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Honda · Compact SUV · 2002–2006

Honda CR-V RD

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda CR-V RD is available with 2 engine variants — from 140 to 155 hp.

2.2L i-CTDi · Diesel· 140 PS
2003 2006
Good Choice 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2.0L i-VTEC · Benziner· 147–150 PS
2002 2006
Be Careful 6 weaknesses

The Honda 2.2L i-CTDi (Diesel, 140 PS) has the N22A (2.2L i-CTDi) — rated: "Good Choice", 4 known weaknesses.

The Honda 2.0L i-VTEC (Benziner, 147–150 PS) has the K20A (2.0L i-VTEC) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!AC Compressor Failed

The AC compressor is a clear weak point of the CR-V RD. When it fails, the entire air conditioning system is disabled. Models from 2002–2004 are particularly often affected.

Symptoms: Air conditioning blows only warm air, no characteristic compressor engagement felt, sometimes a whistling noise when the AC button is pressed.
from 100,000 km
Ad AC compressor CR-V RDHonda CR-V 2003 AC compressor
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
2,393 complaints · 2002–2006
Airbags
581 ⚠ 127
Electrical
382 ⚠ 6
Lighting
378 ⚠ 2
Engine & Cooling
319 ⚠ 3
Powertrain
117 ⚠ 10

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (581 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (382 complaints)
⚠ Lighting (378 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 15 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda CR-V RD (2002–2006) — 10 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect HVAC, Suspension, Brakes, Rust. Considered reliable: N22A (2.2L i-CTDi).

CR-V (K20A, 2002–2006) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch from 140,000 km, VTC solenoid cold-start rattle, Oil consumption from worn valve stem seals. Power: 147–150 PS.

What to watch out for with the Honda CR-V? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda CR-V RD have? +
The Honda CR-V RD has 10 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda CR-V RD? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: N22A (2.2L i-CTDi). The most reliable engine is the N22A (2.2L i-CTDi) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the N22A (2.2L i-CTDi).
Which Honda CR-V RD engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Honda CR-V RD. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 4 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Honda CR-V RD engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda CR-V RD — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} Honda's first in-house diesel: aluminium block, sounds metallic and sporty rather than tractor-like. Power band from 1,500 rpm, slick six-speed gearbox. Surprisingly lively for a diesel.
Is the Honda CR-V RD worth buying used? +
The Honda CR-V RD is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda CR-V RD? +
The Honda CR-V RD is available with engine variants from 140 to 155 hp. Petrol: K20A (2.0L i-VTEC). Diesel: N22A (2.2L i-CTDi).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee