IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Honda CR-V Mk5

The 2020 model year saw the hybrid powertrain become increasingly popular, offering around 50mpg in real-world driving. The 1.5 Turbo remained the choice for those wanting more performance.

What changed for 2020

  • •Hybrid powertrain proving reliable and economical
  • •Infotainment software updates improving stability
  • •Strong owner satisfaction in UK surveys
  • •Full Honda service history critical for hybrid warranty

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Fuel pump recall should be completed
  • !Handbrake actuator may need replacement
  • !Infotainment freezing requiring software updates
3
Known Issues
1
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

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 2020 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.
20192021–2022
Check a 2020 Honda CR-V Mk5 by Registration