Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Honda CR-V
The 2013 Honda CR-V has a moderate number of complaints and two recalls, mainly involving the fuel pump and transmission. While common issues with the engine and power train have been reported, evidence is somewhat limited for these concerns. This model generally performs well but requires a detailed inspection, particularly of the fuel and transmission systems, due to known recalls.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Honda CR-V has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 382 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V858000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V143000 Brake Shift Interlock/FMVSS 114 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 97 complaints
- Power Train 95 complaints
- Unknown or Other 48 complaints
- Electrical System 38 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 32 complaints
- Air Bags 27 complaints
Of the 382 complaints on file, 22 report a crash; across all 382 complaints, owners report 13 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent stalling issues
How to check: Listen and check for engine stalling during idle.
Gear shift without brake pedal
How to check: Test gear shift, ensure it doesn't move from Park easily.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Ensure engine starts smoothly without hesitation.
Red flag: Engine struggles or stalls.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds.
- 03
Low-speed acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear changes.
Red flag: Jerky or hesitant shifting.
- 04
Steady cruising
What to check: Listen for transmission noise or vibrations.
Red flag: Whining or grinding sounds.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Experience smooth, controlled braking action.
Red flag: Spongy feel or reduced braking power.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Gear shifts require the brake pedal to move out of Park.
Red flag: Shift moves without pressing brake.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel pump been replaced?
- Any recent transmission repairs?
- Have there been any engine stalls?
- Was the brake-shift recall addressed?
- Any issues with the electrical system?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history records
- Recall completion certificates
- Accident history report
- Title and registration papers
- Warranty information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Honda CR-V at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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