How much does a Honda CR-V transmission cost?

Expect a broad price range for a CR‑V transmission replacement. Installed costs typically fall from about $2,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on whether you pick a used, rebuilt/remanufactured, or new OEM unit, as well as labor rates in your area.

The Honda CR‑V’s transmission cost depends on several factors, including the model year and generation, whether the vehicle uses a CVT or a traditional automatic, and the availability of parts. CVTs are common in recent CR‑V generations and tend to be more expensive to replace than older conventional automatics. This article outlines typical installed price ranges in the United States as of 2025 and offers guidance on choosing a replacement option and obtaining estimates.

Cost scenarios for Honda CR-V transmissions

Below is a snapshot of common options and the typical installed price ranges you might see from shops, noting that actual prices vary by year, region, and shop.

• New OEM transmission (dealer-installed): About $4,000–$7,000 for the transmission itself, with labor commonly bringing the total to roughly $5,000–$8,000 or more, depending on the generation and any required software updates.


• Remanufactured/rebuilt CVT (independent shop): Roughly $3,000–$6,000 total installed, including parts and labor. This can be a cost-effective alternative to a new OEM unit while maintaining good reliability.


• Used or salvaged transmission (with professional installation): Typically $1,800–$4,500 installed, depending on the unit’s condition, mileage, and whether any ancillary parts or wiring must be replaced.

Note: Prices assume a typical CR‑V from common generations (especially models with CVT). If your CR‑V uses a conventional automatic (older generations), the ranges can differ, and some repairs may require additional related components. Always request a written, itemized quote that breaks out parts, labor, fluids, and any diagnostics.

What influences price

Several factors can push the price up or down. Consider these when evaluating estimates:

• Transmission type and generation (CVT vs. traditional automatic; newer models often use CVT).


• Model year and specific vehicle configuration, which affect parts availability and compatibility.


• New OEM vs. rebuilt/remanufactured vs. used/transmission from a salvage yard.


• Labor rates by region and the shop’s expertise with CVTs or Honda transmissions.


• Need for additional repairs or components (valve body, torque converter parts, cooling lines, seals, sensors, wiring harnesses).


• Diagnostic and fluid service costs, as well as any software updates or reprogramming required after installation.

These factors mean two identical CR‑V owners in different cities can see substantially different total quotes for a replacement.

Where to shop for a replacement

Shop selection can significantly affect final cost and warranty coverage. Consider these sources when seeking a replacement.

• Honda dealership service departments (OEM parts and factory-backed warranties).


• Independent transmission shops with CVT and Honda specialization (often a balance of price and expertise).


• Auto recyclers or salvage yards offering used or rebuilt transmissions (price can be lower, but verify condition and warranty).


• Reputable online parts suppliers or remanufacturers (good for comparing core prices and warranties, but installation still required).

Always verify warranty terms, whether the quoted price includes fluids and labor, and what’s covered under a remanufactured or used unit. Getting multiple written estimates is highly recommended.

Tips for getting an accurate estimate

To ensure you receive a precise and fair quote, prepare and share the following with shops:

• Your exact CR‑V model year and VIN (to confirm transmission type and compatibility).


• A clear description of symptoms or fault codes or a failed test drive.


• Whether you prefer a new OEM, rebuilt/remanufactured, or used transmission option.


• Ask for an itemized quote that lists parts, labor, fluids, disposal fees, diagnostic charges, and any core charges.


• Clarify warranty terms on the transmission and any labor, including coverage period and what is excluded.

Having these details helps prevent surprises and makes it easier to compare apples to apples when evaluating different shops.

Summary

For a Honda CR-V, the installed cost of a transmission replacement varies primarily by transmission type (CVT vs. conventional), generation, and parts choice (new OEM, rebuilt/remanufactured, or used). Expect a broad range from roughly $2,000 to $7,000+, with the most economical route often being a refurbished or used unit installed by a reputable shop, and the most costly being a dealer-installed new OEM CVT with comprehensive warranty. Always obtain multiple written estimates, confirm warranty terms, and ensure the quote includes fluids, diagnostic work, and any reprogramming needs.

How long does a Honda CR-V transmission last?

Honda's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) has been refined over multiple generations, reducing early complaints and ensuring smooth, responsive shifting. With proper care, both the engine and transmission routinely last well beyond 200,000 miles, proving the CR-V's long-term dependability.

How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Honda CR-V?

A Honda CR-V transmission replacement typically costs between $3,000 and $7,500 or more, depending on whether you get a rebuilt, remanufactured, or new transmission, and where you have the work done. Parts alone can range from about $1,800 to over $3,500, with labor adding another $500 to $1,200 or more, plus taxes and fees. A rebuild is often the cheapest option, while a new transmission from a dealership is usually the most expensive. 
Cost breakdown by service type

• Rebuild: $2,000 – $3,500. This involves disassembling the original transmission, replacing worn parts, and reassembling it. 
• Replacement (Remanufactured/Used): $4,000 – $6,000+. This swaps your old unit for a refurbished or used one. A remanufactured transmission can be purchased for as low as about $2,600 from parts suppliers, before labor costs are added. 
• Replacement (New): $6,800 – $7,400+ at a dealership. This is typically the most expensive option, using new, manufacturer-approved parts. 

Factors influencing cost

• Type of transmission: Automatic transmissions are generally more expensive to replace than manual versions. 
• Where you get it done: A dealership will likely have higher labor rates and use official parts, while an independent shop might be cheaper and use aftermarket parts. 
• Parts source: A remanufactured unit from a parts supplier is cheaper than a new one from a dealership. You may also find lower prices if you source a used transmission from a junkyard, but this comes with a higher risk of future issues. 
• Labor rates: Labor costs vary significantly by location and the shop's hourly rate. 
• Taxes and fees: Remember to account for these additional costs in your final budget. 

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. 

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a transmission?

It is cheaper to repair a transmission if the damage is minor, like a leak or a sensor issue, which can cost a few hundred dollars. However, if the damage is extensive and involves multiple internal components, replacing the entire transmission (with a new, remanufactured, or used one) will likely be more expensive but may be the more cost-effective choice in the long run, as a rebuild is cheaper than a replacement but may result in issues sooner than a new transmission. 
Repair

• Cost: $300−$1,400$ 300 minus $ 1 comma 400$300−$1,400 for minor repairs. 
• Best for: Small, isolated problems like a leaky seal, a faulty sensor, or a worn clutch. 
• Considerations: Only addresses the specific problem; may not be a long-term solution if there are other underlying issues. 

Replacement

• Cost: $1,800−$8,000+$ 1 comma 800 minus $ 8 comma 000 plus$1,800−$8,000+, depending on the type of replacement (used, remanufactured, or new). 
• Best for: Major internal failures, such as broken gears or a damaged torque converter. 
• Considerations: Generally the most expensive option but provides the most peace of mind and a "like new" transmission. 

Rebuild

• Cost: $2,000−$5,000$ 2 comma 000 minus $ 5 comma 000$2,000−$5,000 or more. 
• Best for: Transmissions that have multiple issues, but are not so severely damaged that a complete replacement is the only option. 
• Considerations: More expensive than a simple repair but cheaper than a full replacement, though the long-term reliability may be less than a new unit. 

How to decide

• Get a diagnosis: A professional mechanic can pinpoint the exact problem, which is crucial for making the right decision. 
• Compare costs: If the repair cost is more than half the price of a replacement, a replacement may be the more cost-effective option. 
• Consider vehicle value: If the car is old or has high mileage, the cost of repair or replacement might be more than the vehicle is worth, making it not a good investment.