JDM 2012–2014 Honda CR-V M5LA 2.4L AWD 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

Replace your slipping, harsh-shifting, delayed-engagement, noisy, damaged, or failed transmission with this low-mileage JDM Honda CR-V M5LA 5-speed automatic AWD transmission from J-Spec Auto Sports.

This genuine Honda JDM transmission targets compatible 2012–2014 Honda CR-V models equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and AWD drivetrain.

This individual inventory unit carries transmission code M5LA, serial number M5LA 1014636, Item ID 253491, and SKU M5LA 1014636. The current J-Spec listing also confirms the 2012–2014 CR-V 2.4L AWD application, actual product photos, installation availability, and a 90-day warranty.

The primary drivetrain relationship is:

Honda CR-V → 2012–2014 → 2.4L 4-Cylinder → M5LA → 5-Speed Automatic → AWD

Quick Details

• Make: Honda
• Model: CR-V
• Model Years: 2012–2014
• Engine Size: 2.4L
• Engine Configuration: 4-Cylinder
• Transmission Code: M5LA
• Serial Number: M5LA 1014636
• Transmission Type: Automatic
• Number of Gears: 5-Speed
• Drivetrain: AWD / 4WD
• Transmission Fluid: Honda ATF DW-1
• Condition: Used JDM / Low Mileage
• Origin: Japan
• Item ID: 253491
• SKU: M5LA 1014636
• Actual Product Photos: Yes
• Warranty: 90 Days
• Shipping: Nationwide Freight Shipping
• Installation: Affordable Installation Available
• Local Pickup: Richmond / Henrico, Virginia

M5LA 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The M5LA is the transmission identification on this individual Honda CR-V AWD unit.

This transmission uses:

• Five forward gears
• Torque-converter operation
• Electronic shift control
• Integrated front differential
• AWD-compatible output configuration

It is not a CVT.

The 2012 CR-V service information confirms a conventional automatic transmission and specifies Honda ATF DW-1 for the 4WD application.

2.4L 4-CYLINDER APPLICATION

This M5LA transmission targets compatible Honda CR-V models equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.

The important drivetrain relationship is:

2.4L 4-Cylinder + M5LA + 5-Speed Automatic + AWD

Engine displacement alone does not guarantee compatibility. The original transmission code and AWD configuration should also match.

VEHICLE COMPATIBILITY

2012 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD

• 2.4L 4-cylinder
• M5LA
• 5-speed automatic
• AWD
• Verify original transmission code

2013 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD

• 2.4L 4-cylinder
• M5LA
• Automatic
• AWD
• Verify VIN and electrical configuration

2014 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD

• 2.4L 4-cylinder
• M5LA
• 5-speed automatic
• AWD
• Verify complete physical configuration

The live J-Spec page lists 2012–2014 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD as the application range.

AWD / 4WD APPLICATION

This transmission targets compatible AWD / 4WD Honda CR-V applications.

Before ordering, verify:

• AWD drivetrain
• VIN
• Original M5LA code
• Transmission case
• AWD output area
• Axle openings
• Electrical connectors
• Sensors
• Torque converter
• Cooler fittings
• Mounting points

M5LA TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION

This individual transmission carries:

Transmission Code: M5LA
Serial Number: M5LA 1014636
Item ID: 253491
SKU: M5LA 1014636

The current Product Code is listed as 2012–2014 Honda CR-V, while the actual code-level identity is M5LA.

JDM-TO-USDM FITMENT

This transmission comes from a Japanese-market application.

Before installation, compare the JDM replacement transmission with the original U.S.-market unit.

Check:

• M5LA identification
• Transmission case
• Bellhousing
• Torque converter
• AWD output configuration
• Electrical connectors
• Shift solenoids
• Pressure-control solenoids
• Speed sensors
• Range switch
• Cooler fittings
• Transmission mounts
• Axle interfaces
• External brackets
• Wiring

Transfer compatible original components when required.

Keep the original transmission and external components until installation and road testing are complete.

SOLENOID TRANSFER

The current J-Spec listing specifically states:

• Reuse the solenoids from the original transmission.
• Clean the solenoids before using them.
• Flush the transmission lines.
• Use Honda ATF.

Therefore, the installer should compare the original and replacement solenoid assemblies before installation.

Inspect:

• Shift solenoids
• Pressure-control solenoids
• Electrical connectors
• O-rings
• Screens
• Wiring

Clean and transfer compatible original solenoids where required.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

The sale includes the actual M5LA automatic transmission represented in the product photographs.

Depending on the components shown, the assembly may include:

• M5LA 5-speed automatic transmission
• Transmission case
• Internal transmission components
• Valve-body components
• Attached sensors
• Attached solenoids
• Electrical connectors
• Torque converter when pictured
• External brackets when pictured

Only components shown in the actual product photos or specifically listed should be considered included.

ACTUAL PRODUCT PHOTOS

The product listing uses actual inventory photos for Item ID 253491.

Customers can use the images to compare:

• M5LA identification
• Serial number M5LA 1014636
• Transmission case
• Bellhousing
• Torque converter
• Electrical connectors
• Sensors
• Solenoids
• AWD output areas
• Axle openings
• Cooler fittings
• Mounting points
• Overall condition

HONDA ATF DW-1

Use:

Honda ATF DW-1

Honda service information for the 2012 CR-V 4WD specifically states to use Genuine Honda ATF DW-1 and warns that other fluids can affect shift quality and durability.

Do not use:

• Honda CVT fluid
• HCF-2
• Gear oil
• Unverified universal ATF
• Old fluid from the failed transmission

Correct ATF supports:

• Hydraulic operation
• Shift quality
• Clutch engagement
• Torque-converter operation
• Lubrication
• Temperature control

ATF LEVEL CHECK

Honda’s 2012 CR-V service procedure calls for checking the ATF level:

• With the transmission at operating temperature
• On level ground
• After shutting the engine off
• Within approximately 60–90 seconds
• With the dipstick level between the upper and lower marks

The fluid should not be overfilled or underfilled.

NEVER REUSE OLD TRANSMISSION FLUID

Always start the replacement transmission with fresh Honda ATF DW-1.

Old fluid may contain:

• Metal particles
• Clutch debris
• Friction material
• Oxidized fluid
• Dirt
• Other contaminants

Contaminated fluid can damage the replacement transmission.

FLUSH THE TRANSMISSION COOLER AND LINES

Thoroughly flush and inspect the transmission cooler and cooler lines before installation.

The current J-Spec listing specifically instructs installers to flush the transmission lines.

A failed transmission can circulate:

• Metal particles
• Clutch material
• Friction debris
• Contaminated ATF

through the cooling system.

Therefore:

• Flush the cooler.
• Flush the cooler lines.
• Inspect for restrictions.
• Remove contaminated fluid.
• Replace components that cannot be properly cleaned.

Never install a replacement transmission onto a contaminated cooling system.

INSPECT THE TORQUE CONVERTER

Compare the replacement torque converter with the original unit.

Inspect:

• Converter hub
• Splines
• Mounting points
• Seal surface
• Physical configuration

Make sure the torque converter seats completely inside the transmission before installation.

Never use the bellhousing bolts to force the transmission against the engine.

REPLACE ACCESSIBLE SEALS

Inspect accessible seals before installation.

Replace worn or questionable:

• Torque-converter/front seal
• Axle seals
• AWD output-area seals
• Cooler-line seals
• Other accessible transmission seals

Preventive seal service can help reduce future leaks.

INSPECT ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS

Compare the replacement M5LA transmission with the original unit.

Inspect:

• Electrical connectors
• Shift solenoids
• Pressure-control solenoids
• Speed sensors
• Range switch
• Wiring
• Harness connections

Look for:

• Bent pins
• Corrosion
• Broken wiring
• Damaged connectors
• Physical differences

Transfer compatible original components when necessary.

INSPECT AWD DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS

Because this is an AWD application, inspect the complete drivetrain.

Check:

• Front axles
• Intermediate shaft
• Driveshaft
• Rear differential
• Mounts
• Bearings
• Splines
• Seals
• Related hardware

A drivetrain issue outside the transmission can create vibration, noise, or binding that may appear to be a transmission problem.

SCAN THE VEHICLE BEFORE REMOVAL

Record all diagnostic trouble codes before removing the failed transmission.

Pay particular attention to:

• Gear-ratio codes
• Shift-solenoid codes
• Pressure-control codes
• Torque-converter codes
• Speed-sensor codes
• AWD-related codes
• Engine codes
• Communication faults

Use the diagnostic information to help identify the original cause of failure.

TRANSMISSION INITIALIZATION AND RELEARN

After installation, complete all applicable:

• Diagnostic trouble-code resets
• PCM reset procedures
• Transmission initialization
• Adaptive learning procedures
• AWD system checks
• Road-test relearn

Use Honda-compatible diagnostic equipment when required.

INITIAL STARTUP CHECKLIST

Before road testing:

• Confirm 2012–2014 Honda CR-V application.
• Confirm 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.
• Confirm M5LA transmission.
• Confirm serial number M5LA 1014636.
• Confirm 5-speed automatic configuration.
• Confirm AWD drivetrain.
• Compare original and replacement transmissions.
• Clean and transfer required solenoids.
• Flush transmission cooler.
• Flush cooler lines.
• Inspect accessible seals.
• Properly seat torque converter.
• Fill with Honda ATF DW-1.
• Verify correct ATF level.
• Connect all electrical connectors.
• Inspect sensors.
• Inspect solenoids.
• Check cooler connections.
• Verify front axles.
• Verify AWD drivetrain connections.
• Confirm Park engagement.
• Confirm Reverse engagement.
• Confirm Drive engagement.
• Check warning lights.
• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes.
• Inspect for ATF leaks.

INITIAL ROAD TEST

Begin with a gentle road test.

Monitor:

• Reverse engagement
• Drive engagement
• 1–2 shift
• 2–3 shift
• 3–4 shift
• 4–5 shift
• Downshifts
• Torque-converter lockup
• Shift flare
• Slipping
• Shudder
• AWD operation
• Driveline vibration
• Abnormal noise
• Warning lights
• ATF leaks

Avoid aggressive acceleration until normal transmission and AWD operation have been confirmed.

After the road test:

• Recheck ATF level.
• Inspect for leaks.
• Scan for trouble codes.
• Check cooler connections.
• Inspect drivetrain connections.
• Check mounting hardware.

COMMON SIGNS OF HONDA CR-V TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS

A failing Honda CR-V automatic transmission may produce:

• Delayed Drive engagement
• Delayed Reverse engagement
• Harsh shifting
• Transmission slipping
• Shift flare
• Shudder
• Failure to upshift
• Torque-converter problems
• Abnormal transmission noise
• Burnt ATF
• Warning lights
• Diagnostic trouble codes
• Fluid leaks

Similar symptoms can also result from:

• Valve-body problems
• Solenoid faults
• Sensor failures
• Wiring problems
• Torque-converter faults
• Incorrect ATF
• Low ATF
• Contaminated fluid
• Worn mounts
• Axle or driveshaft problems
• AWD-system faults

Proper diagnosis should be completed before replacing the transmission.

WHY CHOOSE THIS JDM M5LA TRANSMISSION?

This JDM M5LA transmission provides an OEM Honda-based replacement option for compatible CR-V AWD models with a damaged, worn, slipping, or failed original transmission.

Key features include:

• Genuine Honda JDM transmission
• M5LA transmission code
• Serial number M5LA 1014636
• 2.4L 4-cylinder application
• 5-speed automatic configuration
• AWD drivetrain
• Actual inventory photos
• Individual Item ID
• 90-day limited warranty
• Nationwide freight shipping
• Affordable installation available

WHY BUY FROM J-SPEC AUTO SPORTS?

J-Spec Auto Sports has specialized in Japanese engines, transmissions, and drivetrain components for more than 20 years.

Customers benefit from:

• Actual product photographs
• Exact transmission-code information
• Individual serial numbers
• Application-specific fitment guidance
• JDM Honda drivetrain experience
• Nationwide freight shipping
• Local Richmond / Henrico, Virginia pickup
• Affordable installation options
• Limited warranty coverage

INDIVIDUAL INVENTORY INFORMATION

Vehicle: Honda CR-V
Years: 2012–2014
Engine: 2.4L 4-Cylinder
Transmission Code: M5LA
Serial Number: M5LA 1014636
Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: AWD / 4WD
Fluid: Honda ATF DW-1
Item ID: 253491
SKU: M5LA 1014636
Condition: Used JDM / Low Mileage
Warranty: 90-Day Limited Warranty

90-DAY LIMITED WARRANTY

This individual Item ID 253491 includes a 90-day limited warranty, subject to J-Spec Auto Sports’ current warranty terms and installation requirements.

Keep installation and service documentation for:

• Honda ATF DW-1
• Transmission cooler flushing
• Cooler-line flushing
• Solenoid cleaning / transfer
• Seal replacement
• Torque-converter installation
• Professional installation
• Diagnostic procedures
• Related maintenance

SHIPPING

Nationwide freight shipping is available throughout the continental United States.

J-Spec currently states that engines and transmissions ship by freight, generally within 1–2 business days, with estimated continental U.S. delivery of approximately 2–7 business days, depending on location.

Local pickup is also available in Richmond / Henrico, Virginia.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What transmission code is this Honda CR-V transmission?

This individual transmission carries the M5LA code and serial number M5LA 1014636.

What years does the M5LA fit?

This listing targets compatible 2012–2014 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD applications.

Is this a 5-speed automatic transmission?

Yes. This generation uses a conventional 5-speed automatic in the application covered by this listing.

Is this transmission a CVT?

No. This is not a CVT.

What engine does it work with?

This listing targets compatible 2.4L 4-cylinder Honda CR-V applications.

Is this transmission AWD?

Yes. The live listing identifies it as AWD Automatic.

Will it fit a 2012 Honda CR-V AWD?

It targets compatible 2012 CR-V 2.4L AWD applications after complete fitment verification.

Will it fit a 2013 Honda CR-V AWD?

It targets compatible 2013 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD automatic applications.

Will it fit a 2014 Honda CR-V AWD?

It targets compatible 2014 Honda CR-V 2.4L AWD applications after verifying the original M5LA transmission.

Will it fit a FWD Honda CR-V?

This unit is identified as an AWD transmission, so direct FWD interchange should not be assumed.

What transmission fluid does it use?

Use Genuine Honda ATF DW-1. Honda’s 2012 CR-V 4WD service information specifically requires DW-1.

When should the ATF level be checked?

Honda specifies checking the ATF level at operating temperature, on level ground, approximately 60–90 seconds after shutting the engine off.

Should I reuse the original solenoids?

The current J-Spec listing instructs installers to reuse and clean the original transmission solenoids.

Should the cooler lines be flushed?

Yes. The product page specifically instructs installers to flush the transmission lines.

Can I reuse old ATF?

No. Use fresh Honda ATF DW-1.

Does the torque converter need to be seated correctly?

Yes. The converter must seat fully inside the transmission before installation.

Should the axle seals be inspected?

Yes. Inspect and replace worn or questionable axle and accessible transmission seals before installation.

Does the transmission require relearn or reset procedures?

Depending on the repair, applicable PCM reset, transmission initialization, adaptive procedures, and code clearing may be necessary.

Is this transmission rebuilt?

No. This is a used OEM JDM transmission, unless specifically stated otherwise.

Are the photos of the actual unit?

Yes. The product page uses actual inventory photos for Item ID 253491.

Does it have a warranty?

Yes. Item ID 253491 currently carries a 90-day warranty.

Does J-Spec Auto Sports offer installation?

Yes. Affordable installation is available.

Does J-Spec Auto Sports ship nationwide?

Yes. Nationwide freight shipping is available.

ORDER YOUR JDM HONDA CR-V M5LA TRANSMISSION

Replace your damaged or failed transmission with this low-mileage JDM Honda CR-V M5LA 5-speed AWD automatic transmission.

This genuine Honda JDM transmission targets compatible 2012–2014 Honda CR-V models equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and AWD drivetrain.

Vehicle: Honda CR-V
Years: 2012–2014
Engine: 2.4L 4-Cylinder
Transmission Code: M5LA
Serial Number: M5LA 1014636
Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: AWD / 4WD
Fluid: Honda ATF DW-1
Item ID: 253491
SKU: M5LA 1014636
Warranty: 90-Day Limited Warranty

Verify the VIN, original M5LA transmission identification, AWD configuration, electrical connectors, sensors, solenoids, torque converter, drivetrain interfaces, mounts, cooler fittings, and complete physical configuration before ordering.