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2021 Honda CR-V Report

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

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Ryan Davis
2021 Honda CR-V Report

Overall Score

8.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional reliability backed by zero recalls and zero consumer complaints.
  • Top-tier safety ratings with a 5-star overall score from NHTSA.
  • Fuel-efficient performance, achieving 29 MPG combined.
  • The 1.5L turbocharged engine offers a good balance of power and economy.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Honda CR-V stands out in the used compact SUV market as a pragmatic and reliable option. It boasts a near-perfect safety score from NHTSA, achieving 5 stars overall, and delivers an impressive 29 MPG combined. The 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily driving, paired with an efficient automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. Honda's reputation for dependability is strongly reflected in this model's data, with no reported recalls or consumer complaints.

Critical Failure Risk

Exceptional reliability backed by zero recalls and zero consumer complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
27
MPG
Highway
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

7.1/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a safe and dependable daily driver.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking exhilarating performance or sporty handling.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Honda CR-V Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Honda CR-V.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $175

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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Honda CR-V reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Honda CR-V is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Honda CR-V for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 7.1/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 1110 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Honda CR-V is 8.7/10. Overall score is 8.7/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 7.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Pads and Rotors (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

Base MSRP is $30,450.

What engine is in the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Honda CR-V use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda CR-V, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda CR-V, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda CR-V, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Honda CR-V use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda CR-V, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

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

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Honda CR-V?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota RAV4 and 2021 Subaru Forester.

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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