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Honda · Compact SUV · 1999–2005 Custom Search

Honda HR-V GH

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
5.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants · How we rate

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda HR-V GH is available with one engine variant at 105 hp.

1.6L 16V · Petrol· 105–124 PS
1999 2005

Early D16 generation in the Civic without VTEC, considered reliable and easy to maintain. Adjust valves regularly as there are no hydraulic lifters.

  • ! Valve clearance must be adjusted manually from 40,000 km

    The D16W has no hydraulic lifters — valve clearance must be adjusted manually every 40,000 km. Neglect leads to valve train rattle and power loss.

    Symptoms: Rattling noises from the valve train, power loss and increased fuel consumption
    80–200 $
    Ad valve clearance adjustment Honda D16
  • ! Camshaft seal — oil leak from 120,000 km

    Aging camshaft seals cause oil leaks in the area of the camshaft cover at higher mileage.

    Symptoms: Oil leak in the area of the camshaft cover, oil traces on engine and underbody
    60–180 $
    Ad camshaft seal Honda D16

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Rust on rear wheel arches

The rear wheel arches are a primary rust weak point. Dirt accumulates behind the plastic sill trims, promoting corrosion.

Symptoms: Visible rust bubbles or brown discolouration on the lower wheel arch edges behind the sills; inspection on a lift is essential when buying.
from 120,000 km
Ad HR-V GH wheel arch rust
 Medium
!Rust on tailgate and sills

The tailgate rusts along its lower edges and weld seams. The sill trims are also prone to rust.

Symptoms: Rust starting on the lower tailgate weld seams and along the sills visually apparent; paint starts lifting at edges.
from 100,000 km
Ad HR-V GH tailgate rust
 Medium

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 7 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda HR-V GH (1999–2005) — 2 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Gearbox, Suspension, Body. Considered reliable: D16W (1.6L 16V).

What to watch out for with the Honda HR-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 HR-V GH have? +
The Honda HR-V GH has 2 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda HR-V GH? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: D16W (1.6L 16V). The most reliable engine is the D16W (1.6L 16V) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the D16W (1.6L 16V).
Which Honda HR-V GH engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Honda HR-V GH. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 2 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Honda HR-V GH engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda HR-V GH — rated: "Decent". {description} HR-V GH with VTEC: Honda sold it as a "Joy Machine" — the VTEC revs high and loud. Not fast, but for a mini-SUV from 1999 it has genuinely sporty character. An oddball with soul.
Is the Honda HR-V GH worth buying used? +
The Honda HR-V GH is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda HR-V GH? +
The Honda HR-V GH is available with engine variants from 105 to 124 hp. Petrol: D16W (1.6L 16V).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee