Honda CR-Z Hybrid Power Loss & Starting Issues, Help!

Hey there! I've had some experience working on hybrids, and your symptoms sound very familiar. I actually dealt with something really similar on my 2011 Honda Insight Hybrid (I also love the Civic from that era). The symptoms you're describing match exactly what I went through, especially that power loss and rough acceleration. Turned out my intake channels were badly contaminated, causing all sorts of issues with the hybrid system. Took it to my regular workshop and they did a thorough cleaning of the intake system, which sorted everything out. The whole thing cost me around 425€, but it was totally worth it as the car ran like new afterward. Before jumping to conclusions though, How many miles/kilometers are on your CR-Z? Have you noticed any unusual sounds from the engine? When was your last maintenance service? This info would help me confirm if you're dealing with the same issue I had!

Thanks for sharing your experience! My CR-Z just hit 249,911 KM and had its last service about 2 months ago. Actually, I have been hearing a slight rattling noise when accelerating, especially in the morning. I was hoping it wouldn't be anything major, but after reading about your experience with the intake system, it makes a lot of sense. Haven't had the intake channels cleaned in ages, so that could definitely be the culprit. Might have to bite the bullet and get that cleaned up! Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

Hey again! Great to hear back from you. You know what's funny, my Insight had almost the exact same mileage (around 245,000 KM) when I ran into these issues. That rattling noise you mentioned? Yep, had that too, especially during those chilly morning starts. It's like our cars are twins with the same problems! After I got mine fixed, the difference was like night and day. The rattling completely disappeared, and my fuel economy went back to normal. One thing I learned though, I should've done the intake cleaning way earlier. My mechanic showed me how gunked up everything was, and honestly, it was pretty shocking. Quick tip from my experience, while they're cleaning the intake, it might be worth asking them to check the throttle body too. Mine was pretty dirty when they opened it up, and cleaning both at the same time saved me some money in the long run. Let me know how it goes after you get it cleaned! I'm betting you'll notice the difference right away, just like I did with my Insight. These hybrids are great cars when they're properly maintained.

I'll take the perspective of (who started the conversation) and complete it: Thanks so much for the detailed advice! That's super helpful to know about checking the throttle body too, definitely going to mention that when I take it in. It's really reassuring to hear that cleaning the intake made such a big difference for your Insight, especially since our cars had such similar mileage when these issues came up. I've already called my mechanic and scheduled an appointment for next week. Will make sure they do a thorough job with both the intake channels and throttle body. Honestly, can't wait to get my CR-Z running smoothly again, I really miss that peppy acceleration and good fuel economy! I'll update once it's all sorted. Thanks again for all your help!