What is the average mileage life of a Honda CR-V?

On average, a Honda CR-V lasts about 200,000 miles with regular maintenance, and many owners reach 250,000 miles or more; some well-maintained examples push beyond 300,000 miles.

This article, drawing on reliability data and owner surveys through 2024–2025, explains what influences that lifespan, how it varies by generation, and how to maximize it.

What affects the lifespan of a Honda CR-V

A variety of factors determine how far a CR-V will go.

• Maintenance history and service quality


• Driving conditions and mileage pattern (highway vs. city, short trips)


• Engine and transmission design and wear (timing chain vs. belt; CVT reliability)


• Climate and road salt or corrosion risk


• Repair quality and availability of parts

In practice, careful maintenance and conservative driving help CR-Vs reach higher mileages.

Common risk factors to watch

Owner reports highlight risks that can shave years off a CR-V’s life if left unaddressed, such as skipped maintenance, aggressive driving, extreme climates without proper care, and delayed repairs. Staying on top of service minimizes these risks.

Lifespan by generation and real-world mileage

Across the CR-V generations, owners commonly report reaching 200,000 miles as a baseline, with many hitting 250,000 miles and beyond, and some surpassing 300,000 miles with diligent care. The exact number varies by model year, maintenance history, and driving conditions.

• First generation (1997–2001): typical 180,000–240,000 miles, with many surviving to 200,000+


• Second generation (2002–2006): typical 190,000–240,000 miles


• Third generation (2007–2011): typical 200,000–250,000 miles


• Fourth generation (2012–2016): typical 210,000–260,000 miles


• Fifth generation (2017–2022): typical 210,000–300,000 miles


• Sixth generation (2023–present): early data show many 200,000+ miles, with 250,000+ possible with diligent maintenance

While ranges vary, the consensus is that a CR-V can easily reach a couple of hundred thousand miles with regular maintenance, and more with attentive care.

Maintenance practices that help maximize life

Keeping a CR-V on the road for the long haul relies on disciplined upkeep and timely replacements of wear items. The recommended maintenance milestones below reflect broadly accepted intervals, though owners should consult their manual for their specific year and drivetrain.

1. Oil changes: about every 5,000–7,500 miles for conventional oil, and about every 7,500–10,000 miles for full synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions.


2. Transmission/CVT fluid: inspect and change as recommended (often every 60,000–100,000 miles, depending on model and usage).


3. Coolant flush and replacement: typically at or around 100,000 miles, then as advised by Honda for your year/model.


4. Spark plugs: commonly every 100,000–120,000 miles on modern CR-Vs.


5. Timing chain considerations: CR-V models use timing chains; have chain tensioners and guides inspected at major service or around 100,000 miles as a precaution.


6. Brake system: brake pads, rotors, and fluid checks every 20,000–30,000 miles or as signs of wear appear.


7. Tires and alignment: rotate every 5,000–7,500 miles; ensure proper alignment to minimize wear.


8. Regular inspections: belts, hoses, cooling system components, ignition coils, and CVT components (if applicable) should be checked during routine service.

Sticking to these maintenance steps can help push a CR-V toward higher mileages, but actual outcomes depend on usage and care.

Summary

Across generations, the Honda CR-V is widely regarded as a durable compact SUV with a typical lifespan around 200,000 miles under normal maintenance. With consistent service, many owners reach 250,000 miles or more, and some report 300,000 miles. The key to maximizing longevity is proactive maintenance, sensible driving, and timely repairs, tailored to your specific model year and drivetrain.

Are there any CR-V years to avoid?

Years to avoid for the Honda CR-V include 2002-2003, 2007-2009, and 2017-2019, as they are associated with common issues like excessive oil consumption, air conditioning failures, and engine problems. Specifically, the 2017–2019 models had engine oil dilution and brake issues, while older years like 2002–2003 are known for oil consumption and AC problems. 
This video discusses the Honda CR-V's best and worst years and common problems: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · May 7, 2025
Model years to approach with caution

• 2002–2003: Prone to high oil consumption and early air conditioning system failures. 
• 2007–2009: Issues include problems with the air conditioning, excessive oil consumption, and paint problems. 
• 2010–2011: Both years have been linked to excessive oil consumption. The 2011 model also had recalls related to unintended acceleration and steering issues. 
• 2014–2015: These models experienced persistent engine vibrations, particularly at idle. 
• 2017–2019: These years had multiple problems including engine oil dilution (from gasoline getting into the engine oil), potential brake issues, and general electrical problems with the AC and heating systems. 

Important considerations

• Maintenance is key: A well-maintained CR-V from a "problematic" year can still be a good vehicle. Regular oil changes are critical for engine longevity. 
• Vehicle inspection: Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a trusted mechanic to catch potential issues before buying. 
• Rust and suspension: Older models can be susceptible to suspension issues, and rust can lead to more costly repairs. 

Which is more reliable, Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V?

The Toyota RAV4 is often considered slightly more reliable, particularly for long-term dependability, according to sources like Visalia Toyota and Reddit, especially regarding its naturally aspirated engine. However, the Honda CR-V also has a very strong reliability reputation, ranking highly in its segment according to Chula Vista Honda and RepairPal, and recent model years are also praised for comfort and up-to-date tech. Both vehicles are known for long-term durability and are considered excellent choices.
 
Toyota RAV4 reliability

• Strong reputation: The RAV4 consistently ranks highly for reliability, often earning top marks from organizations like Consumer Reports. 
• Engine: Its 2.5L naturally aspirated engine is considered very proven and reliable, particularly in hybrid models. 
• Lower maintenance costs: With an average annual repair cost of around $429, it has slightly higher average annual costs than the CR-V. 

Honda CR-V reliability

• Excellent ratings: The CR-V is also consistently rated as one of the most reliable compact SUVs, with RepairPal giving it a high rating. 
• Lower maintenance costs: It has a slightly lower average annual repair cost of around $407. 
• Engine considerations: The turbocharged 1.5L engine in gasoline models has a history of some issues, though it remains very reliable with proper maintenance. The hybrid version is considered more reliably and quieter in operation. 

Which to choose

• For maximum long-term reliability, especially with the hybrid powertrain, the Toyota RAV4 is a solid choice. 
• If you prioritize a slightly lower average annual maintenance cost, a more modern and comfortable interior, and a spacious and quiet ride, the Honda CR-V is an excellent option. 
• Both vehicles are known for their longevity and are great choices for years of trouble-free driving with proper care. 

What is considered high mileage for a Honda CR-V?

A Honda CR-V is generally considered to have "high mileage" at 200,000 miles or more, though a well-maintained CR-V can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles. While other cars are considered high-mileage around 100,000 miles, the CR-V is known for its durability, meaning a vehicle with 100,000 to 150,000 miles can still be in excellent condition with plenty of life left. 

• 200,000+ miles: This is the common threshold for a vehicle to be considered high-mileage. 
• 250,000–300,000+ miles: With proper maintenance, many CR-Vs can reach this impressive mileage range. 
• The importance of maintenance: A vehicle's lifespan is heavily influenced by its maintenance history. A meticulously cared-for CR-V will last much longer than one that has been neglected. 
• Beyond the odometer: When buying a used CR-V, pay attention to service records, how the vehicle was driven (highway vs. city), and evidence of routine maintenance like oil changes and brake servicing. 

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.