Best Year for Honda CR-V

Braden Carlson
Mar 16, 2021

Honda’s small but satisfying compact SUV, the CR-V has a reliable model year for virtually any budget.

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid - Honda

When Honda rolled out its first production CR-V for the 1997 model year, the automaker made a statement. In the world of offroading, camping, scenic road trips, and adventure, you can have your cake and eat it, too.

You don’t have to burn your gasoline budget within a few hours from home. With the Honda CR-V, you can take solace in the fact that you won’t have to be interrupted on your adventure by frequent visits to a gas station.

Obviously, the CR-V has never really been known for its towing capacity. Though, if you don’t have anything to tow, is there really any reason to have a vehicle that can do it?

For over 20 years, the CR-V has been blending the good times of offroading and adventure with Honda’s notoriety for fuel economy and remarkable reliability. Since its debut, the CR-V has grown to its fifth generation. There’s a vast range of affordable model years that can land you in one. No matter what one you wind up with, though, you’re sure to have a good time.

2001 Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V First-generation (1997-2001)

Honda came out swinging with the first generation CR-V. The carmaker wanted to make a lasting impact on the compact SUV market. To say it did so would be an understatement. Instead of becoming a prime example of the class, the CR-V became the standard. It featured standard all-wheel-drive and adequate rear passenger legroom.

Additionally, the first-gen. CR-V came with a couple of adventure Easter eggs. Under the passenger seat, you’ll find a small storage cubby. Furthermore, beneath the trunk carpet, you’ll find a picnic table!

The first-gen. models came with a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This B series engine is very similar to the ones you’d find in the non- VTEC variants of the Acura Integra of the time.

While it didn’t have the most stellar power output at 126 horsepower for years 1997-1998 and 146 horsepower years 1999-2001, it did get great fuel economy. An EPA rating of up to 19 mpg city and 23 mpg highway nets a combined average of 21 mpg.

The 1998 model year brought on a front-wheel-drive option. Both manual and automatic transmissions are available. The manual variants do get a couple of extra mpgs, too.

The first-gen. CR-V has a couple of recalls to look out for. Two electrical faults, one with the wiring harness that could result in sudden failure of headlights and windshield wipers and another with the ignition switch, can result in the engine shutting off. The third recall is regarding the airbags and their possible rupture or under-inflation.

As always, run any used car through a VIN search to check for recall repairs and any prior incidents!

A budget of $5,000 is more than enough to get yourself a clean first-gen. CR-V. Some can even be found under $2,000 in pretty great shape.

2006 Honda CR-V SE

Honda CR-V Second-generation (2002-2006)

The second-gen. Honda CR-V maintains the classic styling of the first-gen. models with some tasteful updates to the overall design. While the first-gen. spirit remains intact, the second-gen. brings along technological updates and a fairly significant boost in power.

Remaining relics from the first-ge.n models are the spare tire mounted to the back door, the availability of a manual transmission, and, of course, the picnic table.

The power upgrade comes from the switch to the 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder that has become worshipped among Honda fans. The K series engine is notorious for its powerful capabilities and longevity. The engine found in the second-gen. CR-V makes 160 horsepower and features the legendary Honda variable valve timing system; VTEC. Depending on year and transmission, the second-gen. CR-V will net you up to 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The second-gen. models have a few more outstanding recalls. Many of them involve airbags, as this generation falls under the worldwide recall for faulty Takata airbags. While these are great cars, it is important to be sure these recall repairs have been done by checking the VIN.

If they haven’t, don’t be afraid to ask a seller to have them taken care of before purchasing. A faulty airbag is a serious matter that needs to be taken care of immediately. Additionally, there is a recall for tempered glass failure. And finally, a recall for faulty window motor switches.

A nice example of a second-generation CR-V can be purchased for around $5,000. Expect some lower-mileage examples to have an asking price north of $8,000 depending on the year.

2007 Honda Sport Concept CR-V

Honda CR-V Third-generation (2007-2011)

The third-gen. models of the CR-V are where the styling and quirks depart from the norm. Gone are the days of the rear-mounted spare tire and manual transmission. It also received a lower step-in height, driving the CR-V toward being more of a practical daily driver than a compact adventurer.

Still, the third-gen. brought on some exciting new features. Voice-activated navigation and leather seats were some of the technological advances, though they were not available on every model. Safety features were added, too, as every third-gen. CR-V came equipped with side-curtain airbags.

The third-gen. models saw another increase in power but retained the K series 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder. The output was a brisk 166 horsepower, just six more than the previous generation.

However, fuel economy did take quite a step up. Ratings of up to 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for a combined 24 mpg rating steps the game up a fair bit. As with previous generations, the front-wheel-drive examples offer a slight advantage in fuel economy. Though, only by one mpg in this case.

Once again, an onslaught of airbag recalls plagues the CR-V. According to the NHTSA, 12 of the currently active 14 recalls on third-gen. models are related to airbags and their inflators.

Another involves the ignition circuit, which may cause sudden engine stalls. Even more concerning is the automatic transmission module’s recall that can result in engine stalls and the car rolling away even when put in park.

NHTSA: Honda CR-V Recalls

Third-gen. CR-Vs are not explicitly hard to come by under $10,000, but one should expect to be north of five figures for clean low mileage examples. Later examples with higher trims and options can soar nearly to $15,000, too.

2012 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Honda CR-V Fourth-generation (2012-2016)

The Honda CR-V redesign for the model year 2012 brought back some of the original’s mojo. The compact SUV became much more appealing to look at with this redesign. It also saw the inclusion of some remarkable modern amenities. A five-inch infotainment screen with steering wheel controls became standard, Bluetooth included. Also standard on the fourth-gen. models is a backup camera.

Options include dual-zone automatic climate control and a rear-seat DVD system for those long road trips with the family.

Another jump in power comes with the fourth-gen. model. Again, a 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline four-cylinder is the powerplant of choice. This time, though, it packs a power output of 185 horsepower.

Up to 2014, the fuel economy was pretty great, with up to 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for a combined total of 26 mpg.

However, in 2015 Honda switched the engine to the Honda Earth Dreams direct-injected variant, and the transmission was switched to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination netted an increase to 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway for a combined total of 28 mpg. That is pretty stellar for an SUV.

The third-gen. has very few recalls. 2012 model years have an open recall for front door latch failure. 2012 and 2013 models also have an open recall regarding the shifter interlock, warning that switching out of park without your foot on the break will allow the car to roll away, which seems like more a common-sense issue, but we digress. 2015 and 2016 model years have an active recall for incorrectly installed connecting rod bolts, incorrect pistons and, you guessed it, airbags.

A budget of $15,000 will put you in a good example of a fourth-gen. Honda CR-V in just about any trim and configuration.

2017 Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V Fifth-generation (2017-Present)

The current generation of the Honda CR-V is the biggest and most fuel-efficient yet. New technologies include the introduction of Android Auto and Apple Car Play, and Honda Sensing, their safety collection that includes things like collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.

A seven-inch touch screen infotainment system became available, as did an automatic rear liftgate. Optional dual-zone automatic climate control makes a return for this generation as well.

Multiple engine options are available for the fifth-gen. CR-V. Base models return the Earth Dreams direct-injected 2.4-liter four-cylinder and see fuel economy ratings up to 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

However, higher trim models now come with a 190 horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine that is capable of up to 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, making it the first time a CR-V sees a 30 mpg combined rating.

The biggest shift in powertrain for the fifth-gen. CR-V is the addition of a hybrid model that debuted in the 2020 model year. The 212 horsepower hybrid-assisted engine is good for an outstanding 40 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for a combined rating of 38 mpg.

Additionally, a plug-in hybrid version is already available overseas and expected to be in the U.S. in the near future.

Fifth-gen. models are not exempt from recalls. Recalls include faulty welds holding in the fuel tank causing fuel leaks, failed steering wheel airbag wiring, and separation of the rear subframe, increasing the risk of crashing. This serves as a reminder that one should check even newer cars for open recalls.

If you aren’t searching for a brand-new car, used fifth-gen. CR-Vs can be obtained for as low as $20,000 with some ease. Expect to spend upwards of $30,000 for the latest years.

2004 Honda CR-V

Which CR-V Model Year is the Best for You?

Given the massive spectrum of cost among the generations, it’s easiest to break the Honda CR-V options into two budget categories. If you are looking to spend less than $10,000, CR-V model years from 2002 to 2006 (second-gen.) are undoubtedly the ones to go with.

Keeping all of the original CR-V’s cool mojo with more modern amenities and a bit more power than the first-gen. makes it a perfect candidate to be your daily driver and your offroad adventure partner.

Plus, you can get it with a manual transmission, and you still get the picnic table. Who doesn’t want that?

If your budget soars north of $10,000, we have to give our recommendation to the CR-V model years 2012 through 2016 (fourth-gen). They offer a great middle-ground in terms of technology and features while maintaining an obtainable price range often less than half the cost of a brand new model. Couple that with the fact that 2015 and 2016 model years get well into the 30 mpg range on the highway, and you’ve got yourself a winner.

No matter what CR-V you go with, you’ll likely be pleased with your decision to go with Honda’s signature compact SUV.

Photos: Honda

Frequently Asked Questions

May 8, 2022

What year Honda CR-V should you avoid?

There are two years of the Honda CR-V that you will want to avoid based on owner reviews and the total number of complaints on them. The first that you will want to avoid is the 2015 model year since it has the most complaints out of any year that the CR-V has been produced. These complaints include engine problems, transmission problems, and electrical problems.

The worst model year for the CR-V based on total repair costs would be the 2011 model year. This has a greater percentage of engine complaints compared to 2015. These engine complaints include rough idling, difficulty starting, and unexpected acceleration while braking.

Honda seems to have remedied and improved some of the issues that were hitting the CR-V in the past with some of the more recent years since the number of reported issues is significantly lower. The CR-V is known to be a pretty reliable small crossover, but there are just a few years to avoid.

Do Honda CRV have transmission problems?

The Honda CR-V does have some reported cases of transmission problems. The most common reported problem is that the vehicle shifts roughly between first and second gear when you have the automatic transmission. This is primarily caused by a linear solenoid failing on the transmission and usually if it is replaced it will fix the problem.

The CR-V has also been known to have gear grinding noises in the differential. This is sometimes mistaken for transmission noise because they are very similar sounding. When the fluid in the differential breaks down over time it causes more wear and tear on the gears and you can hear the gears grinding together when you drive. Typically this is fixed by replacing the fluid with some fresh gear oil.

The transmission in the CR-V is not as much of a problem as it is in the Pilot or Odyssey because the CR-V has a 4 cylinder engine and a different transmission than the one that is paired with the V6.

Are Honda CRV expensive to maintain?

A Honda CR-V has an average annual maintenance cost of $400 to $450 per year. This is well below the national average of $500 to $700 per year so in short no, the CR-V is not expensive to maintain at all. It is one of the most affordable vehicles to take care of overall.

The CR-V benefits from being a 4-cylinder Honda. The engines used in these are extremely reliable and very cheap to fix if anything does go wrong. The small engine also means that it does not need a lot of oil so regular maintenance and oil changes are cheaper than they are on vehicles that have larger engines.

The CR-V is one of the most affordable compact SUVs to run on the market today and if you are concerned about repair costs then this is a great one to go with. Honda has a reputation for building good reliable vehicles and that extends to the CR-V as well.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Peter L on June 28, 2021
I love my 2016 Honda CR-V: it is very reliable and good looking.
I like the look of my 2016 CR-V from the outside and the from the inside. Roomier than my 2011 crv. While driving it I noticed that my 2016 is more power than my 2011 too. I like the push-start button. Also, I like the smart entry feature that allow you to unlock the door without pressing the unlock button on your key. The smart entry feature allow to unlock the door just by pulling the door's handle. The 2016 CR-V also feature the lane watch which allow you to view the side right of the car when you are making a right turn. You also can activate lane watch feature while you are going straight by pressing the button on the end of turn signal handle, which I think is pretty cool stuff to have. The interior design and layout is also nicer than my 2011. The heated front seats are good thing to have too. I never have any problems with my Honda, whether the 2011 or 2016. I love it because it is very reliable and the fuel-mileage is not bad either.
accountCircle Ellis N on June 26, 2021
2009 Honda CR-V performs well in all conditions except snow.
I love just about everything about my 2009 Honda CR-V. The fabric seats are very comfortable, however also easy to stain. There is no Bluetooth radio, however there is an aux plug as well as a CD player. The gas pedal was initially very touchy, but after driving a while I have became accustomed to it. As far as the reliability, it has a very hard time driving in the snow and ice. The wheels will often lose traction, making it very easy to slide. The car is also only front wheel drive so all wheel drive would probably help it driving in the snow. My car has also managed to stay out of the car shop for the majority of its life. There is a lot of space and allows for comfort on long car rides.
accountCircle Grace V on June 24, 2021
2018 CR-V Honda - I feel safer.
My car has driver assist I love it I feel so much safer driving. The performance of my vehicle is awesome I have no problems at all with the reliability. My car is comfortable however I would like to have more of a luxury feeling to the leather seats, and I would have liked more color preferences on the leather interior. My car has brake assist, Cruz assist, all of these features are completely sensible, well worth the extra money and to fill a 100% more safer on the road. The seats fold completely flat and I have a dual level split back. I love the push button to start the car. My LCD panel.
accountCircle Jennifer A on June 27, 2021
2012 Honda CR-V ' with almost 150,000 miles ' is still going strong!
I have thoroughly enjoyed my Honda CR-V since purchasing it new in 2012. I have not experienced many maintenance issues and feel that the car is still in good condition (even with almost 150,000 miles). The original tires lasted five years, which was incredible! The car is also very spacious and has been driven on many family trips. It's even helped me move furniture on more than one occasion - I've fit a whole futon in there, a china cabinet, a dresser, and all kinds of other smaller items! Overall, it's a great car and I really enjoy it.
accountCircle Jake H on June 24, 2021
The amazing Honda CR-V from 2014!
The seats are super comfortable, and the steering wheel fits well in the hand. The shifter is also located in a fantastic place where my hand goes to it naturally without worrying about it being too far. As a tall person, I find the seat to be plenty adjustable to accommodate for my long legs and arms. I like how high the frame sits up off the ground. I have a super rocky driveway that low sitting vehicles do not fair well on. Overall I love the vehicle and how reliable it is. The HVAC works really well and rarely needs recharging as well.
accountCircle Miriam N on June 29, 2021
2011 Honda CR-V review: great car for any occasion or family for the long-term.
Love my Honda CR-V. It is been extremely reliable and mostly efficient. The cabin size and trunk size are perfect for just about any trip, short or small. It is durable and has plenty of room for passengers and pets. For its size, it has decent mileage, but could be better. The seats and trunk tray are very easy to adjust in order to fit anything needed to transport. The only negative aspect would be that it takes a minute to get up to speed quickly. Otherwise I love my car very much and plan on driving it as long as it will last.
accountCircle Lauren R on June 25, 2021
2007 Honda CR-V Vehicle Review
My Honda is very reliable. It is an older model with 260,000 miles on it, but I still have never had any problems with it. One feature it has is it tells you exactly how many miles until the gas tank is empty, which is very convenient. The gas tank holds about 13 gallons and has a little over 300 miles until empty. The seats are very comfortable and can be moved up, down, forward, or backward a very good amount. That is very helpful if you are short and need to move your seat up to reach the breaks and see out of the car.
accountCircle Frank M on June 25, 2021
Highly recommend the 2020 Honda CR-V!
The 2020 Honda CR-V is the fourth and best CR-V that we have leased. Honda continues to produce CR-V's that are reliable, comfortable, fuel efficient plus great styling. This CR-V also is the quietest one of all the CR-V's that we have leased. And the ride is very smooth. The interior is nicely laid out and very roomy. It seats 5 comfortable. Honda has not made dramatic changes to the dashboard but everything on it is convenient and works fine. All in all we rate the 2020 Honda CR-V as an a++.
accountCircle Leslie M on June 26, 2021
2007 Honda CR-V LX is not the fastest, but great for anyone looking for a dependable easy to drive car.
My 2007 Honda CR-V has around 86,000 miles on it, I drive it all over the place and what it lacks in speed it makes up for in reliability. The tire pressure sensors, heated seats, sunroof, oil life gauge, 4 wheel drive, and easy maneuverability help make this a good car for anyone looking for a reliable car that holds its value better than a lot of other cars. MPG seems to run around 22 mpg on average. And this isn't the fastest car on the road by far, but is otherwise a great car all around.
accountCircle Michelle L on June 24, 2021
Overall the 2003 Honda CR-V is a great vehicle for the price.
Bought the 2003 Honda CR-V used with 130k miles on it for around $7k. Had to replace the starter about 3 years later, otherwise no major repairs needed. Drives great, but not great gas mileage. AWD is fantastic! Drove to work and back on snow and ice with no problems, no skids, no loss of traction. Overall great vehicle for short distance driving. Great storage capacity also. Capable of moving large furniture, 8' boards, loads of boxes, etc. , also good for hauling boats or trailers.
accountCircle Barbara A L on June 25, 2021
Awesome compact 2001 Honda CR-V - for work or play!
My 2001 Honda CR-V has just over 150, 000 miles on it and is a great car! All wheel drive really is handy during bad weather. I follow the manufacturers recommendation for servicing. I have had to replace the radiator and brake calipers. Normal wear and tear on a car this age usually results in major repairs, but not this car. It is a compact SUV so my dog and I are comfortable traveling in it. With folding rear seats, I am able to carry quite a load too.
accountCircle Renee' R on June 26, 2021
2017 Honda CR-V 33 mpg on trip, fully loaded with keyless entry, Bluetooth.
My Honda CR-V is a 2017. I bought it new; I have had no mechanical problems at all. It is equipped with a backup camera, power windows, power locks. Recently traveled out of state and my average mileage was 33. Smooth ride; love the fact I can see out (I am short) love the Bluetooth and hands free telephone connections. I have always loved Honda's but never have owned a CR-V utility vehicle. Should the need arise I will definitely buy another Honda CR-V.
accountCircle Alison L on June 24, 2021
2001 Honda CR-V -- largely reliable, and inexpensive to repair.
I have a 2001 Honda CR-V, and bought it used (second owner). The pros are, good mileage, lots of room (comfortable for 5 adults) and the hatch is generous. The drawbacks have only been documented failures in older models (2005 and older), such as the temp sensor (etc. Sensor) causing hard starts when the car is warm, and replacing the fuel injection relay sensor. Easy fixes but a nuisance to track down.
accountCircle William W on June 29, 2021
2004 Honda CR-V reliability
The car is reliable , long-standing and affordable. The has been trouble with sway bars but it is an easy cheap fix. The AWD had amazing traction. The car has gotten me through a lot of rough winter's. I use the car for my bike racks and hood rails to strap equipment and construction plywood. Very versatile and it comes with a picnic table in the trunk which come in handy if you like to travel.
accountCircle Michael M on June 28, 2021
2002 Honda CR-V appreciation.
There is some minor issues that I have with this car. Since it is so old, my gas gauge is broken and therefore I do not know how much gas I have. It is very reliable and gets me over 200 miles for an average of $20. It is extremely comfortable and easy to drive. My favorite features are the sound system and the large back window. The spare tire on the back is very convenient.
accountCircle Mike H on June 27, 2021
2004 Honda CR-V compact SUV
The CR-V is the perfect sized SUV. It is roomy and comfortable. I've never had any mechanical problems and have >180,000 miles. It gets great gas mileage, about 30 miles per gallon. Fun to drive, handles well in city and on the highway. I would definitely recommend the CR-V, and will probably purchase another one when I buy a new vehicle.
accountCircle Kristin D on June 25, 2021
Honda CR-V 2002, 4x4 does well on all terrain/weather and is reliable.
The 2002 Honda CR-V is a reliable car, low cost of maintenance, with standard options that make it comfortable enough as compared to new cars. I dislike the cloth on the seats the company chose but that is just personal preference. The car has greater than 250, 000 miles on it and had the engine replaced at 180, 000.
accountCircle Andrew G on June 24, 2021
Why the Honda CR-V 2010 is still reliable today.
It is a great car that saves money on gas mileage. It also has comfortable seating, great ac, and other fun settings. I like the cruise control because it is easy to use and adjust from the right hand side of the steering wheel. I also get great sound quality when I play my CDs or listen to the radio.
accountCircle Cynthia C on June 28, 2021
I absolutely love my 2006 Honda CR-V EX SE!
I love my CR-V! I bought it new in 2006, and have yet to find a car I want more. I have been diligent about basic maintenance (fluids, tires, etc.), and it is been very reliable--I've never had to have any major repairs done. I am at almost 99,000 miles, and intend to keep it for several years more.
accountCircle Deborah S on June 28, 2021
Honda CR-V 2005 was a good year.
My Honda CR-V 2005 is older but I still love it. 260000 miles and she is still kicking! I do have to keep up on the oil changes and everything, and I have had to replace the battery a couple of time. As with any older car, you need to keep up an any maintenance problems before they get bigger.
accountCircle Debra L on June 27, 2021
High miles is when things stop working with the 2000 Honda CR-V SE.
Power windows and doors stop working. If power door quits working you cannot open the door to get it fixed without cutting the door. Major expense. Air hasn't worked since I have had it. Fan blower gas now stopped working at 283900 miles. But despite everything I love the 2000 CR-V.
accountCircle Marie M on June 24, 2021
2000 Honda CR-V drives comfortably and very spacious.
My car is reliable and spacious, only has 40, 000 miles on it and may be a year 2000 but feels new to me. It is comfortable and easy to drive. It performs well and rides smoothly. I haven't had it more than a few months but have loved driving it and is my favorite car I have had.
accountCircle Caleb C on June 28, 2021
2001 CR-V still runs really well in 2019
My CR-V has always ran very smoothly. I've never had any issues with it breaking down. It has a pretty low MPG but it has a rather large tank so it's not extremely noticeable. The car has good cargo space and the ability to carry things on top if needed with a roof rack.
accountCircle Justin C on June 29, 2021
Hunter green 2000 Honda CR-V.
The vehicle that I drive the most is a 2000 Honda CR-V. Performance wise I really enjoy it.. Fuel economy is definitely a plus.. It is amazingly comfortable for an older vehicle.. I have had it for about one year and really have not had any problems with it.
accountCircle Robert T on June 24, 2021
Very few issues since we got our 2008 Honda CR-V 10-11 years ago.
Very happy with the size, mileage and reliability of my vehicle. We bought it back in 2007 and haven't had many issues with it. Trusty vehicle! The size is already great because it is not too big, but we can still fit a LOT of stuff in it.
avatar Braden Carlson
An automotive journalist for over six years, Braden Carlson has contributed to a variety of auto websites, including Team Speed and LS1Tech. When he’s not writing or under one of his project cars, you’ll often find him producing video and photography for his "Cursed Forever" YouTube channel.
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