Here Are The Honda CR-V Years To Avoid

Here are the Honda CR-V years to avoid. You can review CR-V generations by model year to see common complaints and technical bulletins.

The Honda CR-V isn’t the first compact crossover (the Toyota RAV4 holds that distinction), but it’s one of the most popular in its class. CR-Vs are everywhere in parking lots and on highways. So, whether you prefer an elevated driving position or a family-friendly hauler, this Honda is an excellent choice. Before you kick tires, it’s helpful to know which Honda CR-V years you shouldn’t buy.

Here Are The Honda CR-V Years To Avoid

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and carcomplaints.com report on CR-V owner complaints.


Honda CR-V 101: The History of Honda’s Crossover SUV

Six generations have passed since the CR-V was introduced in 1997. In every new version of the CR-V, technology evolves, safety features are enhanced, and performance features are enhanced.

A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 126 horsepower was included with the first-generation CR-V’s debut. With an upgraded powertrain and 160 horsepower, the second generation was produced from 2002 to 2006.

Honda CR-V 101: The History of Honda's Crossover SUV

A refined, redesigned appearance was introduced in 2007 with the third generation. The CR-V’s powertrain also received a boost, although it wasn’t much, with 166 horsepower. Aside from adding horsepower to the engine, the fourth-generation CR-V incorporated advanced safety technology to further solidify the nameplate’s reputation as a reliable companion.

Beginning in 2017, Honda continued to improve safety and performance through the fifth and sixth generations.


Here’s What Honda CR-V Years To Avoid

Reviewing owner-supplied reports and official manufacturer recalls is part of our year-by-year assessment of CR-V reliability. TSBs are also covered in our articles (although without the legal repercussions of a recall). In TSBs, automakers provide instructions on how to fix a particular problem. A specific repair procedure could be explained, maintenance procedures updated, or misinformation corrected. There are dozens to hundreds of TSBs for a particular model year, which is not uncommon. TSBs are a normal part of the auto industry. 

Honda CR-V Generations

Five generations of Honda’s CR-V have been produced:

  • First-generation: 1997–2001
  • Second-generation: 2002–2006
  • Third-generation: 2007–2011
  • Fourth-generation: 2012–2016
  • Fifth-generation: 2017–present

We’re only providing details for the 2019 model year since complete information on the newest CR-Vs is not yet available.


Honda CR-V Years To Avoid: Complaints By Model Year

An overview of carcomplaints.com and NHTSA issues reported by owners is presented below.

First-generation Honda CR-V

First-generation Honda CR-V

Technical Service Bulletins

  • 1997: 101
  • 1998: 107
  • 1999: 92
  • 2000: 79

1997 Honda CR-V

“Teething problems” with a new car are not uncommon, even in cars from reputable manufacturers. CR-V owners reported most problems with the engine and electrical system in the first model year. A new car should not be purchased during its first year (or during a complete redesign).

1998 Honda CR-V

There have been numerous reports of engine and electrical problems with the 1998 Honda CR-V. Despite an increase of 15 percent in complaints, sales of this model year’s CR-Vs increased by 50 percent (according to carsalebase.com). In other words, the ratio of complaints to sales has significantly decreased. Hence, if you’re looking for a CR-V that’s older than 1998, consider a 1998 model. It’s important to remember, however, that most 20-year-old cars are far from perfect.

1999 Honda CR-V

According to complaint data from a previous year, the ‘99 CR-V is similarly complaint-free (despite being more than 20 years old).

2000 Honda CR-V

There are a number of engine-related issues with the first CR-V of the 21st century, as well as a series of recalls for defective airbags (the Takata recall, which is notorious). If you’re looking to buy a used Toyota CR-V, always check out the recall if it pertains to several model years (mostly 2002-2015).

2001 Honda CR-V

While 2001 complaints are up, airbag complaints account for most of the increase. Electrical problems are almost non-existent, and engine trouble reports are down. Check out this CR-V if you’re in the market for a new car.


Second-generation Honda CR-V

Second-generation Honda CR-V

Technical Service Bulletins

  • 2002: 267
  • 2003: 221
  • 2004: 142
  • 2005: 112
  • 2006: 67

2002 Honda CR-V

We suggest adding the 2002 model to the Honda CR-V years to avoid a large number of complaints regarding its engine, electrical, airbag, and HVAC systems.

2003 Honda CR-V

Despite a slight drop in complaints, major systems issues remain in the ’03 CR-V. Put this one on your “maybe” list.

2004 Honda CR-V

The 2004 CR-V has reported an increase in engine issues, so tread carefully if you’re considering one. A mechanic should be consulted first if one is on your list of research.

2005 Honda CR-V

2005 CR-V transmission problems are on the rise, but engine-related complaints are down significantly. If you’re going to spend money, have the drivetrain checked out (as well as everything else). 

2006 Honda CR-V

There has been an increase in sales and a decrease in complaints. Thus, the 2006 CR-V is also worth considering, just like the ’98 model.

ARE HONDA CR-VS RELIABLE?

Before you choose a Honda CR-V as your next vehicle, here’s what you need to know about its reliability.


Third-generation Honda CR-V

Third-generation Honda CR-V

Technical Service Bulletins

  • 2007: 135
  • 2008: 129
  • 2009: 117
  • 2010: 123
  • 2011: 109

2007 Honda CR-V

If you do not like dealing with electrical problems, malfunctioning door locks, and prematurely worn tires, you should avoid the first year of the three-generation CR-V. Try another model year instead.

2008 Honda CR-V

There are still electrical issues with the CR-V ’08, but there are few reports of other problems. Although I don’t fully endorse the 2008 model year, it is better than the 2007.

2009 Honda CR-V

The third-generation Honda CR-V had addressed many electrical problems by 2009, Honda says. There has been a substantial reduction in complaints overall. Therefore, we approve of you shopping for this model year.

2010 Honda CR-V 

For the 2010 CR-V, there has been an increase in engine trouble reports. Many of these complaints refer to excessive oil consumption (which can result from a variety of factors). Therefore, if you’re considering a CR-V from this model year, keep this potential problem in mind.

2011 Honda CR-V

2011 is the last year of a particular generation of cars, and it was a bad year for the CR-V. Several reports of engine problems came in, and brake problems were reported as well. CR-V ’11 is a pass for us.


Fourth-generation Honda CR-V

Fourth-generation Honda CR-V

Technical Service Bulletins

  • 2012: 129
  • 2013: 142
  • 2014: 138
  • 2015: 197
  • 2016: 110

2012 Honda CR-V

For 2012, Honda unveils its new CR-V, now in its fourth generation. It brings its own gremlins, like dead batteries in the first year. The most common complaints against 2012 models are electrical issues (and engine problems).  

2013 Honda CR-V

There are similar numbers of engine complaints in 2013 as in 2012, but other issues have declined. CR-V sales in a single model year have topped 300,000 for the first time. It may be a good idea to consider a 2013 CR-V if everything checks out.

2014 Honda CR-V

Complaints about the engine of the 2014 CR-V have increased significantly. Owner-reported issues have increased by 50 percent since 2013. Therefore, we recommend skipping this model year.

2015 Honda CR-V

We won’t go into detail, but there are many engine and transmission horror stories about the 2015 CR-V. Don’t get caught up in the horror stories about the 2015 CR-V.

2016 Honda CR-V

In general, there have been fewer complaints and reports of engine problems with the 2016 Honda CR-V. In spite of the CR-V’s powertrain still having some problems, this model year may be worth a look.


Fifth-generation Honda CR-V

Fifth-generation Honda CR-V

Technical Service Bulletins

  • 2017: 321
  • 2018: 306
  • 2019: 234

2017 Honda CR-V

This is the first year the all-new CR-V has been available. Perhaps the 1,000 total complaints will dissuade you from the ’17 CR-V if a high number of reported engine problems don’t.  

2018 Honda CR-V

Carcomplaints.com rates the 2018 CR-V as a “clunker” after receiving numerous complaints about engine and electrical problems. What’s the point of disagreeing?

2019 Honda CR-V

There are fewer complaints about the 2019 Honda CR-V, which suggests Honda went to work on improving it. The factory warranty might still be included in the purchase of a 2019 model in some cases.


Conclusion

There is no substitute for patience and diligence when it comes to finding a reliable used Honda CR-V. You can increase your chances of making a wise purchase if you know which model years to avoid, what issues to look for, and how to properly inspect a vehicle. Check for any outstanding recalls or technical service bulletins after reviewing service records and performing a comprehensive test drive.

Some model years, such as the 2012 to 2016 CR-V, are generally considered the best used options, but each vehicle needs to be evaluated separately. It is possible that a well-maintained CR-V from a problematic year could make a better choice than one that has been neglected from a recommended year.

The final step in buying a used vehicle is to thoroughly research and inspect it thoroughly. It can be costly to repair and frustrate you if a purchase is made without proper due diligence. This guide will help you find a reliable used Honda CR-V vehicle by exercising patience and following the instructions in it.


FAQs

Are Honda CR-Vs typically reliable?

The Honda CR-V is a reliable vehicle. Some model years are exempt from this, however. When buying a CR-V, stay away from specific years to increase reliability.

How much does a used Honda CR-V typically cost?

In addition to age, condition, mileage, and equipment, prices for used Honda CR-Vs can differ considerably. Older examples, such as a 2009 CR-V with 150,000 miles, sell for about $8,000. The price of a newer CR-V, however, will be significantly higher. As shown in the CoPilot Price Pulse report, the average asking price of a 2020 Honda CR-V is $28,850, a 25% premium.

 Is the Honda CR-V a good car to purchase?

You see Honda CR-Vs everywhere; they are among the most popular vehicles. There’s no doubt it’s a great vehicle based on those facts. Don’t buy a used CR-V without doing your research first.

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