What’s the best year for a Honda CR‑V?

If you’re shopping used, the best all‑around years for a Honda CR‑V are 2021–2022 for their reliability, safety tech, and few widespread complaints; for new, the 2024–2025 sixth‑generation models (especially the Hybrid trims) are the strongest picks. Budget hunters should look at 2014 or 2016. In contrast, 2015 (vibration/NVH complaints) and 2017–2018 (1.5‑liter turbo oil‑dilution issue) are the most commonly flagged model years to avoid.

How we evaluated “best”

To determine the standout CR‑V years, we considered owner‑reported reliability, technical service bulletins and known issues, recall history, crash‑test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, powertrain updates, feature content (especially standard safety tech), and cost of ownership. The CR‑V’s strengths—space, fuel economy, and resale—are consistent, so the differentiators are reliability and powertrain maturity.

Best model years and why

The following years consistently rate highly for dependability, safety performance, and day‑to‑day livability, while avoiding the platform’s well‑documented trouble spots.

• 2021–2022 (5th generation, refresh) — Matured 1.5‑liter turbo/CVT pairing with widespread reports of improved reliability versus early 5th‑gen years; Honda Sensing standard; strong crash‑test scores; refined ride and cabin. Few systemic complaints relative to earlier years.
• 2020 (5th generation, refresh) — Mid‑cycle update that made Honda Sensing standard across all trims and introduced the efficient CR‑V Hybrid (2.0‑liter Atkinson‑cycle with dual‑motor e‑CVT). Oil‑dilution complaints were notably reduced compared with 2017–2018, thanks to software and hardware updates.
• 2024–2025 (6th generation) — Latest platform with more space, improved chassis tuning, modernized infotainment and active‑safety suite, and a significantly better CR‑V Hybrid that many reviewers consider the lineup’s sweet spot. Strong crash‑test performance (Top Safety Pick/TSP+ depending on trim/headlights and test year) and competitive fuel economy.
• 2014 and 2016 (4th generation standouts) — 2014 uses the older 2.4‑liter with a 5‑speed automatic known for durability; 2016 retained the newer CVT setup introduced in 2015 but benefited from refinements that mitigated the prior year’s idle vibration complaints.

Together, these years balance proven drivetrains with modern safety features. For value, 2020–2022 models hit a sweet spot on depreciation without inheriting the early 5th‑gen issues; 2024–2025 are ideal for buyers prioritizing latest tech and the improved Hybrid.

Years to approach with caution

Every generation has outliers. The models below have well‑documented issues owners and technicians highlight more often than average.

• 2015 — Mid‑cycle refresh that paired the 2.4‑liter “Earth Dreams” engine with a CVT introduced notable idle vibration and driveline NVH complaints; many were addressed case‑by‑case, but it’s a frequent pain point.
• 2017–2018 (early 5th generation) — 1.5‑liter turbo “oil dilution” in cold climates (fuel mixing with oil, potential driveability issues, fuel smell, rising oil level). Honda issued software updates and TSBs and, in some regions, extended coverage, but these are the years most often cited by owners. Thorough pre‑purchase inspection is essential.
• Early 2019 — Reports suggest most oil‑dilution concerns declined markedly by 2019, yet isolated complaints persisted in certain conditions. If considering a 2019, verify software updates and service history.
• Older high‑mileage 2002–2011 — Not inherently “bad,” but age‑related issues like A/C compressor failures and differential noise are more common. Condition and maintenance history matter more than the specific year here.

Plenty of individual examples from these years run trouble‑free, but statistically they demand more diligence. A documented service history and up‑to‑date software/TSB work can make an otherwise borderline year acceptable.

Powertrain notes to know before you buy

Matching the CR‑V’s engine and transmission to your expectations can prevent surprises. Here’s how the common setups differ by era.

• 2012–2014 (Gen 4): 2.4‑liter naturally aspirated engine with a 5‑speed automatic. Simple, proven, less efficient than later CVT/turbo setups but notably durable.
• 2015–2016 (Gen 4 refresh): 2.4‑liter with CVT. Smoother and more efficient; 2015 drew idle vibration complaints that were improved for 2016.
• 2017–2019 (early Gen 5): Most trims use a 1.5‑liter turbo with CVT; LX initially kept the 2.4‑liter in the U.S. The 1.5T brought strong fuel economy and torque but had the oil‑dilution controversy, mainly in 2017–2018 and cold climates.
• 2020–2022 (late Gen 5): 1.5T/CVT refinements plus the introduction of the CR‑V Hybrid (2.0‑liter Atkinson with dual‑motor e‑CVT), which is smooth, efficient, and well‑regarded.
• 2023–2025 (Gen 6): Updated 1.5T/CVT with further calibration tweaks; Hybrid becomes the star (especially Sport/Sport‑L/Sport Touring) with better integration, drivability, and mpg than before.

If you prioritize maximum simplicity and long‑term durability over efficiency, the 2012–2014 powertrain is appealing. For modern safety and efficiency with fewer headaches, 2020 onward—especially the Hybrid—stands out.

What to check on a test drive (used CR‑V)

Even within “good” years, individual condition varies. These quick checks can help you spot a well‑kept CR‑V and avoid hidden costs.

• Engine and oil: On 2017–2019 1.5T models, look for fuel smell on the dipstick, rising oil level, rough cold starts, or lingering misfire codes. Confirm software updates and any TSBs were performed.
• Idle quality and NVH: For 2015–2016, assess idle vibration in gear with A/C on; excessive shudder suggests mounts or unresolved NVH issues.
• Climate control: Test A/C performance thoroughly; older generations can develop compressor issues.
• Transmission service: Ask about CVT fluid changes (ideally around 30–60k‑mile intervals, depending on use). Smooth, slip‑free engagement is key.
• Safety systems: Verify Honda Sensing features function (adaptive cruise, lane‑keeping, collision mitigation) and that windshield or radar service was calibrated after any glass replacement.
• Recalls and campaigns: Run the VIN through official databases to confirm recall completion and check for outstanding product updates.
• Rust and underbody: Especially in snowbelt regions; inspect brake lines, subframes, and rear suspension components.

A clean pre‑purchase inspection, full service records, and proof of software updates are often more important than trim level. Walk away from cars with unclear maintenance histories.

Cost of ownership and value

CR‑Vs hold value well. The 3‑to‑5‑year‑old window (2020–2022 today) often balances depreciation, modern safety tech, and reliability. Hybrids can return higher real‑world mpg and may carry slightly higher resale, offsetting purchase price over time. Insurance, tires, and routine maintenance are all typically modest versus rivals.

Bottom line

For most shoppers, 2021–2022 are the best used CR‑V years, offering a refined, reliable package with comprehensive safety tech. If you want the newest design, cabin, and the best Hybrid, the 2024–2025 sixth‑gen is the top pick. Value buyers should target 2014 or 2016. Be cautious with 2015 (vibration) and 2017–2018 (oil dilution), and always verify updates and maintenance.

Summary

In brief: 2021–2022 are the standout used CR‑Vs; 2024–2025 are the best new, particularly as Hybrids; 2014 and 2016 are solid budget choices; and 2015 plus 2017–2018 warrant extra scrutiny due to known issues.

What are the best years to buy a Honda CR-V?

If you are looking to get a used Honda CR-V, anything made in the last five years will get you a certified used Honda model. We recommend 2020, 2021, or 2022, but other years since 2017 are also extremely good. For trim, you might want to try either an EX or Touring, as these are particularly good.

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

2023 Honda Accord and CR-V Hybrid: In August 2023, Honda issued a recall for Accord and CR-V Hybrid models due to a manufacturing defect in the eCVT generator rotor. If the rotor failed, it could cause the vehicle to lose power while driving, presenting a serious safety risk.

Which used Honda CR-V is most reliable?

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.

Which is more reliable, CR-V or RAV4?

In contrast, the Toyota RAV4 tends to outshine even the steady performance of the Honda CR-V when it comes to reliability. Consumer Reports has given the RAV4 top-notch reliability ratings in recent years, frequently earning the model an ‘excellent’ verdict overall.