2019 Honda Cr-V Safety Report

The 2019 Honda CR-V presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, achieving 5 stars overall, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover, its complaint data reveals significant concerns, particularly with its forward collision avoidance system and fuel system. With 1011 total complaints, including 29 crashes, 2 fires, 34 injuries, and 1 death, there's a notable pattern of issues that could compromise safety despite strong passive safety performance. The most frequently reported issue is the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' system, with 196 complaints, often describing sudden, unintended braking, which poses a direct crash risk. This is further supported by complaints mentioning 'SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' (37 complaints). Recall history for the 2019 CR-V is extensive, with 7 recalls addressing critical safety components. These include multiple recalls related to the 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE' (fuel pump failure, fuel tank weld issues), which can lead to engine stalls or fire risks. Other significant recalls cover 'SEAT BELTS' (buckle assembly issues), 'STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS' (rear subframe bolt loosening), 'EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL' (incorrect airbag indicator description), and 'AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER CLOCKSPRING/SPIRAL CASSETTE' (potential airbag disablement or uncommanded deployment). The recall for the rear subframe bolts is particularly concerning as it could lead to a sudden loss of vehicle handling. Beyond the recalls, common complaint patterns highlight persistent problems. The 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE' and 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM' combined account for 178 complaints, frequently detailing fuel injector failures, rich fuel mixture codes, and fuel leaks, which align with some recall issues but also suggest broader reliability concerns. 'STEERING' issues, with 93 complaints, often describe a 'sticky' or 'hard to turn' steering wheel, indicating potential loss of control. The high number of 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' complaints (196) points to a potentially unreliable active safety system that, instead of preventing accidents, could inadvertently cause them. Overall, while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, the real-world complaint data and numerous recalls suggest that owners may encounter significant safety-related malfunctions.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2019 Honda CR-V's numerous recalls and high volume of complaints, especially regarding the forward collision avoidance system and fuel system. Thoroughly check recall completion and consider an extended warranty for powertrain and active safety systems.