The 2013 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV with a price range of $12,912 to $17,305. A higher initial purchase price is offset by affordable long-term ownership costs. The CR-V is an easy SUV to recommend to shoppers.
2013 Honda CR-V: Quick Overview
- The Honda CR-V was completely redesigned for the 2012 model, and there are no major changes for the 2013 version.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power, and there are fewer owner complaints than with the 2012 model.
- Only one engine is available, and has average power for a small SUV.
- Fuel economy is great and ties for 3rd place out of 24 compact SUVs with a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety is excellent for the class, getting a perfect 5 star rating in government crash tests, and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2013 CR-V ranks 2nd out of 24 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews. Better reliability ratings and more passenger space than the competition make the CR-V score higher in the competitive SUV market.
Expert Ratings
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What Problems Does the 2013 Honda CR-V Have?
The 2013 Honda CR-V has fewer problems than other compact SUVs, with a relatively low number of owner complaints. 2013 is an excellent year for the CR-V with fewer problems than the 2012 and 2014 models.
A grinding sound while starting up is the most common complaint owners have. There is a technical service bulletin from Honda about the issue, and the solution is to replace the VTC actuator. Replacing the assembly can cost about $800.
Electrical problems, including dead batteries are also a frequent issue. Some owners report parasitic draw from the electrical components in the car which kills the battery faster than normal. Replacing the battery costs about $130.
Transmission vibration while accelerating is also mentioned by owners. Replacing the transmission fluid, and updating the software usually fixes the problem.
There’s only 1 recall affecting the SUV, and is better than other vehicles from 2013. The recall covers the brake shift interlock, which allows the gear selector to be moved out of the park position without pressing the brake pedal. Honda will replace the interlock blocking mechanism for free.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2013 Honda CR-V’s three trim levels come with five-star safety, fuel-efficient powertrain, and optional AWD. The 2013 CR-V is more expensive than some other compact SUVs, with a price range of $12,912 to $17,305, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $22,795 to $30,295. Depreciation is slower than average, dropping only 35% in value over the first 5 years of ownership.
- LX is the entry-level model and comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, keyless entry, cruise control, a rearview camera, a 6-inch infotainment screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, as well as USB and AUX ports.
- EX is a nice mid-level version with 17-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, fog lights, and a 6-speaker stereo system.
- EX-L is the flagship choice and has leather seating, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, heated exterior mirrors, and a 7-speaker stereo system.
How Long Will the 2013 Honda CR-V Last?
A properly maintained 2013 Honda CR-V will last about 300,000 miles, which is longer than other compact SUVs. Regular annual maintenance costs including oil changes, are average for the class. Repair Pal estimates them to be $460 per year.
It is reliable, and has needed only regular maintenance. The only unusual problem I have had is with dashboard lights.
Yes, very reliable. I haven't had any major problems and have found it easy to keep up on routine maintenance.
It is reliable. I have put close to 100,000 miles onto the car since buying it, and other than routine maintenance, I have never had to take it to a car shop.
No. The only problem that I have with it is a clicking noise in the rear end, but the mechanic said it's nothing serious and passes inspection every year.
It is very reliable, I have had the oil changed regularly and have never had any major issues with the car.
The 2013 Honda CR-V is very reliable. I haven't had any problems with this current vehicle. The only thing is the battery died but that is considered normal wear and tear.
It is not reliable in the slightest. The first problem I had was that the battery would drain itself with seemingly no cause. After more than 12 times to be in the shop, they figured out that the passenger side window lever.
I have not had any problems with it so far. I have noticed that when it gets time for an oil change there is no oil reading on the stick. It needs to notify the driver sooner.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology in the 2013 Honda CR-V is excellent compared to other compact SUVs since the vehicle was updated for the 2012 model year.
- Base technology includes a 6-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired to a 4-speaker stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity, as well as USB and AUX ports.
- Upgrades include 6 or 7-speaker stereo systems, satellite radio, and voice-controlled navigation.
- Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, airbags, stability and traction control, as well as a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include forward collision warning, and lane departure warning systems.
What Engine Options are Available?
One engine is available in the 2013 CR-V and is a 2.4L four-cylinder with 185 horsepower. Performance is average for a compact budget-friendly SUV, but is not impressive. The sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour takes 9.2 seconds.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the CR-V?
The 2013 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV, similar in size to other vehicles in the same class. Passenger room is excellent, with enough legroom for adults in the front and back seats. Cargo space is also great, with 37.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 70.9 with the seats folded flat. There’s more than enough room to fit 5 full size suitcases.
How Does the 2013 Honda CR-V Compare to Other SUVs?
Ranking 2nd out of 24 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2013 Honda CR-V is near the top of the class.
In first place is the MINI Countryman, which is in the same price range. The Mini offers a more powerful engine, and has a nicer interior with higher quality materials. Where Honda stands out is with better reliability, and more passenger space. Between the two SUVs, the Mini is more fun to drive, but the CR-V is a better, longer-lasting choice.
One of the closest competitors is the more expensive Toyota RAV4. Toyota and Honda have similar reliability ratings, and are both long-lasting choices. Interior materials are also similar, but the Honda has fewer cheap plastic parts. Overall, the two SUVs are very close to each other and test driving both is worth the time to determine which one you prefer.
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Honda CR-V a Good SUV?
Yes, the 2013 Honda CR-V is a good SUV based on information from 893 verified owner reviews, and 18 government and automotive websites. Positives include great technology for the price, and a very reliable powertrain. Where the CR-V misses the mark is with a cheap interior, and more road noise than some competitors. Overall, the 2013 Honda CR-V is on our list of SUVs we recommend to shoppers.