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Honda · Compact SUV · 2012–2016

Honda CR-V RM

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

4.5 / 5.0 · Based on 4 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

166–201 PS

2.4L i-VTEC Benzin

Reliable touring engine

Decent
Most Reliable Engine

150–156 PS

2.0L i-VTEC Benzin

3 weaknesses

Good Choice

Generations


Engine Overview

The Honda CR-V RM is available with 4 engine variants — from 120 to 201 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.6L i-DTEC · Diesel· 120–160 PS Engine Change
2013 2016
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
2015 2016
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
2.2L i-DTEC · Diesel· 150 PS
2012 2015
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
2.0L i-VTEC · Benziner· 150–155 PS
2012 2016
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
2.4L i-VTEC · Benziner· 185 PS
2012 2016
Good Choice 4 weaknesses

The Honda 1.6L i-DTEC (Diesel, 120–160 PS) comes with 2 different engines: N16A (2013–2016, Good Choice) und N16A (2015–2016, Good Choice). Pay attention to the model year for the 1.6L i-DTEC!

The Honda 2.2L i-DTEC (Diesel, 150 PS) has the N22B (2.2L i-DTEC) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Honda 2.0L i-VTEC (Benziner, 150–155 PS) has the R20A (2.0L i-VTEC) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

The Honda 2.4L i-VTEC (Benziner, 185 PS) has the K24A (2.4L i-VTEC) — rated: "Good Choice", 4 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Prematurely Worn Wheel Bearings

Rear wheel bearings on the CR-V RM fail far too early — in isolated cases as early as 8,000 km. The problem was classified as an assembly/design fault.

Symptoms: Dull droning from the rear that increases with speed, sometimes vibration in the steering wheel or floor, noise changes on lane changes.
from 60,000 km
Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
2,393 complaints · 2012–2016
Engine
712 ⚠ 24
Other
426 ⚠ 18
Powertrain
401 ⚠ 10
Electrical
324 ⚠ 6
Airbags
143 ⚠ 67

Top Reported Issues

Engine (712 complaints)
Other (426 complaints)
Powertrain (401 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 20 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda CR-V RM (2012–2016) — 14 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, HVAC, Other, Brakes. Considered reliable: N16A (1.6L i-DTEC), K24A (2.4L i-VTEC), R20A (2.0L i-VTEC).

CR-V (N22B, 2012–2015) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch at high mileage, EGR valve carbon build-up and cracks, Exhaust manifold cracks (inherited problem). Power: 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 RM have? +
The Honda CR-V RM has 14 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda CR-V RM? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: N16A (1.6L i-DTEC), K24A (2.4L i-VTEC), R20A (2.0L i-VTEC). The most reliable engine is the R20A (2.0L i-VTEC) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the K24A (2.4L i-VTEC).
Which Honda CR-V RM engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Honda CR-V RM. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Honda CR-V RM engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda CR-V RM — rated: "Decent". {description} The K24A is a long-lived, refined 2.4-litre with smooth VTEC engagement. No driving highlight, but a solid, dependable engine for the Accord and CR-V without any drama.
Is the Honda CR-V RM worth buying used? +
The Honda CR-V RM is a good choice as a used car — 3 of 4 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda CR-V RM? +
The Honda CR-V RM is available with engine variants from 120 to 201 hp. Petrol: K24A (2.4L i-VTEC), R20A (2.0L i-VTEC). Diesel: N22B (2.2L i-DTEC), N16A (1.6L i-DTEC).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee