Do Honda CR-V back seats fold flat?

Yes. In modern Honda CR-V models, the rear seats fold down to create a largely flat cargo floor, thanks to a 60/40 split that lets you configure seating to suit both passengers and cargo. The floor is generally flat enough for long items, though you may notice slight ridges or wheel-well intrusions in some trims.

The CR-V has evolved through several generations, but the core capability—folding the second-row seats to expand cargo space—remains. Below is a detailed look at how it works today and how it varies across generations.

How the back seats fold across generations

Across generations, the CR-V has used a split rear bench that folds down to extend cargo space. The exact release method and the degree of flatness can vary by year and trim, but the general idea is the same: collapse the backrests to create a longer, more versatile cargo area.

Fifth generation (2017–present)

In the current generation, the CR-V uses a 60/40-split rear seat. Each section can be folded down independently to extend cargo length. When folded, the backrests lie fairly flat with the cargo floor, though there may be a small ridge near the wheel wells that prevents a perfectly perfectly flat surface in some configurations. This setup works with most common long items like suitcases, boxes, and sports gear.

Fourth generation (2012–2016)

During this generation, the CR-V also offered 60/40-split rear seating with fold-flat capability. The backrests fold forward to extend the cargo area, typically producing a surface that’s usable and close to flat. As with newer models, some minor steps or ridges can appear where the seats meet the floor, depending on trim and loading position.

Earlier generations (pre-2012)

Earlier CR-V models generally provided fold-down rear seats to increase cargo capacity. The basic function remains similar—backrests fold down to expand space—but the degree of flatness and the exact mechanism could vary more between years and trims.

In practice, the ability to fold the back seats flat is a longstanding feature of the CR-V, designed to maximize cargo versatility across generations. If you routinely haul unusually long items, you’ll likely appreciate the extended load length when the rear seats are down.

For reference, cargo space improves notably when the rear seats are folded, delivering substantially more usable area behind the front seats. This makes the CR-V competitive for tasks ranging from moving bulky gear to loading sports equipment, even if the floor isn’t perfectly perfectly flat in every configuration.

Below is a quick guide to folding the seats and loading items, followed by a generation-by-generation snapshot you can use as a quick reference.

To help you load long items, here’s how to fold the rear seats in most CR-Vs:

• Lower or remove the headrests on the rear seats to allow the backrests to fold fully (if the design requires it for the seating configuration).


• Locate the release mechanism for each seatback (usually a lever or strap at the top or in the cargo area).


• Fold down the desired section (60/40 split) by pulling the release and pushing the backrest forward until it lies flat with the cargo floor.


• Repeat with the remaining section if you need the entire rear surface flat for very long items.


• Ensure any items are placed evenly and avoid obstructing seat release levers when reconfiguring the seating.

In short, the steps are simple and designed for quick reconfiguration. The exact release locations and whether you need to remove headrests depend on the year and trim, but folding down the rear seats is a standard, rider-friendly feature across CR-V models.

Here is a quick guide to what you can expect about how well the seats fold flat, by generation:

• Fifth generation (2017–present): 60/40 split rear seats; backrests fold to create a long cargo floor; floor is largely flat with minor wheel-well ridges in some configurations.


• Fourth generation (2012–2016): 60/40 split; fold-flat backrests for expanded cargo space; surface generally flat with occasional ridges near the wheel wells.


• Earlier generations (pre-2012): Fold-down rear seats to increase cargo capacity; flatness can vary by year and trim but remains functional for larger items.

In summary, Honda CR-V back seats do fold flat in the sense that they convert to a flat, extended cargo surface, especially on models with the 60/40 split. The degree of flatness is generally sufficient for most cargo needs, though you may notice small ridges near wheel wells depending on configuration and trim.

What this means for you

If you’re shopping for a CR-V and cargo versatility is important, you can expect reliable fold-flat capability across modern models. If you plan to transport very long, rigid items or need an extra-flat surface for moving delicate gear, consider loading with seats all the way down and positioning items along the longest available plane, keeping in mind minor floor contours near wheel wells.

Summary

The Honda CR-V provides fold-flat rear seating across its modern generations, enabling expanded cargo space with a 60/40 split that allows partial or full seating to be stowed as needed. While the floor is broadly flat, there can be small ridges or wheel-well intrusions depending on trim and configuration. Overall, the CR-V remains a practical choice for buyers prioritizing cargo versatility without sacrificing everyday passenger comfort.

Can you sleep in the back of a Honda CR-V?

Yes, you can sleep in the back of a Honda CR-V, but it's more comfortable if you add a platform to create a flat, level surface, as the rear seats don't fold down completely flat and create an uncomfortable slope. Building a platform, or using a thick foam mattress or air mattress, will create a more level and spacious sleeping area.
 
This video demonstrates how to create a sleeping platform in a Honda CR-V: 57sCarToCampYouTube · Jul 21, 2024
Tips for creating a comfortable sleeping space

• Address the incline: The main challenge is the gap and angle between the folded-down rear seats and the front seats. You can build a simple DIY platform or use a thick mattress/air mattress to fill this gap and make the surface level. 
• Build a platform: A popular solution is to build a platform, which can be made from plywood supported by 2x4s or 4x4s, to create a flat, level bed. Some platforms are designed to have storage space underneath. 
• Use an air mattress or foam pad: If a platform seems like too much work, a thick air mattress or a multi-folding foam mattress can help fill the gaps and provide a more comfortable sleeping surface. 
• Consider custom solutions: For a custom fit, you can get a mattress made to the exact dimensions of your CR-V's cargo area. 

This video shows how to lay down the back seats in a Honda CR-V: 31sBig Al RepairsYouTube · Dec 7, 2024

What is the most common problem with Honda CR-V?

The most common problem with the Honda CR-V is air conditioning system failures, particularly compressor issues that can occur between 40,000 and 100,000 miles, according to this YouTube video. Other frequent problems include engine issues like oil consumption and fuel leaks (especially in the 2011-2012 model years), and electrical glitches such as faulty door actuators or alternator problems. For newer models, some owners report problems with the fuel injectors that can cause safety feature malfunctions, while others have experienced issues with the power steering. 
Common problems by system 
This video explains the common problems with the Honda CR-V, including AC failures, oil consumption, and steering issues: 1mCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 1, 2025

• Air Conditioning: Frequent failures, sometimes referred to as "Honda Black Death," especially in models from 2002-2009. This is often due to compressor failure. 
• Engine: Excessive oil consumption has been reported, particularly in the 2011 model year. Fuel can also leak into the engine oil, leading to engine damage. 
• Electrical:
  • Alternator problems: In some models, the alternator can fluctuate in voltage, causing various issues. 
  • Door actuators: Randomly locking and unlocking doors can occur, and in rare cases, the locks may jam. 
• Safety/Driving:
  • Steering: Some models have issues with "sticking" steering or defective electronic power steering (EPS) racks. 
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: On certain models, the system has been known to activate unexpectedly. 
  • Fuel injectors: On some models, faulty fuel injectors have been linked to failures in safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. 
• Other:
  • Transmission: Some models have reported issues with rough shifting or premature transmission failure. 
  • Brakes: Warped front brake rotors causing vibration when braking have been reported. 
  • Wiper Motor: Failure of the windshield wiper motor can cause the wipers to not park properly. 

Which model years are affected?

• 2002–2009: Noted for AC "Black Death" failures.
• 2011: Known for excessive oil consumption.
• 2017–2019: Reports of safety system malfunctions and steering issues.
• 2019: Specific problems with fuel injectors and the emergency braking system.
• 2022: Recalls and issues with the alarm system and keyless entry. 

Do Honda CR-V back seats lay flat?

Yes, Honda CR-V back seats fold flat, but the degree of flatness varies by model year, with older models being more flush than newer ones. Newer models have a noticeable hump, but the seats can still be folded using a lever or handle in the cargo area or from the side of the seat.
 
This video shows how to fold down the rear seats in a Honda CR-V: 47sBig Al RepairsYouTube · Dec 7, 2024
Tips for folding the seats

• Locate the release lever or strap: This is usually found on the side of the seat near the door or in the cargo area. 
• Push the front seats forward: This provides enough space for the back seats to fold down. 
• Handle with care: Gently pull the lever or strap and lower the seatback. Be aware that the headrests do not always fold down automatically. 
• Secure the seat belt: Ensure the center seat belt is not obstructing the seat's movement and is properly secured. 

You can also watch this video to see how to fold down the rear seats in a Honda CR-V: 59sCarnivautoYouTube · Apr 17, 2025
For a flatter surface

• For newer models with a hump, you can place a sleeping pad or custom-built platform on top of the folded seats to create a more level surface. 
• For older models, you might still need to add some padding to the seat to achieve a truly flat and comfortable sleeping surface. 

This video demonstrates a sleeping platform setup for a Honda CR-V: 1mCarToCampYouTube · Jul 21, 2024

What SUV has rear seats that fold completely flat?

Many SUVs have back seats that fold flat, including recent models like the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Blazer, and Honda CR-V. Other examples include the Kia Telluride, Subaru Outback, Ford Explorer, and BMW X7. It's important to check the specific year and trim, as the ability to fold completely flat can vary by model and configuration. 
You can watch this video to see how to fold down the back seats in a Honda CR-V: 47sBig Al RepairsYouTube · Dec 7, 2024
Examples of SUVs with fold-flat rear seats

• Ford Expedition: Has split-folding rear seats that can fold flat to create more cargo space. 
• Chevrolet Blazer: Features standard 60/40 split-folding seats that fold flat. 
• Honda CR-V: Many recent models come with seats that fold flat. 
• Kia Telluride: Offers fold-flat rear seats for added cargo flexibility. 
• Subaru Outback: Includes rear seats that fold down to create a flat surface. 
• Chevrolet Suburban: Has rear seats that fold nearly flat for a large, open cargo area. 
• BMW X7: The third-row seats fold down flat, and the second-row can slide. 
• Mazda CX-5: The rear seats can be folded to increase cargo capacity. 
• Volkswagen Atlas: Offers fold-flat rear seating in its various configurations.