2021 Honda CR-V: reliability, problems and cost to own
Smart buyAbove average
It scores 79 out of 100 for reliability compared with other compact and small SUVs. Over the next 5 years we expect it to cost about $12,024 to own, including $1,804 in repairs.
These are estimates, not guarantees. They come from public NHTSA complaint and recall data and EPA fuel economy, assuming 5 years of ownership and 12,000 miles a year. Change the assumptions or see how it works.
Where repair money is likely to go
Engine & cooling$806
Transmission & drivetrain$296
Driver-assist & stability$210
Steering$171
Electrical system$121
Body, glass & interior$52
Expected over 5 years, by area of the car.
Recalls
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front PassengerMay 22, 2026 · campaign 26V332000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight and CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The automatic locking retractor on the second-row center seat belt assembly may deactivate improperly, which can result in an unsecured child restraint system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety S
Check whether a specific car still has open recalls with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
No. It scores 79 out of 100, one of the more reliable compact and small SUVs of 2015–2024.
Is the 2021 Honda CR-V reliable?
It scores 79 out of 100 against other compact and small SUVs from 2015 to 2024, which is above average. Based on 338 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, we expect about $1,804 in repairs over the next 5 years at 12,000 miles a year.
How much does a 2021 Honda CR-V cost to own?
About $12,024 over 5 years: $3,420 in lost value, $1,804 in repairs and $6,800 in fuel at $3.40 a gallon. A typical one sells for about $18,533 today.
What are the best years of the Honda CR-V?
Of the years we rate, the 2022 scores best (84/100) and the 2018 worst (14/100).