The Honda CR-V is one of the most trusted compact SUVs on the market. It is known for comfort, smooth driving, great fuel economy, and long life.
The Honda CR-V years to avoid are 1997–1999, 2002–2003, 2007–2009, and 2017–2019. These models have higher issues, including early 1.5 turbo engine problems and below-average reliability in 2007–2009.
This guide explains the CR-V years you should be careful with, the common issues found in those years, and which model years are the best to buy. The goal is simple: help you make a smart choice and avoid expensive repairs later.
Quick Answer: Honda CR-V Years to Avoid
Here are the CR-V years that have the most reported issues:
2002, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019
These years show higher problems related to:
- Oil dilution
- Transmission troubles
- Electrical failures
- Vibration issues
- Air conditioning problems
Below is a detailed explanation for each year so you understand why they are on the “avoid” list.
How These Years Were Selected
The years listed here were chosen based on:
- Driver complaints
- Mechanical failure reports
- Repair shop data
- Recall information
- Common problems shared by long-term owners
- Cost of repairs and parts
These factors help show which CR-V years are more likely to give trouble. Some years have only one or two big issues, while others have many repeated problems.
Detailed Breakdown of CR-V Years to Avoid
1. 2002 Honda CR-V
The 2002 model had several issues that made ownership more difficult.
Main Problems
- Air conditioner compressor failure: Many owners reported that the AC stopped working suddenly. Replacing the compressor can be costly.
- Transmission problems: Some CR-Vs from this year experienced slipping or delayed shifts.
These problems can become expensive, which is why 2002 is considered a risky year.
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2. 2007–2009 Honda CR-V
These three years are grouped together because they share many of the same problems.
Main Problems
- Door lock actuator failures: The doors may fail to lock or unlock properly. This problem becomes annoying and unsafe.
- Electrical issues: Problems with sensors, switches, and other small electrical parts are common.
- Engine noise and small failures: Some owners noticed strange sounds or small engine faults that continued even after repairs.
Because these issues appear again and again, many buyers prefer to avoid these years.
3. 2011 Honda CR-V
This model year sits between two strong generations, but it had more problems than the years before and after it.
Main Problems
- More mechanical problems compared to other years: The engine, suspension, and small components had higher failure rates.
- Electrical system troubles: Owners often mentioned dashboard warnings, faulty sensors, and flickering lights.
While 2011 is not the worst CR-V ever made, it is still considered less reliable than most other years.
4. 2014–2015 Honda CR-V
These years are known for vibration issues that many drivers found frustrating.
Main Problems
- Strong vibration at idle or low speeds: When the car is stopped or moving slowly, the whole cabin may shake. This came from engine design and mounts.
- Transmission roughness: Some drivers said the transmission felt jerky or slow when shifting.
- Early signs of oil dilution in colder areas: Oil dilution means fuel mixes with engine oil, which reduces engine protection.
These issues make the 2014–2015 CR-V less comfortable and less reliable.
5. 2017–2019 Honda CR-V
These years are the most talked-about because of the 1.5L turbo engine problem.
Main Problem: Oil Dilution
Oil dilution is the biggest issue in these years. This happens when unburned fuel mixes with the engine oil, making the oil thin and less protective. Drivers reported:
- Strange fuel smell inside the cabin
- Engine hesitation or weak power
- Reduced long-term engine life
- Cold-weather performance problems
Honda made updates to fix this issue, but many owners still experienced the problem even after the updates.
Other Issues
- Fuel system problems
- Loss of power while driving
- Engine warning lights
- Rough idling
Because of these concerns, many buyers prefer to avoid 2017–2019 unless the vehicle has clear proof of proper maintenance.
Common Problems in the Worst CR-V Years
1. Oil Dilution
This is the most serious issue and mostly affects models with the 1.5L turbo engine. When gasoline mixes with the engine oil:
- The oil becomes thinner
- Engine parts wear out faster
- Cold starts become rough
- The car may lose power
If this problem continues for long, it can damage the engine.
2. Transmission Problems
Several CR-V years have transmission issues. Drivers reported:
- Shaking while driving
- Delayed shifting
- Sudden jerks
- Loss of acceleration
Transmission repairs can be very pricey, which makes these years riskier to buy.
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3. Electrical Failures
Common electrical issues include:
- Faulty door lock actuators
- Sensor failures
- Warning lights turning on without reason
These problems may not seem major at first, but they can be annoying and costly over time.
4. Air Conditioning Problems
In some years, especially 2002, the AC system tends to fail. A broken compressor can cost a lot to replace.
5. Cabin Vibration
The 2014–2015 models had strong vibration problems. Many owners described it as:
- Steering wheel shaking
- Seat vibration
- Dashboard rattling
This issue made the car uncomfortable for long trips.
Best Honda CR-V Years to Buy
Not all CR-V years are bad. In fact, most of them are reliable and offer great performance. The years below are known for smooth driving, fewer repairs, and long-term durability:
2013
Known for strong reliability and fewer mechanical issues.
2016
Refined and stable, with fewer complaints compared to nearby years.
2020–2022
These years offer improved engines, better transmission performance, and fewer common issues. They also have better safety features and updated technology.
If you want a worry-free ownership experience, these years are great choices.
Tips for Buying a Used Honda CR-V
Even if you choose a reliable year, it is still important to check the car carefully.
1. Check the service records
A well-maintained CR-V will last much longer. Look for:
- Regular oil changes
- Transmission service
- Brake replacement
- Recall repairs completed
2. Look for signs of oil dilution
This is important for 2017–2019 models. Look for:
- Fuel smell near the engine
- Rising oil level
- Rough idle
3. Inspect the transmission
During a test drive, make sure the car:
- Shifts smoothly
- Does not shake
- Has no delay when accelerating
4. Check the AC and heating
Turn both systems on and off to make sure they work properly.
5. Listen for unusual noises
Any rattling, knocking, or vibration could mean a bigger problem.
6. Ask for a pre-purchase inspection
A trusted mechanic can find problems that you may not notice.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Problems
Even a reliable car needs proper care. Here are simple tips to keep your CR-V running smoothly.
1. Change the oil regularly
Do not wait too long between oil changes. This is especially important for turbo engines.
2. Keep an eye on the engine smell
If you notice a fuel smell in the cabin or near the hood, get it checked right away.
3. Warm up the engine in cold weather
This helps reduce oil dilution.
4. Take care of the transmission
Check the transmission fluid and service it as recommended.
5. Keep the tires in good shape
Proper tire pressure improves comfort and extends the life of the suspension.
Honda CR-V reliability by year
Honda CR-V reliability changes from year to year. Most models are dependable, but some years have more engine, vibration, or electrical issues. Newer CR-Vs tend to be smoother and safer, while older ones may need more repairs as they age.
2022 Honda CR-V years to avoid
The 2022 Honda CR-V is generally a reliable model and not considered a year to avoid. It offers strong performance, good comfort, and fewer complaints. Most drivers find it dependable compared to older CR-V generations with known issues.
Honda CR-V years to buy used
The best used Honda CR-V years to buy include 2013, 2016, 2020, 2021, and 2022. These years have fewer major problems, smoother engines, better safety features, and strong long-term reliability, making them great choices for used-car shoppers.
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Honda CR-V issues 2025
Most CR-V issues seen in 2025 relate to past models, especially earlier turbo-engine years with oil dilution or older models with vibration and electrical problems. Newer CR-Vs show fewer complaints, making them more dependable for long-term everyday driving.
Honda CR-V best years CoPilot
According to common buyer guides like CoPilot, the best Honda CR-V years include 2013, 2016, and 2020–2022.
These models offer dependable engines, comfortable rides, fewer reported problems, and strong value, making them popular picks for used-car buyers.
FAQs
What year is the Honda CR-V the most reliable?
2013, 2016, and 2020 are considered the most reliable CR-V years, offering strong engines, fewer problems, and long-lasting performance.
Which Honda CR-V years to avoid?
Avoid 1997–1999, 2002–2003, 2007–2009, and 2017–2019 due to higher engine, vibration, electrical, and early turbo issues.
Which is more reliable, Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4?
Both are reliable, but the Toyota RAV4 is usually rated slightly higher for long-term dependability and fewer major issues.
What is the most common problem with Honda CR-V?
The most common CR-V problem is oil dilution in certain turbo engines, along with vibration, AC failures, and electrical issues.
What are the best years to buy used CR-V?
The best used CR-V years are 2013, 2016, 2020, 2021, and 2022 because they show fewer long-term issues.
Which generation of Honda CR-V is the best?
The fifth generation, especially newer model years, is considered best for comfort, safety, reliability, and improved engine performance.
Which Honda CR-V should I buy?
Choose a CR-V from 2013, 2016, or 2020–2022 for strong reliability, smooth driving, and the lowest risk of major issues.
How long will a CR-V engine last?
A well-maintained CR-V engine can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles, depending on driving habits and regular maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Honda CR-V year can save you from stress, breakdowns, and high repair costs. While the CR-V is known for being a dependable and long-lasting SUV, some years come with more issues than most drivers expect. Models like 2002, 2007–2009, 2011, 2014–2015, and 2017–2019 often have problems with vibration, electrical parts, transmission behavior, or the well-known oil dilution issue.
The good news is that many CR-V years are still great choices. Years like 2013, 2016, and 2020–2022 stand out for better reliability, stronger engines, smoother driving, and fewer long-term complaints. By checking service records, inspecting the car carefully, and knowing which years to avoid, you can find a CR-V that fits your needs and lasts for many years without major trouble.
In the end, an informed choice is the best protection. With the right research and a little care, your next Honda CR-V can be a dependable, comfortable, and worry-free ride.