The coolant temperature sensor is located on the engine block near the thermostat housing.
In addition to the CTS, the 2006 CR-V uses an outside air temperature sensor in the front bumper and an intake air temperature sensor in the intake tract; exact mounting can vary by engine variant and trim level.
Location guide for the 2006 CR-V temperature sensors
Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS)
Typically threaded into the engine block near the thermostat housing on the 2.4-liter K-series engine. It is accessible from the top or side of the engine bay and is connected to a wiring harness that leads to the engine control unit (ECU). If you’re checking it, you’ll usually find the CTS close to the upper coolant passage and thermostat housing on the cylinder head area.
Outside Air Temperature Sensor (OAT)
This sensor reads the ambient temperature outside the vehicle and helps regulate climate control and other ECU functions. In the 2006 CR-V, it is commonly mounted in the front bumper area, behind the grille or near the radiator support, and may require bumper or fascia access to replace.
Intake Air Temperature Sensor (IAT)
The IAT measures the temperature of incoming air for the ECU to adjust fueling. On many CR-V models of this era, it sits in the intake tract—typically in the air intake duct before the mass airflow sensor or, in some variations, as part of the MAF assembly itself. Location can vary slightly by production run.
Practical notes for locating and servicing
Before attempting any sensor replacement, consult the vehicle’s service manual for the exact locations and torque specs corresponding to your engine variant. If in doubt, disconnect the battery and label connectors before removal, and consider performing a live data check with an OBD-II scanner to verify sensor readings.
Summary
For a 2006 Honda CR-V, the primary temperature sensor most often discussed is the coolant temperature sensor (CTS), located on the engine block near the thermostat housing. Other temperature sensors include the outside air temperature sensor (OAT) in the front bumper and the intake air temperature sensor (IAT) in the intake tract. Details can vary by engine variant, so always refer to the specific service manual for your vehicle and model year.