Honda's family SUV with proven i-MMD hybrid system. Generally reliable, but some specific issues to watch: brake servo simulator failures (recall in Japan/China but spotty coverage elsewhere), head gasket failures on 2.0L hybrid engine from thermal cycling stress, infotainment screen freezing, 12V battery drain, and steering rack failures outside recall VINs. The i-MMD hybrid drivetrain itself is solid with minimal issues. Avoid 2020 models affected by DC-DC converter and fuel pump recalls unless verified fixed.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€900 - €1,600/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€600-€950
Risk buffer
€300-€650
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Brake servo/pedal simulator failure€800 - €1,500
Electronic servo brake simulator fails causing loss of braking function · more· less
Honda issued recalls in Japan (Oct 2018 - Jan 2022 production) and China (2018-2020) for electronic servo pedal simulator unit failures. The problem causes multiple warning lights and significant loss of braking function. In affected regions, Honda replaces the unit (part 01469-TPG-A95) free of charge. However, coverage is inconsistent - UK dealers offer 40% goodwill discount, while some markets have no coverage. If buying used, verify recall status and test brakes thoroughly. Replacement typically costs €800-1,500 at dealers.
Head gasket failure (2.0L hybrid engine)€2,500 - €4,000
Hybrid thermal cycling causes head gasket stress, failures reported 65k-85k km · more· less
Unlike pure petrol engines that stay hot, hybrid engines constantly cycle on/off, heating and cooling dozens of times per journey. This thermal stress can cause head gasket failure, with multiple reports at 65,000-85,000 km. Early warning signs: rough cold starts when engine kicks in from EV mode (misfires from coolant in cylinder), dropping coolant levels without visible leaks, sweet smell from exhaust. One 2020 CR-V Hybrid failed at 84,000 km with coolant in cylinders 1 and 2. Repair costs €2,500-4,000 including machining. Monitor coolant levels closely.
Capacitive touch panel sensor issue causes screen to freeze or go black · more· less
Class action lawsuit filed for 2017-2019 CR-V infotainment failures. Honda issued TSB 19-066 addressing screen freezing, going dark, or full-bright mode. Screen becomes unresponsive to touch/voice, though audio may continue. Software update (available via dealer for ~€50) often fixes it. Hard reset: disconnect battery 15 minutes. Persistent issues may require module reflash or hardware replacement (€500-800). Affects touring and EX-L trims most. Honda acknowledged capacitive touch panel sensor issue since Jan 2019 but no universal recall issued.
Steering rack/gearbox failure€2,700 - €5,800
Electric power steering rack fails prematurely, often under 40,000 km · more· less
Honda issued recall 18V663000 for steering gearbox magnet detachment on some 2017-2018 models, but many affected vehicles fall outside recall VINs. Symptoms: steering feels like it's catching in a groove, clicking/snapping sound when turning, sudden loss of power steering at any speed. Failures often occur under 40,000 km. Replacement costs €2,700-5,800 with 4-wheel alignment. Honda sometimes offers "Customer Good Will Adjustment" reducing €5,000 quotes to ~€3,500, but this is inconsistent. Verify your VIN is covered by recall before purchase.
12V battery drain€150 - €250
VSA software bug and parasitic drain kills battery in 3-7 days if not driven · more· less
The CR-V has parasitic draw issues - VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) software may not shut down properly, drawing 350mA continuously even when off. This drains the 12V battery within days. CR-Vs from 2017-2019 particularly affected. Battery replacement costs €150-250 (group size 51). Solution: drive regularly or use trickle charger. Some "BRAKE SYSTEM PROBLEM" warnings are actually low 12V battery alerts. If buying used, check battery age and test starting after car sits 3-4 days unused.
Honda recalled 2020 CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and 2020-2021 Insight (recall began Feb 2021) for DC-DC converter shutdown preventing 12V battery recharge, possibly causing loss of drive power or failure to start. Dealers update PCU (Power Control Unit) software free of charge. If you're considering a 2020 hybrid, verify this recall was completed using VIN. Owners who paid for DC-DC converter replacement before recall are eligible for reimbursement. Uncovered repairs run €1,500-1,700.
Fuel pump failure (2020+ hybrids)Free (recall)
High-pressure fuel pump can crack and leak, recall covers 2023-2025 hybrids · more· less
Honda recalled 720,000 vehicles in 2024 for defective high-pressure fuel pumps that can crack and leak fuel (fire risk). Affects 2023-2025 CR-V Hybrid models. Improper machining of solenoid components causes housing cracks when pressurized. Honda received 145 warranty claims, affecting ~1% of recalled vehicles. Dealers inspect and replace pump free of charge. Honda service managers note the issue typically shows in first 2,000-3,000 km; if your car has 10,000+ km with no issues, you're likely safe. Still verify recall completion.
A/C compressor shaft seal leak€0 - €1,400
New refrigerant regulation causes seal swelling, 10-year warranty extension · more· less
Honda extended A/C compressor shaft seal warranty to 10 years (no mileage limit) for 2018-2020 models due to new North American refrigerant/oil regulations causing seal swelling and leaks. Symptoms: warm air from vents, squealing/grinding from compressor. If failed within warranty period and you paid out-of-pocket, Honda offers reimbursement. Verify coverage before paying for A/C repair. Out-of-warranty replacement costs €900-1,400 at dealers, €600-900 at independent shops (including refrigerant recharge).
AWD models: thin steel differential housing threads strip during servicing · more· less
2017-2022 CR-V AWD models have thin steel in rear differential tank - drain plug threads strip easily if over-torqued during fluid changes (required every 30,000 km after initial 15,000 km service). Helicoil repair costs €200-400 if caught early. If housing is damaged, full differential replacement runs €2,500-3,000. Always use Honda DPSF-II fluid only (1.25L capacity). Have an experienced technician do the service - many indie shops over-torque the plug. Check for leaks during inspection.
Hybrid battery degradation€1,200 - €4,200
High-voltage battery covered 8 years/100,000 km (10yr/150k in some regions) · more· less
Honda CR-V Hybrid battery warranty: 8 years/100,000 km standard, 10 years/150,000 km in California and similar emissions states. Warranty covers degradation below 75% capacity. Expected lifespan with proper care: 10-15 years or 120,000-200,000 km. Replacement costs €3,700-4,200 from Honda, but used batteries with low mileage available on eBay for €1,200-1,900 (1-hour install). To maintain battery: drive at least 30 minutes every 3 months, avoid extreme temperatures, park in garage when possible. Battery failures are rare during warranty period.
Generally reliable hybrid system, but watch for specific recalls
The i-MMD hybrid drivetrain is proven and reliable. Main concerns are the brake servo simulator (recall in Asia but spotty elsewhere), head gasket thermal cycling failures, and infotainment glitches. The 2020 model year has the most recalls (DC-DC converter, fuel pump). Always verify recall completion using VIN before purchase. With proper maintenance and recall work completed, these are solid family SUVs.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Honda dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify hybrid battery maintenance and rear differential fluid changes every 30,000 km.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 5/32"), age codes, uneven wear. CR-V Hybrid is heavier - check for weight-rated tires.
Cold start test
Must start completely cold. Listen for rough idle or misfire when engine kicks in from EV mode (head gasket warning sign).
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds. Test hybrid mode transitions, regenerative braking, and steering feel.
12V battery test
Check battery age and test after car sits unused 3-4 days. CR-Vs drain batteries quickly.
Specific for this vehicle
Verify all recalls completed using VIN
Critical: brake servo simulator (Japan/China recall), DC-DC converter (2020 models), fuel pump (2023-2025 hybrids), steering gearbox (2017-2018). Contact Honda with VIN.
Brake system full test
Test brake pedal feel - should be firm and consistent. Watch for multiple warning lights. Test regenerative braking at various speeds. Any mushiness or warnings = potential servo simulator issue.
Coolant level check and smell test
Check coolant reservoir - level should be stable. Sweet smell from exhaust or dropping coolant without visible leaks indicates potential head gasket failure.
Infotainment system test
Test all screen functions for 10+ minutes. Look for freezing, black screen, or unresponsive touch. Ask seller if software updates have been applied (TSB 19-066).
Steering test on varied surfaces
Feel for catching/clicking when turning, especially at full lock. Power steering should be smooth with no sudden changes or loss of assist.
Hybrid battery health check
Have dealer or specialist scan hybrid battery state of health. Should be above 80% capacity. Check for battery warning lights during test drive.
AWD rear differential inspection (if equipped)
Check for leaks around drain plug. Verify fluid has been changed per schedule (15k, then every 30k km). Stripped threads are common.
A/C compressor operation
Run A/C for 15 minutes - should blow cold with no squealing or grinding. Check for compressor shaft seal warranty extension coverage.
Battery drain test
If possible, ask seller to let car sit 3 days without driving, then test start. CR-Vs often have parasitic drain issues.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Fuel pump failure (2020-2025 all Hondas, 2023-2025 CR-V Hybrid)Verify completed
Front seat belt buckle (2017-2020)Verify completed
Brake servo simulator (Japan/China only - check VIN)Limited coverage
TSB 19-066: Infotainment screen freezing/black screenSoftware update available
A/C compressor shaft seal warranty extension10 years, no mileage limit
Contact Honda with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The brake servo simulator recall has limited geographic coverage - Europe may not be included. If buying 2020 hybrid, DC-DC converter recall is critical. Service advisors can check TSB status.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/100,000 km)Expired on 2018-2021
Hybrid battery (8 years/100,000 km)Check manufacture date
Hybrid battery (10 years/150,000 km)California/emissions states only
A/C compressor shaft sealExtended to 10 years
Most 2018-2020 CR-V Hybrids are outside factory warranty but hybrid battery warranty may still apply (8-10 years depending on region). A/C compressor shaft seal has extended 10-year warranty. Check exact warranty status with Honda using VIN and vehicle manufacture date.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.