Does a 2001 Honda CRV have a safety device that renders the suv undriveable after an accident?

Question

My mom has a 2001 honda crv that got hit on the drivers side which caused damage to the hood, bumper and something in the wheel that makes a the suv unable to go beyond 5 mph. No broken windows, no damage to tire or wheel, no damgage that the eye can see where you would think the car is broken.

The hood is bent in slightly and the hinge is broken where the hood is attached to the body. No leakages of any kind and the rest of the suv looks brand new. What causes the honda to stop operating?

No check engine light comes on, there is a grinding noise on the drivers side. The engine revs up to 1 and a half and then it just comes down like it is going to stall.

Answer 1

If the check engine light is on it would indicate that an electrical sensor has been damaged. In some cases the car will run in what is called "limp-home" mode if the sensor that is damaged is a critical sensor such as the crankshaft position sensor that is used to determine when the fuel should be injected and when the spark plugs should fire.

if the check engine light is not on, your dealing with mechanical damage. From your description I would not be surprized to find that the exhaust pipe has been bent or crushed. when that happens the engine cant get the old air out to get the new air in so the engine power is dramatically reduced and the vehicle won't go very fast or very far.

You didn't mention if there were any unusual noises when driving. If you hear any clunks or scrapes then the problem could be interference with a drive axle. It doesn't sound like thats the problem if the tire and wheel are okay.

I think you're going to find out that the exhaust pipe is crushed unless the check engine light is on. if the check engine light is on, take it to a parts store, such as AutoZone or take it to a dealer and find out why the light is on. Then start the diagnosis as to what is wrong from that point

hope that helps

Answer 2

I don't know, it just came out and not enough data is available. The previous models, I would say is OK car. 2000 models had valve gap tightening up problem. And don't see the logic in using timing belt for SUV. Nosier, but timing chain should be used on cars like this. Is 4 WD, but is automatic 4WD - which kicks in when computer sees the need. Ok, then how the heck do I know if it is working properly?

Answer 3

If the engine will still rev up but it won't accelerate, listen for a sound. The front axle could have gotten bent.