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Honda Cr-v Problems

The Honda CR-V has defined the compact SUV segment since 1997, offering practical transportation with Honda reliability. However, 39,810 complaints show that even Honda can miss the mark on certain generations. The CR-V's reputation has been tested by recent engine issues, making model year selection more important than ever.

39,810
Total Complaints
171
Total Recalls
30
Model Years
60
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2018 2017
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1997 1998 1999

Common Problem Categories

Electrical System 4,756
Air Bags 4,722
Engine 4,150
Unknown Or Other 3,070
Forward Collision Avoidance 2,956

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2026 62 0 0 6 Good
2025 486 1 66 4 Good
2024 926 2 68 0 Average
2023 1,176 3 58 0 Average
2022 440 2 18 0 Good
2021 682 3 32 2 Average
2020 726 6 68 2 Average
2019 2,804 7 104 4 Below Average
2018 5,486 4 126 4 Avoid
2017 5,026 6 142 10 Avoid
2016 1,078 3 124 10 Average
2015 1,914 3 114 12 Average
2014 1,572 1 118 24 Average
2013 978 2 68 0 Average
2012 994 3 94 12 Average
2011 1,274 13 82 6 Average
2010 1,160 15 112 6 Average
2009 888 12 72 8 Average
2008 2,436 11 132 6 Below Average
2007 2,312 12 94 8 Below Average
2006 1,044 12 78 42 Average
2005 1,198 12 102 54 Average
2004 1,200 11 90 84 Average
2003 1,160 11 112 56 Average
2002 1,320 10 128 42 Average
2001 312 1 22 6 Good
2000 310 2 30 14 Good
1999 316 1 42 0 Good
1998 272 1 30 2 Good
1997 258 1 30 2 Good

Honda Cr-v Years to Avoid

The 2018 CR-V is the worst model year, with severe oil dilution problems in the 1.5L turbo engine where fuel contaminates the oil, raising the oil level and potentially causing engine damage. The 2017 and 2019 models shared the same oil dilution issues, particularly in cold climates where short trips prevent the engine from reaching operating temperature. The 2015 CR-V had vibration issues at idle and inconsistent automatic transmission behavior. The 2011 model year saw complaints about excessive oil consumption and AC compressor failures. Avoid early 2017-2019 CR-Vs unless you can verify the oil dilution software update was performed.

Best Honda Cr-v Years

The 2026 CR-V represents Honda's latest effort to address past issues, with early reports showing improved engine reliability. The 2024-2025 models show Honda has largely resolved the oil dilution problems with redesigned engine components and software. The 2007-2011 CR-Vs with the 2.4L naturally aspirated engine are proven reliable with simple mechanicals.

Frequently Asked Questions