2021 Honda CR-V
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 331 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 22nd highest complaint count among 26 CR-V model years with reports.
Of the 2021 reports, 14 involved a crash and 1 involved a fire. 13 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Air bags, sensor, occupant classification, front passengerMay 21, 2026
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.
Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 7, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH, NOC, POD, BOE, UOF, POB, EOG, AOI, QO8, TOJ, DO7, and SOK. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V064. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 29, 2026.
Campaign 26V332000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, sensor, occupant classification, front passengerFeb 1, 2024
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 RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
Campaign 24V064000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpDec 18, 2023
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, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
Campaign 23V858000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/other, retractorNov 18, 2021
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 system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Dealers will replace the second-row center seat belt assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2022. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138.
Campaign 21V900000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
331 reports, newest first.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 9, 2025
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.
Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Dec 5, 2025, crash
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while parking, and the brake pedal was depressed, the vehicle accelerated inadvertently up a slight incline and collided with a stone boulder/wall. Neither the contact nor the passenger sustained injuries. The contact stated that no collision warnings were activated to detect the collision. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where the failure could not able to be replicated. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle has yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.
Engine, Nov 30, 2025
Report from dealer: Customer states that the vehicle feels like it's sporadically shooting forward when accelerating between 20-30mph. Check and advise vehicle failed AF test,all cylinders failed (rich).
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Nov 25, 2025
Model: 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid VIN: [XXX] ]] Mileage: [78000 old motor | 25000 replaced motor] Issue Type: Engine Stalling / Rough Idle/ Low Operating Temperature / Warranty Denial Maintenance History: Dealer-maintained per schedule Dealer Name/Location: [American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Attn: Customer Relations / Warranty Department 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501] Manufacturer Contacted: Yes – denied assistance despite known issue TSB References (if applicable): TSB 21-013, TSB 22-087 --- Complaint Summary: I am reporting a known issue with my 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid involving engine sludge accumulation and chronically low operating temperatures, which I believe are tied to a systemic design flaw affecting hybrid models of this generation. Despite proper maintenance at a Honda dealership, I was informed of internal engine sludge. The issue appears linked to the engine not reaching optimal operating temperatures—leading to oil degradation and sludge formation over time. This matches problems detailed in official Honda Technical Service Bulletins (TSB 21-013 and TSB 22-087), yet I was denied warranty support, even under a Goodwill request. Honda regional representatives and mechanics provided no meaningful analysis or assistance and defaulted to denying support without adequately addressing the root cause. This is deeply concerning, particularly since multiple owners nationwide have reported similar problems. I believe this issue poses a long-term reliability and potential safety risk and should be investigated. I seek resolution from Honda, including coverage of necessary repairs and full acknowledgment of the defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Nov 23, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The A/C compressor seal may be leaking under certain conditions. The component is available for inspection by an authorized Honda dealer or service center. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? If the compressor fails completely while driving in hot weather, the lack of air conditioning can cause discomfort and distraction to the driver, potentially increasing risk of unsafe driving conditions. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The issue has not been reproduced, but Honda has issued an extended warranty for this known problem. A dealer in Puerto Rico stated that action is only needed if the system fails completely. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The component has not been formally inspected yet; the dealer only provided a verbal assessment. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No warning lamps or messages appeared. The system is still operational but may exhibit leakage over time. What happened? In your own words, tell us what happened. The vehicle is a Honda CR-V Touring 2021. I received a notice regarding an extended warranty for the A/C compressor seal. When visiting a dealer in Puerto Rico, they stated that the issue only requires action if the A/C fails completely. I am reporting this because the extended warranty indicates that any potential leakage should be inspected and addressed, and I want the vehicle properly checked to ensure the compressor seal is not failing.
Electrical system, Nov 23, 2025
Component or system involved: Electrical system / infotainment unit / audio system / driver-assist camera systems. Yes, the affected components are available for inspection upon request. Safety risk: The incident occurred at highway speeds, which created a potential safety hazard because the infotainment system suddenly shut down, the audio system emitted a loud “pop” sound, and driver-assist features became unavailable. The distraction and temporary loss of information could increase crash risk. Reproduction: The issue has not been reproduced yet and has not been confirmed by a dealer or service center at this time. Inspection: The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, dealer, police, insurance, or any other agency. Warning signs: No warning lamps or messages appeared prior to the failure. The issue started suddenly while driving. What happened: While driving at approximately 65 mph on a major highway with cruise control active, the infotainment system suddenly shut off for about five seconds. At the same moment, the audio system emitted a loud “pop” noise similar to a small explosion. After that, the screen restarted and remained stuck on the Honda logo for around two minutes. When it finally rebooted, the clock reset itself to UTC instead of the correct local time. All of this occurred while the vehicle was in motion, which created a distraction and potential safety concern. No previous warnings or symptoms were present before the event.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 23, 2025
I am experiencing the problems that are described in investigation NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: PE25016. When driving on the highway, there have been multiple times (8-10) when the car stops accelerating and the check engine light starts flashing. I am not able to accelerate the car. If it turn the car off for 5-10 minutes, the check engine light stops flashing and I am able to drive the car again. It has always happened when I haven't driven the car for a while (either driving it for the first time for the day or after sitting idle at work for 8 hours), the problem happens within minutes of getting on the highway. I have taken the car to the dealership for service twice with this problem. The first time was in late August. They said there was no code with the check engine light and they could not replicate or find a problem. The most recent time was this past Friday (Nov. 21, 2025). I experienced the problem and immediately took it to the dealership. Because the check engine light was flashing, they were able to pull diagnostics and retrieve a code. They said a fuel check showed cloudy fuel and a spark plug was brown to copper color. They removed the old fuel and replaced all four spark plugs. This did not fix the problem, as I experienced it again this morning (Sunday, Nov. 23).
Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 10, 2025
Total loss of power while driving 2021 CRV hybrid on interstate. Check engine light came on and immediately started flashing and significant engine noise heard.Vehicle taken to Honda dealership and diagnostic test completed which stated fuel injector failed which then caused spark plug damage and engine misfire. We were traveling at interstate speeds and had no ability to accelerate causing significant safety issues.
Other or unspecified, Oct 31, 2025
My 2021 Honda CRV (VIN# [XXX] ) is only four years old and the touchscreen no longer works properly. My main concern is that the backup camera (which displays on the touchscreen) will come on when backing up but then sometimes glitch out and not display anything while in the process of backing up. I should also mentioned that the only thing that even partially works sometimes is the backup camera, because all the other features are unusable as the touchscreen perma displays the Honda logo and that is it - except for when it displays the backup camera when backing up....but, again, even when it does display the backup cam on the touchscreen it will sometimes glitch out causing the touchscreen to no longer have the image of the backup camera while in the act of backing up. I brought the vehicle into Honda to inspect and try to repair, but they said it was not repairable and must be replaced. There were no fuse issues either, so it is the touch screen unit that is the problem. There are quite a lot of people online complaining about the touchscreen who own the 2021 Honda CRV, so I am asking that the NHTSA issue a recall for the touchscreen. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Visibility/wiper, Oct 29, 2025
The intermittant wiper system does not and has not worked properly since I purchased the car. very inconsistant...the system has the rain sensing automatic wipers...with variable speed. when raining,,,no matter how heavy or light the rain...when set to variable speed...it doesnt matter where I set the the speed ...i cannot get a consistant wipe...if it wipes at all. This is especially annoying when I come to a stop...stop light, stop sign, turning...the wipers will NOT sweep...and will not work again until the vehicle speed reaches at least 25mph...which really forces me to either manually engage a sweep or set the wipers either the low or high setting. have read numerous complaints and reports online in chat rooms and Honda forums...so this definitely is an issue...a safety issue
Other or unspecified, Oct 13, 2025
Two separate incidents since owned car: When opened front and back doors, leaned in, face touched corner tip of door. Both times the tip ripped a small piece of my face off. Extreme bleeding. Eventually healed but if I hit the door with force I would definitely have needed stiches and had a scar each time. This needs to be recalled.
Structure, Oct 11, 2025
On October 6, 2025 my wife was distracted by a popping sound while driving her 2021 Honda CR-V and did not notice any rocks, birds etc. At her destination no damage was found after a walk around inspection. A few days later while driving she heard rattling in the overhead and slid open the moonroof shade to discover the glass was shattered. Honda of Ocala quoted $1265, (minus 15% Wild Card Any Service discount) for parts and labor to repair. Once vehicle was in the shop service advisor said there would be an additional $459 charge for two hours labor to guarantee all glass was removed. An internet search revealed there was a Class Action Law Suit for CR-V Moonroofs spontaneously shattering. Service Manager was aware of Law Suit and offered additional $150 discount. Total cost $1491.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Oct 7, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that the battery failed to start the engine. The vehicle was jumpstarted, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer. The contact noticed acid on top of the battery by the terminals and noticed that acid had dripped down the vehicle, and the battery was hot. The dealer replaced the battery. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the battery short-circuited, and the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was jumpstarted and taken to the dealer, where the battery was replaced. The battery failed a third time. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the A/C condenser had failed. The vehicle was repaired. Upon leaving the dealer, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. An unknown toxic gas emitted from the A/C vents and splashed the contact's face. The contact went to the emergency room and was informed that an unknown toxic gas had burned and injured the contact’s left eye. The contact was partially blind in the left eye. The contact took the vehicle back to the dealer, who diagnosed that the intake manifold had failed. The dealer stated that the intake manifold needed to be snapped back into place. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and abnormal sounds were coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the dealer refused to repair the vehicle and issued a no trespass order against the contact. The contact towed the vehicle to another dealer in Sarasota, Florida. The dealer installed a switch near the starter. The contact stated that afterwards it was found out that the dealer in Bradenton, Florida had failed to install the A/C filter. The A/C failure persisted. Several warning lights were illuminated. Most recently, after entering the parking lot at a gas station, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the front end. Upon investigation, the contact noticed that the overflow of the coolant had leaked out. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a friend's residence. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the coolant sensor and the engine control module had failed. The vehicle was not repaired after the most recent failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Steering, Oct 1, 2025
I own a 2021 Honda CR-V with approximately 47,011 miles. I’ve noticed that when I hold the steering wheel perfectly straight, the vehicle pulls slightly to the right. This happens on flat, level roads and is most noticeable at speeds over 45 mph, especially on highways. At higher speeds, the drifting becomes more pronounced, and the car feels unstable. It seems like the vehicle is fighting against my steering input, which raises a serious safety concern, especially during long highway drives or in emergency situations. I took the vehicle to an authorized Honda dealership, and they diagnosed a failing steering rack, which they say needs to be replaced. The repair estimate is $4,478. This seems unreasonable for a vehicle with under 50,000 miles and no accident history or modifications. The steering rack is a critical safety component, and its failure at this mileage suggests a potential defect. I am filing this complaint to report the issue and urge NHTSA to investigate whether this is an isolated case or part of a wider problem. If others are experiencing the same failure, I believe a safety recall may be warranted. I also request that Honda be required to assist affected customers.
Steering, Sep 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was sticking. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 42,000.
Air bags, Sep 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V064000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the parts for the recall repair were on backorder. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Sep 12, 2025
My 2021 Honda CR-V displays an “All System Failure” message while driving. On multiple occasions, the car has also braked suddenly on its own when there was no obstacle in front of me. This is a serious safety hazard, as it could cause a crash from behind. The issue is intermittent but recurring. It has happened several times recently. I know other Honda CR-V owners are experiencing the same problem, and some mechanics report they are seeing this issue frequently. I am very concerned about the safety of myself and my children while driving this vehicle. This vehicle was in an accident 3 years ago, but these problems only began recently and are consistent with widespread reports from other CR-V owners.
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 9, 2025
While I was driving my engine installed and all of the lights on my dashboard lit up, including, but not limited to the check, engine, tire, pressure and disabling of all of my safety features. Once I had it towed to the Honda dealership, I was told my fuel pump was not working. As I was on the interstate, my car stalling was absolutely a risk for a collision. When I asked the technician what could’ve caused this problem he said “I’m not sure but we’ve had a few of these recently.” so I feel like it has been reproduced. Prior to the failure, there was no sign of issue. I recently (August 15th) had my car serviced for an oil change and there were no issues.
Forward collision avoidance, Sep 2, 2025
About a year ago, I was driving at speeds of approximately 10-15 mph when my car braked and immediately brought me to a dead stop despite no obstacles being present in the roadway. It appears the automatic emergency braking system malfunctioned. Had there been a car behind me, it likely would have caused an accident. On August 15, 2025, I was driving on the freeway using the adaptive cruise control when traffic in front of me slowed, engaging the automatic emergency braking. Traffic in front of me cleared almost immediately but my car was still very rapidly decelerating. I pressed the gas pedal, but the vehicle continued to bring me to almost a complete, immediate stop on the freeway (I had been traveling at 70-80 mph prior to the stop). I feel incredibly fortunate that I did not end up in an accident due to the traffic behind me and that no one was injured or killed. I pulled off onto the shoulder when it became clear that I was not going to be able to quickly regain control of my vehicle. Driving a vehicle without being able to properly control it was an absolutely terrifying experience. I was bracing myself for impact from behind as I desperately tried to regain control and accelerate back up to the flow of traffic. I am certain that this malfunction will result in deaths if not addressed. On August 23rd, 2025, I was driving on a highway at approximately 60 mph when the car in front of me slowed in preparation for a right turn off the road. I had disabled the CMBS feature at the beginning of my drive, yet the car still braked without me hitting the brake pedal. It was not an immediate, abrupt brake as I had experienced in the other two previously described incidents, but it was still highly unnerving to feel another loss of control of the vehicle, especially since the system was supposedly disabled.
Air bags, Aug 26, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Honda CR-V. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V064000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that the repair would not be performed without a second recall notification from the manufacturer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Steering, Aug 25, 2025
On highway driving steering wheel seems to stick
Steering, Aug 21, 2025
Sticky steering/stiffness in steering. Steering sticks in place and then when forced the car jerks quickly to either side. This has put my family and others at risk as it is hard to control the steering and causes sudden movements from side to side. No warning lamps or messages appear on the dash. The Honda dealer inspected the vehicle and determined the vehicle has an internal failure to steering rack and will require replacement. Replacement cost is $4,204.17. The vehicle is one year out of warranty. The large Honda steering recall is for model years 2022 and newer. Honda would not cover this repair under the current recall and will only do so if the recall is extended. I called American Honda to see if they would offer any goodwill and after their internal review they decided against any goodwill unless the recall is expanded as the vehicle is out of warranty. This is our first and last Honda. We will share our experience with our friends and neighbors - Honda seems to not understand what customer service means but they do know how to lose current and future customers.
Wheels, Service brakes, Aug 18, 2025
Ever since we purchased the vehicle in 2021, it it has made a loud screeching noise when backing up in humid weather or after rain. Whenever we brought it to the dealer's attention, we were told Honda National is aware of the issue and working on a solution. After 3 years of hearing the same thing, we wrote a letter to Honda National and filed a complaint with the NYS Attorney Generals Office. The Attorney General sent our complaint on to Honda for response. See attached documents for the history.
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Aug 9, 2025
• During the short time I have owned this vehicle the automatic emergency braking system has engaged 3-4 times when there was no object in front of the vehicle. The vehicle can be made available upon request. • All incidents happened when driving on the freeway. Fortunately no one was following me which could have resulted in my being rear ended for a sudden stop. • I took the vehicle into the dealership service center today (8/8/25) where they told me it is normal and I should just be a good driver, keeping my distance from vehicle to the front of me. They stated that if they were to replace it the same thing would occur. The problem has not been reproduced by the service center. • When these issues have occurred on one occasion the braking alert sounded ( beeping noise) and then the car started braking. On the other occurrences I do not recall the alert. The car just started braking. Other than that there were no warnings it was going to happen.
Steering, Aug 6, 2025
Sticky steering, clicking on turning and needed to hold on tight while driving. Changing lanes on highway felt unsafe like the car would lose control. Car was recently at Honda for a recall on passenger seat sensor for the airbags. During the repair, a tire bulge was noticed and Honda dealer recommended we get that tire replaced ASAP. (Manager at LEA HONDA said not necessary to replace all 4 on AWD. ?.? ) Shortly after, the steering problem began whether or not related. We had our reliable private mechanic replace the other 3 tires and found the steering gear box defective and had to replace it and quite an expense. We kept the old one. There have been recalls on the steering gear box and this should be added. 2021 SHOULD be on the recall with the others.