As you’re considering purchasing a Honda HR-V, you’re likely wondering which years to avoid and which to pioritize. After analyzing customer complaints, reliability ratings, and maintenance costs, it’s clear that the 2020-2023 models stand out for their smooth driving experience and advanced safety features.
On the other hand, the 2016-2019 models are plagued by issues that can lead to costly repairs. Want to know the specific problems to watch out for and what makes the newer models so reliable?
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Key Takeaways
- The 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 Honda HR-V models are considered the most reliable years with the fewest customer complaints.
- Avoid the 2016-2019 model years due to excessive complaints, including electrical, transmission, brake, and engine issues.
- The 2016 model year is plagued by severe electrical and transmission problems, making it the worst year to buy.
- The 2018 model year onwards offers a smoother driving experience and updated technology, making it a good used buy.
- Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial to prevent CVT problems, especially in earlier models.
Overview and Buying Guide
When shopping for a used Honda HR-V, you’re likely looking for a reliable and practical compact SUV that fits your budget.
The HR-V offers a good used buy, with updated technology and a smoother driving experience from 2018 onwards. Avoid early cars from 2016 and 2017 due to sluggish acceleration and outdated infotainment systems.
A used Honda HR-V is a great choice for daily use and occasional road trips, with good ride comfort, a versatile interior, and a solid reputation for reliability and strong resale values. Used prices are reasonable, making it a cost-effective purchase.
Most Reliable Years for the Honda HR-V
You’re likely looking for a used Honda HR-V that will provide years of trouble-free ownership, and certain model years stand out for their reliability.
The 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 Honda HR-V models are considered the most reliable years, with the fewest customer complaints and lowest maintenance costs.
These years offer a smooth driving experience, excellent fuel economy, and advanced safety features like Honda Sensing.
If you’re searching for a “sale near me,” consider these models for their strong resale value.
As a subcompact SUV, the HR-V is perfect for road trips, and with low maintenance costs, you’ll save money in the long run.
Honda HR-V Years To Avoid and Their Issues
While the Honda HR-V has generally received positive reviews, some model years stand out for their reliability issues.
You should be cautious when considering a used Honda HR-V from the 2016-2019 model years, as they’re considered the worst due to excessive complaints.
The 2016 model year, in particular, is plagued by electrical and transmission issues, with 75% of reported problems being severe or frustrating.
The 2018 model year has service brake and engine problems, while the 2019 model year has fuel propulsion system issues.
Approach these model years with caution and research thoroughly using tools like the CoPilot car shopping app to avoid potential headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions and Additional Information
If you’re in the market for a used Honda HR-V, you likely have several questions about this compact SUV’s reliability, features, and overall value.
As a reliable and spacious interior compact SUV, the Honda HR-V is a great choice for daily use and occasional road trips.
You’ll appreciate its good ride comfort and strong resale values.
When searching for the best used cars, focus on model years 2018 onwards, which offer updated technology and a smoother driving experience.
Avoid the worst years, 2016 and 2017, which have sluggish acceleration and outdated infotainment systems.
Generations and Details
The Honda HR-V’s evolution is marked by two distinct generations, each bringing its unique set of features, improvements, and refinements.
You’ll notice significant differences between the two.
- The first generation (2016-2022) boasts a 1.8-liter engine, CVT automatic transmission, and the innovative Magic Seat system, making it perfect for urban environments with its compact design and agile driving experience.
- The second generation (2023-present) loses the Magic Seat but gains more advanced safety features and a larger cargo space, making it a great option for those prioritizing safety and space.
Facelift, Upgrades, and Reliability
Mid-cycle refreshes often breathe new life into a model, and the 2019 facelift of the Honda HR-V is no exception.
You’ll notice upgraded LED headlights and new body panels, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The facelift also brought a revamped infotainment system with physical buttons and a volume knob, addressing the slow touchscreen-only system in earlier models.
Additionally, the Honda Sensing package became standard on EX and EX-L models, featuring adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.
To maintain your HR-V’s reliability, remember to change the CVT transmission fluid regularly, especially if you accelerate hard.
Infotainment System, Pricing, and Mileage
Your hunt for the perfect Honda HR-V leads you to scrutinize its infotainment system, pricing, and mileage – essential aspects that significantly impact your ownership experience.
The original infotainment system was touchscreen-only and slow, but a 2019 update introduced physical buttons and a volume knob, enhancing user experience.
Research is pivotal to finding the right HR-V at the right price, as prices fluctuate based on location, trim level, and condition.
- High-mileage examples can be bought for around $9,000, while tidy ones with fewer miles cost around $15,000 and upwards.
- Later, pristine examples cost between $20,000 and $28,000, depending on mileage and condition.
- A third-party installer can replace the original infotainment system, but at a cost, making it a consideration for buyers who value a modern UI.
Maintenance and Reliability
As you weigh the pros and cons of owning a Honda HR-V, maintenance and reliability become essential factors to ponder.
You’ll be pleased to know that the HR-V boasts a strong reputation for reliability, with a 4.5 out of 5 reliability rating.
Regular transmission fluid changes are pivotal to prevent CVT problems, especially in earlier models.
With average maintenance costs around $301, you’ll want to set aside funds for potential repairs.
Fortunately, the HR-V’s longevity is guaranteed with a strong maintenance record, making it a top performer in the Honda brand, even outshining the CR-V.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Honda Odyssey and Honda CR-V. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
