Best & Worst Years of Honda CR-V – Graphs & Owner Surveys

The Best Years of the Honda CR-V

Based on a review of reliability data, crash test results, owner surveys, and fuel economy ratings, here are the Honda CR-V years to consider. We’ve also included, where applicable, common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) information and a quick look at NHTSA recall information.

2005-2006 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 7-8/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 7-8/10

KBB Value: $4,460-$5,041

Fuel Economy: 22 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $536-$591

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 33%

Safety Rating: 4.7

Don’t expect cars with more than a decade-and-a-half of use to be perfect, but seeing engine and owner-reported reliability scores hover in the 7 to 8 range (out of 10) is impressive. The trade-off is you’ll be hard-pressed to find one for under $5,000 unless it’s in sad shape or has over 200,000 miles. But, adding a few thousand to the budget will increase the options.

Another thing to understand,  fuel economy isn’t great for these CR-Vs, something we mentioned earlier. But it would take many years and miles to justify buying a new CR-V (which gets 32 mpg) solely for the purpose of fewer visits to the gas station.

Drilling into the owner surveys, we uncover a different way of looking at the 2005-2006 Honda CR-V by exploring owner likes and dislikes. 26% of 2005-2006 owners believe their cars will make it to at least 200,000 miles (or their car already has). 

As for dislikes, some were unhappy with seat comfort. And in the perfect example of “to each his own,” the usability of the entertainment system is a dividing issue amongst owners. More 2005 owners like the entertainment system than don’t but it’s close, 25% liked to 17% disliked. The opposite is true for 2006 model owners, 19% Liked to 44% disliked. If you are looking at the 2005-2006 models, play around with the entertainment system a bit to pinpoint any deal breaker issues you may have with it.

Repairs are unavoidable with these CR-Vs, but at least the most common issue is dealing with an engine knock sensor (DTC P0325), a cheap fix that usually runs from $50 to $150. But that’s not to say expensive repairs aren’t ahead. The FIXD app reports that a new catalytic converter (DTC P0420), which runs $1,538-$2,041, could be an issue with these CR-V model years. Replacing the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) position sensor (DTC P0661) and air-fuel ratio sensor (DTC P0135) are typical repairs too. But, these usually cost no more than $150 to swap out. 

Compared to some CR-Vs that require spending $800 or more in annual upkeep, the 2005 and 2006 models are downright cheap to own ($536-$591 in yearly expenses). There is a 33% chance of expensive ($500+) engine repairs with the 2005 CR-V, but otherwise, no specific issue screams out from the data. 

It’s noteworthy that the 2005-2006 CR-V model years received a 4.7 out of 5 overall safety score based on NHTSA crash tests. Moreover, there are a significant number of recalls (almost two dozen). Still, many are related to the notorious Takata airbag issue, a problem facing other Hondas (and other brands) from the same era.

2008-2010 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 7-8/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 7-8/10

KBB Value: $5,563-$7,587

Fuel Economy: 23-24 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $568-$922

Average Years $500+ Repair in 2022: 93%

Safety Rating: 4.7

For a car buying budget under $10,000, 2008 to 2010 examples are the CR-V models to shop for. These editions benefit from third-generation improvements and solid reliability scores. Like earlier CR-Vs, the fuel economy won’t wow, but you can’t have everything when it comes to a used car.  

As with the 2005-2006 CR-V, numerous owners are hopeful these Hondas will hit 200,000 miles. These years also get good marks on driver visibility and their entertainment system. Interestingly, a similar number of owners didn’t like the stereo in the 2008 and 2009 CR-V, but the negative feedback dropped substantially for the 2010 edition. This was when Honda added Bluetooth and a USB port. 

Replacing the catalytic converter (DTC P0420) is a known problem for these CR-V models. The other issues that commonly arise are much less severe:

• Mass air-flow (MAF) sensor (DTC P0171, repair costs: $172-$309)
• Evaporative emissions (EVAP) canister purge solenoid/valve (DTC P0497, repair costs: $50-$150)
• Idle air volume learning procedure(DTC P0507, repair costs: $50-$150)

Both 2008 and 2010 have higher annual maintenance and repair expenses ($854 and $922, respectively) than most other CR-V years. Data shows you can expect to spend money on brakes, the 2008 had a 21.43% chance and the 2010 had a 23.81% chance.  The 2009 had a 7.14% chance of a brake repair (in 2022) however, the 2009 models’ HVAC system had a 23.0% chance of needing repair (in 2022).

Recalls approach two dozen instances, but many of these actions still involve the troublesome airbags. And drivers (and passengers) will appreciate a 4.7 overall safety score via NHTSA testing.

2013 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 8/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 8/10

KBB Value: $10,097

Fuel Economy: 26 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $556

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 86%

Safety Rating: 4.6

What’s not to like about a ten-year-old crossover that won’t drain the wallet to buy or keep? The 2010 CR-V scores an 8 in reliability from both the FIXD app and CR-V owners. Plus, low annual service and repair cost of $556 makes it one of the cheapest CR-V years to maintain.

Meanwhile, owners are optimistic about the CR-V’s longevity potential, and the stereo wins more than a few thumbs-ups. But before we get overly starry-eyed, there are a few complaints to consider. 

Half of the responding owners of the 2010 CR-V cite limited interior storage as a negative, while one-fourth weren’t favorable about drivers’ outward visibility. This last one is a bit of a head scratcher, as this issue failed to arise beyond single digits with other CR-Vs from this generation. 

The only major repair from the owner survey is a timing chain problem (DTC P0341, repair cost: $1,046-$1,615). Unlike most cars that use a rubberized timing belt (that requires periodic changing), the 2010 CR-V uses an actual metal chain that seldom needs to be replaced. The instance that arose is likely the exception, not the rule. 

Recalls have dropped significantly; there’s only one on record for the 2013 CR-V. This Honda enjoys a strong 4.6 overall safety score from NHTSA. 

2015-2016 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 9/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 8-9/10

KBB Value: $12,241-$16,734

Fuel Economy: 28-29 mpg

Average Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $536-$563

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 95%

Safety Rating: 4.6-4.8

The final years of the 4th-generation CR-V ended with honor and distinction thanks to near-perfect (9 out of 10) engine reliability scores. That’s impressive for vehicles approaching almost a decade of use. Owner-reported reliability ratings of 8 or 9 also deserve recognition. 

Many owners are enthusiastic about their 2015-2016 CR-Vs running until at least 200,000 miles. On the other hand, the most significant complaint was a lack of cabin storage, something we’ve heard before. Additionally, there was negative feedback about the CR-V being expensive to repair. 

Interestingly, the timing chain issue arises again with the 2015 CR-V. But other repairs are minor, with the fuel filler cap (DTC P0455, repair cost: $58-$165) showing in the data as the most common problem having a DTC. This code signals a fuel vapor leak which must be diagnosed and corrected (often with a new gas cap).

2018-2021 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 8/10 *(2021 was 4/10 – small survey group)

Owner-Reported Reliability: 8-10/10 

KBB Value: $20,985-$25,779

Fuel Economy: 29-32 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250-$673

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 96.6% (small survey group)

Safety Rating: 4.6-4.8

The 2018 to 2021 Honda CR-Vs are new; many may still be protected by the original warranty. For the most part, reliability scores are strong, and we wouldn’t worry about the 2021 edition getting a 4 from the FIXD app. This low ranking comes from too few 2021 CR-Vs to accurately reflect engine reliability for this model year. 

Despite this “blip,” we give this group of CR-Vs a noteworthy place on the best years lists. There are no diagnostic code issues to speak of, fuel economy is meaningful (up to 32 mpg), and crash test scores ranging from 4.6 to 4.8 inspire confidence. 

Further, owners give these newer CR-Vs high marks for good drivers’ outward visibility, an easy-to-use entertainment system, and many believe their crossovers odometers will reach 200,000 miles. 

The only thing that remains is time to see if any issues develop in the future. In the meantime, the 2018 to 2021 CR-V is a must-shop for those looking for a compact crossover that does it all. 

A Note About The 2022 and 2023 Honda CR-V: Given the lack of meaningful data, we have left the 2022 CR-V off this best and worst year summary. The same applies to the just-launched 2023 CR-V, which represents the start of the sixth generation.

The Worst Years of the Honda CR-V

While widely praised, the CR-V is proof that no automaker is infallible. Our data review reveals several CR-V model years that should not be on anyone’s shopping list. And owners of these vehicles need to keep an eye open for potential problems.

2001-2004 Honda CR-V 

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 3-5/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 6-9/10

KBB Value: $3,071-$3,603

Fuel Economy: 21-25 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250-$1,179

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 74.5%

Safety Rating: 4.2-5.0

If you remember one thing about CR-Vs from 2001 to 2004, it’s abysmal engine reliability ratings reinforced by subpar reliability data from owners. These alarming numbers can be attributed to age, but they don’t exempt these CR-V models from the worst years list. Simply put, stay away from these cars.

If that doesn’t get the point across, then excessively high annual upkeep ($1,179 for the 2003 and $875 for the 2004) should. Still need more proof? There’s a strong probability of needing expensive ($500+) engine or HVAC repairs. This is backed up by 25%-75% of owners (varies by year) reporting their CR-Vs are costly to repair. 

We’ll also add that 2002 marks the arrival of the second-generation CR-V. We regularly advise avoiding the first year of an all-new car, no matter the manufacturer. Read on, as this is a repeated recommendation for the CR-V.

2007 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 8/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 8/10

KBB Value: $5,372

Fuel Economy: 23 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $731

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 91%

Safety Rating: 4.7

On the surface, the 2007 CR-V’s strong reliability scores should make this Honda a keeper. But, fears of first-year gremlins for the debut of the third-generation CR-V are best considered. And 38% of responding owners report this particular CR-V is expensive to repair. Plus, that pesky and expensive-to-replace catalytic converter is the most common repair for the most common trouble code, P0420. 

25% of 2007 owners are confident their CR-V will see 200,000 miles, 13% of owners believe their 2007 CR-V won’t.

25% of owners liked the car’s entertainment system. 0% disliked it.

Could you make a case for buying a 2007 CR-V? Possibly, But we suggest playing it safe, mainly because there are less-dubious model years to consider.

2011-2012 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 8-9/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 7-9/10

KBB Value: $7,271-$8,372

Fuel Economy: 24-26 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $721-$789

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: 85.5%

Safety Rating: 3.8-4.6

The 2011 and 2012 CR-V are more examples of model years with notable reliability scores, but troubling characteristics surface once the data is thoroughly analyzed. However, these two CR-V model years get the thumbs down for different reasons.

The rationale for putting the 2011 CR-V on the worst years list is simple; terrible crash test scores. The 3.8 overall safety score results from poor showings in NHTSA’s side-impact assessments. And with most other CR-V models scoring a 4.6 or better, there are better (and safer) CR-Vs to buy. Put another way, would you want a loved one driving a car with a low safety score when there are options with greater peace of mind?

Meanwhile, the recommendation for skipping the 2012 CR-V will have a familiar ring. It’s the first year of the fourth generation. Additional reasons for taking a pass include high ($789) annual maintenance and repair expenses. Further, an almost 25% likelihood of expensive engine repairs is a roll of the dice most people don’t want to make. 

2017 Honda CR-V

FIXD App Engine Reliability: 8/10

Owner-Reported Reliability: 9/10

KBB Value: $19,626

Fuel Economy: 29 mpg

Average Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500

Average Likelihood of a $500+ Repair in 2022: Not enough data

Safety Rating: 4.8

If there’s a best of the worst for CR-V years, it’s the 2017 model year. There’s a convincing argument to make that this CR-V could qualify for a best-year designation. Still, we get back to the issue of buying a first-year/new-generation vehicle (the 2017 CR-V is the debut of the fifth generation). That said, we’ll fall back on our default advice and suggest not taking the risk of first-year problems surfacing. 

And perhaps not attributable to first-year teething pains, 29% of responding owners don’t like the infotainment system in their 2017 CR-V. That’s a troublingly higher number for such a new car. At the same time, another 14% feel their Hondas won’t make it to 200,000 miles, another large-ish number for vehicles just six years old. 

Frequently Asked Questions: The Best and Worst Years of the Honda CR-V

What years of the Honda CR-V have engine and/or transmission problems?

In general, most CR-V engines and transmissions have an exceptional history of dependability. However, data shows a few models that have less-than-stellar engines. Specifically, the 2001-2003 CR-Vs have up to a 50% chance of expensive engine repairs. Data also shows potential engine troubles for the 2005 and 2012 model years. Yet, only the 2002 and 2006 CR-Vs have a likelihood for transmission problems, with a repair probably of 14.3% for the 2002 and 7.1% for the 2006.

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

“High mileage” is a relative term, especially when it comes to the Honda CR-V. The survey revealed that an average of 20% of CR-V owners believe their cars will make it 200,000 miles (or already have). Compared to 7% who doubt their CR-Vs will achieve the same milestone. 

CR-V longevity comes down to usage and condition. In particular, a well-cared-for vehicle with 200,00 miles and used primarily on highways is likely to outlast a poorly maintained car with 100,000 driven primarily in stop-and-go city traffic. A thorough inspection is the best way to determine if a CR-V has too many miles.

What other vehicles should I consider? 

Besides the CR-V, Honda offers several other crossover SUVs to consider. For more space, there is the two-row Passport or the three-row Pilot. While the smaller HR-V is another alternative. Meanwhile, the Ridgeline offers a more civilized form of a pickup truck, and the Odyssey minivan provides the ultimate people-hauling capabilities. Although discontinued, the Fit combines SUV-like functionality with the qualities of a smaller car.

But Honda hasn’t abandoned passenger cars. The stalwart Civic is still popular, as is the larger Accord. 

A note about data and information sources

This article has many details about Honda CR-V reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.

• FIXD App Data: Engine reliability information captured from the FIXD app. 
• Owner Reports: Documentation as reported by surveyed Honda CR-V owners, including individual comments.
• KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Honda CR-V with typical mileage for that respective model year.
• Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the U.S. Department of Energy
• Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Honda CR-V owners
• Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA.

References

1. Honda CR-V model-specific information, edmunds.com (various dates), Retrieved Retrieved January 27, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/
2. Model-specific recall information as per the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Retrieved January 27, 2023, from https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls