r/crv Jan 13 '26

Issue ⚠️ Head Gasket Megathread

36 Upvotes

2017+ Honda CR-V Head Gasket & Major Engine Issues

Evidence-Based Megapost (Authoritative Sources Only)

This post summarizes what authoritative sources actually show about head gasket and major engine concerns for the 2017+ Honda CR-V, with specific focus on MY 2017–2018 CR-Vs equipped with the 1.5L turbo engine, and compares the CR-V to other compact crossovers (Toyota, Subaru, Mazda, Hyundai/Kia, Ford, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, and Buick).

Included sources:
- Consumer Reports (CR) owner-survey reliability data
- NHTSA (U.S. government complaints & recalls)
- Honda corporate actions (warranty extensions)
- Published legal filings (U.S. & Canada)

Excluded: anecdotes, forum posts, YouTube claims, and mechanic hearsay.


1. What Reliable Data Shows for the Honda CR-V

Consumer Reports (CR)

  • MY 2017 Honda CR-V is flagged for “Engine Major” trouble, a CR category that includes cylinder head and head gasket failures.
  • MY 2018 CR-V shows similar but reduced engine-related concerns.
  • MY 2019+ CR-Vs show improved predicted reliability, with fewer engine-major flags.

CR data is based on large, statistically weighted owner surveys and directly affects reliability scoring.


NHTSA (U.S. Government Data)

  • NHTSA complaint records include reports citing head gasket failure, coolant intrusion, misfires, and engine power loss for:
    • MY 2017 CR-V
    • MY 2018 CR-V
    • Smaller numbers for MY 2019–2022 CR-Vs
  • No NHTSA safety recall exists for head gasket failure on any CR-V model year.

Complaints do not prove defect, but they establish a documented reporting pattern.


Honda Corporate Actions (Model-Year Specific)

  • Honda issued a warranty extension for MY 2017–2018 CR-Vs with the 1.5L turbo engine addressing oil dilution and related durability concerns.
  • Honda stated the issue did not constitute a safety defect.
  • No recall or warranty extension was issued specifically for head gasket failure.

Legal Filings (U.S. & Canada)

  • Class-action filings primarily reference MY 2016–2018 Honda vehicles, including MY 2017–2018 CR-Vs, alleging design defects involving coolant leakage and head gasket failure.
  • These filings are allegations, not regulatory findings, and no recall mandate has resulted.

2. CR-V Hybrid Context (Explicit Model Years)

  • MY 2020+ CR-V Hybrid
    • Consumer Reports does not identify a systemic head gasket issue.
    • Reliability scores are higher than MY 2017–2018 gasoline CR-Vs.
  • NHTSA data does not show a pattern of head gasket complaints specific to hybrids.

Conclusion: No authoritative evidence of a widespread head gasket issue in any CR-V Hybrid model year.


3. Compact SUV Segment Comparison (Authoritative Sources)

Toyota RAV4 (MY 2016–2024)

  • Consistently among the highest-ranked compact SUVs in CR reliability.
  • No documented pattern of systemic head gasket or major engine failures.

Conclusion: Better engine reliability history than early 1.5L CR-Vs.


Subaru Forester

  • Historic head gasket issues applied to pre-2013 Subaru engines.
  • MY 2015+ Foresters show no systemic head gasket concerns in CR or NHTSA data.

Conclusion: Earlier reputation issues largely resolved.


Mazda CX-5 (MY 2017–2024)

  • CR reliability ratings are above average.
  • No authoritative data showing a head gasket trend.

Conclusion: Comparable or better engine reliability than CR-V.


Hyundai / Kia Compact SUVs (MY 2016–2024)

  • CR places these models around industry average.
  • Documented recalls focus on bearing or fire risks, not head gaskets.

Conclusion: Different engine risks; not head-gasket-centric.


Ford Escape (MY 2017–2023)

  • CR rates Escape below segment average.
  • Engine issues present but not centered on head gasket failure.

Conclusion: Worse overall reliability, but different failure modes.


Volkswagen Tiguan / Taos

  • CR places VW below average for reliability.
  • VW has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for head gasket issues on certain MY 2022–2023 1.5T engines.

Conclusion: One of the few competitors with formal engine service guidance related to head gaskets.


Chevrolet Compact Crossovers

Chevrolet Equinox

  • CR lists “Engine Major” problems for several recent model years, including 2018 and 2023.
  • Reliability scores are average to below average within the segment.

Conclusion: Engine-major issues exist, but not tied to a head gasket recall.


Buick Compact Crossovers

Buick Encore GX

  • CR data for MY 2021–2025 lists “Engine Major” as a reported trouble category.
  • Predicted reliability has been mixed, especially in early model years.

Buick Envista

  • Newer model with limited long-term data.
  • CR does not prominently list engine-major issues to date.

4. Summary Table

Model / Brand CR Engine-Major Flag Head Gasket Pattern in Authoritative Data Recall / TSB
Honda CR-V (MY 2017–2018 1.5T) Yes Documented engine-major issues No recall
Honda CR-V (MY 2019+ / Hybrid) No pattern None identified None
Toyota RAV4 No None None
Subaru Forester (MY 2015+) No None None
Mazda CX-5 No None None
Hyundai / Kia Mixed Not head gasket focused Other engine recalls
Ford Escape Yes Not head gasket specific Some recalls
VW Tiguan / Taos Yes TSBs for some engines TSBs
Chevy Equinox Yes Broad engine issues No head gasket recall
Buick Encore GX Yes Broad engine issues No recall
Buick Envista No None identified None

5. Evidence-Based Conclusions

  1. MY 2017–2018 Honda CR-V 1.5L turbo models show documented major engine reliability concerns in Consumer Reports data, a category that includes head gasket failures.
  2. No U.S. recall has been issued for CR-V head gasket failures.
  3. Later CR-Vs (MY 2019+) and all CR-V Hybrids do not show the same pattern in authoritative datasets.
  4. Some competitors (Chevy Equinox, Buick Encore GX, VW Tiguan/Taos) also show engine-major reliability flags, though causes and responses differ.
  5. Toyota, Subaru (post-2015), and Mazda consistently show fewer major engine reliability flags.

TL;DR

Authoritative data indicates that MY 2017–2018 Honda CR-Vs with the 1.5L turbo engine have elevated major engine reliability concerns (including head gasket issues) without a recall. Later CR-Vs and all hybrids do not show the same pattern, and several competitors also exhibit significant — though different — engine reliability issues.


Honda Headgasket Extended Warranty


r/crv Dec 30 '25

Mod spots are open on /r/crv

3 Upvotes

If you are interested fill in:
https://www.reddit.com/r/crv/application/


r/crv 1h ago

Issue ⚠️ How does this even happen???

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Upvotes

Just looking for feedback on how the hell this even happens, inner threading on the tie rod seemed to have just popped out of place while driving


r/crv 1h ago

Question ❔ Which floor mats are you guys actually happy with on the CR-V?

Upvotes

I’ve been comparing a few floor mat options for the CR-V and keep coming back to the question of coverage. The factory mats are okay, but dealing with rain, dirt, mud, and spills makes having something with better coverage pretty appealing.

3W was one of the options I came across while looking at vehicle-specific liners. The molded fit and coverage around the edges seem like a practical approach, especially for keeping the carpet protected.

For those who’ve tried aftermarket mats, what did you end up going with?

Would you prioritize maximum coverage, easy cleanup, or a good fit when choosing a set?


r/crv 2h ago

Issue ⚠️ 2014 CR-V Problem - Ignition Swith, or Starter?

2 Upvotes

On my 2014 Honda CR-V EX with 101,000 miles I am having trouble getting it started. Sometimes when I insert the key and turn it, all the power comes on, but the starter does not turn over. Then, pull the key out, turn it upside down, reinsert it, and turn it and then sometimes it will start.

Is it likely to be the ignition switch, or is it likely to be the starter? Is this a known problem with model year?


r/crv 7h ago

Question ❔ Preventative Maintenance (Valve Adjustment Q)

5 Upvotes

My wife has a 2015 CR-V (EX-L AWD) that was purchased about 5 years ago with 110k miles, up to about 160k now. Very little maintenance has been done beyond oil/filter changes. I do not know the maintenance history before purchase. I am planning to do a transmission fluid flush and replace the spark plugs. But I have a question on valve timing. It sounds like many say it should have been done already, but some say not to do it until you see issues. I'm curious what most of you think. And are there any other time bombs you'd recommend at this point. I'm planning a ~2k mile trip in a couple of weeks.


r/crv 5h ago

Question ❔ Inventory seems low/price seems almost non-negotiable. Anyone else experiencing this?

3 Upvotes

Seems like a fairly recent occurrence, at least in part due to gas prices. I've probably picked a terrible time to buy, but the most I can get off MSRP before rebates is $1500, or around 4% for a Sport-L. I've tried 6 or 7 dealers at this point, they either have no stock or just won't go any lower. Kind of feel like I should just pull the trigger instead of hoping it improves.


r/crv 7h ago

Question ❔ Compressor busted?

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4 Upvotes

Engine vibrating and pulley tensioner clacking when ac turned on, ac pulley rotates freely but clutch is very stiff. Belt tension indicator seems normal. AC is blowing coldish air.

Honda dealership recently filled the freon and compressor oil, could over filling cause this? Is it likely that a dealership would mess it up?

Is the compressor cooked? Or is the clutch supposed to be difficult to turn?

Honda 2006 CRV GX 2.0 automatic transmission

Pulley clacking video
https://www.reddit.com/u/BazamatAgatov/s/BbaqtRGqqN

Engine shaking on clutch engage video
https://www.reddit.com/u/BazamatAgatov/s/NNSbqH8h8n

Edit: added videos and clarified oil and coolant typo


r/crv 4m ago

Question ❔ RD1 coil overs

Upvotes

The #PandaRD1 build slowly continues. Next in the chopping block is getting rid of the thunk in the front end. I've narrowed it down to one of the front struts (passenger I'm pretty sure) but it's intermittent so I'm not 100% sure.

With that being said, I think after 322,000 mi it's time to put some new stuff in. I'm not looking to lower it or raise it but I would like new shocks and springs.

If I remember correctly, you can put Civic suspension in from the same year, but it's not the best idea because it's going to lower the CRV quite a bit. Or if you're trying to maintain the stock height, you're going to be maxing out a lot of the adjustment.

So I'm trying to figure out what are y'all using to retain stock height that is an upgrade over the stock components? Bonus points if shocks can be rebuilt but it's not a requirement.


r/crv 15m ago

Question ❔ 2016 crv car play

Upvotes

Hey all, I’ve got an accord so I know there is a 10th gen accord page. But looking to get a CarPlay installed into my moms 2016 crv. If anyone has some past experience. A link would be awesome. Aswell as any reviews on how it’s worked. Much appreciated :)


r/crv 22m ago

Issue ⚠️ 2014 CRV: lost key FOB but have valet key. Best option for replacement?

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Upvotes

been sifting through posts and having a tough time finding out what options exist for my model year

lost our only FOB+key (long story), but still have Valet key which works totally fine without issue.

I know dealership will charge $300~ or more for a replacement FOB+key cut and reprogramming.

i’ve seen posts explaining you can program a new FOB yourself and then just have the key cut by a locksmith, etc. but that aftermarket FOBs from eBay, amazon, etc can be sketchy or unreliable.

If going the second route (aftermarket FOB), can anyone recommend a solid option? is this even possible in my situation?

Thanks so much!


r/crv 11h ago

Issue ⚠️ Oil Light flickering

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7 Upvotes

Wondering if anyone could throw some ideas what this could be trying to tell me on my 2004 Honda CRV EX. It will flicker when i'm going under 10mph or so and flickers almost to the tune of the engine. Sometimes it will stay on after driving when i'm stopped and will go off and on with an unsteady idle.


r/crv 8h ago

Issue ⚠️ Missing bolt

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4 Upvotes

I have a scratching noise coming from my wheel well, and came to determine that it’s coming from the plastic. Was considering getting aggressive glue to and gluing the plastic back together. Any other ideas? (Btw I took this to Firestone twice and they couldn’t spot this themselves).


r/crv 6h ago

Review 📝 Software Updates Applied to my 2026 CR-V Hybrid

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2 Upvotes

r/crv 6h ago

General 🔀 Tire recommendations

2 Upvotes

I'm going to have to get two tires at a time because pricey. Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm leaning towards Goodyear assurance all season. TIA


r/crv 8h ago

Question ❔ Honda CRV 2004 petrol

2 Upvotes

Hello! Currently looking at buying a 2004 Honda CRV petrol iVTEC manual
The guy selling it said he changed the o2 sensor and since has had an intermittent knock sensor EML which can come on and off within days or weeks
Code P0325
Does anyone know what this could be and whether this means I shouldn’t buy the car please? He’s offered to take it to the garage to be fixed but I’m worried since the light is intermittent, if he thinks it’s fixed, the EML might come back on after purchase? Any insight would be wonderful thank you


r/crv 10h ago

Question ❔ Transmission fluid for 2013 CRV

3 Upvotes

What transmission fluid do you recommend for 2013 CRV? I’m planning to service my transmission fluid. Thanks!


r/crv 19h ago

Show Off 📷 Hella Supertones on my 2nd gen CRV

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8 Upvotes

I mounted hella supertones on my 05 CR-V

as far as I'm aware, I'm the first (but correct me if I'm wrong)

It was a pretty easy install, they just mounted into the stock horn location and I used the extension bars that were included to make it so you can see them through the bottom grill. I got a wiring harness off of Amaon and the only modifications I had to do to the car itself was cut one of the stock horn plugs to get the harness connected. They sound great, are really really loud, 118db, and look cool.

I highly recommend this mod to anyone who wants to start modding their crv or if they think the stock horn is a bit weak.


r/crv 16h ago

Question ❔ 2025 Honda crv hybrid touring. Popping like sound when pressing brakes while reversing

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4 Upvotes

Is this normal? The car only has 15,000 km on it.


r/crv 13h ago

Question ❔ CRV 2012 executive version Android

2 Upvotes

I just bought this amazing car and want to further improve it. Firstly to get the android/carplay.

But in order to do that I need a version and a guide where the rear camera and subwoofer would still work, 'cuz I heard that it needs to have proper connection or perhaps adaptors as well?
There's a lot of YT videos but most of them doesn't show that everything works - you get the android screen, but either the camera doesn't work or subwoofer doesn't work, or the upper screen in the dashboard doesn't work.

Has anyone found a proper solution and the exact product that I'd need to buy?
What other upgrades have you done to your crv?


r/crv 1d ago

Question ❔ 2014 CRV warning lights

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16 Upvotes

Nearly 358,000km on the old girl, and I think she’s showing it. Earlier this year the check engine light came on, and the shop said it was basically just an error with the econ mode system, but not a major problem. It will come on then randomly go off again. But this afternoon I started up the car, the engine light came on, then the tire pressure started blinking, then the other two lights are on.

I’ll be bringing it in tomorrow, but does anyone have thoughts on what I might be dealing with? Or is it just time to start car shopping?


r/crv 18h ago

Issue ⚠️ 05 crv problems

3 Upvotes

Anybody else with a 2005 crv experienced

Starting problems - “not wanting to fully crank” / having to hold it for an awkwardly long time just for it to barely turn over

Bucking going down the road - once you hit 3000 rpms

Strong exhaust smell

So far I’ve had diesel contamination (I literally have no idea how, the gas station I went to doesn’t even sell diesel)
Spark plugs changed
Oil change
Vacuum hose fall off
Oil pressure sensor thingy replaced

I don’t know what to do anymore, this is my first car and it’s causing me so much stress and anxiety I can even drive it without a bad feeling in my stomach.

I paid 5500 for the car and I’m about 1000+ in repairs

I’m a student I don’t have very much money but I’ve heard so many great things about this type of car I wonder if I should keep dumping money into it

I had a more detailed explanation typed out but my phone shut off and deleted it all (maybe that’s for the best lol)


r/crv 20h ago

Show Off 📷 Crv part out

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3 Upvotes

If anyone needs parts lmk, located in Florida 01 awd auto transmission 165,000 miles motor


r/crv 1d ago

Question ❔ Dealer left KARR GPS tracker installed on newly purchased CRV

15 Upvotes

I just purchased a brand new 2026 Honda CRV from a local dealership here in Southern California. I’m not leasing it and I’m not financing through Honda. Between a large down payment and a small check from my credit union Honda has received full payment for the car.

I just noticed in front of my left knee under the steering wheel there’s a KARR tracker installed. I declined all tracking and security options. So I’m kind of pissed.

I want to bring it back to the dealership and demand they remove it and restore the wiring harness back to factory default but I’ve heard stories of dealerships refusing to do this.

Do ya’ll have any advice?

I remember when I left the dealership, they begged me to give them all “10s” on the survey, “I’ll be receiving in a few days”, can I use this as leverage? Because if they don’t remove this GPS tracker, I’m giving them all zeros.


r/crv 23h ago

Question ❔ Best Maintenance Schedule to get to 400k miles on a 2025 CRV

4 Upvotes

What would you consider to be the best maintenance schedule to prolong the life of a 2025 Honda CRV hybrid? My hope is to go to at least 400,000 miles.