Where is the thermometer on a Honda CR-V?
The thermometer you’re asking about is the outside-air temperature readout. It’s shown on the dash or in the infotainment screen, and the sensor that feeds it sits in the front bumper area.
In more detail, the display location and the physical placement of the sensor can vary by model year and trim. This article outlines where you’ll typically see the outside temperature reading and where the sensor is mounted, plus practical tips if the reading seems off.
Dashboard display: how the thermometer appears
What to expect on the dash or screen varies by generation, but the outside temperature readout is ordinarily one of the following:
- The outside temperature is shown in the instrument cluster near the speedometer or within the multi-information display (MID) as a numeric value with a degree symbol (°F or °C).
- Some trims with a large touchscreen show the outside temperature on the home screen or climate control screen, alongside other vehicle data.
- In US-market cars, the default readout is usually in Fahrenheit; markets outside the US often display Celsius, with some models allowing a unit change in settings.
If the readout isn’t visible, check the vehicle settings or refer to the owner’s manual, and ensure the ignition is on so the display can refresh.
Locating the outside-temperature sensor
The outside-air temperature sensor is typically tucked into the front bumper area. Exact placement varies by year and generation, but it is usually mounted behind the bumper or near the lower grille on one side of the vehicle. Accessing or replacing it may require removing bumper trim, so if you suspect a faulty reading, consult a service manual or a professional technician.
Why readings may be inaccurate
A faulty or obstructed sensor, dirt or snow covering the sensor, or a damaged bumper can cause incorrect readings. If you notice the readout is stuck, flashing, or wildly inaccurate, consider inspecting the sensor area, clearing debris, or having the sensor checked during routine maintenance.
- Obstruction: Snow, ice, or mud covering the sensor can delay or corrupt readings.
- Damage: A damaged bumper or sensor housing can misalign the sensor.
- Calibration: Some vehicles recalibrate after driving for a short period; a sudden display change may occur after initial startup.
In case of persistent issues, a dealer or qualified mechanic can diagnose and, if needed, replace the sensor or related wiring.
Year-to-year and trim variations
Placement and visibility of the outside-temperature readout and the exact sensor location can differ between generations of the CR-V. While the general concept remains the same—an outside-air temperature readout fed by a bumper-mounted sensor—the precise mounting point and the way the data is presented in the dashboard can change with redesigns and software updates. For exact details, consult your model year’s owner’s manual or a Honda service bulletin.
Summary
For most Honda CR-V models, the thermometer refers to the outside-air temperature readout. The display appears in the instrument cluster or on the infotainment screen, and the sensor feeding that data is usually mounted behind the front bumper. Since exact locations and display behavior can vary by year and trim, check your owner’s manual or contact a dealer if you’re unsure where to look or if the reading seems inaccurate. Regular maintenance checks can ensure the sensor and its housing stay clear and functional.
