Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Honda CR-V
The 2009 Honda CR-V is generally reliable, but has several airbag-related recalls and numerous associated complaints. Other concerns include electrical issues and structural complaints, though evidence on these is limited. Due diligence on these points during inspection and test drives is advisable.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Honda CR-V has 12 NHTSA recall campaigns and 386 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V228000 Rear Trailing Arm May Detach from Frame Corrosion NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V500000 Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V502000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V378000 Improperly Installed Passenger Air Bag Inflator NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V268000 Improperly Installed Passenger Air Bag NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V042000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V545000 Incorrectly Installed Replacement Air Bag NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V417000 Incorrect Wire Harness Installed on Front Air Bag NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V030000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V346000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V061000 Driver's Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V395000 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE SOFTWARE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 176 complaints
- Electrical System 44 complaints
- Structure 38 complaints
- Unknown or Other 30 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 17 complaints
- Steering 15 complaints
Of the 386 complaints on file, 29 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 386 complaints, owners report 16 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflator defects
How to check: Ensure recall work has been completed for airbags.
Miscellaneous electrical problems
How to check: Test all electrical components for functionality.
Structural integrity concerns
How to check: Inspect door frames and chassis for signs of rust or damage.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises on startup.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure no warning lights stay on dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on dash
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth transmission shifts.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure vehicle accelerates smoothly without hesitation.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration
- 05
Braking
What to check: Brakes should feel firm, not spongy.
Red flag: Spongy or unresponsive brakes
- 06
Turning
What to check: Listen for noise in suspension or steering.
Red flag: Clunking or grinding noises
- 07
After test drive
What to check: Inspect for oil leaks under the car.
Red flag: Fresh oil spots on the ground
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has all recall work been completed?
- Are there any electrical issues?
- Has the airbag been replaced?
- Any known structural issues?
- Is there a history of accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance records
- Vehicle history report
- Title status
- Previous owner's contact details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Honda CR-V at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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