Class actions involving the 2018 Honda CR‑V: what they cover, where they stand, and how owners can respond

The 2018 Honda CR‑V has been the subject of multiple class-action allegations, most prominently over “oil dilution” in the 1.5‑liter turbo engine; in Canada, that issue resulted in a nationwide settlement, while in the United States there has not been a single nationwide class-action settlement specific to 2018 CR‑V owners as of 2025. Other U.S. lawsuits have alleged problems with the Collision Mitigation Braking System (AEB/CMBS) and air-conditioning components, but outcomes vary by case and region.

The headline issue: 1.5‑liter turbo “oil dilution” litigation

Owners of 2017–2018 CR‑Vs equipped with Honda’s 1.5‑liter turbocharged engine reported fuel mixing with engine oil, a condition often referred to as “oil dilution.” Complaints described cold-weather drivability issues, gas odors, and elevated oil levels. Honda issued product updates and extended certain warranty coverages in some regions, and the dispute triggered lawsuits in both the U.S. and Canada.

Owners and technicians commonly described a cluster of symptoms associated with oil dilution in 1.5‑liter turbo models.

• Rising oil level on the dipstick and a fuel smell in the engine oil
• Rough idle, hesitation, or stalling—especially in cold weather or short-trip driving
• Illuminated check-engine light and misfire codes
• Reduced cabin heat in severe cold due to shorter warmup cycles

These symptoms spurred service bulletins and legal complaints asserting premature wear and safety concerns. Not all vehicles exhibit the issue, and severity can vary based on climate and driving patterns.

Status in the United States

In the U.S., consumer class actions were filed over oil dilution, but as of 2025 there is no single nationwide settlement covering all 2018 CR‑V owners. Honda rolled out software updates and service campaigns and, in certain cold‑weather states and by VIN, extended warranty coverage on affected components. Whether an individual vehicle is covered depends on region, model, and VIN; owners should check directly with Honda or a dealer. Some lawsuits have proceeded, others have been dismissed or compelled to individual arbitration, and outcomes can vary by jurisdiction.

Settlement in Canada

In Canada, a national class settlement was approved in 2020 for certain 2017–2018 CR‑V and 2016–2018 Civic vehicles with the 1.5‑liter turbo. The settlement provided extended warranty coverage and reimbursements for qualifying expenses such as repairs, oil changes, towing, and rental/loaner vehicles tied to the oil-dilution concern. Claims windows and documentation requirements were time‑limited; Canadian owners should consult the settlement administrator or class counsel websites to confirm whether late claims or warranty benefits remain available.

Other litigation touching the 2018 CR‑V

Automatic emergency braking/CMBS “phantom braking”

Separate lawsuits and consumer complaints alleged that the CR‑V’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (part of Honda Sensing) could brake unexpectedly or issue false forward‑collision alerts. U.S. safety regulators opened an investigation in 2022 focused on 2017–2019 CR‑V and certain Accord models. Honda has released software updates and guidance over time, but as of 2025 there is no universal class settlement specific to the 2018 CR‑V on this issue. Case activity continues to vary by court and state law.

Air‑conditioning system defects

Plaintiffs in some actions alleged premature failures or leaks in air‑conditioning components (e.g., condensers, compressors, and lines) in various Honda models, including some CR‑Vs. Honda has, in certain model years and parts, provided extended warranty coverage or goodwill repairs; eligibility depends on VIN and part numbers. Publicly reported case outcomes differ by jurisdiction, and there is no single nationwide class settlement covering all 2018 CR‑V owners for A/C concerns as of this writing.

Rodent damage to soy‑based wire insulation

Like several automakers, Honda has faced lawsuits alleging that biodegradable wire coatings attract rodents. Courts have frequently dismissed these claims or limited them to individual disputes. There is no broad, CR‑V‑specific class relief in place for wiring damage claims.

How to check your status and protect your rights

Because coverage and legal outcomes depend on model, VIN, location, and timing, 2018 CR‑V owners should take a few practical steps to confirm eligibility and preserve potential claims.

1. Run your VIN on NHTSA’s recall tool and Honda’s owner site to see open recalls, product updates, or warranty extensions applicable to your vehicle.
2. Ask a Honda dealer to check for service bulletins and regional warranty extensions tied to oil dilution, CMBS software updates, or A/C components.
3. Search for active class-action settlements by issue (oil dilution, A/C, CMBS) and verify official settlement sites before submitting any claim.
4. Keep detailed records—service invoices, oil analyses (if any), photos, and communications with Honda or dealers.
5. Consult a consumer-law attorney if you’ve had repeated, unremedied issues; deadlines (statutes of limitation) can affect your options.

Following these steps will help you determine whether your vehicle qualifies for repairs, reimbursement, or extended coverage—and whether individual legal remedies are worth pursuing.

Where to monitor reliable updates

Official sources and court records are the best way to track changes in recalls, investigations, and case outcomes affecting the 2018 CR‑V.

• NHTSA (recalls, investigations): Check by VIN for safety campaigns and defect probes.
• Honda Owners site or your dealer: Product updates, TSBs, and warranty extensions by VIN and region.
• Official settlement websites and class counsel pages: Eligibility, claim deadlines, and documentation requirements.
• Federal and state court dockets (e.g., PACER) and reputable legal trackers (e.g., Justia) for case status.
• For Canada: Settlement administrator and class counsel sites related to the oil‑dilution settlement covering 2017–2018 CR‑V.

Because developments can shift—especially with investigations and software remedies—periodic checks can prevent missed coverage or deadlines.

Summary

For the 2018 Honda CR‑V, the most prominent class-action activity centers on the 1.5‑liter turbo “oil dilution” issue. Canada approved a nationwide settlement in 2020, while the United States has seen litigation without a single nationwide settlement; Honda instead issued service updates and, in some regions, extended warranties. Additional lawsuits have alleged false activations of the collision-mitigation braking system and air‑conditioning failures, but outcomes vary and no universal U.S. class settlement covers all 2018 CR‑V owners on those topics. Owners should verify VIN‑specific coverage, monitor official sources, keep records, and consider legal advice if persistent problems remain.

How to join Honda class action lawsuit?

HOW CAN I HELP? If you purchased or leased a 2016-2022 Honda Pilot; 2018-2019 Honda Odyssey; 2019-present Honda Passport; or 2020-present Honda Ridgeline vehicle as described and would like to learn more about the case, please email us at [email protected] or call us at 888.246. 9528.

What is the class action Honda CRV 2018?

The class action specifically targets all 2018–2022 Honda CR-V SUVs sold or leased in California. These vehicles are alleged to share a common internal engine defect that can lead to failure without warning, potentially endangering drivers and passengers.

How do I know if I am part of a class action lawsuit?

You will receive a notice in the mail or email if you are an eligible class member. The notice will provide a detailed description of the lawsuit and all your available options. In most cases, eligible class members join the litigation automatically and do not have to take any action.

What is the recall on the 2018 Honda CRV?

The 2018 Honda CR-V has been subject to at least four recalls, including a large fuel pump recall for stalling risk, a front seat belt buckle issue where the buckle may not latch properly, a power steering assist failure due to a dislodged magnet, and a separate fuel pump recall from 2021. You can check your specific vehicle’s recall status by entering its VIN on the Honda Newsroom website or the NHTSA website.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about Honda’s fuel pump recall, which affects the 2018 CR-V: 19sWe Are Iowa Local 5 NewsYouTube · Jan 29, 2025
Key 2018 Honda CR-V Recalls

• Fuel Pump Failure (NHTSA Recall 23V-858): . Opens in new tabA low-pressure fuel pump in the fuel tank may fail, causing engine stalling. 
• Front Seat Belt Buckle (NHTSA Recall 23V-158): . Opens in new tabA manufacturing defect can prevent the front seat belt buckles from latching properly. 
• Power Steering Assist Failure (NHTSA Recall 18V-663): . Opens in new tabA magnet in the electronic power steering system may become dislodged, causing the power assist to fail. 
• Fuel Pump Failure (NHTSA Recall 21V-215): . Opens in new tabAn earlier recall issued due to another failure of the low-pressure fuel pump in the fuel tank. 

How to Check Your Vehicle’s Status
To see if your specific 2018 Honda CR-V is affected by any of these recalls or other safety notices, you can:

1. Find your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) . You can typically find this on the driver’s side of the dashboard or on the door frame. 
2. Visit the official Honda website: or the NHTSA website and use your VIN to search for outstanding recalls.