2013 Honda CR-V Reliability Report

NHTSA data as of Sep 17, 2026Published Oct 15, 2026

Excellent

Ranks 4th of 25 CR-V years we score.

Owner complaints: 382; 21 are recall notices
Per 10,000 cars: 12.9; 279,922 made for the U.S.
Vs the average car: 0.30×; same age, 1× is average
Serious outcomes: 83; crash, fire, injury, stall or tow
Recalls: 2
NHTSA crash rating: 5★; overall, out of 5

← 2012 CR-V 2014 CR-V →

Should You Buy the 2013 Honda CR-V?

Yes. Our reliability score for the 2013 Honda CR-V is 85 out of 100, which rates Excellent. Owners reported about a third as many problems as for the average car of the same age. It ranks 4th of the 25 CR-V years we score.

The most reported problem is the VTC actuator, mostly unusual noises (44 of 382 complaints). Owners also complain about vibration and the headlights. 83 of the 382 complaints describe a serious outcome, such as a crash, a fire, an injury or stalling while driving.

It has 2 recalls. NHTSA rates it 5 out of 5 stars overall in crash tests. For comparison, the 2012 scores 82 and the 2014 scores 89.

Before you buy, check that the recalls were done and get an independent inspection. The full checklist is at the end of this page.

Pros

Excellent reliability score of 85
About a third of the problems of the average car its age
Recent complaints at or below average
No do-not-drive or park-outside recalls

Cons

VTC actuator: unusual noises44 complaints
Vibration (cause not stated)39 complaints
Headlights: poor illumination32 complaints

How the 2013 CR-V Earned Its Score

Every model year starts at 100. Each part takes points away when this year has more problems than the average car of the same age. How we score

Score breakdown
Item	Vs average	Points lost
Starting score		100
Serious problems	0.22×	−3
Everyday problems	0.49×	−3
Problems in the last two years	0.36×	−5
Recalls	0.57×	−4
Score		85

What Owners Report

We read all 382 complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013 Honda CR-V, one by one, and grouped them by the problem they describe. The most reported problems come first.

VTC actuator: unusual noises
44 complaints (12%)
Unusual noises, a failure and spins after start. In 8 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem, and in 9 it came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 28,000 miles.
Vibration (cause not stated)
39 complaints (10%)
Vibration or shudder. In 9 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem, and in 8 it came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 62,000 miles.
Headlights: poor illumination
32 complaints (8%)
Poor illumination, poor road illumination and a feature that stopped working. 1 of these 32 complaints describes a serious outcome: loss of visibility. In 12 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem. Median mileage when it started: about 1,000 miles.
Transmission: vibration or shudder
21 complaints (6%)
Vibration or shudder, harsh or delayed shifts and failure or loss of drive. 2 of these 21 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving. In 6 complaints, the problem came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 56,000 miles.
Engine: unusual noises
20 complaints (5%)
Unusual noises, hesitation and a loss of power. 1 of these 20 complaints describes a serious outcome: stalling or losing power while driving. In 5 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem. Median mileage when it started: about 20,000 miles.
Brakes: unusual noises
18 complaints (5%)
Unusual noises, loss of braking and rust or corrosion. 5 of these 18 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often loss of braking. In 3 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem, and in 3 it came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 18,000 miles.
Heater: no heat on driver side
15 complaints (4%)
No heat on driver side, plugged and a feature that stopped working. Median mileage when it started: about 36,000 miles.
Noise (cause not stated)
14 complaints (4%)
Unusual noises. In 5 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem. Median mileage when it started: about 19,000 miles.
Unintended acceleration (cause not stated)
12 complaints (3%)
Sudden acceleration, excessive creep at idle and surging. 10 of these 12 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often sudden acceleration or braking. In 5 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem. Median mileage when it started: about 35,000 miles.
Defroster: stopped working
11 complaints (3%)
A feature that stopped working and weak defrost. Median mileage when it started: about 34,000 miles.
Airbags: no deployment in a crash
10 complaints (3%)
No deployment in a crash, parts breaking or coming apart and exploded instead of inflating. 3 of these 10 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often an airbag problem. Median mileage when it started: about 34,000 miles.
Poor acceleration (cause not stated)
10 complaints (3%)
Hesitation. 4 of these 10 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving. In 8 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem, and in 3 it came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 2,000 miles.
Door lock actuators: stopped working
10 complaints (3%)
A feature that stopped working, not opening or unlocking and a failure that needed a new part. 1 of these 10 complaints describes a serious outcome: being stranded. Median mileage when it started: about 65,000 miles.
Steering: sticking or stiffness
10 complaints (3%)
Sticking or stiffness, loss of steering control and a feature that stopped working. 4 of these 10 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often loss of steering control. In 3 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem. Median mileage when it started: about 42,000 miles.
Timing chain or camshaft: early wear
10 complaints (3%)
Early wear, a failure that needed a new part and slipping. 1 of these 10 complaints describes a serious outcome. Median mileage when it started: about 78,000 miles.

Show 40 more problems

12V battery: draining the battery
8 complaints (2%)
Draining the battery, a failure that needed a new part and a leak. 3 of these 8 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often a car that would not start. Median mileage when it started: about 23,000 miles.
AWD or rear differential: unusual noises
7 complaints (2%)
Unusual noises, warning lights and parts breaking or coming apart. 1 of these 7 complaints describes a serious outcome. Median mileage when it started: about 10,000 miles.
Airbag warning light
7 complaints (2%)
Warning lights and problems that come and go. Median mileage when it started: about 33,000 miles.
Several warning lights at once
7 complaints (2%)
Warning lights. Median mileage when it started: about 103,000 miles.
Cruise control: speed drops on hills
7 complaints (2%)
Speed drops on hills, sudden acceleration and hesitation. Median mileage when it started: about 4,000 miles.
Door latches: not opening or unlocking
6 complaints (2%)
Not opening or unlocking and a failure.
CV axles: vibration or shudder
6 complaints (2%)
Vibration or shudder, unusual noises and a failure that needed a new part. Median mileage when it started: about 68,000 miles.
Torque converter: vibration or shudder
6 complaints (2%)
Vibration or shudder and a failure. In 4 complaints, the problem came back after a repair. Median mileage when it started: about 55,000 miles.
Shifter or park: the car rolling away
6 complaints (2%)
The car rolling away, shifter moves without using the release and not releasing. 4 of these 6 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often a crash. Median mileage when it started: about 7,000 miles.
Loss of power (cause not stated)
5 complaints (1%)
A loss of power and reduced power or limp mode. All 5 describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving. Median mileage when it started: about 22,000 miles.
Passenger airbag sensor: wrong readings
5 complaints (1%)
Wrong readings and warning lights. Median mileage when it started: about 21,000 miles.
Stall (cause not stated)
5 complaints (1%)
Stalling. 4 of these 5 complaints describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving. In 3 complaints, the dealer could not find or fix the problem. Median mileage when it started: about 10,000 miles.
Windows or locks or sunroof (operate by themselves): the system acting on its own
5 complaints (1%)
The system acting on its own. 1 of these 5 complaints describes a serious outcome: a car that would not start.
A/C: stopped working
4 complaints (1%)
A feature that stopped working, problems that come and go and warning lights. 1 of these 4 complaints describes a serious outcome: an injury. Median mileage when it started: about 21,000 miles.
Engine oil consumption: burning or using oil
4 complaints (1%)
Burning or using oil.
Frame or structure: parts breaking or coming apart
4 complaints (1%)
Parts breaking or coming apart and rust or corrosion. 3 of these 4 complaints describe a serious outcome. Median mileage when it started: about 106,000 miles.
Windshield washer: stopped working
4 complaints (1%)
A feature that stopped working and damage. Median mileage when it started: about 16,000 miles.
Seat belts: early wear
4 complaints (1%)
Early wear, the system not working when needed and false unbuckled warnings. 1 of these 4 complaints describes a serious outcome: a crash. Median mileage when it started: about 18,000 miles.
Sunroof glass (shattered): shattering or cracking
4 complaints (1%)
Shattering or cracking. Median mileage when it started: about 13,000 miles.
ABS: rust or corrosion
3 complaints (under 1%)
Rust or corrosion, locking up and a failure. 1 of these 3 complaints describes a serious outcome: an airbag problem.
Alternator or charging failure
3 complaints (under 1%)
A failure that needed a new part and low charging voltage. 1 of these 3 complaints describes a serious outcome: a car that would not start. Median mileage when it started: about 41,000 miles.
Frontal airbags: no deployment in a crash
3 complaints (under 1%)
No deployment in a crash. Median mileage when it started: about 105,000 miles.
Paint and rust: peeling paint
3 complaints (under 1%)
Peeling paint and damage.
Tires: dry rot
3 complaints (under 1%)
Dry rot, a failure that needed a new part and blowout. 1 of these 3 complaints describes a serious outcome.
Uneven tire wear: early wear
2 complaints (under 1%)
Early wear and pulling or wandering.
Ball joints and control arms failure
2 complaints (under 1%)
A failure that needed a new part and parts breaking or coming apart. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome.
Brake calipers: locking up
2 complaints (under 1%)
Locking up and a failure that needed a new part. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: a tow.
Engine failure: a loss of power
2 complaints (under 1%)
A loss of power and a failure. Both describe a serious outcome, most often stalling or losing power while driving.
Fuel economy: wrong readings
2 complaints (under 1%)
Wrong readings and high fuel use.
Fumes in cabin (cause not stated)
2 complaints (under 1%)
A bad smell and smoke or a burning smell.
Instrument cluster: wrong readings
2 complaints (under 1%)
Wrong readings and a feature that stopped working.
Drive belt failure
2 complaints (under 1%)
A failure that needed a new part.
Parking brake: works on and off
2 complaints (under 1%)
Problems that come and go and the system not working when needed.
Phone and navigation: stopped working
2 complaints (under 1%)
A feature that stopped working and poor call audio.
Power liftgate: not opening or unlocking
2 complaints (under 1%)
Not opening or unlocking and not closing or latching.
Rearview camera: stopped working
2 complaints (under 1%)
A feature that stopped working and blurry image.
Starter: unusual noises
2 complaints (under 1%)
Unusual noises. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: a car that would not start.
Car not starting (cause not stated)
2 complaints (under 1%)
The car not starting and hard starting. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: a car that would not start.
Tire pressure monitoring: warning lights
2 complaints (under 1%)
Warning lights and a failure that needed a new part. 1 of these 2 complaints describes a serious outcome: loss of braking.
Wheel bearings: unusual noises
2 complaints (under 1%)
Unusual noises and early wear.

Reported Once (27)

Show the 27 problems reported once

A/C compressor failure
EVAP system
Blower motor: damage
Body seals (water leak): water leaking in
Check engine light (cause not stated)
Control module (unspecified): hesitation
Engine mounts: vibration or shudder
Engine sensors or computer: stalling
Fuel system: a bad smell
Fuel leak
Ignition or power mode (won't shut off): not shutting off
Ignition coils or spark plugs: rough running or misfires
Ignition or push-button start: overheating
Screen and audio: works on and off
Accelerator pedal: sticking or stiffness
Drive belt tensioner and pulley: unusual noises
Static electric shocks (cause not stated)
Sun visors: will not stay in position
Power windows or regulator: works on and off
Side or curtain airbags: no deployment in a crash
Sway bar links failure
Struts or shocks failure
Valve train: unusual noises
Wheel rim: rust or corrosion
Windshield: water sheeting over glass
Windshield wipers: ineffective wiping
Wiring, fuses or body control module: rust or corrosion

How the 2013 Honda CR-V Compares With Other Years

The other CR-V years of the 4th generation, 2012 to 2016, and the years just before and after it. When two scores are less than 3.5 points apart, treat them as about the same.

Year	Rating	Score	Vs average	Per 10k cars	Recalls	Most reported problem
2017	Caution	64	1.8×	54.5	7	Fuel diluting the engine oil
2016	Excellent	84	0.36×	10.7	3	Fuel system: a bad smell
2015	Excellent	81	0.55×	18.2	3	Vibration at idle (cause not stated)
2014	Excellent	89	0.34×	14.5	1	Tire pressure monitoring: warning lights
2013 This year	Excellent	85	0.30×	12.9	2	VTC actuator: unusual noises
2012	Excellent	82	0.44×	16.5	3	VTC actuator: unusual noises
2011	Excellent	81	0.27×	11.7	13	Door lock actuators: not opening or unlocking

See every CR-V year

2013 Honda CR-V Recalls

A recall can cover some or all cars of this model year. Look up a specific car by its VIN at NHTSA to see which recalls are still open on it.

Fuel system, gasoline: fuel pump
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
NHTSA 23V858000 Recall report (PDF)Owner letter (PDF)Issued Dec 18, 2023. By the second quarter of 2026, 73% of the cars in this recall had been fixed.
Power train: automatic transmission
If the gear selector is moved from the park position without pressing the brake pedal it can allow the vehicle to roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
NHTSA 13V143000 Owner letter (PDF)Issued Apr 15, 2013.

Honda Warranty Extensions and Programs

Repairs Honda agreed to cover or update outside a recall. Whether one applies depends on the VIN and the conditions listed. A Honda dealer can confirm.

Customer support programHonda 18-057
Driver's airbag inflator
The problem:
The driver's airbag inflator can be faulty, and the airbag warning light comes on.
The fix:
A Honda dealer replaces the driver's airbag inflator for free.
Who qualifies:
The airbag warning light must be on. A Honda dealer test must show the inflator is faulty. The owner pays for the inspection if the inflator is not faulty. Salvage or branded titles are not covered.
Coverage:
Covered until June 30, 2030.
Honda's bulletin (PDF)

NHTSA Investigations

Defect investigations by NHTSA that cover this model year, with what they found.

Air bags failing to deploy after electrical overstress
Led to a recall
NHTSA's engineering analysis studied air bag computers used by six makers. It covered Honda Accords, Civics and CR-Vs from 2012 to 2016. A crash-related electrical spike could damage a chip, so air bags might not deploy. NHTSA closed the case in September 2024 after maker recalls, including 20V-024. It did not clear vehicles outside the recalls.
NHTSA EA19001 Opening report (PDF)Closing report (PDF)Apr 19, 2019 to Sep 19, 2024
Rupture risk in Takata inflators with a desiccant
Still open
NHTSA's engineering analysis, opened in September 2021, asks whether Takata inflators with a moisture-trapping desiccant could degrade and rupture over time. They are not yet recalled. It covers Honda Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey and Pilot models from 2001 to 2015, among others. No field ruptures have been reported in them. The case is still open.
NHTSA EA21002 Opening report (PDF)Open since Sep 17, 2021

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings for this model year. See the 2013 CR-V ratings on NHTSA.gov.

SUV 4WD and SUV FWD

Overall5/5

Frontal crash5/5

Side crash5/5

Rollover4/5

Check Before You Buy

A checklist for the 2013 CR-V, from its recalls, Honda's programs and the problems owners report most.

Confirm the Recalls Were Done

Ask the seller for proof that each of these recalls was repaired.

Fuel system, gasoline: fuel pump NHTSA 23V858000
Power train: automatic transmission NHTSA 13V143000

On the Test Drive

Accelerate gently from a stop and again at 20 to 40 mph. Shudder, slipping or harsh shifts are warning signs. Ask for the transmission fluid records.
Brake firmly from a moderate speed. A soft, hard or pulsing pedal, or a brake warning light, is a warning sign.

Ask the Seller

Ask whether any of these were ever repaired, and ask to see the receipts.

VTC actuator
Vibration
Headlights
Also ask for the service records, especially oil changes.

Before You Pay

Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you choose.
Decode the VIN to confirm the model year, engine and trim.
Check the title for salvage, flood or rebuilt branding.

What to do next

All CR-V Years →Best years and years to avoid, side by side.Compare With Other Years →Put up to four model years side by side.Find Warranty Extensions →Repairs Honda may still cover for this year.Decode a VIN →Confirm the exact year, engine and trim of a car.