Honda CR-V: best & worst years

No Honda CR-V model year rates as one to avoid in CarVitals data. The strongest years are 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. Below is every year (2005–2024) ranked best to worst, with the owner-reported problems behind each verdict.

Every Honda CR-V year, ranked

YearVerdictScoreTop owner-reported problems
2024 Recommended 8 Engine and fuel-system failures reported at low mileage, including fuel-injector failure, overheating with coolant loss, and isolated catastrophic engine failures.; Forward-collision braking (CMBS) can engage with no obstacle present ("phantom braking"), causing sudden unexpected deceleration.; Panoramic sunroof glass reported to spontaneously shatter while driving with no external impact. Full report ↗
2023 Recommended 8 Engine and fuel-system failures reported at low mileage, including fuel-injector failure, overheating with coolant loss, and isolated catastrophic engine failures.; Forward-collision braking (CMBS) can engage with no obstacle present ("phantom braking"), causing sudden unexpected deceleration.; Panoramic sunroof glass reported to spontaneously shatter while driving with no external impact. Full report ↗
2022 Recommended 8 Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.; Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.; Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models. Full report ↗
2021 Recommended 8 Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.; Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.; Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models. Full report ↗
2016 Recommended 8 High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.; Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.; 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration. Full report ↗
2014 Recommended 8 High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.; Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.; 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration. Full report ↗
2013 Recommended 8 High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.; Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.; 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration. Full report ↗
2012 Recommended 8 High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.; Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.; 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration. Full report ↗
2006 Recommended 8 Subject to the Takata airbag inflator recall, with reports of delayed parts availability for the repair.; Front lower control-arm and suspension-bushing wear leading to loose handling and steering complaints.; Low-beam headlight bulbs burn out frequently and require repeated replacement. Full report ↗
2020 Caution 7 Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.; Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.; Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models. Full report ↗
2019 Caution 7 Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.; Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.; Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models. Full report ↗
2015 Caution 7 High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.; Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.; 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration. Full report ↗
2011 Recommended 7 Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.; Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.; Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles. Full report ↗
2010 Recommended 7 Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.; Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.; Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles. Full report ↗
2009 Recommended 7 Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.; Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.; Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles. Full report ↗
2008 Recommended 7 Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.; Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.; Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles. Full report ↗
2007 Recommended 7 Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.; Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.; Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles. Full report ↗
2005 Recommended 7 Subject to the Takata airbag inflator recall, with reports of delayed parts availability for the repair.; Front lower control-arm and suspension-bushing wear leading to loose handling and steering complaints.; Low-beam headlight bulbs burn out frequently and require repeated replacement. Full report ↗
2018 Caution 6 Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.; Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.; Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models. Full report ↗
2017 Caution 6 Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.; Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.; Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models. Full report ↗

Honda CR-V problems by year

2024 Honda CR-V Recommended

All-new sixth-gen CR-V earns IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and praise for its roomy, upscale cabin and efficient hybrid. Early build shows phantom-braking, wiper-coverage and isolated fuel-injector/engine complaints. Low repair costs and 250k-mile durability keep it a strong buy.

  • Engine and fuel-system failures reported at low mileage, including fuel-injector failure, overheating with coolant loss, and isolated catastrophic engine failures.
  • Forward-collision braking (CMBS) can engage with no obstacle present ("phantom braking"), causing sudden unexpected deceleration.
  • Panoramic sunroof glass reported to spontaneously shatter while driving with no external impact.

2023 Honda CR-V Recommended

Redesigned 2023 CR-V is more spacious, refined and tech-forward, with a Top Safety Pick+ rating and a strong hybrid option. A few early-production driver-assist and engine complaints exist, but cheap upkeep and Honda longevity make it an easy recommendation.

  • Engine and fuel-system failures reported at low mileage, including fuel-injector failure, overheating with coolant loss, and isolated catastrophic engine failures.
  • Forward-collision braking (CMBS) can engage with no obstacle present ("phantom braking"), causing sudden unexpected deceleration.
  • Panoramic sunroof glass reported to spontaneously shatter while driving with no external impact.

2022 Honda CR-V Recommended

Late fifth-gen CR-V keeps the roomy interior, comfortable ride and good economy while the early 1.5T oil-dilution worry is largely behind it. Standard Honda Sensing, low running costs and 250k-mile durability make it one of the best used compact-SUV buys.

  • Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.
  • Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.
  • Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models.

2021 Honda CR-V Recommended

2021 CR-V offers a spacious, practical cabin, composed ride and strong fuel economy, with the oil-dilution issue resolved on later builds. Reliable and cheap to run, with standard safety tech, a solid buy.

  • Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.
  • Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.
  • Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models.

2020 Honda CR-V Caution

2020 CR-V is comfortable, spacious and efficient, but the 1.5T can still show oil-dilution symptoms and owners cite fuel-injector and phantom-braking complaints. Strong long-term durability and low repair costs; a good buy with the engine checked.

  • Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.
  • Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.
  • Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models.

2019 Honda CR-V Caution

2019 CR-V is roomy and economical, though the turbo engine oil-dilution tendency and fuel-injector and steering recalls weigh on early-gen confidence. Honda issued fixes; with service history verified it stays dependable and cheap to maintain.

  • Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.
  • Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.
  • Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models.

2018 Honda CR-V Caution

2018 CR-V's 1.5T turbo is the peak oil-dilution year (fuel diluting the oil, especially in cold climates), alongside fuel-injector, head-gasket and sticky-steering recall complaints. Spacious and efficient, but inspect the engine carefully before buying.

  • Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.
  • Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.
  • Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models.

2017 Honda CR-V Caution

First year of the fifth-gen CR-V brought the 1.5T turbo and its oil-dilution problems, plus fuel-injector, head-gasket and steering-gearbox recalls. Roomy and frugal, but the highest-risk model year of the generation, verify Honda fixes were done.

  • Fuel-injector failures causing misfires, warning lights and loss of power, mainly on the early (2017-2018) turbocharged engine.
  • Premature head-gasket failure allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to overheating and engine damage on early fifth-gen cars.
  • Electric power-steering "sticky steering", the gearbox binds and needs extra effort to turn; addressed under recall 18V-663 on 2017-2019 models.

2016 Honda CR-V Recommended

2016 CR-V caps the reliable fourth generation with mid-cycle refinements, a roomy cabin and good economy. Mostly trouble-free aside from road noise and modest power. Low repair costs and excellent longevity make it a top used pick.

  • High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.
  • Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.
  • 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration.

2015 Honda CR-V Caution

2015 CR-V gained a direct-injection 2.4L that drew idle-vibration and fuel-pump complaints, plus some electrical issues. Spacious and frugal otherwise, with strong durability and cheap upkeep, a buy if the engine runs smoothly.

  • High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.
  • Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.
  • 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration.

2014 Honda CR-V Recommended

2014 CR-V is a roomy, dependable and fuel-efficient compact SUV with a strong reliability record. Main gripes are cabin road noise and light low-end power. Cheap to maintain and long-lived, an easy used recommendation.

  • High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.
  • Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.
  • 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration.

2013 Honda CR-V Recommended

2013 CR-V offers practical space, good economy and proven reliability. Noisy at speed and modest on power, but trouble-free for most owners with very low running costs and 250k-mile durability.

  • High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.
  • Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.
  • 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration.

2012 Honda CR-V Recommended

Fourth-gen 2012 CR-V is spacious, easy to drive and dependable, with strong resale and economy. Road noise and so-so power are the main faults; otherwise reliable and inexpensive to own.

  • High-pressure fuel-pump failures causing stalling and loss of power while driving, reported mainly on the 2015 direct-injection engine.
  • Electrical faults including battery parasitic drain and intermittent no-start conditions.
  • 2015 models with the 2.4L direct-injection engine reported excessive vibration and shudder at idle and during light acceleration.

2011 Honda CR-V Recommended

2011 CR-V closes the agile, reliable third generation with a roomy cabin and good economy. Salt-belt frame corrosion (under recall), door-lock and A/C compressor complaints are the watch-items. Dependable and cheap to run; inspect the underbody in rust-prone areas.

  • Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.
  • Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.
  • Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles.

2010 Honda CR-V Recommended

2010 CR-V is reliable, nimble and practical, with strong owner satisfaction. Watch for salt-belt rear-frame corrosion (recall), A/C compressor and door-lock issues. Low running costs and long life make it a good used buy outside the rust belt.

  • Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.
  • Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.
  • Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles.

2009 Honda CR-V Recommended

2009 CR-V pairs Honda dependability with agile handling and a roomy cargo area. Salt-belt frame-rust recall, A/C and door-lock complaints are the main concerns. Cheap to own and long-lived; check the rear subframe for corrosion.

  • Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.
  • Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.
  • Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles.

2008 Honda CR-V Recommended

2008 CR-V is a reliable, fuel-efficient compact SUV with good handling and space. Salt-belt frame corrosion, A/C compressor and door-lock failures are the notable issues. Inexpensive upkeep and strong longevity reward a careful underbody inspection.

  • Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.
  • Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.
  • Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles.

2007 Honda CR-V Recommended

Redesigned 2007 CR-V launched the refined third generation with better handling and a roomy interior. Salt-belt rear-frame corrosion (recall), A/C and door-lock complaints apply. Reliable and cheap to maintain; verify the frame in rust-prone regions.

  • Rear frame and subframe corrosion in salt-belt regions can weaken the rear trailing-arm mounts; subject to a Honda recall with inspection and a support brace or repurchase.
  • Brake complaints including spongy pedal feel and ABS-module faults requiring repair.
  • Air-conditioning compressor fails prematurely on a number of vehicles.

2006 Honda CR-V Recommended

2006 CR-V is among the most dependable used SUVs, with owners routinely passing 200k miles. Faults are minor, frequent low-beam bulbs, the Takata airbag recall and some A/C issues. Roomy, frugal and holds value well; a standout budget buy.

  • Subject to the Takata airbag inflator recall, with reports of delayed parts availability for the repair.
  • Front lower control-arm and suspension-bushing wear leading to loose handling and steering complaints.
  • Low-beam headlight bulbs burn out frequently and require repeated replacement.

2005 Honda CR-V Recommended

2005 CR-V offers legendary Honda durability, a practical cabin and good economy. Subject to the Takata airbag recall, with low-beam headlight and electrical niggles. Modest power and a noisy cabin, but exceptionally reliable and cheap to own.

  • Subject to the Takata airbag inflator recall, with reports of delayed parts availability for the repair.
  • Front lower control-arm and suspension-bushing wear leading to loose handling and steering complaints.
  • Low-beam headlight bulbs burn out frequently and require repeated replacement.

Rankings come from CarVitals reliability verdicts, built on public NHTSA complaint and recall data. See how we build these reports, the most reliable used cars overall, browse all Honda models, or check any listing free with the CarVitals extension.