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2011 Honda CR-V Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Daniel Wilson·12 Critical Recalls
2011 Honda CR-V Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2011 CR-V has an average reliability rating, influenced by significant recall campaigns.
  • Critical recalls for Takata airbag inflators and structural corrosion require verification of repair completion.
  • Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 23 MPG combined.
  • NHTSA awarded it a 4-star overall safety rating, with 4 stars in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Honda CR-V

The 2011 Honda CR-V presents itself as a practical and sensible compact SUV, a familiar choice for those prioritizing utility and Honda's reputation for sensible engineering. Its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, delivers adequate performance for daily driving and reasonable fuel efficiency. Safety ratings are strong, with a 4-star overall score from NHTSA. However, a significant number of recalls, particularly those related to Takata airbags and structural corrosion, cast a shadow over its reliability record. While consumer complaints are notably absent, the sheer volume and nature of the recalls demand thorough inspection and verification of completed repairs.

Critical Failure Risk

The primary concern is the widespread recall of Takata airbag inflators, which can rupture and deploy shrapnel. This is a critical safety issue.

Early detection can help you avoid a $0-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls16
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and versatile compact SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing long-term, worry-free ownership with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Honda CR-V Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Honda CR-V.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. Takata Airbag Inflator Defect

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Structural Corrosion (Rear Trailing Arm)

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
16 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Honda CR-V reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Honda CR-V is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 16. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Honda CR-V for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Honda CR-V is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Takata Airbag Inflator (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2011 Honda CR-V use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda CR-V, transmission is Automatic 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda CR-V, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Honda CR-V use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda CR-V, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

This model year has 16 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Honda CR-V?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Toyota RAV4 and 2011 Ford Escape.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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