2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

3328

I have a 2004 CRV-EX with a manual transmission. It's been driven about 8800 miles so far and oddly I seem to get the same fuel economy whether I'm using it for commuting (mixed driving, about 17 miles each way) or for longer highway trips. The mileage is always at about 22 mpg. I'm not an aggressive driver and rarely accelerate quickly or drive much over 70 mph. Is this typical for this car? I thought I'd do better on the highway...

mb6986

I got my '05 EX Auto about 3 weeks ago, so far got through 3 full tanks of gas. The first tank (might not have been a full tank from the dealership) I recorded 21.7 mpg. The second and third fill-up I calculated fuel economy to be 22.7 mpg and 23.96 mpg, respectively. My normal commute is about 10 miles on a highway and 20 miles or so in dense traffic through north-central NJ. On a side note, the lack of power-retention after engine is turned off is very inconvenient when stopping for refueling.

yooper53

I've narrowed my choices to the CR5 and Rav4. I'd appreciate knowing what kind of real world Highway mileage you're getting. Thanks in advance.

-Dennis

kyfdx

The highway mileage is sort of capped by aerodynamics and a relatively high final-drive ratio in the 5-speed transmission.. I also get about the same mileage in mixed and highway driving..

 

Also, in my experience, the CR-V really extracts a large mileage penalty, once you exceed 65 MPH.. So, if you are like me, and do most of your interstate driving around 70-75.. then 22MPG is not far off..

 

My average fuel mileage is around 23.5-24.5 MPG, with 21 miles each way... 18 miles of that on suburban freeway... I do have an automatic, though, which tachs at a lower RPM than your manual...

 

I did a little experiment last winter.. Tried to stay under 60 MPH, no full throttle accelerating, etc... I increased my mileage by about 2 MPG... So, try to stay under 65 MPH for an entire tankful, and see what happens..

 

regards,

kyfdx

spanman

Anyone have the name, specs or other technical details of the break-in oil that Honda uses in its new CR-Vs?

bshel

My '04 EX MT -mpg gradually improved over the last few mos. I now have 10,500 miles. I have gotten as much as 28mpg on all highway trips, but mostly stay around 23-24 for mixed/mostly around town driving.

thirdof4

I get about the same as others have mentioned, between 22 and 23 mpg. I don't commute (work at home) and drive about 50% highway (60-65 mph) and the rest town and hilly country roads when I am out and about. I think it's unfortunate (and inconvenient) that the tank is so small, though if it were larger I suppose the mpg would go down with the added weight.

bclark

Hi:

 

I was wondering if anyone has experience pulling a trailer with a CRV. I have a 2004 EX Auto. I've pulled a 1000# enclosed trailer with it a few times on short distances (20mi). It seems as if the transmission smells warm after I've traveled a ways. This makes me a little concerned about how the drivetrain will hold up in the long run.

 

Any experiences?

 

Thanks

ateixeira

Towing is not a Honda strength. When you get a hitch on the Ody or Pilot, it comes with an oil cooler and I think a power steering cooler as well.

 

Capacity is 1500 lbs, and if the trans seems hot, IMO it would be wise to use the feedback your vehicle is giving you and not push it too much.

 

Maybe see if you can find an aftermarket oil cooler?

 

-juice

kathgip

Hi, I drive my '04 CRV mostly half city and half country roads. I average 22-23 mpg. But when I take a trip that is all hwy., I have gotten 27-28 mpg. I keep the speed to about 70 and have had good mileage. Considering this car is much bigger than my old Altima, I get the same mileage. I am happy with it.

dmbst68

The lease on my car ends this August. I'm considering financing a CR-V for my next vehicle. What must my FICO score be in order to qualify for low financing offers? (I'm hoping that Honda will have 1.9 or 2.9% this coming August.)

 

thanks...

wintercruisr

Hi Folks,

 

The 11 mpg my Landcruiser gets is forcing me to get rid of it. Too bad, otherwise it's an awesome vehicle. Anyway, drove a 2005 CRV SE today and it was very nice. Like a mini Landcruiser! I would like to get a manual transmission and I know you can't get leather with that. Fine. I want arm rests. Can they be had with a 5 speed EX? If not are there aftermarket pieces available? What do people have to say about the auto transmission on the SE? Will it move ok on the highway? I guess I am assuming that the motor will have more pep with the manual tranny, but if I am wrong let me know! Auto would work for me if people are happy with its performance. Thanks-this forum is helpful.

kyfdx

The CR-V has more than enough torque and horsepower... It easily handles the automatic..

 

I also had the previous generation CR-V (127HP), and got a stick-shift, because of the lack of power.. In the new generation, that wasn't an issue, and I equipped mine with an automatic, so that my wife could drive it... Although I miss driving the stick, I've never missed it from an acceleration standpoint.

 

regards,

kyfdx

varmint

The motor will have more pep when mated to a manual transmission. Not only does it offer a more powerful connection between engine and wheels, the CR-V's stick is geared very low. But I would take a few drives with the automatic and see if that's enough for you. The new 5 speed automatic should be very smooth and certainly more relaxed at highway speeds.

 

As for armrests, Honda does not offer a driver's armrest for the manual. However, you can install one yourself. Check the H and A Accessories link at the top of the page.

kyfdx

It will be faster than that Landcruiser, with either transmission...

wintercruisr

Thanks for the responses re. CRV AT. More test riding is needed! BTW, Landcuiser is plenty quick when you stomp on it (thus burning a gallon or two of gas). I can't imagine the LC loosing to a CRV in a drag race! Anyway, the cruiser will be history in a month or three and I'll get either a CRV SE or a Forester XT PP.

varmint

The TLC might win a 0-10 mph race, but after that the CR-V probably would take the cruiser. With a 5MT, the CR-V tends to run 0-60 between 8-9 seconds. Figure the automatic about 7/10ths slower.

 

The turbo Forester is a whole other story, though. So long as you don't need much passenger space, it's a great car. I'd also be tempted to look at the Hyundai Tucson if interior size isn't a top priority.

 

Good luck with the shopping.

jopopsy

Speaking to the passenger space; I have a new Forester. I had 2 5'10 people sitting in the back seat just fine the other evening. No, its not going to fit 3 of those types of people, and a 6'4 person certainly wouldn't like it very much. However, there is enough room back there for average sized folks.

 

Jopopsy

bshel

I think it depends on their body type. I am 5'10 and wear 36in length pants - my knees are crammed up against the back of the front seats in the Forrester. I'm much less cramped in the CR-V - keeping the rear seats in the furthest back position.

varmint

I find that few people will openly insult a person's car by saying it is uncomfortable, so one persons "fits fine" will vary wildly from anothers.

 

My wife's TL is a good example. Because it lacks extra headroom, I am forced to tilt the driver's seat way back. I once put my father in the seat behind me.

 

"You okay back there?"

 

He replied, "sure, sure, just fine".

 

When we stopped and he got out, I asked again. This time I prefaced the question with a statement about how far I have to lean the seat back. This time he said, "Yeah, it's tight back there."

 

That's why I read a lot of 3 series owners saying that their guests don't mind the backseat. Would you say negative things about a friend's BMW? But the fact of the matter is - there is such a thing as a cramped backseat. The Forester isn't the worst. But it ain't good.

ronstoy

When is the next major redesign of the CR-V? Maybe a V-6?

kyfdx

I think rear seat comfort is more a function of the type of vehicle... The CR-V has a true SUV seating type (even though it isn't a "true" SUV).. Very upright.. this lends itself to more rear-seat comfort... While the Forester seems to be true to its sedan/wagon roots..

 

I remember the first time I drove one (1st gen), I couldn't really tell the difference between it and the Impreza from behind the wheel.. I didn't get the "up-high" ride feel, and the back seat seemed just like what you would get in a normal sedan or wagon..

 

But, to me, it seems you also get more of a car handling/ride... so each vehicle has it's strong points.. I think one of the CR-V's is rear-seat comfort..

 

regards,

kyfdx

(who always gets to sit upfront)

bshel

a hybrid would be great. or diesel.

 

I think Honda will reserve the V6 for the Pilot, etc.

kyfdx

Probably in this direction..

 

dewey, "Acura RDX" #110, 18 Jan 2005 10:57 am

 

P.S... start at the beginning

varmint

The next CR-V is schedule for redesign as a 2007 model. It will likely be released late in 2006. You can pretty much bank on that.

 

Nobody knows if it will include a V6. Keep an eye on the Acura RDX concept car that was just shown. Most believe that the next CR-V will be based on that vehicle.

wintercruisr

Took second test drive of an SE yesterday. At about 30-40 mph the car was bucking back and forth (front to back) as it went down the road and I asked the salesman if this was right. He said they ride a little stiff. Stiff is one thing, but this was like being on a see-saw. It was -5 degrees; maybe the suspension or tires were too cold.

 

If it does ride like that, aftermarket suspension and tires would probably fix it. Any comments from you SE owners?

 

Salesman let me put 120lb dog in back seats; brought a blanket from home. Thought that was pretty cool. Drove the SE and a 5sp EX. Both were equally powered; if and when I buy I'll get the AT. Didn't see any advantage to the manual, unlike with the four cylinder motors/auto transmissions of old.

 

Checked out the Element too, pretty good stuff. If the rear windows rolled down I would get the Element.

 

SE passed the dog test and has plenty of pep, so now I have to unload the Landcruiser. Selling in the middle of winter isn't inviting..hard to keep cars clean here in VT.

jopopsy

True. Body type has a lot to do w/ it. My suit jacket is a 46, but my pants are only 30's. I have plenty of width room and my knees are fine. I guess it really depends on how big your family is. :P

 

Folk's are right though; each vehicle has its strong points. I deliberated on this for months; most who are common in these forums know.

 

I will say that the CRV did have more room hands down. However, if you are of avg size and pant length it won't matter which you pick.

 

Jopopsy

ateixeira

RD-X looks very promising.

 

Forester XT is almost in a class by itself right now. It's priced too low to compete directly with the BMW X3 3.0, but it's a lot nicer than the Saturn Vue Redline.

 

I'd like to see Saturn do a nicer interior and fix the electric power steering.

 

Better yet let's see more sporty small SUVs, RD-X could fit the bill.

 

Tucson is decent but it's not remotely sporty.

 

-juice

flyingdoc

I am considering an 05 CRV SE. I have read either on this forum or others that some buyers had to sign a statement at the time of purchase indicating that they would not use chains. Apparently the concern is with the stability control. I asked the salesman with whom I took a test drive and he said that I wouldn't need chains, but that they could be used.

 

So, my question is: can chains be used? If not, can other traction products, such as cable type "chains" be used? What does the owner's manual say?

varmint

Here's something to read if you're getting snowed in.

 

http://www.detnews.com/2005/autosconsumer/0501/19/G01-63714.htm

 

Flyingdoc - I see no reason why the cable-style chains would be a problem. I've read of others having concerns because of the RT4WD unit, but not VSA.

jeanclaude

I've got a 2004 4WD CR-V and I'm wondering to what extent do I need chains? Is it OK to drive on snowing road with normal tires?

Many thanks in advance.

tomk17

I would suggest real snow tires if you get several months of snow weather like here in the Northeast. I'm a big fan of using the right tires for the right conditions. The difference is night and day. I put 4 snows on the CRV and its un-stopable, braking and cornering are improved as well. My wife drives it, no special winter driving techniques needed - just go. Any stock tires just don't have a winter tread pattern. I look at it this way, over 90K miles you are going to use 2 sets of tires anyway- why not have good summer tires and good winter tires! If you can spring for a separate set of wheels it makes the change over real easy and free if you can do it yourself in the garage. That's my 2 cents.

varmint

I'll just say ditto to what was posted above.

 

I'm guess that if you're asking about chains, you must be in an area that sees quite a bit of snow. However, if that's not the case, all-season tires and common sense should be enough. Just go easy with the throttle and leave plenty of room for braking.

dave_cl

I have had an interesting couple of days. My wife came home after walking the dog, and told me the orange engine light would not go out. She said she had tightened the gas filler cap and that it had clicked several times, but the light was still on. I brought my manly skills to bear and removed the gas cap and then retightened it, and sent her on her way to do some shopping. Alas, she came home and told me the light was still on. This morning I got up and brushed off the snow so that I could open the hood. I checked the oil level and found it was OK. Then I noticed that the coolant level in the expansion tank was out of sight. I topped up with about 1 litre of antifreeze (70:30 mix) and turned on the engine. Magic! The CEL went out!

I have never before had a problem with the CEL, although my second generation CR-V is one of the early ones (2002 with 77000 km).

Has anyone else experienced anything similar?

dave_cl

I decided to go with Michelin Ice. They are expensive but worth every penny. I live in the "snow belt" north of Toronto, and we get the streamers coming off Georgian Bay during the winter, but these tires are great.

tomk17

Before you think you have some magical powers, I've see this before. I don't know if it's some form of vapor lock or what but this can cause the light to come on. An old Honda Odyssey I had addressed this in the manual. It then takes up to 10 engine restart cycles after the cap is fiddled with to make the light go out. I suspect the timing of you adding coolant was a coincidence.

markiebeef

I just bought a 2005 crv and the dealer told me to make sure the cap clicks 3 times or the lights going to do this or that.i'm thinking geez what kind of garbage is that? what other car makers have idiot lights come on cause the cap did'nt click three times? whats the purpose of this what was honda thinking?

isellhondas

It sounds like you have a coolant leak! That's a LOT of coolant to have to add. I would get it check immediatly!

isellhondas

Ah...ALL modern cars will do this!

 

What's the big deal? Just make sure you tighten your gas cap until it clicks a few times.

kyfdx

That is right from the owner's manual.. The check engine light is mostly designed to detect problems with the emission system.. This includes fuel tank pressure and gasoline vapors.. Which is all tied into the gas cap..

 

The cap is designed to fit exactly so... And, the three clicks insures that it is properly tightened.

 

So, that is what Honda (and the EPA) were thinking..

wheelz4

I know you've got to take Mag-X stuff with a grain or two of salt (or would that be a grain of rice!) but they have a drawing of, supposedly, the next CR-V.

http://www.mag-x.com/index_ie_j.html

Bit of "Stream" in the rear-side window. Will probably mirror the RD-X quite closely, maybe with 200 hp vs. RD-X's 220 or so. Can't tell from the pic if it'll (finally) lose the tailgate-mounted spare but as the RD-X won't have one, it may be a good bet. Think they may offer 6 or 7 seats as opposed to bringing over a Stream/Edix derivative?

aggie1995

This past weekend we sold our 2002 Honda CR-V EX (AWD) and bought a 2003 Toyota Sequoia SR5.

 

The CR-V has provided us with 46,000 almost trouble free miles. I say almost because of the numerous recalls/TSBs that kept getting mailed to us. And the fact that at 40,000 miles the A/C compressor locked up on us and bit the dust. $1300 later it was like new.

 

Other than that mileage varied between 20 and 24.5 depending on the driving. My wife did alot of stop and go driving and numerous short trips of 1 and 2 miles. She never got less than 20 mpg. OEM Tires were eaten up at 30,000 miles.

 

All in all a very nice car. We probably would not buy another but we wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to others.

 

Good luck with your CR-V's!

kizhe

I noticed that my coolant level is kind of low too (it took me a while to figure it out: coolant level in CR-V is hard to check - need sunny weather or a bright flashlight). Another thing, I do not remember at what level it was when it was new. (Level suppose to be between MIN and MAX)

Anyway, I need to add some. Which brand did you add? Green Preston? Or Honda have special OWN brand?

kyfdx

Congratulations on the new car... Did Honda pay any of the charges on the new A/C compressor?

 

regards,

kyfdx

mlouttit

Wow. I wish my experience was as good as your's. I just had my '05 EX in the snow for the first time and I was not impressed. It did OK but my last 3 cars were Subarus and I think the Subarus were much better in the snow. I am hoping that things will improve once I get rid of the OEM tires that I hear so many complaints about. The CR-V spun much easier than the Subaru but the biggest problem was steering. I have to be very gentle with it which is a good thing in the snow but I didn't need to be nearly as gentle with the Subarus. As I said, it did OK but I'm hoping it improves once I change tires.

ateixeira

That sketch almost looks like the Renault Megane Scenic from the side.

 

That would be a pretty big departure for what's been a boxy shape all along.

 

-juice

varmint

Mag X is also reporting that the vehicle is approximately 4 inches shorter than the current vehicle. While height and width are more or less the same. So I doubt very much that additional seating is an option. At least, not here in NA.

 

Sometimes Mag X publishes good stuff. They got an early sketch of the 2002 CR-V about 4-6 months before details were released. But a few months before that, they showed a photochop that looked nothing like the production model.

 

I wouldn't get worked up about this one. It's too early.

aggie1995

Honda picked up 1/2 even though the vehicle was out of warranty. The dealer intervened for me. So actually my out of pocket cost was $650.

wheelz4

varmint, I wonder if the next-gen CR-V is supposedly 4" shorter because there won't be a tailgate-mounted spare, and in fact, the length of the new CR-V is actually the same or slightly longer? (How do they measure the length now? Does it include the rear-mounted spare?)

thirdof4

In my recent experience, I found my 04 Ex to be only marginally competent in 4 inches of wet snow. I live in the Northwest and have studded snow tires on. I am a very cautious driver in snow so I don't think I overly taxed it. I had much more spinning and sliding than I had with my Suzuki Sidekick, which was exceptionally tough and competent in even deeper snow. With regular good weather driving however, the Sidekick was a literal pain in the neck. The CR-V is more car-like and easier on the body for the majority of the year. So I'm willing to be extra cautious in bad weather as long as I can be comfortable the rest of the time.