Image by: RL GNZLZ

The 2nd Gen Honda CRV is well known for its reliability, yet it does have some common issues. With most CRVs easily reaching 300k miles with its 2.4L I4 engine. These CRVs are quite cool and funky with some unique quirky features. But even with the most reliable cars out there, there are issues that arise and some of which are common.

Today, I’m going to talk about some common issues on the 2nd Gen Honda CRV from 2002-2006 that you should know about before you make that purchase and read to the end as I speak about the black death, which is the costliest repair.

(Rear end/Differential)

Noise coming from the rear diff. This usually happens due to the breakdown of the differential fluid. It is a cheap fix and only requires you to flush the diff and add new fluid with the proper Honda Dual pump fluid. You can have a shop do it or you could do it yourself. Not a very hard job to do. Just be prepared for the stanky smell.

Dual Pump Fluid: 

(Engine Code: P0134)

Check engine light due to a faulty Air fuel ratio sensor showing the code P0134. You will need a special socket to break loose the sensor, but overall, not a hard job to do if you have worked on cars before.

Cheaply and easily check your engine code: 

(Evap Issue)

Another check engine light may pop up as well, and this is due to a loose fuel cap. The code P1456 will indicate that the fuel cap is binding. Usually, people will just retighten the gas cap and the light will go away the next day. This almost seems like a never-ending issue; however, this does not affect the cars function one bit. Some people have claimed that replacing the cap fixed the issue and others have had to install an EVAP solenoid valve kit.

Gas Cap:

(Driveshaft U-Joint)

Vibrations while you are driving can occur if your U joint on the drive shaft is going bad. When I first started working on cars, this was one of the first jobs I did, and overall, it was not all that hard. But it does require a bit of special tools and know how. If you are not ready to remove the drive shaft, I would get a pro to get this job done. Could cost around 300-400$.

(Engine Mounts)

Slight vibrations from the engine, which is most likely due to a faulty engine mount. The car can still be driven, but you should replace it to have a higher quality drive. Not too hard of a job, and it will require you to remove the battery and the battery bracket, while you are down there, go ahead and clean up the battery terminals to prevent any corrosion.

Engine Mounts: 

(BLACK DEATH)

Finally, the black death. Basically, the AC compressor fails from the inside out and contaminates the entire ac System. Metal shavings from the compressor will mix with the lubricant and start solidifying throughout the system, and turns black, and that is where this gets its name. If the compressor has yet to be replaced, I would factor that into the cost of the car and replace the compressor as soon as you can. If you catch in time, you will only need to replace the compressor, however, if you let it fail, you will need to flush the entire system and replace more of the AC system. So, although the CR-V is an amazing car, this is the biggest flaw it has and should be addressed so you will not need to worry about it in the future. The job could turn from a $800 job to a $1600 job just like that. If the previous owner says that they had the compressor replaced due to the failed compressor, make sure that they have replace the entire system, if not, factor that $1600 to the cars final price because that new compressor won’t last long.

3rd Gen Honda CRV 2007-2011 Common Issues and Reliability

4th Gen Honda CRV 2012-2016 Common Issues and Reliability

See how this compared to the 2001-2004 Toyota Rav4, Honda CRVs competition for it’s generation:

If you are in the market for the Honda CRV form 2002-2006, then the black death is really the main costly repair you should look out for. Other than that, the CRV is an awesome early crossover that will easily last you 300k miles. IF you have any questions, post them down below. But that is all for today.

If you are tired of reading, watch this instead:

Really, not all Hondas are as reliable as you might think. Take the 8th Gen Honda Civic

Hopefully this helped you out. I have committed this website to help as many people out with their particular car issues and future pruchases. No matter your gender, hair color, style, or background, everyone is equal. Let’s strive for a full inclusive world.

Thanks for reading!