Do Honda Crosstours have transmission problems?
Across the board, Crosstours are not widely flagged for a systemic transmission defect. While individual owners have reported shifting quirks or failures, these issues are not ubiquitous across the model run and many examples remain reliable with proper maintenance.
The Crosstour was produced from 2009 through 2011 and shares its drivetrain lineage with Honda’s Accord lineup of that era. As with any aging vehicle, transmission health depends on mileage, maintenance history, and driving conditions. Below is a closer look at what buyers and owners should know, including common symptoms, model-year notes, and practical steps to minimize risk.
What to know about the Crosstour transmission
The Crosstour uses the automatic transmissions Honda offered for the Accord-based platform during its production years. There was no major, Crosstour-only transmission redesign, so reliability observations tend to align with the broader Honda automatic transmission experience from that period.
Technical background
The Crosstour’s drivetrain is shared with Honda’s mid-size lineup of the time. Automatic transmissions in these vehicles were designed for smooth operation and decent longevity, but like any aging unit, performance can deteriorate with high mileage, insufficient fluid maintenance, or harsh driving conditions.
Common symptoms reported by owners
Below are the issues most frequently mentioned by Crosstour owners in forums and consumer reviews. These signals can help you identify transmission problems early.
- Slipping or loss of torque during acceleration as the transmission shifts
- Harsh, delayed, or hunting shifts between gears
- Torque converter shudder at certain speeds or under light load
- Check Engine Light or transmission-related codes stored in the computer
- Unusual noises (whining, clunking) from the area of the transmission or transmission pan
If you notice any of these symptoms, have a qualified mechanic diagnose the issue promptly. Early diagnosis can prevent further damage and avoid more costly repairs later.
Model-year notes and recalls
There have been no widespread Crosstour-specific recalls focused solely on the transmission. Because the Crosstour uses the same family of automatics as the Accord of that era, some service bulletins and recalls pertinent to those transmissions may apply to Crosstours as well. Always check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and consult a Honda dealer for the latest information on recalls or service bulletins that could affect your vehicle.
2009–2010 Crosstour
The early years established the Crosstour’s reputation for refinement rather than unique mechanical faults. If transmission issues occurred, they were typically linked to normal wear at higher mileage or to maintenance gaps rather than a model-wide defect. Addressing fluid service and software updates when recommended by a dealer often resolved minor shifting concerns.
2011 Crosstour
As the final production year, the 2011 Crosstour shared the same transmission base as its siblings. Reports of major transmission failure remained uncommon, with most discussions centering on standard maintenance or age-related wear in higher-mileage examples.
Maintenance tips to minimize transmission problems
Maintaining the transmission is the best defense against problems. The following practices help keep the Crosstour’s automatic running smoothly over time.
- Follow Honda’s recommended transmission fluid interval and use the correct Honda-approved ATF.
- Monitor for leaks (pan gasket, seals, lines) and repair promptly to prevent fluid loss and air ingress.
- Have the transmission fluid changed at the manufacturer-recommended interval; discuss with a trusted technician whether a drain-and-fill is preferred over a full flush for your vehicle’s condition.
- Pay attention to warning lights or transmission-related diagnostic trouble codes and have a professional diagnose promptly.
- Avoid excessive towing or overloading beyond the vehicle’s rated limits, and drive with sensible handling to reduce undue stress on the transmission.
Proper maintenance reduces risk and extends the life of the transmission. If symptoms arise, seek a professional evaluation to determine whether simple maintenance will suffice or if more extensive repairs are needed.
What to do if you own or are buying a Crosstour
Before purchasing or if you already own a Crosstour with higher mileage, a careful inspection can save later trouble. Use these steps as a practical checklist to assess transmission health and overall reliability.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough transmission diagnostic and a road-test to observe shifting behavior under different loads.
- Request complete service history, focusing on ATF changes, fluid condition, and any dealer software updates or TSBs related to the transmission.
- Check for applicable warranty coverage or recall campaigns that might address transmission concerns, and verify coverage with the dealer.
A diligent pre-purchase inspection and a documented maintenance history provide clarity on transmission health and help set realistic expectations for ownership.
Summary
Overall, Honda Crosstours are not broadly plagued by a universal transmission problem. While isolated cases of shifting issues or failures exist, they typically reflect wear and maintenance history rather than a recurring defect unique to the model. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection and review maintenance records, while current owners should adhere to recommended service intervals and address any symptoms promptly to preserve transmission health.
What is the common problem with Honda Crosstour?
Common Honda Crosstour problems include transmission issues, excessive oil consumption in V6 models, and brake problems like rotor pulsation. Other potential issues are power steering failure, electrical system glitches, and excessive tire wear or vibrations, especially in AWD models. Regular maintenance, particularly timing belt replacement for V6 engines, is crucial to prevent costly damage.
This video discusses common Honda Crosstour problems including transmission issues and oil consumption: 59sNexologyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
Engine and drivetrain
- Oil consumption: V6 engines are prone to excessive oil consumption, which can be caused by worn piston rings and may lead to engine damage if not addressed.
- Timing belt: V6 engines use a timing belt that requires replacement every 100,000 miles. Failure to do so in this interference engine can cause severe and expensive damage.
- Transmission: Some models have experienced transmission problems, including slipping, which can be caused by worn clutch plates or low fluid.
- Vibrations: AWD models, in particular, can suffer from vibrations caused by worn CV joints, driveshafts, or other driveline issues.
- VTC Actuator: A class-action lawsuit has been filed concerning a defective variable timing control (VTC) actuator in certain 2012-2015 Honda Crosstours.
This video explains how to diagnose and fix a common issue where the 2011 Honda Crosstour stalls after starting: 1mParts shooterYouTube · May 29, 2020
Brakes and steering
- Brake pulsation: Premature wear or pulsation during braking is a common complaint, often linked to warped brake rotors.
- Power steering: Issues with the power steering pump or fluid can lead to stiff or jerky steering.
Electrical and other issues
- Electrical glitches: Owners have reported problems with the navigation screen freezing or becoming unresponsive, likely due to software or head unit issues.
- Starting problems: Some owners experience persistent or intermittent starting issues, sometimes linked to a faulty starter or ignition system.
- Paint and trim: Fading, peeling, or cracking paint and loose exterior or interior trim have also been reported.
What years did Honda have bad transmissions?
Honda automatic and CVT transmissions from the late 1990s and early 2000s are known for problems, with specific problematic years often cited including 1998–2004 for general issues and 1999–2003 for specific automatic transmission failures. Specific models like the Accord, Odyssey, and Acura TL are frequently mentioned as being affected.
This video explains the reasons why Honda transmissions fail: 59sspeedkar99YouTube · Jun 10, 2024
Problematic years by model
- Honda Accord: Years 1998–2002 and 1999–2003 had widespread automatic transmission issues, with some later models like 2008–2010 and 2013–2014 also having problems.
- Honda Odyssey: The 1999–2003 and 1999–2001 models are frequently cited for transmission problems.
- Acura TL/CL: The 2000–2003 and 2001–2003 models are known to have issues, with the Acura 3.2 TL having problems from 1999 onward.
- Honda Civic: Some earlier CVT models, like those from 1999–2004, are known to have issues.
- Honda Pilot: The early 2000s models had issues with overheating transmissions.
- Honda Jazz and Vezel Hybrid: Some 2014 models had issues with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission software.
Common symptoms of transmission problems
- Slipping gears
- Rough shifting or delayed shifts
- Jerking during acceleration
- Unusual noises
- Transmission failing to engage
- Vibrations
This video discusses Honda CVT reliability: 46sShadetree AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 10, 2024
Why these years had problems
- Automatic transmissions: The V6 automatics from the late 1990s and early 2000s were particularly prone to failure.
- CVTs: Some early Honda CVTs, particularly those from 1999–2004, had a high rate of failure.
- Dual-clutch transmissions: Some 2014 models had software issues that could cause delays or failure in gear selection.
What is the most reliable year of the Honda Crosstour?
2015
The best cars are from 2013-2015 model years, as the 2013 Honda Crosstour heralded a raft of powertrain and technology updates. Which Honda Crosstour years are the worst? Avoid the first 2010 model year as it has an outdated infotainment system, no driver assistance features, and a cluttered dashboard.
Which Honda models have transmission problems?
Drivers often report a delay when shifting into Drive or experiencing vibrations when cruising. Some older Odyssey models were subject to recalls due to serious transmission faults. The Pilot, especially in early 2000s models, also had problems related to transmission fluid overheating or failing pressure switches.
