Honda HR-V RZ
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Honda HR-V RZ is available with one engine variant at 107 hp.
Newer 1.5L i-VTEC naturally aspirated engine in the Civic FL from 2022. Limited long-term experience so far. Direct injection can lead to intake valve carbon build-up.
- ! Intake valve carbon deposits from direct injection from 80,000 km
Direct injection without port injection can lead to carbon deposits on intake valves. Honda implemented design countermeasures, but at high mileage it remains a latent concern.
Symptoms: Hesitation at part throttle, slight power loss, rough idle at higher mileage - ! Fuel dilution of engine oil on short trips in cold weather from 30,000 km
Based on the L15B platform, fuel can enter the engine oil on short trips in cold weather. Significantly rarer in European climates than in colder regions. Regular oil level checks are recommended.
Symptoms: Oil level above maximum, faint petrol smell on dipstick after winter short trips
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Recall: Seatbelt pretensioner rivet may be missing On up to 300,000 HR-V and Accord 2023–2024 models, the rivet securing the quick connector and cable plate of the seatbelt pretensioner may be missing. Restraint function in a crash is not guaranteed. | Low | |
| Recall: Passenger seat weight sensor faulty The weight sensor in the passenger seat can crack and short-circuit. The passenger airbag will then not deploy correctly in a crash. Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminates, passenger airbag shown as 'OFF' even though an adult is seated. | Low | |
| Recall: Sticky Steering (NHTSA 24V744) Approx. 1.7 million Honda vehicles recalled for sticky steering gearbox. HR-V 2023+ affected. Steering may momentarily bind and cause unexpected direction change. Symptoms: Steering binds or jerks during input, especially at low speed from 14,000 km | Low | |
| e:HEV efficiency low on motorways The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine in the e:HEV drivetrain must drive the car directly at motorway speeds. Above 120 km/h consumption rises above 6 litres. Symptoms: Consumption display climbs well above 6 litres at motorway speeds above 120 km/h, combustion engine runs continuously and loudly — electric gliding no longer possible. |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 22 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda HR-V RZ (2021–2024) — 6 engine-related and 16 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Electronics, Body, Interior. Considered reliable: LEC3 (1.5L i-MMD e:HEV).
HR-V (L15B, 2015–2022) — Be Careful: THE Honda 1.5T issue: unburnt fuel bypasses piston rings into the oil circuit on short trips and cold starts. Oil level RISES (up to 13% fuel content documented). Class action Smith v. Honda (2022). Warranty extended 6 years. No permanent mechanical fix — Honda recommends more frequent oil changes., Intake valve carbon deposits from direct injection, Timing chain wear from neglected oil changes. Power: 131 PS.
HR-V (L15B, 2019–2022) — Be Careful: THE Honda 1.5T issue: unburnt fuel bypasses piston rings into the oil circuit on short trips and cold starts. Oil level RISES (up to 13% fuel content documented). Class action Smith v. Honda (2022). Warranty extended 6 years. No permanent mechanical fix — Honda recommends more frequent oil changes., Intake valve carbon deposits from direct injection, Timing chain wear from neglected oil changes. Power: 182 PS.
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 RZ have? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee