Harry Gibson on February 23, 2023 No Comments
Are you planning on purchasing a 2020 Honda CRV and you are looking for the possible 2020 Honda CRV problems that you might encounter? Well, if this is the case, then you are at the right place because there will be a lot to cover when it comes to this model.
Doing the proper research before you make a purchase is one of the things that you need to do. Since you don’t want to end up with a basket case full of problems. You need to find yourself a good and reliable vehicle that will take you places without any major problems.
Some of the vehicles come flawed from the factory and if you are not careful enough, you could end up with a problematic car that has a ton of these problems. And some of these common problems on some vehicles can be really costly to fix. And cost thousands and thousands of dollars to replace and fix. But is the 2020 CR-V a car like this? More on that and the problems on this model we are going to cover in this article.
First, we are going to learn what is the Honda CR-V and why it is so popular. Then we will cover the 2020 Honda CR-V. We will learn its specs, engines and transmissions, safety ratings, fuel economy, as well as the 2020 Honda CRV problems. Then we will discuss the reliability and the years to avoid. So, if you want to learn more about this model, follow along.
What Is The Honda CR-V
Now before we dive into the 2020 Honda CRV problems, let’s take a look at what is the Honda CR-V in general. A ton of people are new to cars and are just starting. So, all the makes and models out there might confuse them. This is why we are delivering you a small introduction before we delve into the specs and also on the problems of the CR-V. So, let’s begin.
The CR-V in general is a compact crossover SUV. So, what does this mean? Well, this means that this vehicle is built on a platform that is used by a compact car. More precisely, the CR-V is built on the same platform that the Civic is using.
So, underneath the skin, the CR-V is basically a Civic since it is sharing the same dimensions as well as the powertrain which includes the engine and transmission.
But what makes the CR-V special in comparison to the Civic is the increased ride height. The CR-V is significantly higher than the Civic.
So, based on this, these two vehicles are driving completely differently. If you want to get yourself a vehicle that looks like an SUV, then going for the CR-V might be the best thing to do.
Nevertheless, the CR-V is present on the market since 1995. And at the moment, this model is in its fifth generation. For the 2023 model year, there will be the sixth generation introduced. So, you can expect the prices for the 2020 model to fall.
And you are probably here because of that, you want to learn about the 2020 Honda CRV problems. But more on this, we are going to cover later on. Now let’s learn more about what makes the CR-V so popular.
Why The CR-V Is So Popular
Another topic that we would like to discuss before we cover the 2020 Honda CRV problems is the topic of why the CR-V is so popular and people often do not think twice before going after this model?
Well, the main reason is really simple to explain. The CR-V has simply created a whole legacy behind it. As we mentioned previously, this model was introduced in 1995.
So, you can imagine that after 25+ years of history, this model has created a true audience of people who purchase the new model when it gets released.
A Honda CR-V owner will always be a Honda CR-V owner. Some owners have gone through a few of the CR-V generations already. So, you get the point why this model is so popular.
In addition to this, the CR-V is also quite a reliable vehicle. People come back for a reason. It is really difficult to find a good reliable car. So, once you get a solid car, you want to keep getting that same level of performance from a car.
So, people return and get new models of the CR-V constantly. But this doesn’t mean that the CR-V is perfect and problem-free. Every car has a fair share of issues. What makes the CR-V special is that this vehicle is somewhat less prone to problems than other cars.
But what are the 2020 Honda CRV problems? Are there any problems? Well, more on that we are going to cover later in the article. The next thing we would like to check is the CR-V specs. Let’s learn in which specs is this model offered.
2020 Honda CRV
Now let’s get to business and before we delve into the 2020 Honda CRV problems, let’s first take a look at the specs of this model. We will primarily focus on the fifth generation of the CR-V since the 2020 model year falls in this category.
Specs are really important to know before you make a purchase of a vehicle. You need to know all the details in order to be able to make the right decision. Now let’s cover them briefly.
This generation of the CR-V was introduced in 2016 and was in production between 2017 and 2022. So, 2022 is the last model year that you can get when it comes to this generation.
What is interesting when it comes to this generation is that this model was based on the same platform as the Civic.
This means that this model has a ton of similarities with the Civic and these two are basically the same vehicle underneath the skin. The main difference is the looks as well as the increased ride height and AWD capability.
That’s right, you can get the CR-V with the AWD option. This is a good option, especially if you want to drive a lot off-road and want something more capable than the standard FWD model.
Another thing worth noting is that the US models are assembled here in the US. More precisely in the East Liberty, Ohio factory, Marysville, Ohio, as well as in Greensburg, Indiana.
And considering that the model is produced in a few factories we can come to a conclusion that it sells really well. This is simply the best-selling compact crossover SUV in the US, with more than 380,000 units sold per year since the last generation was introduced in 2016.
Dimensions And Weight
Now before we dive into the 2020 Honda CRV problems, let’s learn the basic specs of this model. As we already explained, this is a compact crossover SUV. This model has 5-doors and comes in two layouts. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive.
The wheelbase of the CR-V is 104.7 inches. The length is about 180 inches and the width is 73 inches. Also, the height is 66.6 inches. The model has a ground clearance of 7.8 inches
The weight of the CR-V is between 3,307 lbs and 3,512 lbs depending on whether you go for FWD or AWD. AWD models tend to be a bit on the heavier side.
The trunk space is also really good. With the rear seats up, you get about 39.2 cubic feet of space. And if you decide to fold the seats down, you will get even more cargo space. About 75.8 cubic ft to be more precise.
Overall, the CR-V even though it is compact, it is really roomy and you will not have to struggle for space. Perfect vehicle for the road. But what are the 2020 Honda CRV problems? More on that we will cover in a bit.
Engines And Transmissions
Another topic that we would like to cover before we dive into the 2020 Honda CRV problems is the offer of engines and transmissions that you will come across.
The 2020 model only comes with a single engine option. And this engine is the 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine that is really peppy and delivers a ton of power. More precisely, this engine produces 190hp and 179lb-ft of torque. Which is fairly enough for this chassis.
In terms of transmissions, there is also only one transmission available. And this is the Honda CVT automatic. This is a single-speed transmission with overdrive.
So, driving it is a really smooth experience. But what about the 2020 Honda CRV problems? More on this, we will cover it in a bit. But first, let’s take a look at the fuel economy numbers.
Fuel Economy
Another really important aspect besides learning about the 2020 Honda CRV problems is to know the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Getting a good gas-saving vehicle will be a lifesaver. Especially nowadays when gas prices are going through the roof.
And the CR-V delivers some excellent numbers. This model will deliver 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and also 30 mpg combined.
This makes this model one of the best-performing vehicles in the class of compact crossovers. So, if you want to get a good gas-saving vehicle, then the CR-V is an excellent buy. But what about the 2020 Honda CRV problems?
More on this we will cover it in a bit after we discuss the safety of this model.
Safety Ratings
When purchasing a new CR-V, except learning about the 2020 Honda CRV problems, knowing how safe this model is, is also another great idea.
Because you need a safe vehicle after all. You don’t want a car that would potentially cost your life. So, is the CR-V considered to be a safe vehicle? Let’s elaborate.
The CR-V was tested rigorously, both in the US and abroad, and in all of the tests, the CR-V performed as one of the best in its class.
More precisely, the 2017 model was tested by the NHTSA. It got 5 stars out of 5 stars possible. Only in the rollover crash test, it got 4 stars.
In addition to this, the CR-V was also tested by the Euro ENCAP, and they also rated the CR-V as a great performer with 5/5 stars. So, we can conclude that this model is relatively safe and meets all the standards.
In addition to this, if you want you can also upgrade the model and add all the safety features you desire. Still, this comes at a cost but it is definitely worth it in our opinion. But what are the 2020 Honda CRV problems? More on that, we are going to cover next.
Honda CRV Problems 2020
Now let’s cover the 2020 Honda CRV problems and learn what are the biggest issues with this vehicle. We will cover the engine problems, the electrical problems as well as the issues with the AC. So, follow along.
2020 Honda CRV Engine Problems
The first 2020 Honda CRV problems that we are going to cover are the engine problems. The engine that Honda is using on the CR-V is the 1.5L turbo inline-4 engine. This engine does not have major flaws. But it is susceptible to a number of conditions.
The main concern with this engine is the problem with oil dilution. What happens is that in some areas where temperatures get really low during the winter allow this condition to occur. This is the case when the fuel mixes with the engine oil and basically, the oil gets diluted with fuel.
This is because the engine gets up to temperature and the gas does not burn completely. So, what happens is the fuel comes down into the crankcase and basically ruins the oil. If the oil smells like gas, then this engine is suffering from this condition.
Another very common problem is the problem with carbon buildup. This problem is by design on all direct injection engines. Carbon buildup develops on the intake valves and this can cause a number of problems like rough idle, power loss, and stutter.
The only way to clean this carbon buildup is by a method called walnut blasting. There are also chemical solutions but they are not as effective as this method is.
And the last problem in our list of 2020 Honda CRV problems concerning the engine is the situation with the spark plugs. Spark plugs on these engines tend to fail more often than on other engines. They tend to wear prematurely. So, replacing them more frequently might be a good idea.
2020 Honda CRV Electrical Problems
Now let’s move on to the second set of 2020 Honda CRV problems and these are the electrical problems. What kind of electrical issues does the CR-V suffer from?
Well, we can say that there are not a lot of electrical issues with this vehicle. Most of the cars are pretty much bulletproof.
Even though, some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system on their cars. They reported issues with the Apple CarPlay and connectivity problems.
Not a deal-breaker in our opinion. These things can often occur and the way to solve them is to go to the dealership and get a new software update and call it a day. Simple as that.
Even though sometimes they could appear some bigger problems with this model but these are separate issues and not something that happens on every possible model out there. Namely the 2020 Honda CRV battery problems. But now let’s move to the next problem.
2020 Honda CRV Air Conditioning Problems
Now let’s move on to the last set of 2020 Honda CRV problems and that is the problems with the air conditioning. The air conditioning system on these Honda models can have some problems and these problems can appear more frequently than on other cars.
More precisely these are the problems with the heater core as well as problems with the AC compressor.
The symptoms that are often associated with problems with the AC are leaks of refrigerant, and noises coming from the AC compressor. Also, a situation when the AC does not blow cold air. All these situations indicate a problem with the AC.
This is why before you buy, you need to give the AC system a good test and see how it performs.
Make sure that it blows cool air into the cabin and you don’t have noises coming from the AC compressor because if you do have problems with the compressor, you will highly likely pay $1,500 or more to replace this component.
Honda CRV Reliability
We have covered the 2020 Honda CRV problems and the reliability of this model. What is the Honda CRV reliability rating?
Well, when it comes to this aspect, we can say that the CR-V is one of the most reliable vehicles that you can find on the market.
This is a very proven model and most of the issues were patched since it was released. Especially the 2020 model which is a really solid car overall. So, what score can we give to this model?
On this model, we can give a solid 9/10. Really good car for the money.
Best And Worst Years For Honda CRV
We learned the 2020 Honda CRV problems, now let’s learn which are the best and worst years for this model.
In order to simplify things, we will stick to the latest generation of the CR-V and not drive any confusion since this article is precisely about the fifth generation of the model. So, what are the best years?
We can say that the best years are definitely 2020 and onward. So, our recommendations go for 2020, 2021, and 2022. These are the ones that you want to get.
When it comes to the worst years for this model, we can say that this is the 2017 model year as well as the 2018 model year. These cars had a problem with oil dilution and frankly, you better avoid them.
Honda CR-V Years To Avoid
So, when it comes to the years to avoid based on the problems that we learned. We can say that you should definitely avoid 2017, 2018, and 2019.
These models have problems with oil dilution and this is really a frustrating thing to deal with. Also, there are electrical problems causing the battery to go dead in addition to this there are issues with the AC system.
The 2020 Honda CRV problems on the other hand are rather smaller and more tolerable.
Problems with 2020 Honda CR-V
- The 2020 Honda CR-V is a popular SUV that suffers from numerous defects in its electrical system, engine, structure, service brakes, and steering that continually fail.
- The electrical system of the CR-V has many defects, such as issues with the display navigation system, Apple CarPlay, and glitches that the service center can’t fix properly.
- Honda has not provided any communications or correspondence addressing the electrical system problems, making the ride with all the glitches not enjoyable.
- Customers should save their money and buy the base model without all the technology as they are almost the same as high-end models but for far less money.
- The engine of the CR-V, once considered durable, is now a failure. The 1.5 turbo engines are experiencing problems, such as gas getting into the oil.
- Honda is investigating the problems and coming up with a solution for the CR-V’s engine.
- Durability is also a concern with the CR-V’s structure, as extensive rusting around the exhaust pipes and system has been found in a preliminary inspection, and a recall was issued for rear subframe bolts that might not have been manufactured correctly and could loosen.
- The brake system of the CR-V also has common complaints, such as the brake pedal being locked or jammed in place.
- Honda is aware of brake problems but hasn’t provided any solution yet.
- The defective steering of the CR-V makes it difficult for drivers to remain under control while on the road, and Honda has not addressed this issue.
Conclusion To 2020 Honda CRV Problems
In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the 2020 Honda CRV problems. First, we learned what is the Honda CR-V and why this vehicle is so popular.
We have covered the specs of the CR-V. Then we covered a bit more on the safety aspect, fuel economy, and the 2020 Honda CRV problems, where we elaborated on most of the issues that this vehicle has. Lastly, we learned which are the years to get and the years to avoid.
F.A.Q To 2020 Honda CRV Problems
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Are Honda CRVs Reliable
The CR-V model is a fairly reliable vehicle, they don’t have any major problems. Except for the 2017 to 2019 1.5L turbo models which suffer from oil dilution. Except that, there are no major concerns with the later model years of the CR-V.
How Long Does A Honda CRV Last
A car should last about 150,000 miles with no major issues whatsoever. Luckily, these models last far more than this. These models could easily run 200,000 miles or even more in some cases.
How Many Miles Can A Honda CRV Last
On average, these models last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. How long they will last greatly depends on the maintenance of the engine. So, if the engine has been cared for and loved for, you can expect the car to last quite a long.
What Is The Best Year Of Honda CRV To Buy
We would advise getting 2020 or a later model year if you want to get the fifth generation of the CR-V. These models do not have the same issue with oil dilution as other early models from this generation.
Did Honda Fix Turbo Engine Problems 2020
Yes, from 2020 onward, these problems are sorted out. There are no reports from owners of newer vehicles saying bad words about the 1.5L turbo engine.
Did Honda Fix The Oil Dilution Problem For 2020
The problems were patched in 2019. So, from 2019 onward, there are no reports of this problem happening to the new 1.5L turbo engines.
