The Honda CR-V launched in the U.S. in 1997 and quickly gained popularity. Its blend of convenient size, reliability, and versatility made it a top choice among American families. Honda’s approach—offering car-like comfort with SUV capability—has made the CR-V one of the best-selling SUVs. Still today, the vehicle is lauded for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and overall practicality. However, while many model years of the CR-V shine, some are notorious for lower reliability or persistent issues. Here are seven Honda CR-V years to avoid based on owner complaints and repair records.

2002 Honda CR-V

The 2002 CR-V is known for engine issues, notably with high oil consumption, which can result in costly repairs over time. Many owners reported that this model consumed oil excessively, needing frequent top-ups. Additionally, some units experienced faulty air conditioning and electrical issues, with window regulators being a common area of concern. The combination of these issues makes the 2002 model less reliable compared to other years, especially for budget-conscious drivers looking to avoid high maintenance costs.

2007 Honda CR-V

The 2007 CR-V marked the start of the third generation but also brought a range of problems. Owners frequently cited issues with the air conditioning system, which tended to fail early and required expensive repairs. Another frequent complaint involved excessive tire wear, requiring new tires much sooner than expected. Electrical problems, particularly with the door locks and actuators, also plagued this model. Given the costs associated with these recurring issues, the 2007 CR-V is often recommended as a model to avoid.

2011 Honda CR-V

The 2011 CR-V raised serious safety concerns. Mechanic Base confirms owners experienced unintended acceleration and steering issues. Many drivers reported a sudden loss of power steering, while others noted issues with braking efficiency, which could lead to dangerous situations on the road. Excessive oil consumption and premature tire wear further marred this model’s reliability. This combination of engine, braking, and steering concerns makes the 2011 model year one of the least reliable and a risky choice for buyers seeking peace of mind.

2014 Honda CR-V

In 2014, the CR-V faced backlash over persistent engine vibrations, particularly noticeable at idle or low speeds. These vibrations made for an uncomfortable driving experience and were difficult and expensive to resolve. Additionally, this model faced issues with the CVT (continuously variable transmission) system, which some owners found jerky or unreliable. While Honda later addressed some of these problems, the vibrations and transmission troubles led to a dip in customer satisfaction for the 2014 CR-V.

2015 Honda CR-V

Although close in design to the 2014 model, the 2015 CR-V had its own set of issues. In particular, it carried over the vibrations from the previous year, largely due to an engine update that was not well-received. This model also experienced problems with the climate control system, leaving drivers without proper heating or air conditioning. The difficulty of fixing these issues without replacing costly parts contributes to its reputation as a model year to avoid.

2017 Honda CR-V

The 2017 CR-V launched the fifth generation, introducing new technology and design changes. However, this model year suffered from serious engine problems. One major issue was oil dilution, where gasoline leaked into the oil, compromising engine performance and longevity. This issue, affecting the reliability of the engine, led to Honda issuing a warranty extension, though some owners still faced substantial repair costs. Electrical issues, especially with the battery and climate control, further frustrated drivers, making the 2017 one of our Honda CR-V years to avoid.

2018 Honda CR-V

Continuing the fifth generation, the 2018 CR-V inherited some of the issues from 2017. Oil dilution remained a significant problem, resulting in gasoline contaminating the engine oil and leading to potential engine failure. Additionally, this model year was affected by brake system malfunctions, with some drivers reporting the brakes activating suddenly without cause, creating a hazardous driving situation. These issues, along with sporadic problems with the AC system, make the 2018 model one to approach with caution.

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While the Honda CR-V is widely recognized for its durability and reliability, these specific model years have faced issues that can lead to increased repair costs and potentially compromise driver safety. From persistent oil consumption problems to transmission issues and faulty air conditioning, these seven CR-V years are generally best avoided by those seeking a trouble-free driving experience. For prospective CR-V buyers, models outside these years or post-2020 are generally recommended as more reliable alternatives​.​