Which Honda CR-V Model Years Are Best Avoided?

The model years most widely regarded as “bad” for the Honda CR‑V are 2015 and 2017, due to persistent vibration (2015) and oil-dilution issues (2017, also affecting many 2018s in cold climates). Earlier trouble spots include 2002–2003 (air-conditioning compressor failures) and 2007–2011 (notably door-lock actuators and A/C problems). While many examples of these years run reliably after fixes, shoppers typically have better odds with 2013–2014, 2016, and most 2019–2022 models, as well as the newer 2023–2025 generation.

Why These Years Draw the Most Complaints

Owner reports, technical service bulletins (TSBs), recalls, and reliability surveys consistently highlight specific CR‑V years for recurring defects or costly repairs. Below is a breakdown of the problem patterns most often cited by consumers, mechanics, and industry data through the 2024 model year.

2015: Vibration at Idle and Low Speed

The 2015 refresh introduced the “Earth Dreams” 2.4‑liter engine paired with a CVT. Many owners reported noticeable vibration at idle or low speeds (especially in Drive with the A/C on). Honda issued software updates and revised engine mounts to mitigate NVH, but the fix did not fully resolve the issue for all vehicles. This model year is frequently recommended to skip unless documentation shows the updates were done and the vehicle drives smoothly on a test route that includes extended idling.

2017–2018: 1.5T Oil Dilution (Worst in Cold Climates)

The fifth-generation CR‑V debuted a 1.5‑liter turbo engine. In cold-weather regions, fuel could accumulate in engine oil (oil dilution), leading to elevated oil levels, fuel odor, rough running, misfires, or stalling. Honda rolled out software updates and, in certain regions, extended warranties and service campaigns; later build updates (starting for many in 2019 and more broadly by 2020) improved outcomes. If you’re considering a 2017–2018, verify the product updates and check for any lingering symptoms.

2002–2003: A/C Compressor “Black Death”

Early second‑generation CR‑Vs are notorious for air-conditioning compressor failures that can scatter debris through the A/C system (“black death”), turning a repair into a full system overhaul. While not every unit failed, the potential expense makes these years higher risk unless the compressor and contaminated components were replaced with proof of quality parts and workmanship.

2007–2011: Door-Lock Actuators and A/C Problems

Third‑generation models accumulated complaints about failing door‑lock actuators (locks cycling or not responding) and ongoing A/C reliability concerns. Many vehicles have been repaired by now, but used buyers should confirm replacement history. Some owners also reported differential noise that typically responds to proper fluid service—more a maintenance item than a defect.

Reported Problems by Model Year (Quick Reference)

The following highlights summarize the patterns most often documented by owners, mechanics, and consumer reliability trackers. Individual vehicles may vary significantly based on maintenance and repair history.

• 2002–2003: High rate of A/C compressor failures; potential system contamination and costly repairs.
• 2007–2011: Door‑lock actuator failures; recurring A/C issues; occasional differential moan mitigated by fluid service.
• 2015: Noticeable vibration at idle/low speeds; partial mitigation via TSBs (software, mounts) with mixed results.
• 2017: 1.5T oil dilution in cold climates; drivability complaints; service campaigns and regional warranty extensions issued.
• 2018: Similar oil‑dilution concerns primarily in cold regions; improvements and updates more common on later builds.
• 2019: Updates reduced oil‑dilution complaints; notable airbag-related recall addressed unexpected deployment risk.

These patterns help explain why 2015 and 2017 are most often tagged “bad,” with 2002–2003 and 2007–2011 carrying targeted risks. For 2019, issues were more recall‑specific and less systemic, and later model years generally improved.

Recalls and Fixes Owners Should Know

Several CR‑V generations were covered by recalls or service campaigns that materially change ownership risk. Confirm completion by checking the VIN with a Honda dealer or your national safety agency’s database.

• 2017–2018 Oil Dilution Product Updates: Software and, in some regions, hardware-related measures plus extended coverage in cold‑weather states/provinces.
• 2018–2019 Fuel Pump Recall: Low‑pressure fuel pump impellers (supplier issue) could fail; replacement pumps installed under recall.
• 2019 Airbag/SRS Recall: Addressed risk of unintended airbag deployment due to internal steering wheel component issues.
• 2007–2011 Takata Airbag Recalls: Widespread industry campaign; ensure inflators were replaced.

A CR‑V from an otherwise “bad” year can be a reasonable buy if all campaigns are completed, symptoms are absent, and service documentation is solid.

What to Buy Instead

Shoppers seeking fewer headaches generally look for model years with strong reliability records and fewer systemic defects.

• 2013–2014: Late fourth‑gen models before the 2015 NVH/vibration shift; proven powertrain and broad parts availability.
• 2016: Final year of the fourth generation; tends to avoid the 2015 vibration complaints while benefiting from running improvements.
• 2019–2022: Post‑update fifth‑gen models with reduced oil‑dilution complaints; check recall completion (fuel pump, SRS).
• 2023–2025: Sixth‑gen redesign with refined 1.5T and an improved hybrid; early ownership data looks positive so far.

Any used choice still hinges on condition, mileage, maintenance records, and a clean, recall‑free VIN history.

Considering a “Bad Year”? Here’s What to Check

If a well‑priced CR‑V from a flagged year catches your eye, targeted checks can lower risk before you buy.

• 2015: Test for vibration during extended idle in Drive with A/C on; verify TSB software updates and revised engine mounts; assess NVH on your daily route.
• 2017–2018: Cold‑start and long idle test; check for fuel smell in oil, rising oil level, misfires; confirm oil‑dilution updates and any extended coverage.
• 2002–2003: Inspect A/C performance; ask for documentation of compressor and component replacements; beware of partial “patch” repairs.
• 2007–2011: Test all power locks repeatedly; review A/C service history; listen for differential moan and verify fluid service.
• 2018–2019: Confirm completion of fuel pump recall; on 2019s, verify SRS/airbag recall completion and perform a full SRS scan in a pre‑purchase inspection.
• All Years: Obtain a pre‑purchase inspection, scan for codes, check for leaks, review maintenance (especially fluid changes), and confirm recall status by VIN.

Passing these checks—plus strong service records—can turn a higher‑risk year into a sensible, budget‑friendly purchase.

Methodology and Context

This assessment synthesizes owner complaint trends, recall campaign details, TSB activity, and long‑term reliability reporting available through the 2024 model year. Because used vehicles vary, individual condition and documentation should outweigh model‑year generalizations.

Summary

If you want one “bad” CR‑V year to avoid, 2015 and 2017 stand out most often—2015 for stubborn vibration complaints and 2017 (also many 2018s in cold climates) for oil‑dilution issues. Earlier risks include 2002–2003 A/C compressor failures and 2007–2011 door‑lock and A/C problems. Favor 2013–2014, 2016, and 2019–2022 (with recalls done), while the 2023–2025 redesign is trending positively. As always, let maintenance history, recall completion, and an expert inspection guide the final decision.

What is the best year of Honda CR-V to buy?

Which Honda CR-V years are the best? Almost all CR-Vs have good reliability records, but models built from 2013 to 2016, and those built from 2020 to the present have the best records for which good data exists.

What year is CRV most stolen?

2020

What year does the Honda CR-V have transmission problems?

In 2015, Honda recalled approximately 350000 CR-V models due to issues with the CVT that could lead to a loss of power while driving. The affected vehicles experienced problems with the transmission that could cause it to slip or fail unexpectedly.

What Honda CR-V years to avoid?

The worst years for the Honda CR-V include 1997–1999, 2002–2003, 2007–2009, and 2017–2019. These models are frequently cited for serious problems such as engine failures, electrical fires, airbag malfunctions, transmission breakdowns, and corrosion-induced suspension collapse.