Last updated: 2026-04-20

2020 Honda CR-V Reliability Report
The 2020 Honda CR-V scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 10 recalls and 358 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
10
Complaints
358
Complaint Rate
11.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$407
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,000–$2,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (59)
- AIR BAGS (46)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (42)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 received a facelift update for the Fifth generation.
- Changes: Hybrid powertrain option; Standard advanced safety features.
- Year 4 in this generation (2017–2022).
- 5th generation CR-V (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2017: Fifth generation Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: This Model Year (Refresh)
2020 received a facelift update for the Fifth generation.
Should You Buy the 2020 Honda CR-V?
At 74/100, the 2020 Honda CR-V lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 received a facelift update for the Fifth generation.
Owners log 358 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to forward collision avoidance (59). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2021 Honda CR-V, which scored 3 points higher. See also the 2019 Honda CR-V for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$114 cheaper to maintain than avg compact SUVs
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (9%)
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE issues reported (59 complaints)
- −AIR BAGS issues reported (46 complaints)
Compare 2020 Honda CR-V With

2020 KIA Sportage
Reliability: 69/100

2020 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 73/100

2020 Toyota RAV4
Reliability: 70/100

2020 Subaru Forester
Reliability: 71/100

2020 GMC Terrain
Reliability: 68/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 10 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (59)
- AIR BAGS (46)
Recall Overview
10
recalls on record
The 2020 Honda CR-V has 10 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 21.2
Safety Incidents
25
Crashes
2
Fires
20
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Honda CR-V Recall Details
10 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Honda CR-V. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
Consequence
An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, October 18, 2024, and August 2025. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
EQUIPMENT
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017, 2020, and 2022 CR-V vehicles. The certification label on the driver's side door states incorrect Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), and tire size information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
An incorrectly sized tire may cause premature tread wear, or a tire blow out, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a new corrected label, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 18, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is CF7.
Buying a used 2020 Honda CR-V? Check its history first
Every 2020 Honda CR-V has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 Honda CR-V NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.4%
Safety Technologies
HEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.4%
Safety Technologies
Honda CR-VRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$407
vs $521 avg for compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
9%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
29–30 MPG
Running cost: $2,400–$2,450/yr
Fuel + repair
27–28 city / 32–34 hwy MPG
Hybrid
38 MPG
Running cost: $2,000/yr
Fuel + repair
40 city / 35 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR-V FWD 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 28 | 34 | 30 | $2,000 |
| CR-V AWD 1.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 27 | 32 | 29 | $2,050 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR-V Hybrid AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 40 | 35 | 38 | $1,600 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Honda CR-V.
Test forward collision avoidance system for unexpected braking
Check steering for stickiness or clicking sounds
Inspect for fuel injector or fuel pump issues
Verify oil for signs of gasoline dilution
Ensure all dashboard warning lights are functioning properly
Test brakes for unexpected engagement or stiffness
Check for any active recalls related to steering or fuel systems
2020 Honda CR-V Common Problems by Component
358 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
59 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2020 Honda CR-V's Forward Collision Avoidance system frequently engages the brakes unexpectedly, often without any obstacles in the vehicle's path. Typical symptoms include sudden braking at various speeds, sometimes bringing the vehicle to a complete stop, and random activation of the "BRAKE" warning light. These incidents are commonly reported around mileage of 30,000 to 38,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with three complaints involving crashes and one injury reported, highlighting the potential risk of rear-end collisions due to unexpected braking. Used car buyers should be aware of these issues, as they may affect the driving experience and safety.
AIR BAGS
46 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Honda CR-V frequently report issues related to airbag recall repairs, specifically citing delays in part availability for NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V064000. Many owners describe contacting dealers multiple times, only to be informed that the necessary parts are not available, leading to frustration over prolonged wait times. Some complaints also mention that dealers refuse to perform repairs unless specific warning lights are illuminated. While no specific mileage range is consistently noted, the timeline of complaints extends into 2024, indicating ongoing part distribution challenges. Notably, there are reports involving crashes and injuries, highlighting potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
42 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Honda CR-V frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, including problems with battery drainage and malfunctions in the body control module, which can lead to battery failure and erratic electronic behavior. Complaints often describe dashboard warning lights illuminating unexpectedly, with some reports of the vehicle entering limp mode or losing motive power, typically between 25,000 to 96,000 miles. Safety concerns are notable, with two reports of fires originating inside the cabin and two incidents involving crashes, including one where the vehicle accelerated uncontrollably. These issues highlight potential risks for used car buyers considering this model, particularly in terms of unexpected electrical failures and safety hazards.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (32 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
32 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Honda CR-V frequently report issues with the sunroof shattering unexpectedly while driving, with no apparent cause such as debris impact. Multiple complaints also highlight persistent problems with the infotainment system, particularly when connecting Android devices, leading to system crashes and potential distraction while driving. Additionally, there are reports of delays in recall repairs due to parts availability, affecting the ability to refinance vehicles. Some owners experience battery drainage if the vehicle is not driven for a week, and there are instances of unexplained gasoline odors in the cabin. The mileage at which these issues occur varies, with some complaints noted at under 41,000 miles. Safety implications include one reported crash involving unintended vehicle movement while parked, though no injuries were mentioned in that event.
STEERING (31 complaints)
STEERING
31 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the steering system of the 2020 Honda CR-V, primarily describing a "sticky" or "binding" steering wheel, especially noticeable at higher speeds or when making slight turns. Typical symptoms include a clicking noise and increased effort required to return the steering wheel to the center, with several complaints noting these issues arise around 23,000 to 60,000 miles. Multiple owners mention the need for costly steering rack replacements and note that similar issues have led to recalls in later models. Safety implications are significant, with two complaints involving crashes and two injuries reported, as the steering problems can lead to difficulty maintaining lane position and potential loss of control. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the associated repair costs when considering a used 2020 Honda CR-V.
SERVICE BRAKES (28 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
28 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Honda CR-V frequently report issues with the braking system, including uncommanded braking events and brake pedal stiffness. Complaints describe the brakes engaging unexpectedly, often at highway speeds, and the brake pedal becoming difficult to depress, which can make the vehicle hard to stop. Several reports mention these issues occurring around 15,000 to 66,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with three reported crashes and two injuries associated with brake malfunctions. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, particularly regarding the automatic emergency braking system's false activations and brake booster failures.
ENGINE (20 complaints)
ENGINE
20 complaintsOwners report several issues with the 2020 Honda CR-V's engine. A common problem involves oil dilution, where gasoline mixes with engine oil, leading to frequent oil changes and a gasoline smell in the oil. This issue is often noted around the first oil change, typically between 1,500 and 6,300 miles. Additionally, multiple owners describe sudden engine power loss or stalling, particularly at highway speeds, with some attributing it to head gasket failures around 70,000 to 84,000 miles. Complaints also frequently mention the dashboard illuminating with multiple warning lights, and in some cases, misfiring and loss of power occur without diagnostic codes being detected. These issues include potential safety implications such as sudden power loss while driving, which could increase the risk of accidents.
POWER TRAIN (18 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
18 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Honda CR-V frequently report issues related to power loss and transmission malfunctions. Common symptoms include sudden deceleration, inability to shift gears, and warning lights such as check engine or AWD system alerts. These issues often occur at various speeds and can lead to dangerous situations, including two reported crashes with injuries. Problems are noted at low mileages, sometimes under 5,000 miles, indicating potential early onset of these issues. Buyers should be aware of these safety implications and consider the potential for recurring power train problems when evaluating this vehicle.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (17 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
17 complaintsOwners report that the 2020 Honda CR-V experiences issues primarily related to the fuel pump and fuel injectors. Complaints frequently mention sudden stalling, loss of power, and erratic engine behavior, often accompanied by dashboard warning lights. These issues tend to occur at various mileages, with some reports as early as 42,961 miles. Safety implications are significant, as several owners describe loss of power at highway speeds and near-miss incidents. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential issues, particularly since some vehicles with similar problems are not covered by existing recalls.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (5 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Honda CR-V frequently report issues with vehicle speed control, particularly involving sudden deceleration or unintended acceleration. Common symptoms include the vehicle losing power while driving, often accompanied by a flashing or static check engine light, and unexpected braking when cruise control is engaged. These issues are reported across various mileages, with some incidents occurring as early as 8,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with one report involving a crash where the accelerator pedal was stuck, resulting in the vehicle crashing into a house and trees, causing an injury. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential issues, especially since some problems remain unresolved despite dealer intervention.
When Do 2020 Honda CR-V Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Honda CR-V Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Honda CR-V Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Honda CR-V year is 2025 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (77/100) and 2021 (77/100).
Honda CR-V Years to Avoid
The worst Honda CR-V year is 2018 with a score of 65/100, primarily due to engine (361) issues.
Honda CR-V Reliability Score Trend
Honda CR-V reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 74/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 80/100 | Excellent |
Honda CR-V Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 76/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 35 |
| 2025 | 80/100 | +3 | Excellent | 6 | 201 |
| 2024 | 77/100 | +5 | Good | 4 | 406 |
| 2023 | 72/100 | -4 | Good | 7 | 578 |
| 2022 | 76/100 | -1 | Good | 5 | 242 |
| 2021 | 77/100 | +3 | Good | 3 | 241 |
| 2020(selected) | 74/100 | +5 | Good | 10 | 358 |
| 2019 | 69/100 | +4 | Good | 7 | 996 |
| 2018 | 65/100 | — | Good | 4 | 1960 |
2020 Honda CR-V Reliability by Powertrain
The 2020 Honda CR-V is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 287 | 6 | 23 | 5 out of 5 |
| HEV | 71 | 4 | 4 | 5 out of 5 |
| Total | 358 | 10 | 27 |
NHTSA tracks complaints separately for each powertrain configuration. Totals reflect the sum across all variants. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Honda CR-V reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Honda CR-V?
How many recalls does the 2020 Honda CR-V have?
Is the 2020 Honda CR-V expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Honda CR-V without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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