2006 Honda CR-V EX Test Drive & Flat-Towing Checklist

★How to Put the 2006 CR‑V in Tow Mode (Automatic)

1. Start the engine.
2. Press the brake and move the shifter through all gears:
   P → R → N → D → 2 → 1 → then back up to D → N.
3. Let the engine run for at least 3 minutes to circulate transmission fluid.
4. Turn the ignition key to ACC (I) — this unlocks the steering (do NOT turn to “LOCK”).
5. Make sure the shifter remains in Neutral (N) before shutting off the engine.
6. Release the parking brake, and it’s ready to tow.

1Basics

• Confirm year/trim:
• Odometer (miles):
• Clean title / no salvage
• VIN:
• Service records shown?
• Timing service done? (ask)

2Exterior / Body

• Walk around: no major dents / mismatched paint
• Check for rust (arches, under doors, hatch)
• Glass OK (no big cracks)
• Doors / hatch open & close smoothly
• Lights/signals work
• Tires even wear

3Engine Bay (before driving)

• Cold start good (no long crank)
• No loud knocks/ticks
• No fluid leaks visible
• Coolant OK
• Idle smooth

4Transmission / AWD

• P → R → D shifts smooth (no slam)
• Shifts through all gears on road
• No slipping / flaring
• At 45–65 mph feels stable
• AWD: no grinding on tight turns

5Test Drive

• City drive OK
• Highway 60–70 mph OK
• Braking straight, no vibration
• No suspension clunks
• Steering centered
• AC cold / heat works

6Interior / Electrical

• Windows / locks / mirrors work
• Dash lights go out (ABS, SRS, CEL)
• Radio / 12V OK
• No water leaks / smells

7For Flat-Towing

• Confirm auto vs manual
• Owner’s manual present (towing steps)
• AWD works (if equipped)
• Ask: ever towed behind RV?
• Plan baseplate / tow wiring

8Price & Seller Info

Price they’re asking:

Your offer:

Seller name / phone:

Notes:

9Red Flags

• Hard / delayed shifts
• Multiple dash lights on
• Overheating / coolant issues
• Bad suspension clunks
• No title / no records