Is the Honda CR-V 2013–2018 reliable?
The Honda CR-V Mk4 (2013–2018) is one of the more thoughtfully engineered family SUVs in this price bracket. Honda's engineering reputation is justified — the CR-V is generally more reliable than European rivals, better built than most Korean alternatives, and holds its value reasonably well.
The 2.0-litre petrol engine is the one to have. It's unexciting but almost indestructible with basic maintenance. The 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel is efficient and refined but carries specific injector and DPF risks that Honda owners don't always expect from a brand with this reliability reputation.
Overall the CR-V is one of the better used SUV purchases at this price point — the key is choosing the right engine and verifying the service history is complete.
Known faults — what to watch for
These are the issues that come up repeatedly in owner forums, Which? reliability surveys, and DVLA MOT data. Not every car will have them — but every buyer should ask about them.
1.6 diesel injector and fuel system issues
The 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine suffers from fuel injector failures, particularly on higher-mileage examples. Symptoms include rough running, increased fuel consumption, and engine warning lights. Injector replacement is expensive — individual injectors cost £200–£400 each, and labour adds significantly. Always ask for any injector history on a diesel CR-V.
High risk on 1.6 dieselDiesel DPF blockage
Like all modern diesels used predominantly for short urban journeys, the CR-V's DPF blocks up when it can't reach the temperature needed for regeneration. Honda CR-V owners who use the car for school runs and supermarket trips are particularly affected. The diesel was designed for motorway use — if the previous owner used it in town, the DPF may already be damaged.
High risk for urban dieselRear differential wear on AWD
Four-wheel drive CR-V models use a rear differential that requires specific Honda Dual Pump Fluid — many independent garages use incorrect fluid during servicing, causing wear and eventual failure of the rear differential. Always check that the correct fluid has been used at every service. Symptoms are a clunking noise from the rear on cornering.
Medium risk on AWD modelsInfotainment touchscreen sensitivity
Honda's touchscreen from this era is not its finest work. Screen responsiveness degrades over time and the system lags behind class competitors. It's a comfort and convenience issue rather than a reliability one — the underlying car is fine. Test the screen responsiveness and satellite navigation at the viewing.
Low riskAir conditioning compressor wear
The AC compressor on higher-mileage CR-Vs can fail — more common on cars that have had the AC run on maximum continuously in summer. Test the AC thoroughly. A regas is a cheap fix; compressor replacement is £500–£900.
Low riskDon't buy blind — check the car's full history first
Finance owing, previous write-offs, and clocked mileage won't show up on a visual inspection. Our report surfaces all of it instantly.
Check this car's history — £9.99 →MOT failure patterns
We analyse real DVLA MOT records across thousands of UK-registered examples from this generation. The data below reflects actual test outcomes — not manufacturer claims.
| Failure item | How common | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Brake disc scoring | SUV weight with petrol engine means discs score faster. Full front job £250–£400. | |
| Tyre wear | AWD models wear all four tyres — budget £100–£160 per tyre on larger rims. | |
| DPF warning | Immediate MOT failure if active. Check before any diesel test drive. | |
| Rear differential fluid | Inspectors may flag clunking from rear on AWD models. Differential fluid check essential. | |
| Suspension bushes | Front lower arm bushes wear on higher mileage urban-use examples. |
Pro tip: Always ask for Honda dealer service stamps on a CR-V — specifically to verify the correct Dual Pump Fluid was used at every service on AWD models. Independent garage services that used incorrect fluid invalidate the differential. PlateSure's full check pulls every MOT result, mileage reading, and advisory — instantly, for £9.99.
The Nissan Qashqai is cheaper and more plentiful but less well-engineered. The Kia Sportage is comparable on price and reliability with the benefit of the 7-year warranty paper trail.
What should you pay?
CR-V holds its value well — don't expect Golf-style depreciation. Petrol examples command a small premium over diesel given the reliability differential.
What to check at the viewing
- Petrol or diesel? The 2.0 petrol is the reliable choice. Diesel requires full injector and DPF history.
- On AWD models, verify the correct Honda Dual Pump Fluid was used at every service — ask for the receipts.
- Test drive the AWD and listen for any clunking from the rear on cornering — differential wear sign.
- On diesel, ask specifically about typical daily use. Short journeys are a DPF risk.
- Ask for any injector history on diesel models.
- Test the AC thoroughly — compressor wear is a known issue on higher mileage cars.
- Test the infotainment touchscreen responsiveness.
- Check all four tyres on AWD models — all four wear simultaneously.
One of the best-engineered SUVs in its class — petrol is the pick
The Honda CR-V 2013–2018 is a genuinely well-engineered used SUV that rewards careful buying. The 2.0-litre petrol is one of the most reliable engines in this segment — it's simple, durable, and tolerant of imperfect maintenance. The diesel is more complex and carries injector and DPF risks that require thorough history checking. AWD models need verified fluid history. Run a full check before buying — CR-Vs are popular and finance outstanding is common on these values.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Honda CR-V reliable?
The petrol version is among the most reliable SUVs at this price point. The diesel is more complex and has documented injector issues that require thorough checking. Overall Honda's engineering reputation is justified — a well-maintained CR-V will serve you well.
Petrol or diesel Honda CR-V?
Petrol for most buyers. The 2.0-litre petrol is simpler, more reliable, and avoids the DPF and injector risks of the diesel. The diesel makes sense only if you regularly cover long motorway journeys where the fuel economy benefit justifies the additional complexity.
Does the Honda CR-V have AWD problems?
The AWD system is reliable if the correct Honda Dual Pump Fluid has been used consistently. The problem occurs when independent garages substitute generic differential fluid — this causes premature wear. Always verify correct fluid use in the service history.