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Honda · Compact SUV · 1999–2005

Honda HR-V GH

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
5.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda HR-V GH is available with one engine variant at 105 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.6L 16V · Benziner· 105–124 PS Engine Change
1999 2005
Good Choice 2 weaknesses
1999 2005
Good Choice 2 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Honda 1.6L 16V (Benziner, 105–124 PS) comes with 2 different engines: D16W (1999–2005, Good Choice) und D16W (1999–2005, Good Choice). Pay attention to the model year for the 1.6L 16V!

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