Is the 2011 Honda Crosstour reliable?

The 2011 Honda Crosstour is generally considered to have a mixed reliability record, with some owners reporting issues that can lead to higher maintenance costs over time.

Reliability for this model year sits in a gray area after Honda shifted the Crosstour from a niche to a mainstream crossover platform. This article weighs independent reliability assessments, owner experiences, and practical buying notes to help readers understand what to expect from a used 2011 Crosstour and how to evaluate its condition before purchase.

Context: how reliability is measured for a model this old

Reliability ratings for aging vehicles like the 2011 Crosstour come from a mix of consumer surveys, manufacturer defect reports, and owner feedback collected over many years. Because the Crosstour is no longer in production, newer, model-year-specific data are limited, and readers should weigh long-term ownership experiences, maintenance histories, and mileage when assessing true reliability. Independent outlets commonly categorize the Crosstour’s reliability as mixed for its era, with some years faring better than others and maintenance histories playing a large role in outcomes.

Common reliability concerns for the 2011 Crosstour

The following points summarize the reliability concerns most frequently cited by owners and reviewers for the 2011 Crosstour. These issues are the ones to look for when evaluating a used example.

• Drivetrain and transmission: Some owners report shifting or hesitation issues and other transmission-related symptoms that may require service or replacement components.


• Electrical and sensor glitches: Occasional electrical problems, including dashboard warning lights and sensor failures, have been mentioned in ownership forums and complaint records.


• Engine and fuel system observations: There are anecdotal reports of engine performance irregularities and fuel-injection related maintenance needs as the vehicle ages.


• Maintenance intensity and age: Like many mid-2000s Hondas, reliability improves with regular, documented maintenance, but aging components can lead to costly repairs if maintenance was deferred.


• Suspension and ride wear: Worn components such as bushings or struts may emerge with higher mileage, affecting ride quality and handling.

In summary, these issues form the core reliability considerations for the 2011 Crosstour and highlight the importance of a thorough pre-purchase inspection and complete maintenance records when evaluating a used example.

Independent reliability ratings and owner sentiment

Independent data sources generally describe the Crosstour’s reliability as mixed or below average for its class, reflecting both the model’s age and the breadth of reported issues. The following snapshots summarize the broad consensus from major outlets and owner communities.

• Consumer Reports: The Crosstour line around the 2011 model year tends to be rated as mixed in reliability, with some individual reports noting above-average performance when properly maintained and others highlighting recurring trouble spots as mileage accumulates.


• J.D. Power / Quality & Reliability indices: Overall impressions for the Crosstour’s reliability sit near the industry average for its era, with owner anecdotes pointing to a few drivetrain and electrical concerns that can arise as the vehicle ages.


• Owner forums and independent surveys: A variety of experiences exist; some owners report long-term, trouble-free operation, while others encounter transmission, electrical, or fuel-system related repairs after high mileage. Experiences often correlate with maintenance history and prior ownership care.

These sources together reflect a balanced view: the 2011 Crosstour can be dependable in well-maintained examples, but reliability is not uniformly strong across all units in the market today.

Pre-purchase checklist for used Crosstour

If you’re considering buying a used 2011 Crosstour, use this checklist to assess reliability and condition before purchase.

• Obtain a complete maintenance and service history, focusing on major systems (engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical).


• Inspect the transmission’s smoothness and any abnormal noises or shuddering during shifting or at idle.


• Check for any stored or pending recall campaigns and confirm repairs were completed at an authorized dealer.


• Look for oil leaks around the engine and transmission, and check the condition of the serpentine belt and hoses.


• Test all electronics, including the infotainment system, climate control, power accessories, and gauges, for proper function.


• Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) that includes a compression test and a check of the drivetrain and suspension components.


• Review the vehicle history report for consistent mileage, prior accidents, or major repairs that could affect long-term reliability.

A meticulous pre-purchase check and a documented maintenance history can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected reliability costs after purchase.

Summary

The 2011 Honda Crosstour occupies a middle ground in reliability among aging mainstream crossovers. It can be a dependable choice for those who acquire a well-maintained example with a complete service history, but buyers should be aware of reported transmission and electrical concerns that tend to surface with higher mileage. If you intend to buy one, prioritize documentation, insist on a professional pre-purchase inspection, and be prepared for possible maintenance costs that reflect the vehicle’s age. For many buyers, a thorough evaluation and a strong maintenance record are the best guarantees of reliability in this model year.

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 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.

How many miles will a 2011 Honda Crosstour last?

A typical Honda Crosstour will last around 200,000 miles, with the high mileage point of around 150,000 and a good point at 125,000.

Is the 2011 Crosstour a good car?

Among the 189 owners who provided feedback on the 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 93% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and comfort to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.