How reliable is the Honda Crosstour?

Overall, the Honda Crosstour is a reasonably reliable vehicle for its class, reflecting Honda’s reputation for durability. Reliability varies by model year and maintenance history, so a well-kept later model is typically a safer bet.

To understand reliability, it helps to look at how the Crosstour aged in real-world use, what common wear items show up, and how buyers can vet a used unit before pulling the trigger. The Crosstour, produced from 2009 through 2015, shares many components with the Honda Accord, which generally supports its longevity. However, buyers should be mindful of year-to-year variations and the potential for maintenance-heavy wear as these SUVs age.

Reliability profile: what the data and owners say

Industry reliability trackers and owner surveys typically place the Crosstour in the middle of the pack for its segment. It benefits from Honda’s core durability, but it does not stand out as an reliability showcase in the way some other Honda models do. Years and trim levels can differ, and the overall experience depends heavily on maintenance history and how the vehicle was used and stored.

• Engine and drivetrain: The Crosstour offered a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6, both of which are established Honda powertrains. When properly maintained, they are generally durable, though the V6 can require more attentive cooling and routine service as the vehicle ages.


• Transmission and performance: The automatic transmissions in these models are typically reliable, but some owners report rough shifts or hesitation in older units. Regular transmission fluid changes and attentive service records help reduce trouble.


• Electrical systems and interior: Electrical quirks and infotainment glitches can occur, as with many mid-2000s-era electronics. These issues tend to be more of an annoyance than a root-cause failure, but they can affect ownership experience.


• Rust and corrosion: In climates that see heavy salt use, corrosion underbody components or around the wheel wells can appear as the miles accumulate. A careful inspection of the undercarriage is advised for higher-mileage examples.


• Maintenance costs and parts: Parts availability is good and maintenance costs align with other mid-size crossovers from the era. Tires, brakes, and routine fluid services are the ongoing ownership costs to expect.

Data from major reliability and consumer opinion sources up to 2024-25 generally position the Crosstour as dependable but not exceptional within its class. Prospective buyers should prioritize documented service history and a thorough pre-purchase inspection to validate the condition of the specific vehicle.

Buying tips to maximize reliability and value

Because reliability hinges on care and care history, following a diligent checklist can pay off when shopping for a Crosstour.

• Get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection (PPI): Have a trusted mechanic check the transmission, suspension, exhaust, brakes, and cooling system. Look for leaks, unusual noises, or components that show accelerated wear.


• Verify recalls and service campaigns: Ensure all open recalls have been completed and check that essential updates were performed by a dealer.


• Prioritize documented maintenance: Favor vehicles with complete maintenance records, especially records for fluid changes (engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant) and tire/brake replacements. Timing chains are used on these engines, but tensioners and related components can wear over time; confirm no unusual noise or warnings.


• Consider model year refinements: Later years generally benefited from mid-cycle updates and ongoing reliability improvements. If you can choose between similar-mileage examples, a newer model year is usually the smarter pick.


• Inspect for climate- and salt-related wear: In areas with harsh winters, closely inspect undercarriage, frame rails, and exhaust system for rust or corrosion.

These steps help reduce the risk of buying a Crosstour with costly, out-of-warranty repairs and improve the odds of a trouble-free ownership experience.

Summary

The Honda Crosstour benefits from Honda’s engineering ethos and typically delivers solid, long-term reliability. It sits in the mid-range for dependability within its segment, with year-to-year differences and maintenance history driving most of the variation. For buyers, a well-documented service history, a current pre-purchase inspection, and attention to potential rust and wear items are the best bets for a satisfying, long-term ownership experience.

In the end, the Crosstour can be a dependable choice for buyers seeking a roomy, car-like crossover with Honda reliability—especially if you prioritize a model with a strong maintenance record and a thorough inspection before purchase.

How long does a Honda Accord Crosstour last?

A Honda Crosstour can last an average of 162,288 miles or about 12.3 years, with many owners reporting much higher mileage if the vehicle is properly maintained. Its lifespan is comparable to other Honda models, and it has a good reliability rating, though owners should be aware of common issues like transmission slipping and oil consumption.
 
Estimated lifespan

• Average: The average lifespan is about 162,288 miles or 12.3 years. 
• Potential: With regular maintenance, Crosstours can potentially last much longer, with some users reporting hitting 300,000 miles or more. 

Factors affecting lifespan

• Reliability: The Crosstour has a good reliability rating of 7.8 out of 10 from iSeeCars.com. 
• Maintenance: Consistent and proper maintenance is key to reaching high mileage. 
• Common issues: Be aware of potential problems to address them early, such as:
  • Transmission slipping 
  • Oil consumption 
  • Brake problems 
  • Power steering failure 

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.

What are the pros and cons of a Crosstour?

The Crosstour has a roomy interior with a wider cabin than the Accord, and benefits from the added versatility of the rear hatch - but visibility is compromised. Thankfully a rear camera became standard with the 2012 update, which also simplified the model lineup.

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.