What year CR-V has the least problems?
The 2017–2019 Honda CR-V models are generally considered the least problematic, with strong reliability scores. The newer 2020s also show solid reliability, but there isn’t a single year that is universally the best across all generations.
Reliability trends for the CR-V across generations
Reliability rankings for the CR-V come from major trackers such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, as well as owner surveys. Over the years, reliability has tended to improve with each generation, though earlier generations carried their own histories of recalls and subjectively higher maintenance needs. The most consistently praised period is the 2017–2019 model years, with strong scores and relatively few widespread issues. Newer models (2020–2024) continue to perform well, but long-term durability data are still building as those vehicles accumulate more miles.
Below is a quick snapshot of model-year ranges that reliability trackers often rate as among the best for the CR-V.
- 2017–2019: Fifth-generation CR-V at its early peak, with high reliability scores and few major defects reported.
- 2020–2021: The mid-cycle refresh years, maintaining strong reliability and benefiting from improvements in powertrain and electronics.
- 2022–2024: Latest models continue to score well for reliability, though long-term durability data are still accumulating.
In practice, individual results can vary by trim, maintenance history, and how the vehicle is used. Always verify recall status and maintenance records when buying used.
What to watch when buying a used CR-V
The reliability of a specific CR-V depends on how well it has been maintained. When shopping, use these guidelines to minimize risk of problems:
- Check recall history and verify that any open recalls have been completed at a Honda dealer or authorized service shop.
- Review maintenance records for regular oil changes, fluid top-offs, and timing belt/chain service (as applicable to the generation).
- Inspect for typical wear items: tires, brakes, suspension components, and CV joints; listen for unusual noises during a test drive.
- Consider a vehicle history report and a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic to identify issues not obvious in records.
Note that even the most reliable model year can have a bad example if it has been poorly maintained or abused. Prioritize well-documented examples with clean service histories.
Summary
Bottom line: if you’re aiming for the lowest risk of problems, target the 2017–2019 CR-V models, with recent 2020–2024 models also offering strong reliability. When buying used, perform due diligence: confirm recalls are resolved, review maintenance history, and have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
What is the most reliable year for a used Honda CR-V?
Which Honda CR-V years are the best? Almost all CR-Vs have good reliability records, but models built from 2013 to 2016, and those built from 2020 to the present have the best records for which good data exists.
What year does CR-V have transmission issues?
Honda CR-V Automatic Transmission Issues
There was a recall of 237,000 CR-V models between 2002 and 2003. The shift cable linkage tends to corrode and this prohibits drivers from being able to shift into park.
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.
What year to avoid Honda CR-V?
You should be cautious with Honda CR-V years 2007-2009 and 2017-2019 due to common issues like A/C failures, electrical problems, and engine oil dilution. Other years to avoid include 2015 (CVT shudder) and 2011 (oil consumption, steering, and airbag issues).
Specific years to avoid
- 2007–2009: This generation saw common A/C failures, excessive tire wear, and electrical problems.
- 2011: This model year had numerous recalls and is known for unintended acceleration, excessive oil consumption, and steering issues.
- 2015: This year experienced issues with its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), leading to shuddering and hesitation under acceleration.
- 2017–2019: The start of the fifth generation included the introduction of a new turbo engine, but the first few model years are notorious for gasoline mixing with the engine oil, which can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed.
- Other notable years:
- 2018: Had a high number of complaints, similar to the 2017 model.
- 2019: Some reports mention issues with the new turbo engine and the new generation's design.
