- Reliability Index score out of 100
- 85
- Average repair cost
- £614
- Most regular repair request
- Electrical system
- Average age at repair
- 8 years
- Average mileage at repair
- 76,000 miles
Honda CR-V: A Reliable SUV for the Savvy Used Car Buyer
In the world of used car buying, the Honda CR-V (Comfortable Runabout Vehicle) seems to be on the rise in popularity in the UK. There are over 900 listings available nationwide on CarGurus, indicating a significant supply of used CR-Vs for prospective buyers [1]. Auto Express notes that while the CR-V isn’t a bargain option, it remains a “fine all-rounder” with excellent reliability, making it an attractive choice for used car buyers [2]. Reliability is exactly what we have found for the Honda CR-V in our latest edition of the Reliability Index.
The CR-V boasts an impressive overall score of 85 out of 100 and not only that, it hit the number one spot in our most reliable SUV’s (Sports Utitity Vehicles) list. But, even the most dependable vehicles can face unexpected issues, as many CR-V owners with Warrantywise have discovered.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key factors that make the CR-V stand out in terms of reliability and running costs, helping you make an informed decision if you’re considering this popular vehicle. We’ve crunched the numbers using data from our reliability index to give you the full picture. The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Honda CR-V’s reliability score: 85
As we highlighted earlier, the Honda CR-V boasts an impressive overall score of 85 placing it at the top end of our reliability rankings. This score reflects how well the vehicle has performed overall, considering factors like the frequency and cost of repairs, age, and mileage when issues typically arise.
Most regular repair requests
For the CR-V, we found the most common area of concern to be with the electrical system, with the alternator receiving the most repair requests. Alternator problems can be a significant concern for motorists, potentially leading to a range of electrical issues and even complete vehicle breakdown.
When an alternator fails, it can no longer effectively charge the car’s battery or power the electrical systems, resulting in symptoms such as dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, and malfunctioning electrical components [3][4].
Drivers may notice a growling or whining noise coming from under the bonnet, which can be an early warning sign of alternator trouble[5]. Promptly addressing these symptoms is vital, as it not only helps to prevent more serious damage but also reduces the risk of being stranded by the roadside.
Most expensive repair: catalytic converter
The most expensive repair request recorded in the Reliability Index for the CR-V involved the catalytic converter, which cost £2,519.17 to repair. While this is not a frequent issue, it’s a reminder that major repairs can occasionally occur, particularly in older vehicles. Large repair bills such as this are where having an extended warranty in place can offer some added financial protection and support when you need it most in keeping you on the road – subject to your Warranty Plan.
In contrast, when compared to the most expensive repair request made for a Mitsubishi Outlander, which was £14,298.08, it gives CR-V owners a little more peace of mind. The average repair request for the Honda CR-V comes in at £614.40, which is also relatively low compared to many other SUVs in the same category.
Age and mileage insights
On average, the CR-V tends to have repair requests at around 7.6 years old with around 76,000 miles on the clock. So, what’s the average age of the used car in the UK? Interestingly, the average age of cars on UK roads has been steadily increasing in recent years.
According to the latest data from the Department for Transport, analysed by NimbleFins, the average age of cars in Great Britain and the UK in 2022 was 8.8 years old [6]. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reporting that the average age reached a record high of 8.4 years in 2021 [7]. The trend has continued, with more recent SMMT(Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) data indicating that the average UK car is now 9 years old as of 2024 [8].
Given that the average age of cars on UK roads is now 9 years, your Honda CR-V may reach the point where repairs are needed slightly before the national average. However, with proper maintenance and possibly an extended warranty, CR-V owners can keep their vehicles running reliably even as they approach and exceed the average age of cars in the UK.
Running costs: how the CR-V compares
When evaluating running costs, the Honda CR-V is now a standout for budget-conscious buyers. With a modest average repair cost of £614.40 and fewer high-ticket repair requests compared to rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander (with an average repair of £1,527.79), the CR-V strikes a good balance between reliability and affordability.
How much does a Honda CR-V cost to buy used?
The price of a Honda CR-V in the UK varies widely, influenced by factors such as age, mileage, and specification. In the used market, a broad spectrum of options is available. Listings on Auto Trader show that newer pre-owned models can range from £30,000 to £40,000 [9][10], while Arnold Clark, a major UK car retailer, offers used CR-Vs starting from £15,998 [11]. On average, well-maintained, recent models typically fall within the £20,000 to £30,000 range. It’s also important to note that hybrid and higher-spec versions often command higher prices, reflecting the CR-V’s status as a premium family SUV in the UK market.
Final thoughts
Are you looking for a reliable SUV that won’t break the bank? The Honda CR-V might just be the perfect fit. The Honda CR-V is an excellent choice for used car buyers looking for a reliable, practical, and cost-effective SUV. With its high OVR score, reasonable repair costs, and strong market pricing, the CR-V continues to be a leading option in its class.
The 10 most reliable SUVs 2024 by overall score
Here are the top 10 most reliable used SUVs for 2024 according to our Reliability Index data. Each vehicle has been given a reliability rating out of 100, along with key insights, including average repair costs, the most expensive repair requests, and the average age at which repairs are needed.
The Honda CR-V leads with a top score of 85, followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander at 81. Dacia Duster comes third with 79, while Kia Sportage and Ford Ecosport score 78 and 77 respectively. Renault Captur achieves 75, with Hyundai ix35 and Nissan Juke tied at 72. BMW X3 and Hyundai Tucson round out the list, both scoring 71.
| Rank | Vehicle | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda CR-V | 85 |
| 2 | Mitsubishi Outlander | 81 |
| 3 | Dacia Duster | 79 |
| 4 | Kia Sportage | 78 |
| 5 | Ford Ecosport | 77 |
| 6 | Renault Captur | 75 |
| 7 | Hyundai ix35 | 72 |
| 8 | Nissan Juke | 72 |
| 9 | BMW X3 | 71 |
| 10 | Hyundai Tucson | 71 |
Considering an extended warranty?
Given that electrical repairs are common and catalytic converter repairs can be costly, opting for an extended warranty could be a wise decision. For those seeking peace of mind, an extended warranty could be a sensible addition to protect against potential repair costs as your CR-V ages. Buy your extended warranty online and start your journey to peace of mind motoring.
Sources
[8] The average UK car is now 9 years old, as drivers delay replacements – Auto Express 20th April 2024
Disclaimer: Warrantywise Reliability Index Scoring and Data: Rank is measured by repair request frequency, average vehicle age at the time of fault, average mileage, and average labour time, from 1 August 2021 and 1 August 2024, and includes vehicles between three and ten years old where there are a minimum of 250 cars on plan. Average repair costs collated over a period between 1 August 2021 and 1 August 2024. Since the sample was selected, Warrantywise has seen a significant rise in the price of labour and parts, which will impact future repair costs. All data used is from Warrantywise’s proprietary internal research. Warrantywise believes the information contained herein to be accurate at the time of release. However, the company may upload new or updated information if required and assumes that it is not liable for the accuracy of any information interpreted and used by the reader.
Warranty FAQs.
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A used car warranty can help manage the cost of unexpected repairs after a manufacturer’s warranty ends. Warranty plans vary, so check the plan documentation carefully for listed components, exclusions, repair limits and any conditions you need to follow.
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A discretionary warranty means each repair request is assessed individually, based on its particular circumstances rather than relying on automated systems. This allows the full context of each request to be considered before a decision is made.
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An extended warranty can help you manage the cost of mechanical or electrical repairs once the manufacturer’s warrant has ended. Add-ons such as breakdown recovery, car hire or onward travel may also be available depending on the plan level.
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The warranty plan options available to you will depend on factors such as your vehicle’s age and mileage. You can then tailor selected features and limits to reflect your needs and budget.
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Yes. You can use a VAT-registered garage of your choice or a Warrantywise Authorised Repairer. If you use your own garage, check that the labour rate is within the limit shown on your plan schedule.
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Once Warrantywise has provided written authorisation, the garage can carry out the agreed repair. If further work or a change in cost is needed, the garage must contact Warrantywise and receive additional authorisation before continuing.
Payment arrangements depend on the garage you use. Warrantywise will normally pay the agreed repair contribution directly to an Authorised Repairer. If you use your own VAT-registered garage, you may need to pay first and provide the required documentation for reimbursement.
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If your car’s most recent service was completed in line with the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, you may not need to service it before your plan starts.
You will need to arrange a service within 14 days if you are unable to provide evidence of servicing, and you must follow the recommended schedule throughout the plan.
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Regular servicing helps maintain your vehicle and provides evidence that you have followed the plan requirements. Keep your service invoices and records, as Warrantywise may request them when assessing a repair request.
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Before the plan starts, the vehicle’s servicing must be brought up to date in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, including any recommended upkeep. You will need to provide evidence that the required service and any associated work have been completed.
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No, you do not usually need to have your car inspected before taking out a Warrantywise plan. However, you will need to provide accurate information about your vehicle such as its age, mileage and service history.
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Warrantywise plans may be available monthly or for fixed terms of 12, 24 or 36 months. The terms and prices available for your vehicle will be shown in your quotation.
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You can pay for your Warrantywise plan in full, spread the cost over four months or choose a monthly pay-as-you-go option. Before choosing, check the payment schedule so you understand how much you will pay, when payments are due and how the pay-as-you-go option works.
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You can receive a full refund if you cancel within 14 days, provided you have not asked Warrantywise to contribute towards a repair. Check your plan book for the full cancellation conditions.
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If your car breaks down outside Warrantywise’s repairs office hours, including at weekends or during bank holidays, call the 24-hour breakdown assistance line on 0800 054 2174. Always follow the out-of-hours repair procedure in your plan book before agreeing to any repair work.
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Stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so, as continuing could cause further damage. Contact the Warrantywise repairs team on 01254 648 212 for the next steps, ans do not authorise repair work until you have received written authorisation from Warrantywise.
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Electrical parts are components that use, generate, store or control electrical power within your car, for example sensors, control units and dashboard displays. For full details please refer to your plan booklet, as the parts listed will depend on your plan level.
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Mechanical parts are components that use movement or force to help your car operate, for example parts within the engine, steering and suspension systems. For full details please refer to your plan booklet, as the parts listed will depend on your plan level.
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If your car breaks down while you are travelling abroad, you will need to arrange and pay for recovery. If the vehicle requires repairs, contact Warrantywise as soon as possible and follow the repair procedure set out in your plan book.
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If your vehicle is off the road while an authorised repair is being completed, Warrantywise may contribute towards the cost of a hire car for up to 10 days. Check your plan book for full details, including any daily rate or vehicle-type limits.
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The plan cannot be transferred from your current car to another vehicle, however you may be able to cancel it and put any remaining balance towards a new Warrantywise plan for your own or a family member’s vehicle.
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If you are unhappy with the service you have received, you can contact us via post, online form or by phone. Visit our Complaints page for more information.
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Our customer service teams are based in our Blackburn office. When you contact Warrantywise about a repair request, complaint or question about your warranty plan, you’ll speak to a member of the relevant team who will guide you through the next steps.
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Edd China fulfils the role of expert adjudicator, this means he has the final say over any dispute that we cannot resolve between us, subject of course to your statutory rights.
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Quentin Willson was instrumental in working with Warrantywise from 2007 to 2023 to develop our extended warranty plans to ensure they are clear, transparent and comprehensive. In July 2023, he passed over the responsibility of expert adjudicator to Edd China who will use his ‘discretion’ to ensure a fair and equitable resolution on a case-by-case basis.