Launched in 1997, the CR-V is Honda’s best-selling vehicle.
It’s well known for comfort, convenience and dependability however some models have been far more reliable than others.
In this article we’ll take a deep dive on the best and worst years of the Honda CR-V…
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Honda CR-V Are:
The best Honda CR-V model years are 2022, 2021, 2020, 2016, 2013, 2009, 2001, and 1998. The worst model years of the CR-V are 2019, 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2011, 2008, 2007, and 2002. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Honda CR-V?
Honda has produced a lot of great CR-Vs in the model’s long history, listed below are the best of the best.
2022 Honda CR-V
There are not too many changes for the 2022 model from the previous year, but if you want one of the latest versions of the iconic vehicle line with the most up-to-date tech, it’s a great choice.
The 2022 CR-V stays true to form with generous amounts of storage space and two fuel-efficient powertrain options.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2022 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“Great comfort, driver-friendly cockpit and controls, smooth ride, spacious interior, great gas mileage and plenty of power on demand from turbo 4cyl.”
2022 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“Great gas mileage and very nice to drive….comfortable, responsive, lots of room. Moonroof and all the latest electronics including wireless charging, rear camera, etc.”
2021 Honda CR-V
There are no significant changes for the 2021 model year, but there are significantly fewer reports and complaints compared to its immediate predecessor, which Honda has ironed out the kinks.
The 2021 model has been praised for its upscale cabin, wide range of tech features and fuel efficiency.
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2021 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“This is my second CR-V (still have my 07 which is still going strong with 175k miles:) I love everything about the 2021. Drives like a bigger car in a good way, substantial and safe. The interior is lovely. Luxury feel without Luxury price…”
2021 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“This White Honda CRV is comfortable, quiet and reliable. It has the smallest engine I have ever owned in a car, 1.5 liter. Its variable speed transmission with its turbocharger makes the car quick quiet and smooth. Best of all is the mileage. On regular gas I get 32 to 36 mpg…”
2020 Honda CR-V
The 2020 CR-V comes with a refreshed exterior, a hybrid engine option, and one of the best continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVTs) on the market.
Driver-assistance features were also added including:
- Automated emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2020 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“So we’ve had this CR-V for about a month now and we are pretty happy with it. We went from a Sienna to this CR-V as we didn’t need the extra room (and higher gas consumption). It took a little while to get used to a smaller vehicle, but there is still plenty of room for our family…”
2020 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“I bought this car new and I LOVE it. It is built to last. I will definitely buy another Honda CRV in the future.”
2016 Honda CR-V
LED daytime running lights, paddle-shifters, and additional trims were added to this model year for greater variety.
The 2016 CR-V was notably less problematic than the 2017 and 2018 models which were plagued by engine problems, making it a much safer bet.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2016 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“I was wary of the vibration issue for the 2015 so I waited for the 2016 to come out and some indication from Honda that a fix was applied. I can tell you that my car is not vibrating excessively, either at idle or driving, at least it’s not noticeable to bother me or my passengers. MPG is good, I can get 32 on the highways, 26-28 otherwise. Car handles great, accelerates sufficiently…”
2016 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“No problems, handles well. Nice looking car. I like the color and the style. Easy to take care of and keep clean.”
2013 Honda CR-V
The greatest features of the 2013 model year lies in its electronic and entertainment components, including the likes of a six-speaker audio speaker system, a moonroof option, and fog lights on certain trims.
The 2013 model is the safer option should you be deciding between the 2012, 2013 and 2014 models as it received notably fewer complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2013 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“I love the car just took a trip from Chicago to Virginia in it and averaged 41mpg according to the onboard computer. When I did the math manually using gallons and miles from the odometer it came out to 40.2mpg. For an SUV that is amazing…”
2013 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“Bought from mother in-law with 130k, now has 212,000 and still runs like new. All buttons work, no old car issues. Just change tires and oil and it’s as reliable as it gets. CRV is one of Honda’s greatest vehicles.”
2009 Honda CR-V
Although dated in terms of vehicle age, the 2009 Honda CR-V goes down as one of the greatest as attested to by several owners through their online reviews and feedback.
Reliability, fuel efficiency, and built-to-last are a few of the noted features of this model year.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2009 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“This is the car for you if you want a highly functional and reliable car for a fantastic price. I bought this car in 2012 with 19,000 miles and as of today am approaching 100k miles. Issues with the car? Ah, let me think….right – none, zero, nada, zilch. Simply put, the CR-V has exceeded my expectations in every possible way. It still looks good in terms of styling…”
2009 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“If you are looking for a small SUV this is the best one you can get for your money. Period! Just go out to find a good one and you won’t regret it!!”
2001 Honda CR-V
The 2001 CR-V was the first ever model in the second generation of the vehicle line and it is one of the least problematic models to date.
It arrived with a full redesign, including an updated interior and a better-looking exterior. Models under this model year came in a multitude of variants, known as low-end and high-end trims.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2001 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“I had a 2001 Honda CR-V SE and it was the most dependable vehicle I have ever had. I got it in 2006 with 60,000 miles and drove it until 2011 with 185,000 miles. I never had any mechanical problems with the CR-V. Only wear and tear and routine maintenance…”
2001 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“My 2001 CRV is really the best car I have ever had. I am still driving this car! I need to have my driver-side power window fixed, but that’s nothing. There is some rust around the back wheels, but the car is 21 years old. My interior almost looks new. One time took it to a honda dealer and said that you can not kill this car. The guy that fixed my breaks told me not to get rid of the car and that I could get a couple more years of the car.”
1998 Honda CR-V
The 1998 CR-V is the only model year on this best of the best list that belongs to the first generation of this vehicle line.
Although this model is the oldest, there is much to say about how reliable it has been for many owners.
Paint, engine, and transmission all held up according to owners, as long as the proper maintenance procedures were observed.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
1998 Honda CR-V, Edmunds review:
“This is one of the best-built vehicles offered from Honda, the motor and durability of the interior are exceptional. We also own a 2009 CR-V since new, but I can’t give it the same level of support… the cloth interior on the 2009 rips and stains easily, but the 1998 interior looks nearly new after using the car as a daily driver for 17 years…”
1998 Honda CR-V, Kelley Blue Book review:
“I live in the UK bought this 1998 CRV with 130,000 miles and used it for over 10 years in UK. No problems all through. Now because of my love for this car, shipped it back to Africa and it is still rugged, reliable and efficient as a 2nd car for the rough roads back home. I would recommend this particular 4×4 Honda CRV to anyone. It never dies !!!”
Consumer Scores For Best Honda CR-V Years
Below is a table that presents all the consumer ratings of the best Honda CR-V model years from reputable vehicle websites:
| Model Year | Edmunds’ Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book’s Consumer Rating | JD Power’s Consumer Rating |
| 2022 Honda CR-V | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2021 Honda CR-V | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2020 Honda CR-V | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2016 Honda CR-V | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2013 Honda CR-V | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2012 Honda CR-V | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2009 Honda CR-V | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2001 Honda CR-V | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 1998 Honda CR-V | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
What Are The Worst Years For The Honda CR-V?
The models listed below are the ones you may want to steer clear of…
2019 Honda CR-V
The emergency braking system was the biggest hurdle to the 2019 Honda CR-V’s success.
Owners of this model year reported that the said braking system activated at inconvenient moments, such as when accelerating from a full stop or passing through an intersection or traffic stop.
The 2019 CR-V had a total of 88 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 657 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Dead battery
- Infotainment system malfunction
- Sensing harness (soy-based) chewed by rodents
- Automatic emergency braking problems
Related: 9 Most Common Honda CR-V Problems (Explained)
2018 Honda CR-V
The 2018 Honda CR-V had similar problems to that of its immediate successor but it was also plagued by the infamous oil dilution problem.
Essentially gasoline was known to seep into the engine oil leading to various engine problems including engine failure.
The 2018 CR-V had a total of 232 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,445 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Gas in engine oil
- Infotainment glitches
- Smell raw fuel inside the cabin and outside the vehicle
- Spontaneous braking
2017 Honda CR-V
The 2017 Honda CR-V, based on statistics, is the most problem-riddled model year of the entire CR-V line-up.
It was one of the worst victims of the “engine oil becoming diluted by gas” problem which caused a wide range of severe engine issues.
The 2017 CR-V had a total of 372 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,763 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Heat not working properly
- High oil level with gas in oil
- Smell raw fuel inside the cabin and outside the vehicle
- Battery keeps going dead
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 CR-V was known for its wide range of engine problems although they weren’t as severe or as common as the 2017 and 2018 models.
Owners reported stalls, breakdowns and shaking whilst driving – these were caused by failing parts.
The 2015 CR-V had a total of 409 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 847 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Vibrates like crazy
- Excessive vibration
- Engine idle speed too low
- Stalls whilst driving
2014 Honda CR-V
Engine noise and engine failure at startup were two of the biggest concerns reported by 2014 Honda CR-V owners.
This was most evident during cold starts, with several users reporting that a grinding noise could be heard as soon as they switched on the vehicle’s ignition.
The 2014 CR-V had a total of 322 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 674 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Engine rattles on cold start up
- Delayed acceleration and hesitation
- Grinding noise on start up
2011 Honda CR-V
The 2011 model year is a recipient of Car Complaints “Beware of the Clunker” badge.
This is due to episodes of unintended acceleration or deceleration, which is a significant safety hazard.
The 2011 CR-V had a total of 146 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 537 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Unwanted acceleration when braking
- Excessive oil consumption
- Premature tire wear
2008 Honda CR-V
The 2008 Honda CR-V drew a lot of flak because of airbag deployment failure.
A few owners reported that, when they experienced collisions or accidents, the steering wheel airbag failed to deploy.
The 2008 CR-V had a total of 182 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,066 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Paint chipping
- Premature tire wear
- Airbag issues
- Door locks malfunction
2007 Honda CR-V
The 2007 Honda CR-V is yet another “clunker” awardee, and this is due to the fact that there were issues with the transmission and powertrain.
Hundreds of complaints were posted on various consumer feedback sites.
The 2007 CR-V had a total of 282 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 998 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Premature tire wear
- AC compressor failure
- Tranmission failure
- Power door locks malfunctioning
2002 Honda CR-V
Airbag issues were the most frequent (and most dangerous) issues of the 2002 Honda CR-V, these were related to the infamous Takata recall.
The faulty Takata airbags were known to explode and fire shrapnel into the cabin at the occupants.
The 2002 CR-V had a total of 134 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 642 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Air conditioning stopped working
- Paint fading
- Takata recall
- Throttle body replacement
Related: How Long Do Honda CR-Vs Last? (12 Important Facts)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
Listed below are complaints and problems listed for each model year:
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
| 2022 Honda CR-V | 1 | 29 |
| 2021 Honda CR-V | 13 | 91 |
| 2020 Honda CR-V | 29 | 135 |
| 2019 Honda CR-V | 88 | 657 |
| 2018 Honda CR-V | 232 | 1,445 |
| 2017 Honda CR-V | 372 | 1,763 |
| 2016 Honda CR-V | 191 | 408 |
| 2015 Honda CR-V | 409 | 847 |
| 2014 Honda CR-V | 322 | 674 |
| 2013 Honda CR-V | 195 | 437 |
| 2012 Honda CR-V | 283 | 417 |
| 2011 Honda CR-V | 146 | 537 |
| 2010 Honda CR-V | 115 | 492 |
| 2009 Honda CR-V | 80 | 382 |
| 2008 Honda CR-V | 182 | 1,066 |
| 2007 Honda CR-V | 282 | 998 |
| 2006 Honda CR-V | 72 | 496 |
| 2005 Honda CR-V | 74 | 559 |
| 2004 Honda CR-V | 67 | 571 |
| 2003 Honda CR-V | 94 | 554 |
| 2002 Honda CR-V | 134 | 642 |
| 2001 Honda CR-V | 35 | 149 |
| 2000 Honda CR-V | 58 | 152 |
| 1999 Honda CR-V | 13 | 156 |
| 1998 Honda CR-V | 17 | 136 |
| 1997 Honda CR-V | 8 | 129 |
What Problems Do Honda CR-Vs Have?
- Unwanted acceleration when braking
- Excessive oil consumption
- Gas in engine oil
- Air conditioning stopped working
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Honda CR-V?
According to cars.usnews.com, here are the best vehicles of the segment:
As you can see the CR-V secures the top spot…
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Honda CR-V | 8.8 | $26,400 – $36,200 | City: 27 – 28 /Highway: 32 – 34 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 8.8 | $25,800 – $36,800 | City: 24 – 26 / Highway: 29 – 33 |
| Mazda CX-5 | 8.7 | $25,900 – $38,650 | City: 22 – 24 /Highway: 27 – 30 |
| Ford Bronco Sport | 8.4 | $28,165 – $34,590 | City: 21 – 25 /Highway: 26 – 28 |
| Subaru Forester | 8.3 | $25,395 – $35,495 | City: 25 – 26 /Highway: 28 – 33 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 8.2 | $26,095 – $42,695 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Nissan Rogue | 8.2 | $26,850 – $38,130 | City: 28 – 30 /Highway: 34 – 37 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 8.1 | $26,525 – $36,465 | City: 25 – 27 /Highway: 32 – 35 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 8.0 | $26,490 – $37,320 | City: 21 – 23 /Highway: 28 – 30 |
| Kia Sportage | 7.9 | $25,990 – $36,790 | City: 23 – 25 /Highway: 28 – 32 |
| Jeep Cherokee | 7.7 | $29,995 – $39,345 | City: 18 – 23 /Highway: 24 – 31 |
| Chevrolet Equinox | 7.6 | $26,300 – $33,100 | City: 25 – 26 /Highway: 30 – 31 |
| GMC Terrain | 7.5 | $27,900 – $36,600 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Jeep Compass | 7.2 | $26,785 – $34,210 | City: NA / Highway: NA |
| Jeep Wrangler | 7.2 | $30,295 – $79,995 | City: 13 – 22 / Highway: 17 – 29 |
| Ford Bronco | NA | $29,300 – $49,475 | City: 16 – 20 /Highway: 17 – 22 |
| Ford Escape | NA | $26,510 – $36,630 | City: 23 – 28 /Highway: 31 – 34 |
| Mazda CX-50 | NA | $26,800 – $41,550 | City: 23 – 24 /Highway: 29 – 30 |
| Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross | NA | $25,795 – $29,295 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
Source: cars.usnews.com
Related: 6 Most Common Honda CR-V Hybrid Problems (Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/honda/cr-v-2022
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/honda/cr-v
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/CR-V/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/honda/cr-v/
https://www.edmunds.com/honda/cr-v/
https://www.kbb.com/honda/cr-v/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/honda/cr-v
