410 of the
2,438 complaints filed about the Honda Hr-V
are about the other systems —
17% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2023.
In April, I returned to my vehicle in my employer’s parking lot in Cranberry Township, PA and found the rear window completely shattered, with glass both inside and outside the vehicle. I immediately contacted my Honda service center and was told there were no reported issues or recalls. Because the vehicle was unsafe to drive, I contacted my insurance company to arrange the repair. My employer reviewed the security footage and confirmed that no one approached the vehicle between the time I arrived and the damage was discovered. Once it was determined that there was no vandalism, accident, or outside cause, I contacted Honda Customer Service. I was then told that Honda was aware of a safety issue involving the rear window, that Honda would cover the replacement cost, and that I should submit a reimbursement claim. I submitted the AutoGlass Now receipt for $441.76 and my credit card statement. I paid a $100 deductible, and State Farm paid the remaining balance. Neither State Farm nor I should bear costs resulting from Honda’s acknowledged rear window issue. I requested that Honda promptly reimburse my $100 deductible and reimburse State Farm. It is a battle. The incident created a major safety concern. I am grateful it occurred while the vehicle was parked rather than on a major highway with family members inside, where sudden rear window failure could have posed a serious hazard. Still, I was left after work with an unsafe vehicle 40 minutes from home, had to cover the rear window in case of rain, arrange for my sister to pick me up, and wait several days for the repair to be completed. It is most disturbing that this issue was already known and could have been fixed before this catastrophic failure. Something should be done about this before lives are lost. Also, when reaching out to the Honda service center, they don't acknowledge the issue and direct you to your insurance company so that Honda is not responsible for the full cost of the repair.
NHTSA complaint #11758855 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 HR-V paint started peeling. Unfortunately 2019 is not one of the recall years for this problem. The white paint has started to peel and keeps getting worse and worse. I have read stories of others with my year HR-V getting the paint taken care of since it's obviously the same problem that is happening with the 2018 white HR-V's that have a recall. I am hoping Honda will also recall the 2019 to have this issue rectified. It is quite embarrasing driving around with chipping paint on the roof of my car.
NHTSA complaint #11750372 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ive noticed the horn is really quiet. I live in a smaller city but traffic does get busy still and often times people dont check there surroundings. Theres been multiple times where ive used my horn to honk at someone over taking my lane and most of the time it helps and the move away. Ive noticed in this car they never back off. After work one day i was honking my horn in the parking lot to get my coworkers attention who was in her car to look at me. She never looked up even tho she was parked right next to me. I asked her if she could hear me honking and she said not at all. So i decided to test it out more. I noticed i was behind a friend driving and tried to honk to get there attention and they never looked back so i asked her later if she heard me honk cause i was right behind her and she said not at all. I was following my dad one day and honked and while he didnt hear anything my mom did hear me honk but she said to him "did she honk at you" because she barely heard it. While horns are sometimes over used in the past using my horn has saved me from some near accidents in my last car. I do not have faith in the horn that is in the HRV that would be able to get the attention of another driver, mind you ever time ive honked at my friends and family i was either not moving or going less than 30 mph. Most close calls happen on a busy interstate that runs through the city i live in where people are going 55+ there is no way my horn can be heard on the interstate. While nothing has thankfully happened yet i would hate for something to happen because i was not heard
NHTSA complaint #11748949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing a formal complaint regarding two critical manufacturing defects on my 2018 Honda HR-V that pose immediate safety risks and financial losses: 1. CRITICAL SAFETY ISSUE (Instrument Gauge Failure): The digital display gauge on the right side of the driver's dashboard consistently blinks out and displays entirely unreadable, corrupted characters. This failure makes it impossible to monitor the fuel gauge or know how much gasoline remains in the vehicle. This defect is highly temperature-dependent, becoming severely worse during colder months. Not being able to read the fuel gauge creates an immediate, dangerous safety hazard, risking sudden, unexpected engine stalling on active highways or getting stranded in hazardous conditions. 2. MANUFACTURING DEFECT (Paint Delamination): The vehicle is exhibiting severe paint peeling and flaking on the roof in four distinct places. The exterior clear coat and base coat are actively separating from the underlying primer due to an inherent manufacturing adhesion failure. The vehicle features the White Orchid Pearl color (Paint Code: NH-788P). American Honda Motor Co. previously acknowledged this exact production defect by issuing a Warranty Extension under Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 19-064, extending coverage for 2016–2018 HR-Vs for 7 years. However, because this premature failure is only now manifesting on my vehicle, Honda Corporate and local dealerships are refusing to cover the thousands of dollars in necessary repair costs, claiming the 7-year window has expired. Limiting the remedy to an arbitrary timeframe for an inherent manufacturing defect leaves consumers with a structurally degrading vehicle (exposure to rust and metal deterioration) & zero recourse. Respectfully request that the Office of Defects Investigation compel American Honda to address the dashboard electrical failures and expand or reopen the remedy for known White Pearl paint peeling defect to ensure consumer safety& manufacturer accountability
NHTSA complaint #11748651 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SAFETY HAZARD NOTIFICATION: INTERMITTENT IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE & STRAND RISK I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a known manufacturing defect in the ignition start/stop switch of my 2017 Honda HR-V. This component is suffering from an intermittent failure that creates an unpredictable and immediate strand risk, compromising driver safety by leaving the vehicle unable to start or power down correctly in potentially hazardous or isolated environments. Manufacturer American Honda Motor Co. is fully aware of this systemic defect, having issued Technical Service Bulletin TSB 20-116 (Diagnostic Trouble Code DTC B12C5) specifically addressing ignition start/stop switch failure. Despite this being a documented engineering flaw admitted by the manufacturer, American Honda Case Management (Case 16436837) is actively enforcing predatory financial barriers to prevent remediation. They are refusing to issue a conditional diagnostic waiver to verify the code, choosing instead to force an upfront out-of-pocket dealer diagnostic fee onto the consumer with no guarantee of goodwill coverage. Furthermore, corporate representatives handling this file on July 1, 2026, actively refused to provide their names or employee identification numbers when requested. I request that NHTSA review this case file and investigate American Honda’s bad-faith deployment of cost barriers to intentionally depress the reporting and remediation of a documented, safety-critical manufacturing defect.
NHTSA complaint #11747739 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Components of concern: collision mitigation braking system - while driving with no car in front of vehicle, car slammed on brakes - could have caused an accident. Yes, available for inspection. Also, lights went off and said to see dealer (have picture that I'm having issues attaching). Lights that went off were : collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation system, auto high beam, adaptive cruise control, some driver assist systems cannot operate (clear front windshield or poor viewing distraction) - all at the same time, even when it's no visible windshield issues. Yes, available for inspection. Want to take to Honda dealership but I'm being charged $80 for a diagnostic when this is a system issue. Not yet
NHTSA complaint #11743239 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am submitting this complaint regarding a catastrophic CVT transmission failure in my 2019 Honda HR-V at approximately 97,500 miles. In May 2026, while driving in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, my vehicle suddenly experienced a complete loss of propulsion. Multiple warning lights illuminated on the dashboard simultaneously. Although the engine would rev and the vehicle could be shifted into gear, it would not move properly and became unsafe to operate. The vehicle left me stranded away from home and required towing. I incurred significant expenses for towing, diagnostic fees, transportation, lodging, and related costs due to the breakdown. After diagnosis, I was informed that the CVT transmission had failed and required replacement at an estimated cost of approximately $10,000. I later learned that Honda had issued Service Bulletins 21-046 and 21-047 concerning CVT belt deterioration and transmission issues in 2016-2020 Honda HR-V vehicles. These bulletins acknowledge that an incorrect PCM value could cause excessive pressure on the CVT belt, potentially leading to partial or complete belt breakage and sudden loss of acceleration. Honda also extended warranty coverage on affected vehicles due to premature CVT belt deterioration. My vehicle falls within the affected model years and experienced symptoms consistent with those described in Honda’s service information. Despite this, Honda denied my request for goodwill assistance, even though the failure occurred at relatively low mileage for a modern transmission and only shortly after the warranty extension period expired. I am concerned that this transmission defect creates a safety risk because it can result in sudden loss of acceleration or vehicle propulsion while driving, potentially placing drivers and passengers in dangerous situations. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate the CVT transmission failures affecting Honda HR-V vehicles and determine whether additional action is warranted.
NHTSA complaint #11741743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sunroof caused a leak in the vehicle cabin, under the front driver rug. So the water was coming up from the floor. This was after a heavy rain. I was told by Honda the drains were clogged and paid $1k for repair 5 months ago. I just recently noticed more water pooling on the rug after another heavy rain and now they say the seals on the sunroof are failing. I rarely use the sunroof. I purchased the car new. This is another $1k repair. It seems as if this is a manufacturer defect.
NHTSA complaint #11741583 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I got in my car and started driving home from work then I heard something just shatter and when I looked back my rear windshield was completely shattered. I pick up my nieces and nephews and drive other peoples children to their appointments. This could have caused a serious injury should I have experienced it during a time I have little kids in my backseat. I am taking it to Gardena Honda first thing in the morning for an inspection. I have seen other people report this issue on 2023-2025 Hondas and after comparing my windshield to theirs its literally the same. There were no warning signs that flashed it was so crazy.
NHTSA complaint #11740771 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My vehicle paint is peeling and it is the NH788P. ( Orchid Pearl White). I am the second owner of this car as of 2021. It started on the roof and has continued to doors etc. No recalls were shown on the CarFax at the time of purchase.
NHTSA complaint #11740693 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On 5/232026 .. there was a severe thunderstorm . No hail . No signs of cracked window prior or as I approached my Honda 2023 HRV . I got in car and noticed windshield were foggy so I turned on both defroster. 10 mins later I heard a loud “boom “ in the back of my car.. I was starteled and immediately turned around and noticed the rear windshield was shattered and had a circular shaped broken glass hole. I never rolled anything on the street and no none was in sight .. I approached my home and parked the car and immediately checked the back to see if a rock or some sort was in the trunk however there was no evidence of that . Researching I notice many others have experienced this random spontaneous shatttering related to manufacturing error of window/defroster glue on defroster coiling . This was a huge danger for anyone in the back including myself the driver .. I’m very upset that Honda has not set a full recall on this other customers . I could have or another person sustained a serious injury. Now I’m waiting to get this repair which is a huge inconvience because all weekend it has stormed and having a garbage bag as a cover is so embarrassing ., I’m very displeased with Honda right now .
NHTSA complaint #11739775 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Complaint Regarding 2018 Honda HR-V AWD – Air Conditioning Failure, Odometer Malfunction, and Prior Fuel Pump Replacement. I am filing a complaint regarding my 2018 Honda HR-V AWD due to ongoing mechanical and electrical issues that appear to affect many Honda HR-V owners. The primary issue is the air conditioning system, which has not been functioning consistently. The A/C repeatedly fails to cool properly and intermittently stops working altogether. I am aware that many other Honda HR-V owners have reported similar air conditioning problems, and Honda has offered extended warranty coverage for certain Honda vehicles with A/C system defects. However, my vehicle has not been included in that extended coverage, despite experiencing the same recurring issues. In addition, the vehicle previously required a fuel pump replacement in 2021. I am concerned that this may indicate broader reliability and safety-related defects affecting this model. The vehicle is also experiencing mechanical and electrical problems involving the odometer/instrumentation system. The odometer has shown irregular behavior and appears to malfunction intermittently, raising concerns about the accuracy of vehicle information and overall reliability. I have been experiencing these issues for years without any resolution. I reached out to Honda Customer Service about these issues, but because my "VIN" is not included in the recall or extended warranty, I haven't been able to get much help. I believe these issues warrant investigation, particularly given the number of similar complaints from other Honda HR-V owners. I respectfully request that Honda be required to extend warranty coverage and corrective action to include affected 2018 Honda HR-V AWD vehicles like mine. Thank you for your attention to this matter
NHTSA complaint #11739139 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
•What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? CVT, yes this is a known issue •How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? On Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 our Honda HRV catastrophically and dangerously failed. Our Honda HRV Navi is the all-wheel-drive (AWD) and we are the original owners. It shuddered and dropped speed from almost 70 mph, to about 20 mph, putting us and others at risk for a rear end collision. My wife is traumatized by these events and for being stranded on the side of the road. •Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, it was repaired at a high cost. •Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Honda dealership •Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No. This was the first time there was any indication of a problem. The transmission was serviced on March 6th, 2026 at Honda a Honda Dealership. There were NO warnings of problems (i.e. NO slipping or hesitation during acceleration, NO engine revving without speed gain, NO sudden jerking or shuddering when driving, NO delayed engagement unusual noises (whining, grinding, clunking), NO fluid leaks of transmission fluid, and NO overheating or burning smell. When I queried the servicing dealership, I was told the March 6th, 2026 routine maintenance CVT service found no metal shavings or other issues in the transmission fluid. It was a routine scheduled and dealer suggested maintenance. On Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 our Honda HRV catastrophically and dangerously failed. Our Honda HRV Navi is the all-wheel-drive (AWD) and we are the original owners. It shuddered and dropped speed from almost 70 mph, to about 20 mph, putting us at risk for a rear end collision. My wife (the registered owner) is traumatized by these events and for be
NHTSA complaint #11738917 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
All of my braking/abs lights intermittently go on and off. My 2019 Honda HRV runs fine but when dealer looked at it they said it was the VSA and to replace would be over $4k. Dealer said eventually my vehicle may shut down if not taken care of. I am wondering if this is a common problem and if will be a recall?
NHTSA complaint #11735985 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
FULL CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE CVT BELT IN THE TRANSMISSION, A KNOWN ISSUE THAT HONDA HAD AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR FOR UP TO 150K MILES AND OR 7 YEARS FROM PURCHASE (THAT LETTER WAS NEVER MAILED TO MY HOUSE, IT WAS FOUND AFTER THE FACT WHILE LOOKING FOR THE TITLE AT A FAMILY MEMEBER'S HOUSE. THE CVT BELT FAILED AT 189,837 MILES AT HIGHWAY SPEED OF 80 MPH AS POSTED ON TEXAS HWY130 WHICH POSED A HUGE SAFETY RISK DUE TO THIS HWY'S SPEED, AND HEAVY TRACTOR TRAILER ROUTES WITH NO WARNING, THIS WAS NOT DUE TO WEAR AND TEAR, THE 2016 HONDA HRV IS KNOWN FOR THIS ISSUE. TOOK IT TO HONDA IN ROUND ROCK, TX, WHERE THEY CONFIRMED VIA DIAGNOSTIC TESTING IT WAS IN FACT THE DEFCET KNOWN, BUT HONDA CORP REFUSED ANY TYPE OF GOODWILL ASSISTANCE GIVEN ITS "TOO FAR OUTSIDE THE WARRANTY" (THE WHOLE POINT OF A GOODWILL EXCEPTION IS BEING OUTSIDE THE PARAMETERS) MY FAMILY HAS OWNED HONDAS FOR OVER 25 YEARS, AND THEY DISREGARDED THE BRAND LOYALTY COMPLETLY.
NHTSA complaint #11733807 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Since the 2019 Honda HR-V vehicle check engine light has come on numerous times, the vehicle is squeaking, the tire lights have come on numerous times, airbags light is on, the fuel cap light has come on Engine temperature light comes on Any more questions can be emailed or called. Thanks kindly.
NHTSA complaint #11733127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My husband and I were driving down the road on the way home from dinner in the rain when the car suddenly started braking very hard but very quickly. I thought at first that my husband had braked a little too hard all of a sudden, but he said he did not. Before he could tell me that though the dash started lighting up. Brake system failure, electronic parking brake failure, hill start assist problem, power-steering problem, and many others - pretty much every safety sensor that could come on. I then worried we would not be able to brake when needed, but luckily we made it home. As soon as we were able to this morning, my husband brought it to the Honda Service to be checked out. We have to heard from them yet other that $230 to diagnose the problem. We were very lucky there were not others close to us when it happened. This could have been a very serious wreck if we were in traffic or going an even higher speed on the interstate(which we had been doing earlier).
NHTSA complaint #11732396 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dear American Honda Motor Co., Inc. ,I am writing to formally document my experience with a premature failure of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in my Honda HR-V. The vehicle was covered under the extended warranty program Honda implemented specifically for the known CVT issues affecting 2016–2020 model years.In On 3/10/26 the CVT failed at approximately 96,000 miles. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Honda dealership, where technicians confirmed premature belt deterioration and breakage. Prior to the failure, I had the vehicle serviced at the dealership for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software update outlined in Honda Service Bulletin 21-047. During that visit, I reported a noticeable burning smell, which I now believe originated from the failing transmission belt. The dealership assured me there were no issues and stated that the software update had adjusted the gear ratio to reduce strain on the transmission. The vehicle was returned to me with no further action recommended. Subsequent communication with American Honda revealed that the company had been aware of widespread CVT belt issues in these model years. Rather than issue a full recall, Honda extended the powertrain warranty to 7 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurs first). My repeated attempts to escalate the matter with Honda Customer Service, including multiple requests for contact information for a regional manager, were unsuccessful. After several weeks of delays—during which my vehicle remained at the dealership for over 20 +days—Honda Corporate initially offered to cover a remanufactured CVT replacement at a cost of $4,500 to me. The dealership ultimately assisted by reducing my out-of-pocket expense to $2,900.I find it unacceptable that a vehicle with only 96,000 miles required a major transmission replacement costing nearly $3,000, especially after Honda had already acknowledged the defect through a technical service bulletin and an extended warranty. The dealership’s
NHTSA complaint #11730064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.