The Honda CR-V is a line of dependable, compact crossover SUVs manufactured by Japanese automaker Honda. Users love the CR-V for its performance, comfortable interiors, good fuel economy, utility, and handling. The transition to hybrid versions in higher trims has made this vehicle all the more attractive to car owners who love the flexibility.
In this guide, we take a closer look at what makes Honda CR-Vs reliable and what issues you may encounter in certain model years.
Are Honda CR-Vs Reliable?
Yes, the Honda CR-V is well-known for being a long-lasting option, and for providing above-average comfort and utility. It is also one of America’s best-selling compact utility vehicles (CUVs), with nearly 6 million units sold since its initial launch in 1997.
The CR-V stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle.” The first generation of CR-Vs helped establish an entirely new driving experience. Through the years, CR-Vs have continued to provide a reliable and comfortable experience to owners. US News Cars has given excellent reliability scores to the Honda CR-V.
Marketing data and intelligence company J.D. Power has consistently given the CR-V excellent reliability scores. It has also ranked within J.D. Power’s Top 5 Best Compact SUVs almost every year.
According to users, some of the best features of the CR-V include its comfortable interiors, storage space, fuel economy, and driving range. Meanwhile, its power, maneuverability, and on-deck sound system could use a bit of improvement.
Repair information website Repairpal.com has also given the CR-V 4.5 out of 5 stars or excellent reliability scores. This rating is based on repair cost, frequency, and severity. The verdict? Maintaining the Honda CR-V is relatively inexpensive. An average owner can expect to bring their vehicle to a shop for unscheduled repairs about 0.3 times a year, with a low probability of the issue being severe.
What Are the Most Common Issues with Honda CR-Vs?
Even the most reliable vehicles have some issues that could be improved. If you’re considering purchasing a Honda CR-V, here are some of the most common issues you might encounter on some model years:
Air Conditioning Problems
In some model years of the CR-V, the AC compressor may “grenade,” meaning they come apart internally. When the compressor experiences this failure (and many do), debris can settle throughout the entire AC system, which would always result in expensive repairs.
CR-V owners refer to this as “The Black Death.”
Affected Model Years
- 1997
- 1998
- 1999
- 2001-2017
Oil Dilution
This is an issue often seen in the 1.5L turbocharged engines with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), especially during cold weather or if the vehicle is often used for a lot of short trips.
Affected Model Years
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
- 2020
- 2021
Fuel Injector Issues
In the 2017 model, faulty fuel injectors have been a common complaint on the 1.5L GDI platform.
Malfunctioning Door Locks
Some owners have reported that their door locks have stopped working or have become “sticky.” This issue is apparently caused by worn door lock tumblers, which need to be replaced.
Affected Model Years
- 1997
- 1999
- 2001
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2010
Automatic Transmission and Differential Problems
Some Honda CR-V owners have reported a groaning noise coming from their rear differential. According to these reports, the issue occurs most often when making a turn. The problem is said to be caused by a differential fluid breakdown, and rear differential service can help fix it.
Another problem that has been mentioned is that, on some models, the automatic transmission can exhibit a harsh shifting issue from first to second gear. Honda has released a technical service bulletin (TSB) regarding this, saying to flush the transmission and replace the linear solenoid.
If this fix doesn’t work, the entire transmission may need to be replaced.
Affected Model Years
- 1997
- 1998
- 1999
- 2000-2014
- 2016
Brake Issues
Some owners of 2011 vehicles have reported unwanted acceleration while braking. They have complained that as they were slowing down to a stop, their vehicles continued to accelerate, resulting in near-crashes.
In other model years, owners have reported that their front brake rotors have warped and caused unusual vibrations while braking. To repair this, Honda advised owners that these rotors would need to be machined or replaced. Honda has issued several TSBs to address brake-related issues, including TSBs #10129432, #10129470, and #10052477.
Affected Model Years
- 1997
- 1998
- 1999
- 2000
- 2001
- 2002
- 2003
- 2005-2015
Wiper Motor Failure
According to some owners, their windshield wipers would not turn off properly. This issue is said to be caused by a faulty windshield wiper motor that needs to be replaced.
Affected Model Years
- 1997
- 2002-2013
Tailgate Light Problems
Some model years of the Honda CR-Vs have been reported to have a maladjusted tailgate or tailgate switch that could cause the rear tailgate light on the dash to flicker while driving.
Adjusting the door or switch can fix this issue.
Affected Model Years
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
- 2008
Fuel Cap Issues
Some CR-V users have reported having a binding gas cap that triggers their check engine light. This issue is said to be caused by a faulty fuel filler neck and would need to be replaced.
Affected Model Years
- 2000-2006
- 2008
- 2009
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
What Are the Best Model Years for the Honda CR-V?
There are certain Honda CR-V model years with very few problems, exceptional reliability, and great driving experience ratings. If you’re in the market for a Honda CR-V, consider these model years:
- 2009
- 2010
- 2013
- 2018
- 2024
FAQ
How long does the Honda CR-V last?
The Honda CR-V can last up to 15-20 years or more than 200,000 miles with proper maintenance and care.
Does the Honda CR-V come with free maintenance?
There are no free maintenance programs or packages that specifically cover all years of the Honda CR-V. However, a limited free maintenance package is available for newer model years. Through the Honda Service Pass, owners of 2023-2024 CR-Vs can get certain factory-scheduled maintenance in its first two years or 24,000 miles. This Pass includes oil changes, tire rotation, and multi-point inspection.