2016 Honda CR-V

Above average

Owners filed 394 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 3 times.

Not among the Honda CR-V years to avoid. Which Honda CR-V years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
19,000 milesMedian miles at failure

234 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2016 Honda CR-V problems

78 of the 394 complaints (20%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine76
323
Electrical System58
421
Unknown or Other53
002
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system42
000
Air Bags · airbags31
15018
Power Train · transmission25
102
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration18
902
Service Brakes · brakes14
506
Structure › Body · body and frame12
201
Visibility/Wiper · wipers10
000

2016 Honda CR-V engine problems

20% of all complaints

78 of the 394 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • vibrates or shakes22% · 17
  • stalls18% · 14
  • sets off warning lights on the dash15% · 12
  • burns oil or loses oil pressure8% · 6
  • hesitates before moving or accelerating5% · 4
  • turns on the check engine light5% · 4

Share of the 78 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
22,000 mi
median of 47 reports
Peak year of filing
2019
16 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
3 · 2 · 3
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
“The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that on several occasions while stopped, the vehicle vibrated abnormally. The vehicle was taken to a dealer on several occasions however, the cause of the failure was not able to be duplicated on the first occasion. The contact stated that on the second occasion, the vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the motor mounts needed to be replaced.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 27, 2024 at 78,000 miles
“The car vibrates so much my hands will shake on the steering wheel while idling and at time while driving. Any items in the car will shake. Complained to service department everytime vehicle brought in for service. Was told nothing could be done to fix issue and vibration is normal.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 18, 2021

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2015: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine'152016: 33 complaints, 4 about the engine'162017: 66 complaints, 5 about the engine'172018: 37 complaints, 7 about the engine'182019: 63 complaints, 16 about the engine'192020: 41 complaints, 12 about the engine'202021: 34 complaints, 10 about the engine'212022: 30 complaints, 5 about the engine'222023: 21 complaints, 4 about the engine'232024: 28 complaints, 8 about the engine'242025: 29 complaints, 5 about the engine'252026: 12 complaints, 2 about the engine'26Recall 15V714000 (airbags)Recall 17V305000 (engine)Recall 23V858000 (fuel system)NHTSA investigation EA19001
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2016 CR-V peaked in 2017, with 66 filed that year. Owners had filed 7 complaints about the engine before the first recall that covers it, 17V305000 in May 2017; 71 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 12 so far.

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump23V858000
Filed Dec 18, 20232,490,460 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Engine17V305000
Filed May 4, 201716 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Honda CR-V vehicles that recently received a replacement engine. The replacement engine may have been built with the wrong pistons, potentially affecting the engine's performance.

Risk. The reduced performance may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engines and replace the incorrect components, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is KF6.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module15V714000
Filed Oct 29, 2015515 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. American Honda Motor Company, Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2016 CR-V vehicles manufactured October 12, 2015, to October 19, 2015. The metal housing surrounding the driver's air bag inflator in these vehicles may have been manufactured incorrectly.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver side frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began in November 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda'a number for this recall is JV9.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2016 CR-V.

Electrical overstressEngineering analysis EA19001Closed
Opened Apr 19, 2019Closed Sep 19, 2024Led to recall 20V024airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect. During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air bags and other restraint system devices in severe crash events. The subject vehicles may be equipped with an airbag control unit (ACU) for the supplemental restraint system (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manufactured by ZF-TRW. The ECU receives signals from crash sensors …

Technical service bulletins

85 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2016 CR-V. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

fuel system 19equipment 15engine 12transmission 10airbags 7electrical system 6tires 3seats 3
A18-058Warranty extensionJun 15, 2018airbags

Service bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement driver's airbag inflator only.

A19-019Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 21, 2019engine

Service Bulletin - There is a knocking or clicking from the engine during cold startup. The check valve in the cam chain tensioner is worn, allowing oil pressure to leak internally and the cam chain to lose tension after engine is turned off.

A18-072Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 3, 2018engine

Service bulletin - When cold-starting the engine and shifting to Reverse, the engine stalls in the first 10 to 14 seconds. There is too much oil clearance between the input and stator shafts, which allows ATF to drain out of torque converter during extend off periods. During a cold start, when the torque converter is refilled, air gets trapped in the torque …

A18010FService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 10, 2018engine

Servicenews article - Does the engine rattle at startup for about 1 to 3 seconds? What?s happening is the lock pin inside the VTC actuator isn?t holding the actuator properly. This lets the vane turn within the housing, causing a short rattle at startup.

A18010FService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 10, 2018engine

Servicenews article - Does the engine rattle at startup for about 1 to 3 seconds? What?s happening is the lock pin inside the VTC actuator isn?t holding the actuator properly. This lets the vane turn within the housing, causing a short rattle at startup.

A17-063Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 15, 2017engine

Service bulletin - The water pump seized or the drive belt shredded. The water pump bearing is out of specification.

ATS160717Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 2, 2017engine

Tech line summary article - Does the engine rattle at startup for about 1 to 3 seconds? What?s happening is the lock pin inside the VTC actuator isn?t holding the actuator properly. This lets the vane turn within the housing, causing a short rattle at startup.

Showing the newest 6 of 12 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2016 Honda CR-V SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
2016 Honda CR-V SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 9, 2026SC

Sunroof spontaneously exploded while driving on highway with no impact

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Sep 23, 2026IL

Upon going out to my vehicle noticed that the moonroof had shattered the glass is pointing upwards and I found information reduarding a possible lawsuit claiming Honda knows of this the vehicle is a 2016 Honda crv I have video and multiple photos of the vehicle to use for a claim

Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2026TX

On August 8, 2026, while operating a 2016 Honda CR-V (62,459 original miles) at highway speeds, the engine’s factory water pump experienced a sudden, catastrophic internal failure and froze completely. The seized water pump instantly sheared and shredded the serpentine belt. This induced an immediate, sudden loss of alternator charging, engine cooling, and power steering assist while driving at high highway speeds. This instantaneous component failure created a severe, life-threatening safety hazard, leaving the driver struggling to control the heavily disabled vehicle. This structural mechanical failure directly matches the engineering defect acknowledged by the manufacturer in Honda Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #17-063, noting that factory water pump bearings were manufactured "out of specification." Despite knowing that this manufacturing defect causes sudden accessory drive-belt failure at highway speeds, Honda has failed to issue a proactive safety recall, placing drivers in immediate danger.

Engine
Filed Sep 2, 2026NY

My 2016 Honda CR‑V has only had one driver since purchase and currently has approximately 86,000 miles. It has been properly maintained, yet it is experiencing the same symptoms described in Honda’s recent warranty extension concerning head-gasket failures. Despite its relatively low mileage and limited use, the vehicle appears to have experienced a premature engine-related failure. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether this issue affects earlier model-year CR‑Vs as well. I also request that my vehicle be included in the applicable warranty coverage or that Honda provide appropriate coverage for the diagnosis and repair.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 28, 2026OH

While I was driving on I-75 in Cincinnati OH my vehicle suddenly lost all power with no advanced warning. My car was working fine on the way to work and even when I began my commute home but then suddenly every light on my dash illuminated, my steering wheel became almost impossible to steer and the car stalled. I was on a bridge overpass with little shoulder and I had to call 911 to get a ODOT truck to help protect me from the traffic. I then waited over an hour to get a tow. When I got it to the dealer, I was informed I needed a new alternator but the alternator failed due to a faulty key fob actuator. Apparently, the constant active sensor overworked the battery and alternator causing this potential deadly situation for me. It is ridiculous that Honda knows this is an ongoing issue for this year vehicle but doesn't recall it because the key fob not working isn't deadly, but my car stalling on a highway where people are distracted with phones while drive 70+ miles per hour could be deadly. I will never buy another Honda.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jul 31, 2026MN

Last night I was stopped at a light with my foot on the brake waiting for the light to turn green. The car suddenly wanted to move forward and was fighting the brake. I'm not a two-footed driver, so only my right foot was on the brake. I took my foot off the brake for a second and the car lurched forward on its own, so I had to apply the brake to stay stopped or the car would have entered a very busy intersection on a red light. Once the light turned green I used the accelerator pedal to move forward and the racing engine stopped. I pulled over and checked to see if the floor mat was somehow in the way, but it was not. It is physically impossible for me to press both the brake and the accelerator at the same time with one foot. I have not had this problem checked by the dealer or a service garage, and it did not happen again on my return home last night or during some errands I ran this morning.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 24, 2026CA

Spontaneously shattered sunroof. I was driving on the freeway going 50mph and I heard an extremely loud 'bang' and then glass was falling down on me and my passenger. The sunroof had completely shattered with no explanation or prior indication of cracks, etc. No extreme temperatures fluxes - this was in San Francisco on June 23, 2026. I know there are over 50,000 reports of this exact same thing happening with Honda vehicles.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 19, 2026VA

Front passenger airbag light is on and I have been told it is the sensor. This has been recalled on other 2016 CRVs. I think more cars may be affected than those that are recalled.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 29, 2026DE

November 2024 I had a new battery and tires put on my 2016 Honda CRV. 14 months later my car would not start. I had to have a jump start. I had to have it jump started a few times more than took it to have it checked out. They put in a new battery February 2026. A month later my car would not start. I took it to a mechanic who found the door handle sensor bad. I have seen many other owners having the same problem. I also found out that it costs upward of $1,000 to fix. This should be a recall since so many had this problem, and I am sure you are aware of it. Please help us.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 14, 2026GA

My daughter left her house to go to an appointment in statesboro, an hour away. When she proceeded onto HWY 196, the dashboard lit up with: check engine light, TMPS light, Traction Control light, Power steering control light. The speed limit on this road is 40MPH she was unable to accelerate over 20 mph. She immediately took it to an Orielly auto parts store on hwy 196 to have them to diagnose the check engine light. The veri scan presented a code P0087 indicates that the FuelRail/ System pressure was too low for a predetermined period of time. The most likely solution stated to Replace High Pressure Fuel Pump. This is the first time this has occurred. This is the same issue that a recalled was done in 2023 on the 2013-2016 CRV, but my VIN was not part of that recalled. I called my local honda dealer to verify if my vehicle was part of the recalled and was told it wasn't. I hope we can get this resolved before someone gets hurt or my family get in an accident. Mr [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 12, 2026OK

[XXX] Please click link i have a 2016 honda crv that's doing the same thing as a 2015 honda crv excess Vibration While Driving and/or Stopped in Gear INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 9, 2026VA

Sunroof spontaneously exploded.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 23, 2025MO

Unknown electrical problem. Both headlights will go out simultaneously without warning while driving. Frequent malfunction of running lamps, headlamps, break lamps.

Seat Belts
Filed Dec 17, 2025MN

Vehicle: 2016 Honda CR-V Mileage: ~133,120 miles Component: Driver-side seat belt retractor The driver-side seat belt retractor failed during normal use and became mechanically locked and unusable. There was no crash, no collision, no misuse, no airbag deployment, and no SRS warning light at the time of failure. This failure rendered the primary occupant restraint inoperable. I requested coverage under Honda’s Seat Belt Limited Warranty, which states that seat belts that fail to function properly during normal use are covered. Honda denied warranty coverage for the driver-side seat belt retractor based on internal component classification, not because the seat belt functioned properly. The warranty denial was final. I was informed that the failure would not be covered under the seat belt warranty and that any assistance would only be discretionary goodwill, not warranty coverage. I am submitting this complaint because a primary safety restraint failed without a triggering event, and warranty coverage was denied despite normal-use failure. I believe the consumer-facing warranty language does not clearly disclose that a seat belt can fail mechanically yet still be excluded from coverage based on internal classification

Electrical System
Filed Dec 9, 2025NC

2016 Honda CR-V’s smart locking system failed. The smart locking system caused the car battery to drain if it wasn’t driven within 24 hours. After numerous car battery replacements, a Honda auto repair replaced the door handle and repaired the smart locking system. If $639 was not paid for the needed repair, the car battery would drain and therefore the car would not function. After reaching out to Honda for a reimbursement, they declined. This is frustrating because I have researched online and several others have experienced this issue with their Honda CR-V. The issue simply happened one day and was not caused by a vehicle accident.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 29, 2025CA

My car has had trouble starting when sitting for long periods of time or in moderate heat. I've also noticed the gas per mile has decreased. The 2017 year of my car has a recall for the fuel pump. Mine is just one year earlier but my mechanic says it could also be the fuel pump. I have less than 80K miles on the car and I've seen that on the 2017-2022 years with the recall, this problem happens around the 75K-80K mile mark on the car. I think my 2016 should also be recalled for the fuel pump.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 29, 2025101,500 milesMD

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated, and the transmission occasionally slipped into neutral while attempting to accelerate uphill. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact also became aware of a grinding sound while depressing the accelerator pedal, with a strong gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,500.

Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2025IL

Level for oil change was at 30%, took it in and it only had 2.5 quarts of oil. No indication I was low, no oil leak, and it affected the valves. Honda of Lisle said this is common issue with 4 cylinder models, yet there is no recall. Now I have to check my oil every week and add as needed, and will have an large bill to replace the engine. The vehicle has only 61,000 miles.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 23, 2025OH

I was driving to work and all of the lights on my dash came on and the vehicle would not go over 15 mph. I had semis passing me trying to get my car back home. I had it towed to the nearest Honda dealership where all of my Hondas are repaired, John Hinderer in Heath, OH. They received the vehicle and called me to tell me that it was the high pressure fuel pump that was not working. I inquired if it would be covered under warranty and told me due to the age of the vehicle it was not under warranty, any longer even the the miles were very low. The vehicle is a 2016 but only has 32,170 miles on it. So, I asked how that could happen with a vehicle with so little miles, he did have an answer. He quoted me $1,800.00 to fix it, telling me that the part alone was $1,200.00. After I got off the phone with him I researched the part and found it on Honda's corporate website for $559.43. I sent him a text message showing the price that I found it for and sent a message to the dealership on line. I have yet to hear from them, but they still have my vehicle. I did a little more research this morning and found that certain 2016 CRVs have a recall for the Fuel Pump Module. It is NHTSA Recall Number 23v-858, but my VIN # is not listed with a recall. I believe that my Vehicle should be included in this recall. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Aug 19, 2025NY

Title: Engine Defect – Excessive Oil Consumption and VTC Actuator Failure My 2016 Honda CR-V (purchased from Mohawk Honda, serviced at Rensselaer Honda) developed a serious engine defect after only about 25,000 miles. The vehicle began consuming excessive oil, and later the VTC actuator failed, causing severe loss of power during acceleration and uphill driving, creating unsafe conditions. Dealership confirmed: •Excessive oil consumption from stuck piston rings. •White smoke due to oil burning. •VTC actuator and timing damage. •EPR cleaning service failed to fix the issue. Despite evidence of a manufacturing defect, Honda denied goodwill assistance. The dealership also gave unsafe instructions (drive 1,000 miles with low oil), which worsened the damage. This defect causes loss of power while driving, which is a serious safety hazard. I request NHTSA investigate Honda’s handling of piston ring and VTC defects. Honda Case #: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 8, 2025OH

While driving at highway speeds almost a total loss of engine power occurred causing a safety issue. Five warning indicators lit at this time: Tire pressure monitoring system Malfunction indicator lamp (check engine) Vehicle stability assist warning Electric power steering warning This problem resulted in a Honda Dealer service replacement of the High Pressure Fuel Pump which cost me over $2800 and another $400 for a rental car. There was a recall for the 2017-2020 CRV for an identical(?) issue. This 2016 may have been a later manufacture and had the same fuel pump. A very reputable local garage examined the car and were unwilling to repair the CRV because they were quite familiar with the frequent and problematic Honda CRV high pressure fuel pump issues. It was Drellishak's Service in Rocky River Ohio.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 25, 2025VA

Weight sensor light is on. There is a recall on newer models.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 30, 2025MS

The 2016 CR-V was operating normally, when trying to accelerate from a stop at a stoplight the vehicle began to hesitate and would not accelerate at a normal or acceptable rate if I had needed to maneuver out of the way. the engine recovered briefly after that and allowed me to slowly accelerate to 45Mph when it repeated to hesitate and stop accelerating feeling like it was about to shut off. The check engine light along with others came on at this point. I was able to make it to a shop where they diagnosed fuel pump failure at 127,619 miles (we are the second owner buying the car from family so we know that it is the original fuel pump in the vehicle.

Engine
Filed Jun 25, 2025IN

CVT complete transmission failure consistent with Service Bulletin 16-053 from Honda, dated September 9, 2016. I was not the owner of the car at this time, so a recall notice was never received by me. Currently, Transmission is being fully replaced at 94,000 miles at a cost of $5700. It is a safety issue, due to the car not being able to drive over 30mph, nearly stalling at traffic lights and stop signs. A rear end collision would be imminent.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 5, 202545,000 milesNH

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while approaching a stoplight and decelerating, the vehicle suddenly shut off. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated normally. During the failure, the battery warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the battery was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the failure mostly occurred on very hot or rainy days. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to duplicate that failure. The cause of the failure was not yet been determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000. The VIN was not available.

Steering
Filed May 21, 2025134,699 milesPA

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for an alignment, the contact was informed that the steering rack needed to be replaced. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was moving and bouncing abnormally. The contact stated that the failure was more significant while driving at faster speeds. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer to be repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 134,699.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 6, 2025WA

Rear window shattered while sitting parked in a closed garage.

Steering
Filed May 4, 2025NY

Steering system

Steering
Filed Apr 23, 2025OR

While driving my steering wheel keeps locking up to where i can not turn my wheel. I have had 3 close calls where i could have been in a serious accident..i have taken it to the Honda dealership 4 times (1st time was 25 days after buying it.waa told it was fixed. It happened 6 months later. Told it was fixed again, happened 6 months after that. Was told it was something different i took it to another mechanic in town for a second opinion and they told me the steering gearbox needed to be replaced entirely) they also told me the dealership who said it was fixed did not fix it they zip tied and shrink wrapped it to hold the wires together….

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Apr 22, 2025WA

I was in a very low speed fender bender and hit the vehicle in front of me square in the tail end. The airbag needlessly deployed leaving me with a burn and disabled my vehicle. It was a collision that should have been driven away from after the exchange of information. Instead my vehicle which has very little damage required a tow truck die to the deployed airbag.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 19, 2025OH

I first noticed this issue in October of 2023. When approaching the passenger side of my 2016 fwd Honda Cr-v it would unlock without touching the door or the key fob. This caused my car to be left unlocked multiple times without noticing it which is a major safety concern. Additionally I would go to get in the driver's seat and before the car was on the seat adjusted itself to the full upright position. Those two issues paired with the battery dying 7 times in the 8 years I have had it makes me think the electric is failing and causing the battery to constantly run which drains it. One time when the battery was not working they said it was the starter and charged $700 to fix it yesterday this is still happening. Another time this left me in dangerous situation when returning from work travel to the airport over an hour from my home and my car not starting. I had to call a tow truck to get it jumped. I called a Honda service center and the person I spoke with had never heard of these issues before. There are no warning messages when this is happening. I do not have $1000 for them to look into it.

Engine
Filed Apr 16, 2025MI

Oil leaking from valve cover causing low oil levels.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 15, 2025PA

The drivers and passenger smart door handles have failed this year. It caused parasitic battery drain over 3 days and the doors would unlock automatically just by walking within 5 feet of the car. I have disconnected them for now because 800 in parts only is rediculous. Very dissapointed the reliability of the 2016 CRV.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Apr 7, 202585,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling in park(P), the vehicle shut off. The contact made several attempts to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was jump-started and there were several unknown warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact attempted to drive the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 20 MPH. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated and jerked while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with a defective high-pressure fuel pump. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was 85,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 20, 2025TX

Fuel pump issue, my model and year is in recall batch for this issue, but my vin is not being recalled

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 3, 2025IN

Power issues, same as what has been reported with other CRVs.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 15, 2025NE

While driving on my lunch hour on January 14,2025 on busy street my car slowed down almost to a complete stop and I lost power and acceleration. My engine light came on and I had to pull off the road at a very slow speed. It was almost like I lost power in my gas pedal. It was pretty scary because it was over the lunch hour and it was busy. This could have been bad had I not been on the right lane to be able to pull off to a side street. I was concerned about being rear ended due to my car slowing down so fast and I had very little acceleration when pushing on the gas pedal.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 6, 2025MN

No accident happened, passengers air deployed and exploded

Air Bags
Filed Jan 6, 2025MN

It was snowing day, I drove in a local road around 10mph. When facing with a curve, I hit the brake yet the snow cause the tail tilted to the curb. Three of the passenger side airbags exploded and no body damage was detected. I'm not sure if the speed was fast enough for the airbags to deployed.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jan 2, 202538,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the vehicle stalled and jerked. The contact stated that the failure occurred several times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall. In addition, the contact stated that the failure was persistent. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage 38,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 1, 2025TX

The engine sporadically will “skip” and then keep going. The RPMs will spoke a little when it does

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 5, 2024AL

Gas smell inside cabin.

Engine
Filed Nov 15, 2024NJ

MY 2016 HONDA CRV IS MAKING A RATTLING NOISE THAT SOUND LIKE ITS COMING FROM THE ENGINE WHEN I START THE CAR AND WHEN IM DRIVING IT. ACCORDING TO YOUR WEBSITE THERE IS A RECALL CAMPAIGN FOR "CERTAIN 2016 HONDAS" THAT HAVE THE SAME NOISE AS MINE THATS CAUSED BY THE CONNECTING ROD BEARING WHICH CAN CAUSE ENGINE FAILURE. "WHY IS MY CAR NOT PART OF THIS RECALL." THIS CAR IS DRIVEN BY ME AND MY WIFE AS A FAMILY CAR. IF YOUR INVEATIGATON REVEALS THAT THE NOISE IN MY CAR IS THE SAME NOISE IN THE CARS INVOLVED IN THE RECALL THEN I AM REQUETSTING THAT THE 2016 HONDA CRV BE ADDED TO THE RECALL LIST ASAP. I HAVE HAD NO WORK DONE ON THE CAR RELATING TO THE IS NOISE. THANK YOU [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Nov 15, 202490,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle started to independently accelerate. The contact had taken her foot off the accelerator pedal; however, the vehicle was still accelerating. The contact depressed the brake pedal; however, the vehicle was still accelerating. The contact had not observed any warning lights being illuminated. The contact entered a parking lot and depressed the brake pedal with force due to the vehicle independently accelerating. The contact was able to stop and shifted the vehicle into park(P). The contact observed that the vehicle was still revving, and the RPM was rising with the engine was revving. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle several times and was finally able to drive the vehicle under normal operating conditions. The contact stated that the failure had reoccurred. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 12, 2024NY

I have been 2x stopping at light then started to start back up do to green light and lost power for a second in the gas pedal. Then it kicks in!

Engine
Filed Nov 11, 2024CA

Engine loosing oil inside the engine. Honda dealership Lemon Grove Honda reworked the engine. New Ring Set, Gasket kit, Spark plugs, coolant, oil seal, 2 o-rings 12.6 x 2.4 and 1 o-ring other. 1/27/23 Replaced pistons rings, including cylinder head gasket and spark plugs, after replacing rings and gasket tested said 1005 good Cost for me was $4397.86. Prior to this, they replaced the gaskets and spark plugs for $800. Complained that is might be the same problem again 5/24 and they charged me $2559.14 for labor and said it was not the same problem. Then in 9/24 it was seen then on 10/4 they said the problem was the same and engine was not good anymore. Looked for help with Honda, and none was given -- just told it was my tough luck. Noted that there is a recall on Honda engines in 2016 in the paper as of today 11/11/24. This should fall within that recall as it keeps failing.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Oct 24, 2024IN

My steering jerks hard left and corrects it self it also excels been braking, cranking the wheel turns freely and the car is very unsafe to drive i can lose control of the vehicle. All emergency lights are on steering wheel light exclamation point tps light among other things.i was told the EPS systems isn't working the steering control module, steering rack and all sensors replaced honda dealership also let me know this has been a common problem with crv years 16,17,18 I have no recalls on my car presently. I also want to add my father has the same 2016 honda crv and his is failing as well. This repair is mandatory and is very expensive over 6 thousand dollars and honda is denying to call a recall for this issue. This is a major safety issue and should be brought to attention. I am very sure that are many. Many customers out there that have experienced the same thing, and that should be reimbursed for them. Selves having to pay thousands of dollars to repair their car. Unfortunately, my car is worth $9000. As it stands. That is over half the cost of the car.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Oct 23, 2024160,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly hesitated before losing motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to be restarted. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the Oxygen sensor. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 16, 2024CA

While I was driving about 70 mph on highway, the car suddenly stopped responding to the gas paddle and I heard a noise from near the fuel tank. I was able to pull up to the side of the road and the check engine light was showing. I towed it to an Auto Repair shop in Modesto, CA and they found that the fuel pump has failed. So they replaced with an OEM part and upon examining, they found that the old fuel pump was in fact not working properly. I see that Honda has a recall for 2013-2016 CR-V relating to fuel pumps (2013-16 CR-V Fuel Pump Module Set/Assy Exp2 Stop Sale). But when I put VIN to their website, it shows that my car is not part of the recall. So I am requesting a further investigation on this recall.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 9, 2024CA

I have a 2016 Honda CRV. Approx 2 years ago several electrical problems started. 1. )Radio started turning on and off on its own. 2. ) Car locks would lock and unlock on their own. I will be sitting in car and the car would lock and unlock on its own approx 4-5 times and then stop. It would also happen when I would get out of the car and lock the door and as soon as I walked away I could hear it unlock again and it did not matter if I locked it on the door panel or use the key FOB. I thought at first maybe I am doing something wrong, but it has also happened to my husband multiple times. This could be a safety issue, not knowing if its locked or unlocked my child could open the door while I am driving. Also someone could get into my car. 3.) My car battery started losing juice frequently. I would have to jump it, and now this is happening approx every 6 weeks. 4.) The Key FOB also juices out frequently and I have had to replace it multiple times and batteries are not cheap. I have been stranded 4 times at night and I beleive it was a risk to my personal safety. I have taken it to a independent service for the locks but they could not duplicate and told me it would be expensive to check the electrical system to first see if there were any electrical recalls first. I have read all the complaints on your site and there are over 60 electrical complaints. Many in regards to the Car's Battery discharging. One person talked about the seat position would move on its own, another said

Complaints 1-50 of 394, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2018
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2026175040Routine
2025262150Above average
2024393200Above average
2023517310Above average
2022269310Above average
2021338410Above average
2020358720Above average
20191,107821Fatalities reported
20182,163520Above average
20171,779740Above average
2016 — this page394340Above average
2015673340Above average
2014587173Fatalities reported
2013382200Above average
2012403340Above average
20115541320Above average
20104821521Fatalities reported
20093861220Above average
20089631130Above average
20078871241Fatalities reported
200639813160Above average
200547914180Above average
200450113390High concern
200346814250High concern
200251516170Above average
2001142131Fatalities reported
2000129251Fatalities reported
1999127301Fatalities reported
1998128310Routine
1997108210Routine

Compare every CR-V year →

2016 Honda CR-V: questions buyers ask

Is the 2016 Honda CR-V a good car?

It is not among the CR-V years to avoid. Owners filed 394 complaints, against about 436 for a typical CR-V year. The most common complaint is about the engine (20%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Honda CR-V?

The engine: 78 of the 394 complaints (20%) are about it. Owners most often say it vibrates or shakes (22%), stalls (18%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (15%). The typical report comes at 22,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2016 Honda CR-V have?

3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Dec 18, 2023. The largest, 23V858000, covered 2,490,460 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2016 Honda CR-V problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 19,000 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 22,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2016 Honda CR-V?

Yes, once. EA19001 ("Electrical overstress") was opened Apr 19, 2019 and closed Sep 19, 2024.

Are there service bulletins for the 2016 Honda CR-V?

The manufacturer filed 85 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the fuel system (19), the engine (12) and the transmission (10). They include a warranty extension, A18-058, filed Jun 15, 2018. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Dec 18, 2023. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.