Are you interested in purchasing a Honda CR-V and you want to find out how long do Honda CRV last? If that is the case and you want to find out more about this specific model, then you are in the right place because in this article there will be quite a lot to cover.
- What Is The Honda CR-V?
- CR-V Generations
- CR-V Specs
- Maintenance Cost
- Common Problems
- Reliability
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Performing good and thorough research before you make a purchase is always a smart thing to do. You just don’t want to end up with a bad car. And nowadays cars are worth a whole fortune. So, the mistakes should be minimal when it comes to purchasing a new or used car.
You just don’t want to make a mistake because repairs can and will be costly. And if something really important breaks down, you will have to spend hundreds or even thousands in the worst-case scenario.
So, it is always a good thing to learn from other people’s experiences and try to avoid getting yourself a lemon. And this is why we are here to help you out. First, we are going to learn more about what is the Honda CR-V and we will cover the generations of the model.
We, will also learn the specs of the 2023 CR-V model and see what this car has to offer. Then we will jump to the problems, reliability, as well as the question of how long do Honda CRV last. So, if you want to learn more, follow along because there will be quite a lot to cover.
Honda CRV
Before we dive into more complex topics like the question of how long do Honda CRV last. First, let’s take a look at what is the Honda CR-V in general and learn more about its main features.
We think that this is quite essential since there are a lot of people facing similar issues and just want to learn more about the core concepts of the Honda CR-V model. So, let’s cover this real quickly.
So, what is the Honda CR-V? Well, the Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that was introduced by Honda in 1995. And this model is probably one of the best-selling vehicles in its class.
This model came at a time when a lot of carmakers started to create SUVs. This market started booming in the mid-90s and a lot of carmakers jumped on the bandwagon to create an SUV for the masses.
And in order to simplify things and make these SUVs more appealing. Carmakers have invented the crossover segment. So, what is a crossover?
A crossover SUV is not your regular SUV intended for off-road. These crossovers are something like a crossbreed between a car and an SUV.
The crossover is basically built on a unibody platform that is used to build compact cars. Which in this case is the Civic. That’s right, the CR-V shares a lot of the components with the Honda Civic, including the engines and transmissions.
And the CR-V became a real hit immediately after its release. Nowadays, the model is selling more than 330,000 units only in the US on average. But how long do Honda CRV last? More about that we are going to cover in a moment.
Honda CRV Generations
Now let’s discuss more about the generations of the CR-V before we dive into how long do Honda CRV last. So, we think that it is important to cover this because there are a total of six generations and you should definitely know the production years for each one of them.
The first generation of the model debuted in 1995 and the first model year was 1997. This generation was produced until 2001 when it was replaced by the second generation.
The second generation was a big improvement compared to the first generation in all aspects, especially styling. This generation debuted in 2001 and was produced until 2006.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REQ5qalGlcI
The third generation debuted in 2006 for the 2007 model year and was produced until 2011 when it was replaced by the fourth generation.
The fourth generation released in 2011 was produced until 2018 and this model saw a big change in terms of design and overall aesthetics and became more like the CR-V we know today.
And the fifth generation then was introduced in 2018 and was produced until recently in 2022. This model shared a lot with the fourth generation. But also implemented a lot of new features and technology as well.
And the most recent generation of the CR-V was introduced for the 2023 model year. This new model embraces a brave new approach in terms of styling. It is quite bigger with more than 2 inches longer wheelbase and is an overall better and more practical vehicle.
And in the following chapter, we are going to cover precisely that and then we will learn how long do Honda CRV last.
Honda CR-V Specs
Now before we dive into how long do Honda CRV last, let’s discuss more about the specs of the CR-V. Specs are really important. Especially for people that intend to purchase a new model from the showroom floor. We will stick to the 2023 model year since this vehicle is the most recent one.
What is interesting is that this model departs the old styling language and embraces are more standard shape like other SUVs do. So, what is good about this is that it would appeal to a wider audience and probably get more sales than its predecessors.
This model similar to the predecessors is based on the Honda Civic platform. More specifically, the eleventh generation of the Civic. The model comes both in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive. Which is really good for people that want to go off-roading. And the CR-V is somewhat capable of tackling mild off-road tasks.
The model is assembled in East Liberty, Ohio, and Greensburg, Indiana. As well as in Ontario, Canada. But how long do Honda CRV last? More about this question, we are going to answer more in a bit.
Dimensions, Size & Practicality
Now let’s discuss more about the dimensions, size, and practicality of the CR-V before we dive into more complex topics like how long do Honda CRV last.
What is worth noting about the CR-V is that this model is considerably bigger in comparison to its predecessors.
The new model includes a wheelbase of 106.3 inches and a length of 184.8 inches. This increase in the wheelbase delivers better comfort for the rear passengers and makes the CR-V a lot more roomier inside.
The model is 73.5 inches wide and 66.2 inches tall. The weight of the new CR-V is rated at 3,497 lbs. In addition to this, this model has a ground clearance of 7.8 inches for the 2WD version and 8.2 inches for the AWD version.
In terms of practicality, the CR-V has a cargo space of 36.3 cubic ft with the rear seats up. And also about 76.5 cubic ft with the rear seats folded down. Making it quite practical compared to its competition. But how long do Honda CRV last? More about that, we will answer shortly.
Engines & Transmissions
Now let’s discuss more about the engines and transmissions used in this model. And we can tell you that the new CR-V packs the same powertrain.
The engine used in this model is the same reliable 1.5L inline-4 turbocharged engine that is producing about 190hp and 179lb-ft of torque. Do check out our article on the Honda 1.5 turbo engine problems to learn more about it.
In terms of transmissions, there is only one option available. And this is a CVT automatic. And what is worth noting is that this transmission is also a decently reliable one. Unlike CVTs used on some other brands of cars. But how long do Honda CRV last? More on that, we will cover in a moment.
Fuel Economy
In terms of fuel economy, the CR-V is also a really good performer. The CR-V gets about 27 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined.
And honestly, there are hardly any other vehicles that are not hybrids and can match this level that the CR-V has. It is almost as fuel efficient as an economy car. But how long do Honda CRV last? More about that, we will cover it in a bit.
Safety
When it comes to the safety aspect, we cannot give any precise data on the current model because it is still quite new and there is no data available on it.
But considering that this model builds on its predecessor. Which performed reasonably well. We can assume that the new model will perform in a similar fashion. As you know, Honda does not leave things to chance and they probably will make sure that the CR-V is well-equipped in terms of safety.
But what about how long do Honda CRV last? We shall cover that in a bit.
Price
In terms of pricing, this new model of the Honda CR-V starts at $32,355. Remember that this is the base MSRP price. A price that is not the same as the one from the dealership. After dealership fees and taxes, you can expect this price to rise a little bit.
For a well-equipped CR-V EX-L AWD model, you can expect to pay around $36,500. And going for a better trim will make you enjoy the car a bit better. So, we think it’s worth it. But what about how long do Honda CRV last? More on that, we will answer in a bit.
Honda CR V Maintenance Cost
Now let’s discuss more about the maintenance costs of the CR-V model. How high the maintenance is for this model specifically?
Well, the maintenance is not expensive during the first five years. It usually ranges between $200 and $500 annually. But then from the fifth year, it exponentially rises to up to $1,500 per year when it reaches the 12-year mark.
So, the older the model the more expensive would be to maintain it. In the first ten production years, you can expect to pay up to $7,100 only for maintenance. But how long do Honda CRV last? More about that, we will learn in a bit.
Honda CRV Problems
Now let’s elaborate more on the Honda CR-V problems before we dive into how long do Honda CRV last.
We will primarily focus on the engine and transmission problems with this model that happened over the years. More specifically the last two generations. We collect our input from carcomplaints.com where these problems were reported by their respectable owners.
Once we cover the problems, we will dive into the reliability, as well as how long do Honda CRV last.
And if you seek more in-depth details, we’ve covered model year-specific issues before. That includes our deep dive into the 2005 Honda CR-V problems, 2016 Honda CRV problems, 2020 Honda CRV problems, and 2021 Honda CRV problems.
Honda CR-V Engine Problems
In terms of engine problems, we will list the common issues with the K24 engine that was used in the earlier CR-Vs and the 1.5L turbo that is used in the current models.
Honda K24 Engine Problems
The K24 engine was a 2.4L engine that was used predominantly in the CR-V, Civic, and other models by the Honda Motor Company.
The main problem with this type of engine is the crankshaft front main seal leak. This happened on a lot of these engines and when this seal leaks, you start to lose a ton of oil.
If the problem is not detected on time, your engine could fail very quickly, this is why if you notice leaks coming from the place where the drive belt is located, then you highly likely have issues with the front main seal.
Luckily, replacing the front main seal is not complicated as the rear main seal and will only cost you anywhere between $200 and $400.
The second biggest problem is the lobe wear on the exhaust camshaft. The camshafts on the K24 engine are prone to failure and the lobes start to wear. And once this happened, this will require a camshaft replacement. A process that can be somewhat expensive. Costing $800 or more in some cases.
And the last problem with this engine is the timing chain tensioner failure (but first, make sure you’re aware if your Honda CRV has a timing belt or a timing chain). The tensioner is the component that keeps tension on the chain. And once this component fails, it starts to create problems.
The chain can rattle, or even jump and ruin the whole engine. Issues like these can cause odd issues such as how your Honda CRV won’t start. So, keep this in mind. But how long do Honda CRV last? More on that, we will cover it in a bit.
Honda 1.5L Engine Problems
Now let’s cover the problems with the 1.5L engine before we learn more about how long do Honda CRV last. The 1.5L engine is a newer clean sheet design that replaced the aging 2.4L that we covered. The 1.5L is only included in the last two generations of the CR-V.
In terms of problems, the earlier models of the 1.5L engine had issues with Honda oil dilution for the first two production years. This problem happened in cold weather. And this is a situation where basically the gasoline does not ignite and then passes through the piston rings and ends up in the crankcase.
So, when you have oil dilution, you will experience oil smelling like gas and also high oil levels that can damage the engine in the process and blow some seals. This is a serious issue so addressing it might be a good idea.
And in addition to this, the problem can also make the car misfire and ruin the spark plugs in the process. Luckily, after 2019, the problem was patched by Honda. Otherwise, a really decent-performing engine.
Honda CRV Transmission Problems
The older automatic transmissions by Honda were not that reliable and had some problems. Hence, the numerous instances of Honda CRV transmission problems constantly being reported. Especially models with early CVT transmissions and classic torque converter automatics.
Shudder, vibrations, slipping gears were a common occurrence on models from earlier generations. This is why we often recommend performing a thorough inspection of the transmission before you make a purchase.
Make sure that it shifts well and does not create any vibrations. Newer Honda CVT automatics are more or less good and do not have major hurdles. Feel free to head over to our write-up on the reliability of the Honda CVT to learn more. But how long do Honda CRV last? More on that, we are going to cover next.
Honda CRV Reliability
In terms of reliability, we can say that the CR-V is a fairly reliable model that you can buy and not regret buying it. Especially if you buy it new or less than 5 years old.
As we noted previously, the maintenance costs are extremely low for the first 5 to 10 years. So, buying this model is practically a no-brainer. And in terms of scores, on many tests, the model scored higher than 80 from 100 possible points.
So, we can say that this says quite a lot about this specific model. But how long do Honda CRV last? More about that, we are going to find out in a bit.
Honda CR-V Years To Avoid
Now before we learn how long do Honda CRV last, let’s take a look at some of the Honda CR-V model years to avoid when it comes to this model. What are the worst model years when it comes to the CR-V?
Well, based on data from carcomplaints.com, the 2015 model year has the most complaints from any other model year. With a total of 409 complaints. Also, 2017 has more than 378 complaints on many different issues. But considering that these cars are produced in 300,000+ units annually, this is expected.
Best Year Of Honda CR-V
Now let’s take a look at the best model year for the Honda CRV before we dive into how long do Honda CRV last.
In this aspect, we would recommend going for a 2018 model or newer. These are the models with the 1.5L engine. Just make sure that the oil dilution problem was patched on the engine. Except for that, you will probably be good.
The models with the K24 engine and the older automatics can have more issues. So, you should be prepared if you opt to get an older vehicle. But how long do Honda CRV last? More on that, we will learn next.
How Long Do Honda CRV Last
Now let’s take a look at how long do Honda CRV last. Does this model last for a lot of miles or it is only about the hype that Honda gets?
Well, it is not about the hype only. CR-V models easily last for 200,000 miles with no particular problems. The average mileage is somewhere between 250,000 and 300,000 miles when these cars break down and will require an engine change.
Also, take note that automatic transmissions could require a rebuild or replacement at least once during this long ownership since the average lifespan of an automatic is about 150,000 miles.
How Long Do Honda CRV Last: In Conclusion…
In this article, we covered quite a bit when it comes to the Honda CR-V. First, we learned more about the Honda CR-V and the generations. Then we covered the specs of the most recent model and learned in which specs it comes.
After that, we moved to cover the common problems concerned with the engine and transmissions. As well as the reliability, best years, worst years and how long do Honda CRV last. If you’re still unsure and want to instead look at its rivals, we’ve also compared it against some of its competitors.
That includes looking into its fiercest rival, and comparing the Honda CRV vs the Toyota RAV4 (and the CRV Hybrid vs the RAV4 Hybrid). We’ve even compared it against its luxury sibling, the Honda CRV vs the Acura RDX, on top of the Honda CRV vs VW Tiguan, the Honda CRV vs Mazda CX-5, and the Honda CRV vs the Subaru Outback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
How Old Is Honda
Honda is a Japanese carmaker that was founded in 1946 in Hamamatsu and was incorporated in 1948, exactly 74 years ago. And since then, this company has evolved and become one of the biggest automakers in the whole world.
Why Are Hondas So Reliable
This is mainly due to the fact that Honda invests a lot of time and resources in testing and refining its products. They do not let things to chance as some other carmakers do and they have built a big reputation around their reliability.
How Long Do Hondas Last
Any Honda should have at least last for about 200,000 miles with no major issues except for regular maintenance on the components that require that. Except for the transmissions that can sometimes fail and cause problems if they are not maintained well and you will have to service them.
What Does CRV Stand For
CR-V stands for “Compact Recreation Vehicle”. This acronym was introduced in 1995 and since then it created a true legacy in the compact crossover segment with a total of six generations released.
How Many Miles Can A Honda CRV Last
On average, the CR-V lasts anywhere between 250,000 and 300,000 miles. But this is far-fetched since there are a lot of factors that come into play, such as maintenance, the way the driver uses the car, and so on.
What Year Honda CR-V Should I Avoid
When it comes to avoiding a certain model, we can say that you should avoid 2014, 2015, and 2017. Mainly because these are the model years with the most complaints on carcomplaints.com.
