What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1997–2001) CR-V?

CR-V owners have made 124 complaints about the 1997–2001 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 32nd out of 58 Honda generations in overall reliability, with some engine and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other CR-V Generations

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (1997–2001) CR-V Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 124 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 32nd in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 58 eligible generations.