IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2018 Honda CR-V Mk5

The CR-V Mk5 launched in the UK with a choice of 1.5 VTEC Turbo petrol or 2.0 e:HEV hybrid powertrains. The hybrid was the more dependable choice, though the 1.5 Turbo offered better performance.

What changed for 2018

  • •UK launch of fifth-generation CR-V
  • •New 1.5 VTEC Turbo and 2.0 e:HEV hybrid powertrains
  • •Seven-seat option available on certain trims
  • •Spacious cabin with massive boot space

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Oil dilution on 1.5 Turbo if mainly short trips
  • !Electronic handbrake actuator failure around 60,000 miles
  • !Pre-March 2019 fuel pump recall essential
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

1.5 VTEC Turbo Oil Dilution

SeriousEngine

Similar to the Civic, the 1.5 turbo engine can suffer from fuel mixing with oil, especially in cold weather or with short-trip usage.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Rising oil level, Strong petrol smell from dipstick

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect oil level and smell
  • Verify Honda software updates
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Fuel Pump Module Fault

SeriousFuel System

A recall was issued for CR-Vs built before March 2019 due to a fuel pump module with low-density impellers that can cause the engine to be starved of fuel or cut out.

Est. Repair Cost: £0
Warning Signs:

Engine cutting out, Difficulty starting, Fuel starvation symptoms

What to Inspect:
  • Check recall status with Honda dealer
  • Verify the fuel pump recall has been completed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electronic Handbrake Failure

ModerateBrakes

The electronic parking brake actuator or sensors can fail, often around 60,000 miles.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£700
Warning Signs:

Parking brake warning light, Brake fails to engage/disengage

What to Inspect:
  • Operate the handbrake multiple times
  • Check for warning lights
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Infotainment System Freezing

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The infotainment system can freeze, lag, or experience Bluetooth connectivity issues, though software updates often resolve these problems.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£150
Warning Signs:

Screen freezing or unresponsive, Bluetooth pairing failures, Slow system response

What to Inspect:
  • Test screen responsiveness during viewing
  • Check for the latest software updates
  • Verify Bluetooth connectivity with your phone
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2018 Honda CR-V Mk5

  • Check 1.5 turbo engines for oil dilution symptoms—pull the dipstick and smell for petrol, and check the oil level is not above the maximum mark.
  • Verify that the electronic handbrake operates smoothly; the actuator can fail around 60,000 miles.
  • Check for infotainment system updates; early models had software glitches that Honda has addressed with dealer updates.
  • If buying a hybrid, confirm it has a full Honda service history to maintain the 10-year hybrid battery warranty.
  • Inspect the front wheels and tyres; the CR-V can be hard on front tyres if the alignment is slightly out.
  • Check the GOV.UK recall database—the pre-March 2019 fuel pump recall affects some early examples and should have been completed.
2019
Check a 2018 Honda CR-V Mk5 by Registration