Used Honda CR-V 4x4 2002 - 2006 reliability review

Name: Used Honda CR-V 4x4 2002 - 2006
Rating: 4
Author: Stuart Milne

It's one of the best 4x4s (except off-road). It's spacious and practical, too

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What should I look for in a used Honda CR-V?

This CR-V has been the subject of two recalls (one relating to possible damage to the sidewall of the tyres, and the other concerning the seat belt anchorage), but both affected only tiny numbers of cars.

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There have also been reports of cars cutting out or losing power, with the exhaust gas recirculation valve to blame. Examine the service records, and if it hasn't been replaced, insist that it is.

Other than that, there have been glowing reviews all the way. The CR-V finished in the overall top 20 in recent JD Power surveys, with its mechanical reliability and build quality consistently rated as above average.

In that sense, it merely follows in the wheeltracks of other Hondas - the company ranked as top manufacturer in our 2005 Reliability Survey. Warranty Direct figures say the CR-V is one of the most reliable cars on its fleet, better even than the also-excellent RAV4, and streets ahead of the Freelander.

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About the writer

Name: Stuart Milne

Title: Digital editor

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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.

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