Was 2008 a good year for CRV?

In brief, 2008 was a solid but not standout year for the Honda CR-V. It remained a practical, reliable choice in a crowded compact-SUV segment, but the year’s sales and overall enthusiasm were dampened by a harsh economic climate and a broader market downturn.

To understand whether 2008 was "good" for the CR-V, we weigh factors such as market conditions, model-year updates, and how the CR-V stacked up against peers in performance, safety, and value. The redesigned 2007 CR-V carried forward strengths like spacious interiors and Honda reliability, while facing a tougher sales environment and a growing field of compact crossovers.

Market Context in 2008

The year 2008 was defined by a severe downturn in global auto demand as credit markets froze, consumer confidence waned, and fuel prices swung unpredictably. SUV and crossover sales cooled across virtually all brands, even as some models continued to win buyers with practical design, stronger warranties, and reputations for long-term value. This macro backdrop shaped every model’s performance, including the CR-V.

CR-V in 2008: What You Got

Here’s a snapshot of the 2008 CR-V's core attributes, focusing on mechanics, features, and everyday practicality. Trims typically included S, EX, and EX-L with front- or all-wheel drive, and options such as a CVT appeared in certain markets.

• Engine and drivetrain: A reliable 2.4-liter inline-four powered most trims, available with front- or all-wheel drive; a continuously variable transmission (CVT) was available in some markets to improve efficiency.


• Interior and cargo: A roomy, versatile interior with a flat rear floor and ample cargo space supported its standing as a practical family SUV.


• Safety features: Standard and available safety equipment included multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control on most trims, and Honda’s reputation for durable engineering.


• Fuel economy: Competitive for its class at the time, with highway efficiency in the mid-20s MPG range depending on drivetrain; real-world results varied with driving style and load.


• Reliability and ownership costs: Honda’s reliability record helped keep maintenance costs predictable, contributing to strong resale value relative to many rivals.

The 2008 CR-V delivered Honda’s core strengths—reliability, practicality, and reasonable efficiency—while contending with a challenging market that limited overall sales performance and the potential for a standout year.

Customer Satisfaction and Critics’ Take

Auto guides and customer surveys frequently praised the CR-V for its comfort, cargo flexibility, and low maintenance needs in 2008, while some critics noted that the design and feature set felt mature compared with newer competitors entering the market.

Was 2008 a Good Year by the Numbers?

In a year defined by economic strain, “good” can be understood as product strength rather than pure sales momentum. The 2008 CR-V demonstrated robust fundamentals and sustained appeal in a difficult environment, preserving its status as a dependable compact SUV rather than a high-growth outlier.

Summary

2008 was not a breakout year in terms of market performance, but it reinforced the CR-V’s enduring appeal: strong reliability, practical interior, and solid efficiency. For buyers prioritizing practicality and long-term value, 2008 remains a solid entry in the model’s history.

Summary: While industry sales fell in a weak year for autos, the CR-V’s core strengths endured, making 2008 a favorable year for product quality and resilience rather than dramatic growth.

How many miles will a 2008 Honda CR-V last?

A 2008 Honda CR-V can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, and sometimes even more, with proper maintenance. Key factors for longevity include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and addressing issues like air conditioner compressor problems. With diligent care, the original engine and transmission can often go hundreds of thousands of miles.
 
Factors for longevity

• Regular maintenance: Follow the recommended service schedule, including oil changes and filter replacements. 
• Transmission care: Change the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. 
• Cooling system: Flush the coolant as recommended to prevent overheating. 
• Timing belt: If applicable, replace the timing belt around 100,000 miles to avoid engine damage. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• Air conditioner: Some models can experience compressor failure between 40,000 and 100,000 miles, which can lead to "Honda Black Death" sludge in the system.
• Door actuators: Door locks may malfunction randomly.
• Engine oil: Be vigilant about oil burning, which can lead to engine damage. 

Tips for extending life

• Drive carefully: Avoid harsh braking and aggressive acceleration. 
• Make quick repairs: Address any problems as soon as they are detected. 
• Use quality parts: Use high-quality fluids and parts during maintenance. 

What are the best and worst years for a Honda CR-V?

The best Honda CR-V years are generally considered to be 2013-2016 and 2020-2023, due to strong reliability and modern features. The worst years are 2007-2009 and 2017-2019, which had more frequent issues like engine problems and transmission failures. 
This video discusses the best and worst years for the Honda CR-V, including common problems and what to look for when buying a used one: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · May 7, 2025
Best years

• 2013-2016: This generation saw improvements in reliability and fixed issues like cabin noise. The 2015 model had some vibration issues that were addressed by the 2016 model. 
• 2020-2023: These models have modern technology, safety features, and excellent resale value. 

Worst years

• 2007-2009: This generation had frequent complaints about engine failures, transmission breakdowns, and other major issues. 
• 2017-2019: These models have been linked to significant problems, including engine oil dilution, electrical issues, and brake problems. 

Other years to consider

• 2010-2012: These models can be good options, but some may experience excessive oil consumption. 
• 2021-2022: These models are also considered great, but some base models may lack certain features found in higher trims. 

What is the common problem with the Honda CR-V 2008?

Common problems with the 2008 Honda CR-V include issues with the air conditioning, sticky door locks, and groaning noises from the rear differential. Other reported issues involve harsh shifts in the automatic transmission, windshield wiper motor failure, and premature tire wear. 
This video explains common problems with the third-generation Honda CR-V: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Apr 3, 2024
Mechanical and performance

• Air Conditioning: The A/C may blow warm air due to problems with the compressor, condenser, or other climate control system components. 
• Transmission: Some owners report harsh shifting from first to second gear in automatic transmissions. 
• Rear Differential: A groaning noise when turning can indicate that the differential fluid has broken down and needs to be replaced. 
• Engine Oil Consumption: The engine is known to consume oil, so it is important to check the oil level regularly and top it off as needed to prevent damage, according to Samarins.com. 
• Tires: There are frequent complaints about premature tire wear, especially on models with larger alloy wheels. 

This video discusses the AC compressor issue in the 2008 Honda CR-V: 55s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Feb 24, 2021
Electrical and body

• Door Locks: Sticky door locks that fail to work properly are a common problem due to worn lock tumblers. 
• Windshield Wipers: The wipers may fail to park correctly if the wiper motor fails. 
• Daytime Running Lights: Some owners have experienced the daytime running lights failing. 
• Rubber Trim: The rubber trim around the windows can deteriorate over time. 

This video demonstrates a door lock issue on the 2008 Honda CR-V: 56sRoC DIYYouTube · Nov 24, 2022
Other

• Recalls: The 2008 CR-V has been subject to multiple recalls, including an issue with the passenger frontal airbag inflator assembly on some models, according to Cars.com. 

Is the 2008 Honda CR-V reliable?

The 2008 Honda CR-V is considered a very reliable vehicle, with high ratings for dependability and low average annual repair costs. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the power steering rack, door lock actuators, and AC compressor, though these are not widespread problems for the generation. Overall, it's viewed as a durable and trustworthy option, especially when properly maintained. 
Pros

• High reliability ratings: The 2008 CR-V is frequently praised for its reliability and quality by both consumer review sites and mechanics. 
• Low ownership costs: The average annual repair cost is low, and the severity and frequency of repairs are below average. 
• Durability: With proper maintenance, a 2008 CR-V can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles. 
• Positive owner feedback: Many owners have reported having the vehicle for many years with no major issues beyond normal wear and tear. 

Cons

• Power steering leaks: Some owners have experienced leaks from the power steering rack. 
• Door lock actuators: The door lock actuators can be unreliable and may need to be replaced. 
• AC compressor: The AC compressor is located low enough that it can be hit by road debris, causing damage. 

Overall
The 2008 Honda CR-V is a highly reliable SUV, with few widespread issues for its generation. While some specific problems like power steering rack leaks and door lock actuator failures have been reported, these are not consistent enough to significantly detract from its excellent reputation for dependability and durability.