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2016 Honda CR-V

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Similar to other model years

Owner complaints for the 2016 Honda CR-V do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 400.5.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

235 reports with mileage · 157 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Engine. Review the 101 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Fuel/propulsion System. Review the 65 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 64 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

40 crash reports4 fire reports28 injury reports

Engine complaints

101 reports
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Mileage unknown · Sep 8, 2026
EngineUnknown Or Other

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 c…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11762711

Mileage unknown · Sep 2, 2026
Engine

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11761494

Mileage unknown · Aug 28, 2025
Engine

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11683634

Mileage unknown · Aug 19, 2025
EngineSteeringUnknown Or Other

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 duri…

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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)

NHTSA ODI #11681542

Mileage unknown · Aug 8, 2025
EngineFuel/propulsion System

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 s…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11679249

Mileage unknown · Jun 25, 2025
Engine

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 …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11669158

Mileage unknown · Apr 16, 2025
Engine

Oil leaking from valve cover causing low oil levels.

NHTSA ODI #11655039

Mileage unknown · Jan 1, 2025
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or Other

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

NHTSA ODI #11633525

90,000 miles · Nov 15, 2024
Engine

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…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11625439

Mileage unknown · Nov 15, 2024
Engine

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…

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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)

NHTSA ODI #11625418

Official recalls

3

23V858000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump

Dec 18, 2023

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 & remedy

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.

17V305000 · Engine

May 4, 2017

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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: 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.

15V714000 · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Oct 29, 2015

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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: 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.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

1

EA19001 · Electrical Overstress

Opened Apr 19, 2019 · Closed Sep 19, 2024

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags: Air Bag/restraint Control Module

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 mounted in the vehicle and deploys the vehicle air bags and seat belt pretensioners in accordance with manufacturer design specifications.  The ECU in the subject vehicles contains a model DS84 application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) which controls the communication of the crash sensor signal, firing commands (i.e., when to deploy the airbag(s) and/or pretensioners), and fault information (e.g., diagnostic trouble codes). In September 2016, FCA announced recall 16V-668 for certain model year (MY) 2010 to 2014 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep products manufactured with the subject ZF-TRW ACU.  In this recall, FCA discussed an EOS condition that resulted in a failure of the subject DS84 ASIC, which caused air bag non-deployment.  FCA noted that the defect condition had only been observed in vehicles equipped with sensor harnessing routed across the front of the vehicle.  Other FCA vehicles that also used the subject ACU, but were not equipped with cross-car harnessing, had not experienced EOS failures, despite similar time in service. During the course of this investigation, ODI sent two separate Information Request (IR) letters to six vehicle manufactures (including FCA, Hyundai, Honda, Kia, Mitsubishi, and Toyota) and one IR letter to ZF-TRW.  These IR letters resulted in ODI receiving comprehensive data from these manufacturers and suppliers. Studies of this data found that the DS84 ASIC does not have sufficient protection against negative electrical transients or electrical overstress (“EOS”) that can be generated in certain severe crashes.  An electrical transient occurs when the electrical power supplied to a circuit changes momentarily over a short duration of time.   In these severe crash cases, the crash sensors and other powered wiring can be damaged and short circuited so as to create a negative electrical transient of sufficient intensity and duration (that are outside the vehicle manufacturer's specification) to damage the ASIC before the restraint device deployment signal is received by the SRS ECU.  This damaged signal can lead to incomplete or nondeployment of the air bags and/or pretensioners.  Airbag non-deployment and/or lack of pretensioner operation can increase the risk or severity of injury in a crash.A total of 8 fatalities and 14 injuries were associated with known EOS events. The common element in all investigated manufacturers vehicles is the SRS ECU containing a DS84 ASIC manufactured by ZF-TRW.  The risk associated with the ASIC is equally shared among all OEMS involved in the investigation.  The actual real-world risk can be mitigated by other factors which were assessed by ODI during this investigation. The first mitigating factor involves protections built into the ACU design which protect the DS84 ASIC from damage.  There are multiple strategies and levels of protection employed by different OEMs that provide effective EOS mitigation.  The two most common strategies at the ACU level are circuit protection diodes on the remote senor signal lines, and current limiting resistors that protect critical components. The second mitigating factor is found at the vehicle level and involves the location and routing of the wires leading from the crash sensors to the SRS ECU.  If the wires are well protected in a crash and are not routed with other power wires carrying large currents, the risk for an EOS event is significantly reduced or eliminated. These design specific factors combine to produce a spectrum of risk for the vehicles equipped with ACUs using the DS84 ASIC.  Given the many of years of field exposure, it is possible to divide the subject population into two groups; vehicles which have experienced EOS events, and vehicles which have not experienced EOS field events. Four of the six OEMs involved in this investigation have experienced EOS field events on at least one of their models equipped with a DS84 ASIC.  All vehicle models (including the Toyota models identified in the Failure Report Summary of the opening resume for this investigation) with field events have been recalled.  In an abundance of caution, ODI kept this investigation open five years to monitor field performance and did not identify any field events on vehicles not included in existing safety recalls. Given the spectrum of risk identified in this investigation and that all vehicles with a demonstrated unreasonable risk have been recalled, ODI is closing this investigation. ODI is closing this investigation with the following manufacturer safety recalls: 16V-668, 18E-043, 18V-137, 18V-363, and 20V-024.  With the recall actions taken by the subject vehicle and equipment manufacturers, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exists on other model or model year vehicles outside of the recall scopes. The agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.

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