Total Complaints
350 filings
HONDA CR-V · model year
350 NHTSA complaints, 16 crash reports, and 3 active recalls for this specific cohort.
NHTSA overall rating
5 / 5 ★
New Car Assessment Program
The 2021HONDACR-V carries 350 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 16 crashes, 1 fire, 12 injuries, and 0 fatalities. For crash performance, NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gave this cohort an overall 5/5 rating, with 5/5 front crash, 5/5 side crash, and 4/5 rollover scores derived from standardized barrier and dynamic tests.
Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2021 CR-V is steering with 64 filings, followed by forward collision avoidance: automatic emergency braking (60) and unknown or other (32). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 3 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.
NHTSA currently has 77 investigation files overlapping the 2021 CR-V, and 9 remain open. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.
Total Complaints
350 filings
Crashes Reported
16 reports
Source
NHTSA ODI
Federal complaints database
Above median complaint volume — review patterns below.
| Component | Count |
|---|---|
| STEERING | 64 |
| FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING | 60 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 32 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 25 |
| FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS | 23 |
| ENGINE | 21 |
| SERVICE BRAKES | 20 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 13 |
| AIR BAGS | 13 |
| FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL | 10 |
| VISIBILITY/WIPER | 7 |
| POWER TRAIN | 6 |
| LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST | 6 |
| WHEELS | 5 |
| SEAT BELTS | 4 |
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, F
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight and CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The automatic locking retractor on the second-row center seat belt assembly may deactivate improperly, which can result in an unsecured child restraint sys
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RD
License Plate: [XXX] (CA) Vehicle: 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Mileage: 102,700 Description of Incident: While operating the vehicle at highway speeds, a "Engine Temperature Near High" warning suddenly appeared on the dashboard. I immediately heard a loud "gurgling" or "water pouring" sound from the dashboard area. I was forced to navigate through traffic to the shoulder to prevent a total engine seizure and avoid a high-speed collision. I was able to restart and limp the vehicle to Tracy Honda (Dealer), where a certified technician performed a diagnostic (Repair Order #XXX) and confirmed a blown head gasket with coolant leaking into the combustion chambers. Detailed Defect Information: The vehicle is experiencing a premature failure of the head gasket, a component designed for the life of the engine. This failure allows coolant to breach the internal engine seals and enter the cylinders. This specific issue is currently being litigated in the consolidated class-action lawsuit Bissell
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact became aware of an abnormal sound coming from the engine with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The engine sputtered, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was driven near the contact's son-in-law's residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with head gasket failure. The contact was informed that the head gaskets needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that in October 2025, the entire fuel injector kit was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
Mileage: 135,000
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact became aware of an abnormal sound coming from the engine with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The engine sputtered, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was driven near the contact's son-in-law's residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with head gasket failure. The contact was informed that the head gaskets needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that in October 2025, the entire fuel injector kit was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
Mileage: 135,000
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and failed to accelerate above 60 MPH. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 5 MPH while driving uphill. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who adjusted an unknown valve, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken back to the dealer for the third time, where a fuel injector was replaced, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: PE25016 (Engine). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.
Mileage: 61,000
Driving down Piedmont Road in Atlanta on an overcast morning with no pedestrians, obstructions or vehicles in front of the car, the collision avoidance and braking system engaged for no reason and almost caused the car behind mine to run into me.
Driving down Piedmont Road in Atlanta on an overcast morning with no pedestrians, obstructions or vehicles in front of the car, the collision avoidance and braking system engaged for no reason and almost caused the car behind mine to run into me.
P3001 misfire cylinder 1 and the accompanying dash full of warning lights and subsequent disabling of vehicle safety systems. swapped coils and plugs .. still misfire cylinder 1 .. suspect injector and/or intake carbon problem .. missed existing handfull of 2020 model year recalls by 1 year for the same engine, fuel pump, injector and carbon build up problem. Problem almost always happens at cold start
The contact's daughter owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at highway speeds, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted and failed to accelerate above 30 MPH. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The driver pulled over and restarted the vehicle. Upon restarting the vehicle, the check engine warning light was no longer illuminated, and the vehicle resumed normal operation. The following day, the vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer determined that there was coolant intrusion in cylinder #1. Upon investigation, the contact discovered an open investigation under NHTSA Action Number: PE25016 (Engine) and related the failure to the open investigation. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and agreed to assist with paying the deductible the repair. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Mileage: 60,000
Safety defect in my 2021 Honda CRV. Until 11/23/2025 the rearview camera had perfect view. 11/24/2025, camera view became obstructed by the camera Lense black rim in the permanent housing. On 11/28/2025 saw my local mechanic. Told after visual inspection that the lense had slipped down in the housing. This would have to be repaired by Honda. Appt.11 AM on 12/18/2025 at Crown Honda Pinellas Park Fl. I viewed Honda manual for 2021 Honda CRV camera problems. Had to be taken to a Honda dealership for repair. Honda forums, and Honda repair technician blogs stated backup camera lense is a defect, has to be repaired by Honda. At Crown Honda on 12/18/2025 at 10:45 AM, I was checked in by a manager. This guy ran the outside car take in. He looked at the problem in driveway. After 15 min, I was told its âNormalâ he said âI looked at the same year in lot and it looks the same.â I told him the camera lense housing is loose and needs repair,â no its notâ he said. I explained t
My sunroof exploded on my 2021 Honda CRV1
Dear NHTSA, There needs to be an immediate recall on this (VIN#: [XXX] ) 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Motor Nightmare. Despite proper maintenance and care, the vehicle has experienced persistent problems that stem from known defects. The engine has a fatal flaw with the head gasket. The high compression turbo engine stretches the head bolts, lifts the cylinder head just enough to blow the gasket causing coolant to leak into the cylinders and mix with the oil and destroys the bearings. Along with oil dilution where gas washes pass the piston rings. This is a widespread problem affecting this model as indicated by the numerous technical service bulletins. The issue appears to occur during the 20,000 to 30,000 mile mark where it begins to experienced recurring engine performance issues, misfires, loss of power, and excessive radiator fluid consumption resulting in premature engine wear and sludge buildup. Honda sites have pointed out: "This can happen when the car is frequently idled or
Dear NHTSA, There needs to be an immediate recall on this (VIN#: [XXX] ) 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Motor Nightmare. Despite proper maintenance and care, the vehicle has experienced persistent problems that stem from known defects. The engine has a fatal flaw with the head gasket. The high compression turbo engine stretches the head bolts, lifts the cylinder head just enough to blow the gasket causing coolant to leak into the cylinders and mix with the oil and destroys the bearings. Along with oil dilution where gas washes pass the piston rings. This is a widespread problem affecting this model as indicated by the numerous technical service bulletins. The issue appears to occur during the 20,000 to 30,000 mile mark where it begins to experienced recurring engine performance issues, misfires, loss of power, and excessive radiator fluid consumption resulting in premature engine wear and sludge buildup. Honda sites have pointed out: "This can happen when the car is frequently idled or
Dear NHTSA, There needs to be an immediate recall on this (VIN#: [XXX] ) 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Motor Nightmare. Despite proper maintenance and care, the vehicle has experienced persistent problems that stem from known defects. The engine has a fatal flaw with the head gasket. The high compression turbo engine stretches the head bolts, lifts the cylinder head just enough to blow the gasket causing coolant to leak into the cylinders and mix with the oil and destroys the bearings. Along with oil dilution where gas washes pass the piston rings. This is a widespread problem affecting this model as indicated by the numerous technical service bulletins. The issue appears to occur during the 20,000 to 30,000 mile mark where it begins to experienced recurring engine performance issues, misfires, loss of power, and excessive radiator fluid consumption resulting in premature engine wear and sludge buildup. Honda sites have pointed out: "This can happen when the car is frequently idled or
My dash board lit up and started dinging. Many different messages were flashing across the screen such as driver assist feature problem, TPMS problem, and others related to the electronic driver assist features. I noticed a difference in the way my car handled as I was pulling off the highway to a gas station to check my tire pressure. It seems drivable at the moment and I don't have another vehicle option. It's a 2021 CRV.
My dash board lit up and started dinging. Many different messages were flashing across the screen such as driver assist feature problem, TPMS problem, and others related to the electronic driver assist features. I noticed a difference in the way my car handled as I was pulling off the highway to a gas station to check my tire pressure. It seems drivable at the moment and I don't have another vehicle option. It's a 2021 CRV.
My dash board lit up and started dinging. Many different messages were flashing across the screen such as driver assist feature problem, TPMS problem, and others related to the electronic driver assist features. I noticed a difference in the way my car handled as I was pulling off the highway to a gas station to check my tire pressure. It seems drivable at the moment and I don't have another vehicle option. It's a 2021 CRV.
Phantom emergency braking. Vehicle slamming on brakes at intermediate times when there is no emergency.
Phantom emergency braking. Vehicle slamming on brakes at intermediate times when there is no emergency.
When driving on a state route vehicle began to slow down. Going 55mph with other vehicles going the same speed behind me, I was stopped in the middle of the road and barely was able to get to the side of the road before possibly getting hit. There is a warning light that came on stating âemission system problemâ. I am currently getting it towed to a Honda dealership to get it assessed. Iâve only had this vehicle for a year.
Emissions light came on took to dealer. All the fuel injectors need replaced with 84,000 miles. Carbon buildup dealer has done many should be a recall but there isnt.
Inaccurate Rear Passenger Seat Belt Warning Status
Loss of Motive Power
Inadvertent Deployment of Side Air Bags
Engine failure
No Restart After Auto Start/Stop Engages
Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.
Read our methodology — how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.