How to Properly Start a CRV?
4 Answers
The correct steps to start a CRV are: 1. The driver's side door; 2. Release the electronic parking brake switch; 3. Depress the brake pedal; 4. Press the one-touch start button; 5. All dashboard lights illuminate, indicating the engine has started. The CRV's body dimensions are: length 4621 mm, width 1855 mm, height 1679 mm, wheelbase 2661 mm, and fuel tank capacity 53 liters. The CRV is equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering a maximum horsepower of 193 hp, maximum power of 142 kW, and maximum power speed of 5600 rpm.
Press and hold the brake pedal, and ensure the gear is in P position - this is the most crucial safety measure for starting. Press the keyless start button for about 1 second, then release it upon hearing the engine start sound. For older key-operated models, insert the key fully, turn it clockwise to the end, hold for 2 seconds, then release. The key point is to observe the dashboard: the engine warning light should turn off after startup to confirm success. Once I was in a hurry and forgot to put it in P position - the car alarm went crazy, which taught me to always check the gear position before starting. During cold starts, the RPM will be slightly higher; wait about 20 seconds until it drops below 1000 RPM before shifting for smoother operation. The automatic AC will begin airflow based on temperature after startup, but don't rush to turn on music - listening for smooth engine operation is more important first.
After five years of driving the CRV, my deepest insight is that starting the engine requires attention to detail. For keyless start models, make sure to firmly press the brake pedal; otherwise, pressing the button will only power up the system but fail to start the engine. For models with mechanical keys, turn it to the START position and wait until the engine fully starts before releasing—don't rush to spring it back. Regardless of the method, avoid stomping on the accelerator immediately after starting, as the oil hasn't fully lubricated the engine, especially when cold. This is particularly important in northern winters—wait for the RPM needle to drop before driving, which is better for the engine. My routine is to turn on the seat heater and mirror defogger right after starting, then fasten the seatbelt and adjust the seat. This timing perfectly allows the engine to warm up. Remember the standard for a complete start: all yellow warning lights on the dashboard should be off, and the temperature gauge needle should begin to rise.
The starting process can be summarized in three key points: safety, preparation, and observation. Safety means ensuring the gear is in P (Park) and the brake is pressed to prevent the car from rolling and causing injury. Preparation involves not rushing to start the engine; instead, power on first to let the vehicle's computer complete its self-check before ignition. Observation requires paying attention to changes in dashboard indicator lights—ensure the oil pressure light and battery light turn off to confirm a successful start. Once, I skipped the self-check in a hurry, and the airbag fault light stayed on until I turned off and restarted the engine. Also, avoid turning on the heater immediately after starting; wait until the coolant temperature rises to the marked line before using the air conditioning to avoid blowing cold air, freezing yourself, and draining the battery. Remember to turn off the auto start-stop function to prevent the engine from shutting off unexpectedly at red lights, which can be unsettling for beginners.
