Are there any recalls on the 2020 Honda HRV?
Yes. There have been recalls affecting some 2020 HR-V models, but whether your specific vehicle is implicated depends on its VIN and production date.
This article explains how recalls work for the 2020 HR-V, how to check whether your car is affected, and what to expect if work is required. The information reflects U.S. recall data and Honda’s service policies; recall handling can vary in other countries.
How to verify recalls for your 2020 HR-V
Use the following checklist to confirm whether a recall applies to your car and what you should do next.
- Locate your vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is a 17-character code found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) and on the driver’s door pillar or door frame. You’ll need this to search for recalls specific to your car.
- Search for recalls by VIN on the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Enter your VIN at safercar.gov/recalls-by-vin to see active or completed campaigns for your exact vehicle.
- Check Honda’s official owner portal. The Honda Owner Site can display open safety campaigns tied to your VIN and provide repair scheduling options.
- Contact a Honda dealership to confirm recall status and schedule the free repair if an open campaign exists. Dealers must perform recall work at no charge to the owner, regardless of where the car was purchased.
- Act promptly if a recall is listed. Recalls address safety-related faults, and delaying repairs can pose risks to you and passengers.
By validating the VIN against authoritative recall databases, you can determine which campaigns, if any, affect your HR-V and arrange the repairs at no charge.
What to expect from a recall repair
If a recall applies to your 2020 HR-V, here’s what typically happens during the repair process and what you should plan for.
- Remedies are free. Recall repairs do not cost the owner for parts or labor, and you won’t be charged for the service related to the recall.
- Appointments vary in length. Some recalls can be completed in a few hours, while others might take longer depending on the issue and parts availability.
- Parts availability matters. In some cases, a fix may require a replacement part that is on backorder; dealers will schedule repairs as soon as parts arrive, though interim safety steps may be advised.
- Documentation and proof of completion. After the repair, you’ll receive documentation noting that the recall was addressed. Keep this for your records and potential future vehicle transactions.
- Follow-up notices. If new recalls or service campaigns apply later, you’ll receive additional notices; stay informed through the VIN-based checks.
Most recalls are resolved quickly, but the timeline depends on the specific campaign and parts supply. If you’re unsure about the status, call your local Honda dealer or use the NHTSA and Honda portals to confirm.
Summary
In short, there are recalls that can affect some 2020 Honda HR-V vehicles, but the open status is specific to each car’s VIN. The safest course is to verify your VIN on the NHTSA recall database and Honda’s owner portal, then schedule any required recalls with a Honda dealer to receive free repairs. Staying current on recall notices helps maintain safety and vehicle reliability.
What are the common 2020 HR-V problems?
Common Problems: Consumer who have purchased ore leased a 2020 Honda HRV have reported encountering several different manufacturing issues including electrical glitches, brake-related concerns, transmission issues, and engine problems.
What is the electrical problem with the Honda HR-V 2020?
2020 Honda HR-V Electrical Issues: No Start and Sensor Alerts HR-V often faces battery drain and faulty brake pedal switch causing starting and sensor malfunctions. For no-start and erratic dash sensors, first check the 12V battery health and terminals for corrosion.
Which years of Honda HR-V to avoid?
The Honda HR-V years to avoid are generally considered the 2016 and 2017 models due to issues with sluggish acceleration and outdated infotainment, and the 2023 model because of a high number of complaints and recalls, particularly related to steering and rear window shattering. The first generation HR-V, especially with a CVT transmission, is also worth avoiding.
Years to avoid and why
This video explains the common problems with the Honda HR-V, including issues with the audio display and airbag system: 1mMJ100kYouTube · Apr 27, 2025
- 2016 and 2017: These early models of the second generation are often cited as ones to avoid due to poor acceleration and an outdated infotainment system, which were improved in later years.
- 2023: This year has a high number of complaints and has been subject to significant recalls, with owners reporting problems such as steering difficulties and rear windows shattering spontaneously.
- Pre-2013/2015 (first generation): These models are best to avoid, particularly those with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), as they can have engine problems.
What to consider instead
- 2020, 2021, and 2022: These model years are frequently recommended as the most reliable, offering a good balance of value, features, and reliability.
- 2018 and 2019: Many owners were happy with these models, which also saw improvements over the 2016 and 2017 versions.
- 2024: While the 2023 model had issues, the 2024 model has also seen recalls, so it's important to be cautious and check for any open recalls before purchasing.
- 2025: The latest models are still new, so there is less data available on their long-term reliability compared to previous years.
What are the Honda recalls for 2020?
In 2020, Honda issued several recalls for various 2020 models, primarily affecting 2018-2020 Accords and 2019-2020 Insights due to a software flaw that could cause the rear camera, turn signals, and wipers to malfunction. Other recalls involved a potential fuel pump issue for certain 2020 models, a problem with the rearview camera display on some 2020 Fits, and issues with the front frame welds on 2020 Pilots and Passports.
You can watch this video to learn about a major fuel pump recall affecting many Honda models: 31sWSLS 10YouTube · Dec 21, 2023
Major recalls
- Accord and Insight (2018-2020 Accords, 2019-2020 Insights): A software flaw in the Body Control Module (BCM) could cause the rear camera display, turn signals, and windshield wipers to malfunction.
- Fit (2018-2020): A design error in the audio display's power circuit can prevent the rearview camera from displaying when the engine is started with a key.
- Pilot and Passport (2019-2020): The front frame's upper members may not have been welded completely to the unibody, which could affect crash protection performance.
- CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and Insight (2020-2021): Some models were recalled for a potential issue with the fuel pump delivery system.
How to check if your car is affected
- You can check for recalls using your vehicle's 17-digit VIN at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or the American Honda Motor Co. website.
What to do if your car is under recall
- If your car is affected, take it to a Honda dealership for a free inspection and repair.
- Owners will receive notification letters in the mail with instructions on when to take their vehicle in for service.
