Honda CR-V research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The CR-V is a practical, efficient compact SUV with a roomy back seat and a large cargo area. 2011-2014 models use a simple 2.4L four with a 5-speed automatic; 2015-2016 switched to a direct-injected 2.4L with a CVT; 2017 brought a 190-hp 1.5L turbo; 2020 added standard Honda Sensing on every trim and the first U.S. CR-V Hybrid (about 40 mpg city); and 2023 brought a larger, more upscale redesign with a 204-hp hybrid. The 2026 update adds a TrailSport Hybrid.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. The 2026 CR-V is current; verify 2026 trims, equipment and EPA ratings against current Honda data. The e:FCEV fuel-cell model is a California lease-only special case.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Roomy rear seat and large cargo area
- Strong fuel economy for the class
- Efficient hybrid 2020 and later
- Standard honda sensing 2020 and later
- Available real time AWD
- Strong resale value
- Easy to drive and park
Things to know before you buy
- Engine and transmission change by year resolve by VIN
- 2017 2018 1 5t oil dilution warranty extension
- CVT on 2015 and later gas models
- Takata airbag recalls on 2011
- Frame corrosion recall 2011 salt states
- Steering recall 2023 2025
- Fuel pump recalls on certain vins
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 3 (2007–2011)
The third-generation CR-V (2007-2011) introduced the rear liftgate and a lower, wider body. The 2010 refresh raised the 2.4L four-cylinder to 180 hp with a 5-speed automatic. Only the 2011 model year falls in this repository.
Buyer takeaway: A 2011 CR-V can be inexpensive transportation, but confirm Takata airbag recalls are complete and, in salt-belt states, that the rear-frame corrosion recall inspection was done.
Generation 4 (2012–2016)
The fourth-generation CR-V (2012-2016) used a 185-hp 2.4L with a 5-speed automatic for 2012-2014, then a major 2015 refresh brought a direct-injected 2.4L (181 lb-ft), a CVT, about 4 mpg better city economy, updated styling and a Touring trim with forward collision warning, collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise.
Buyer takeaway: Choose 2012-2014 for a conventional geared automatic and lower prices, or 2015-2016 for better fuel economy and the updated cabin; on 2015-2016 models, confirm CVT and vibration software updates were applied.
Generation 5 (2017–2022)
The fifth-generation CR-V (2017-2022) grew roomier and added a 190-hp 1.5L turbo (EX and above) alongside a 184-hp 2.4L on the LX through 2019, all with a CVT. The 2020 refresh made the 1.5T and Honda Sensing standard on every trim and added a 212-hp CR-V Hybrid with standard AWD.
Buyer takeaway: 2020-2022 models offer standard safety tech and the hybrid option; 2017-2018 1.5T models should have oil-dilution software updates documented. The 2017-2019 2.4L LX is the simplest choice for budget buyers.
Generation 6 (2023–present)
The sixth-generation CR-V (2023-present) is larger and more upscale. Gas trims use the 190-hp 1.5L turbo and CVT; Sport, Sport-L (2024+), Sport Touring and TrailSport (2026+) use a 204-hp two-motor hybrid. A California-only plug-in hydrogen e:FCEV joined for 2025, and 2026 brought a TrailSport Hybrid and a standard 9-inch touchscreen.
Buyer takeaway: The hybrid is the efficiency pick (about 40 mpg combined with FWD). Confirm the 2023-2025 steering recall is complete; 2026 models offer the newest tech.
Honda CR-V by model year
2026 Honda CR-V
The 2026 CR-V gets a mid-cycle update led by the new TrailSport Hybrid, which pairs the 204-hp hybrid with standard AWD, all-terrain tires and rugged styling (about 38/33 mpg). Every trim now has a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the 190-hp 1.5L turbo with CVT continues on gas trims. Verify current specs against Honda's latest data.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 204 hp 247 lb ft system
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable gas; Hybrid ecvt direct drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional; AWD standard on trailsport hybrid
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New trailsport hybrid with standard AWD and all terrain tires
- Standard 9 inch touchscreen with wireless carplay and android auto
- Revised front styling
- Improved low speed AWD traction management
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake unobstructed; 12 volt battery condition; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2025 Honda CR-V
The 2025 CR-V carries over the gas 1.5L turbo (190 hp, CVT) and 204-hp two-motor hybrid (about 43/36 mpg FWD). New is the CR-V e:FCEV, a plug-in hydrogen fuel-cell version built in Ohio and offered for lease in California only; treat it as a special case with its own service needs. Most shoppers will see gas or hybrid models; check the steering recall.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 204 hp 247 lb ft system; Hydrogen fuel cell plug in e fcev california lease only
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable gas; Hybrid ecvt direct drive; Single speed electric drive e fcev
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Cr v e fcev plug in hydrogen fuel cell model added for california leasing
- Gas and hybrid lineup largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Steering effort or sticky steering recall 24v744; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake unobstructed; 12 volt battery condition; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2024 Honda CR-V
The 2024 CR-V adds a Sport-L Hybrid trim between the Sport and Sport Touring, bringing leather and more features to a hybrid below the top price. Powertrains carry over: a 190-hp 1.5L turbo with a CVT (about 28/34 mpg FWD) or a 204-hp two-motor hybrid (about 43/36 mpg FWD). Confirm the steering-gearbox recall for 2023-2025 models is complete.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 204 hp 247 lb ft system
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable gas; Hybrid ecvt direct drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New sport l hybrid trim
- Otherwise carryover from 2023
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Steering effort or sticky steering recall 24v744; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake unobstructed; 12 volt battery condition; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2023 Honda CR-V
The 2023 CR-V is all-new: longer, roomier and more upscale. LX, EX and EX-L use a 190-hp 1.5L turbo with a CVT (about 28/34 mpg FWD); Sport and Sport Touring use a 204-hp two-motor hybrid (about 43/36 mpg FWD, 40/34 AWD), and the hybrid is now offered with front-wheel drive. 2023-2025 models are covered by a steering-gearbox recall for increased steering effort, so check it was completed.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 204 hp 247 lb ft system
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable gas; Hybrid ecvt direct drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new sixth generation larger body
- Hybrid on sport and sport touring now available with FWD
- Gas 1 5t on lx ex and ex l
- Updated honda sensing with wider view camera and radar
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Steering effort or sticky steering recall 24v744; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake unobstructed; 12 volt battery condition; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2022 Honda CR-V
The 2022 CR-V is the final fifth-generation model, with the 190-hp 1.5L turbo and CVT (about 28/34 mpg FWD) or the 212-hp Hybrid with standard AWD (about 40/35 mpg). It offers standard Honda Sensing, a roomy back seat and a big cargo area. Prices can be lower than the redesigned 2023, making it a strong value if well maintained.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 212 hp system
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; Hybrid ecvt direct drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional; AWD standard on hybrid
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2021
- Last year of the fifth generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Honda sensing camera and radar function; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2021 Honda CR-V
The 2021 CR-V continues the 2020 refresh: a 190-hp 1.5L turbo with a CVT (about 28/34 mpg FWD) or the 212-hp two-motor Hybrid with standard AWD (about 40/35 mpg). Honda Sensing is standard on every trim. Hybrid buyers should confirm the hybrid system shows no warnings, and gas buyers should check oil level and service records.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 212 hp system
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; Hybrid ecvt direct drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional; AWD standard on hybrid
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2020
- Hybrid continues with standard AWD
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Honda sensing camera and radar function; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2020 Honda CR-V
The 2020 refresh made the 190-hp 1.5L turbo standard on every gas CR-V and Honda Sensing standard on all trims, including the LX. It also added the first U.S. CR-V Hybrid: a 2.0L engine with two electric motors (212 hp total) and standard AWD, rated about 40/35 mpg city/highway. Gas models are rated about 28/34 mpg (FWD). A good pick for buyers who want modern safety at a used price.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 two motor hybrid 212 hp system
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; Hybrid ecvt direct drive
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional; AWD standard on hybrid
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed front and rear styling
- 2.4 liter dropped 1 5t on all gas trims
- Honda sensing standard on all trims
- First cr v hybrid in the US 212 hp with standard AWD
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Honda sensing camera and radar function; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2019 Honda CR-V
The 2019 CR-V is the last year the base LX used the 184-hp 2.4L four-cylinder; EX, EX-L and Touring use the 190-hp 1.5L turbo with a CVT (about 28/34 mpg FWD). Honda Sensing remains standard on EX and above. The 2.4L LX is the simplest powertrain of this generation, while the 1.5T is quicker and more efficient.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 184 hp 180 lb ft lx; 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft ex and above
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2018
- Last year of the 2.4 liter lx
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2018 Honda CR-V
The 2018 CR-V carries over the 2017 design: a 184-hp 2.4L on the LX or a 190-hp 1.5L turbo on EX and above, both with a CVT, rated up to about 28/34 mpg (1.5T FWD). Like 2017 models, 2018 1.5T CR-Vs fall under Honda's oil-dilution warranty extension and cold-weather software update, so check the oil level and service history.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 184 hp 180 lb ft lx; 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft ex and above
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2017
- Covered by 1 5t oil dilution warranty extension
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2017 Honda CR-V
The 2017 CR-V began the fifth generation with a bigger, nicer cabin. The base LX uses a 184-hp 2.4L four-cylinder (about 26/32 mpg FWD), while EX, EX-L and Touring get a 190-hp, 179 lb-ft 1.5L turbo (about 28/34 mpg); both use a CVT. Honda Sensing is standard from EX up. Some 2017-2018 1.5T engines can suffer oil dilution in very cold climates; Honda offered software updates and extended powertrain coverage.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 184 hp 180 lb ft lx; 1.5 liter turbo I4 190 hp 179 lb ft ex and above
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new fifth generation
- First turbocharged engine 1 5t on ex and above
- Honda sensing standard on ex and above
- Apple carplay and android auto on ex and above
- Larger cabin and cargo area
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Oil level and fuel smell on dipstick 1.5T; Engine software update records 1.5T; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Honda sensing camera and radar function; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2016 Honda CR-V
The 2016 CR-V carries over the 2015 refresh with a 185-hp direct-injected 2.4L and CVT, rated about 26/32 mpg (FWD). It is a good value pick among fourth-generation CR-Vs because it has the updated styling, cabin and crash structure. Ask whether Honda's CVT and vibration software updates were applied, and test drive from a stop and at highway speed.
- Engines: 2.4 liter direct injected I4 185 hp 181 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2015
- Last year of the fourth generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Vibration at idle or stopped in gear; CVT software update records p1890; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 CR-V got the biggest mid-cycle update in its history: a direct-injected 2.4L four-cylinder (185 hp, 181 lb-ft) with a CVT, raising fuel economy to about 27/33 mpg (FWD). It also gained new styling, a nicer interior and a new Touring trim with forward collision warning, collision mitigation braking, lane keeping and adaptive cruise. Some 2015-2016 models had vibration-at-idle and CVT software updates, so check service records.
- Engines: 2.4 liter direct injected I4 185 hp 181 lb ft
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New direct injected earth dreams engine with more torque
- CVT replaces 5 speed automatic
- New touring trim with collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise
- Restyled front and rear and upgraded interior
- Structure revised for small overlap crash performance
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; CVT smooth acceleration without judder or slip; CVT fluid service records; Vibration at idle or stopped in gear; CVT software update records p1890; Driver assistance sensors on touring; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2014 Honda CR-V
The 2014 CR-V is the last year of the original fourth-generation setup: a 185-hp 2.4L four-cylinder with a 5-speed automatic, rated about 23/30 mpg (FWD) and 22/29 with AWD. Buyers who prefer a conventional geared automatic over a CVT may favor 2012-2014 models. Look for regular oil changes and check AWD rear-differential fluid service records.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 185 hp 163 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover last year of 5 speed automatic
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Automatic transmission shift quality; Cold start engine noise; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2013 Honda CR-V
The 2013 CR-V carries over the 2012 redesign: a 185-hp 2.4L four-cylinder, a conventional 5-speed automatic, and front- or all-wheel drive, rated about 23/30 mpg (FWD). It offers a big cargo area, an easy fold-down rear seat and a straightforward powertrain. Check that recall work, such as the 2012-2013 cold-weather shift-interlock recall, is done.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 185 hp 163 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2012
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Automatic transmission shift quality; Cold start engine noise; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2012 Honda CR-V
The 2012 CR-V began the fourth generation with sleeker styling, a quieter cabin and a 185-hp, 163 lb-ft 2.4L four-cylinder paired with a 5-speed automatic. Fuel economy improved to about 23/30 mpg city/highway (FWD), and a revised Real Time AWD reacts sooner. Trims are LX, EX and EX-L. A simple, durable-feeling compact SUV for value buyers.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 185 hp 163 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new fourth generation
- 185 hp engine with better fuel economy
- New real time AWD that engages more quickly
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Automatic transmission shift quality; Cold start engine noise; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
2011 Honda CR-V
The 2011 CR-V is the last of the third generation, carrying the 2010 refresh: a 180-hp 2.4L four-cylinder with a 5-speed automatic, rated about 21/28 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive (21/27 with AWD). It is roomy and simple, but older Takata airbag recalls and a rear-frame corrosion recall for salt-belt states (2007-2011) make a VIN recall check essential.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 180 hp 161 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Real time AWD optional
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Last year of the third generation
- Lx se ex and ex l trims
- Carryover of 2010 refresh styling and engine
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Takata airbag recall completion; Rear frame and trailing arm corrosion salt states; AWD rear differential fluid service if AWD; Ac system performance; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance minder and oil change records.
Known issues and what to check
- 1.5L Turbo Oil Dilution and Warranty Extension (2017-2018) (2017–2018)
On some 2017-2018 CR-Vs with the 1.5L turbo, fuel can mix into the engine oil, mostly when the vehicle makes repeated short trips in very cold weather. Honda released engine and transmission software updates (offered in cold-weather states) and extended powertrain warranty coverage on 2017-2018 1.5T CR-Vs to six years from purchase with no mileage limit. Honda describes severe cases as rare.
What to do: Check the oil level and smell on the dipstick, and ask a Honda dealer whether the software update was done. - Takata Airbag and Rear Frame Corrosion Recalls (2011) (2011)
2011 CR-Vs are covered by several Takata airbag-inflator recalls, which replace driver and/or passenger inflators that can rupture. Separately, recall 23V-228 covers 2007-2011 CR-Vs sold or registered in salt-belt states, where rear-frame corrosion can let a rear trailing arm detach; dealers inspect and add a brace, or repair the frame.
What to do: Run the VIN through NHTSA and Honda and confirm all airbag and frame-corrosion repairs are complete. - CVT Vibration and Software Updates (2015-2016) (2015–2016)
Honda issued a service bulletin for vibration while stopped in gear on 2015-2016 CR-Vs and a product update for 2015-2016 models to correct CVT control software that could let the belt slip at highway speed (trouble code P1890). Most cars received updated software; in some cases the transmission was replaced.
What to do: Ask for proof the CVT and vibration software updates were applied and test drive at idle and on the highway. - Fuel Pump Recalls (2013–2023)
Honda has recalled certain CR-Vs for low-pressure fuel pumps that can fail and cause a stall: recall 21V-215 covers certain 2018-2019 CR-Vs, and the broader recall 23V-858 covers certain 2013-2023 Honda models including the CR-V. Only specific VINs are affected.
What to do: Check the VIN for open fuel pump recalls and have any open recall completed before purchase. - Steering Gearbox Recall for Increased Steering Effort (2023-2025) (2023–2025)
Recall 24V-744 covers about 1.7 million Honda and Acura vehicles, including 2023-2025 CR-V gas, hybrid and fuel-cell models. Heat can swell a steering-gearbox worm wheel and a spring preload was set too high, which can cause momentary sticky or heavier steering. Dealers replace the worm-gear spring and redistribute grease.
What to do: Confirm recall 24V-744 has been completed on any 2023-2025 CR-V. - Real Time AWD Fluid and Routine Maintenance (2011–2026)
Real Time AWD uses a rear differential whose fluid should be changed when Honda's Maintenance Minder calls for it. Skipped service can lead to groaning or shudder on tight turns. CVT-equipped CR-Vs (2015 and later gas models) also benefit from CVT fluid changes on schedule.
What to do: Look for records of rear-differential and CVT fluid changes on AWD and CVT CR-Vs. - Gas, Hybrid and Fuel-Cell CR-V Disambiguation (2011–2026)
The CR-V's engine changes by year and trim: 2.4L (2011-2019; LX only 2017-2019), 1.5L turbo (2017-present), a 212-hp hybrid (2020-2022), a 204-hp hybrid (2023-present), and a California-only plug-in fuel-cell e:FCEV (2025-present). Fuel economy, maintenance and recalls differ by powertrain, so resolve it by VIN.
What to do: Confirm the exact engine, drivetrain and trim before comparing prices or fuel economy.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, equipment, state of registration and VIN. Check the VIN with NHTSA and Honda for open recalls; for 2011 models confirm Takata airbag and frame-corrosion recall status.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Toyota RAV4
- Mazda CX-5
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia Sportage
- Nissan Rogue
- Subaru Forester
- Ford Escape
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Honda HR-V
- Honda Passport
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Honda CR-V?
- Does this CR-V have the 2.4L, the 1.5L turbo or the hybrid?
- What is the 1.5L turbo oil dilution issue and was it fixed?
- Is the CR-V Hybrid worth it?
- Which CR-V years have a CVT?
- What changed in the 2015, 2017, 2020, 2023 and 2026 CR-V?
- What fuel economy does this CR-V get?
- What should I inspect on a used CR-V?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar SUVs should I consider?