post_id=1837957#post-1837957