I've done a ton of research, looking at reviews, consumer buying guides, message boards, etc. After considering the Toyota's RAV4 and Highlander, and even the Pilot, I can't get away from the fact that buying a CRV is just plain practical. Honda doesn't put a great deal of pizazz into the vehicle, but I can't find a vehicle that gives me this reliability record, as well as economy and good features for the money. I'd love a Highlander, but I can't get past the fact that the top of the line Highlander costs about $10 to 12k more than a fully equipped CRV. The RAV4 is just too cramped feeling. The Pilot doesn't seem like a great deal, either. I do have a question though: Does the 2002 CRV come with auto-off lights like the Accord? Also, if you use the remote to unlock the doors, do the interior lights come on? We have a 2000 Accord and I like these features. Thanks!
I still am concerned about the clunking noise the brakes make when first going forward or reverse. I've read the explanations and they do sound correct, BUT, why did the brakes not do this when the cr-v was new? And the two cr-v's I took for a test drive before buying did not do this. I don't remember what mileage the brakes started doing this 'clunk', but they definitely did not make this sound when new.
Doubling the sound intensity increases the dB by 3 from the definition of decibels. [db = 10 log10(Intensity/Reference)] Perception is another matter entirely!
My CR-V does the same thing but it only seems to do it in the mornings or when engine is cool. Service advisor at my dealer tells me its normal something about brake system warming up or something like that. I started hearing the clunking noise several weeks after i got it.
2004runner, -If you leave the door open the 2002 CRV interior dome light will eventually shut off automatically (I never checked the headlights for this feature). -When you unlock the doors with the remote the interior dome light does come on and remains on for some time.
My father looked at the Highlander and couldn't justify the extra $$$ for such a few unique features so he ended up with the 2002 CRV.
davegh - thanks for the response. Our Odyssey's lights act much the same way as the Accord. I'm going to assume the CR-V is identical. Unless someone else knows better. One thing on the CRV that is a bit of a curiosity. Why do you suppose that they didn't put a power door lock switch on the front passenger door? Just seems a bit odd, don't you think? Finally, I know that I will need to upgrade the sound system. At least the speakers anyway because, simply stated, the factory speakers sound a bit a.m.-ish. Does anyone have some good advice for what kind of speakers, or how to make the systeme sound better without investing major $$$? THANKS!
I test drove the 2002 Honda CRV EX today.... Loved it!!!
I drove the vehicle for approx. 25 minutes... city streets and the freeway. I paid close attention to the noises and compared to my 2000 Ford Taurus... THERE WAS NO NOISE! I expect to have some road/wind noise, and I can live with some noise. Again, you want to hear noise? Drive a Ford Taurus. I also paid attention to the "pick up" the vehicle had during acceleration... IT WAS MORE THAN ACCEPTABLE!
The only thing that I was unable to confirm was reliabilty. I am taking everyones word that I will not be sorry for going to a Honda. I am able to testify that Honda's reliability has to be better than Ford's. For me... time will tell.
Anyway, I enjoyed the overall experience of the CRV. I too looked at all the other SUV's, and I can not justify spending anymore money or time. All I need to do now is find the "best buy" on a CRV.
Thanks for all the information... I found this website to be very helpful. I am glad to be part of the Honda Family.
I found the most convenient data source is through Yahoo Autos.When you find the particular vehicle you are researching scroll to the bottom and there is a link to autosite after you click on performance.I think decibel readings will be different from each testing party.Edmunds lists the CRV at 76db at 70mph vs Autosites reading of 70 db.
The weather did not cooperate with the testing schedule for Edmund's. It is possible that the roads were wet when they checked the sound meter. Wet roads are louder than dry roads. There's no way to be certain, though. They just mention that there was intermittent rain during performance testing.
2000Taurussel - The 2002 CR-V's reliability is suspect at this time. There is little data to prove that it is either good or bad. We do know that it was ranked second in the JD Powers Initial Quality Survey, but that survey only covers the first 90 days of ownership. It's not a long term sample.
In the past, the CR-V has been the top dog on the reliability charts (per Consumer Reports). We'll have to wait to see how well the newly designed CR-V will do. That magazine should be out in six months or so.
If I had to speculate, I'd guess that CR-V reliability is still above average, but not as high as the outgoing model. The 2002 redesign has/had some first year bugs to work out. That is to be expected with any new car.
My '99 CRV started doing that at about 35K miles. It would make the noise, but only the first time I hit the brakes when going in a particular direction. Each succeeding time, the brakes were quiet. I lived with the noise until I needed front brake pads and the rear drums adjusted. Brakes have been quiet ever since.
My '99 CRV started doing that at about 35K miles. It would make the noise, but only the first time I hit the brakes when going in a particular direction. Each succeeding time, the brakes were quiet. I lived with the noise until I needed front brake pads and the rear drums adjusted. Brakes have been quiet ever since.
I hope the 02 CRV is not an experiment.I remember when I bought a new 82 Accord it developed a short in the wiring because a connector could not handle the current and melted.Turns out it was a recall that I did not learn about till I had already spent a lot of money on it.So first year models are a gamble.In Hondas defense at least they say (oops) and fix the problem not like some makers who deny any design flaws.
How many rpm does the engine turn in 5th at 60 mph on a 2002 CR-V? I haven't been able to drive a 2002 model with a stick, but the automatic I drove was turning about 2200 - 2250. Based on data in a Car and Driver road test article, with the stick in 5th, it would be doing 60 mph at 2807 rpm. Is that right or am I working with a typo?
How many new models has honda introduced since 82? Sure, first year models will always have a higher probability of something minor needing a warranty fix, but I think honda has put themselves into the category where I would not expect a major problem. Any problem would be fixed under warranty, as you said, unlike some makers.
Tom: it's true, Honda does seem to make an earnest attempt to fix problems, and even buys back most lemons, I've heard.
But there are some growing pains. The Ody's sliding doors are still problematic, as are the trannies. The Civic only got an "average" reliability rating from CR, after decades of setting the standard.
The CR-V was among their best, so even if the new Civic platform isn't quite as reliable as the old one, and that affects the CR-V, IMO it'll still be near the top of the class.
Thanks for your inputs, and now I am sure CR-V is a smart choice to own for a mini SUV. What about the Honda's new Element? They share the same engine as the CR-V and it cost less. Any curent CR-V owner might change of heart if they knew about the Element is coming this Dec. Any inputs would be much appreciated ;o)
Honda has played a not very friendly game with the Element. If you try to equip it so that if behaves more like a foreshortened CR-V than a bargin bin special it costs 95% as much as the CR-V and you still are getting somthing that is much less than a CR-V...
I suppose for folks who ABSOLUTELY will not need four doors/ five seats the Element is a better deal, but otherwise it just has VERY little content.
I think the Element may help to get folks into showrooms, especically the "21 and under" crowd, but I don't feel that too many of even the 'young & hip' will choose the Element if they can afford the CR-V, IF they can live with four REAL doors
I don't see many 21 & unders driving Xterras or frankly new vehicles at all. I think the "entry level" job market has gotten hit VERY hard and the 21 & unders just are tapped out... Could make the Element a tough sell.
Hi all, Just bought a CRV-EX and wondering if I should get the extended warranty, rust proofing, and paint protection for the vehicle? Any suggestions???
Ext. warranties are a bet that something major will go wrong during the coverage period (i.e., the 4th through 7th year or so). You can buy it anytime before the factory warranty expires, so no rush.
Nobody much in the States gets rust protection anymore, but many of your fellow Canadians still swear by it.
Paint protection is car wax - cheaper to do it yourself.
my .02 Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Driver36 - As always, it depends on what you are going to use it for.
The Element has a better cargo area, bed feature, and "more" style. In general, I'd say that the Element is a better utility vehicle for those who enjoy outdoor sports. It's also way more funky.
The CR-V gets better gas mileage, has a 5th seat, and better off-road ability. It's a better all-purpose vehicle. It works for most of the toys, but also accomodates the family.
Svenlusk - Ditto what Steve wrote. I wouldn't bother with any of it.
The catch with the Element is that Honda decided to market a stripped DX model instead of the better equipped LX. So add the pricey A/C option, and the price advantage evaporates.
So choose based on merit, not price. Are 4 seats enough all the time for you? Do you mind a little more noise in order to get that hose-out interior? Do you like standing out from the crowd, and is that worth the trade-offs?
Just bought a CRV-EX and wondering if I should get the extended warranty, rust proofing, and paint protection for the vehicle?
Remember that all dealer install options are under warranty for only 12month/12,000miles so the paint protection/rust proofing is useless considering that you are cover under the honda factory warranty. Greetings from sunny Miami
Sweeten the pot on DIO installed prior/at delivery by giving them the blanket of 3/36??
I think that if you do get the extended and have the DIO prior to delivery you then get extended on MOST DIOs too -- might some expert confirm?
As to the value of Ext Warranty, it is gamble, with the 'house' having odds stacked WAY in their favor, though if you are own the one-in-whatever who has a major system failure...
Rust proofing is just not worth it, if they charge enough to make money AND do a good job nobody could afford it. They just don't add enough EXTRA protection at a dealer to justify the cost.
No doubt, paint protection is TOTAL WASTE! Rip off. Pure profit. DO NOT EVEN CONSIDER!!
I've not had problems under the hood.I do make an effort to keep the firewall CLEAN as well as other metal areas. I belive that dirt traps the moisture and give the salt more chance to do harm. I don't often go for the power washer, generally just a rag to get the grit and dirt off every few weeks.
The door panels and wheel arches on my 94 Jimmy are rusty, mostly from being parked on street in the winter so the city trucks literally coated the poor thing with salt...
I bought a 2002 CRV EX - SILVER. I had a great experience going through a local Southern California Dealer's Internet Website. I got the CRV at $500.00 below invoice. Foglights and Crossbars (Roof Rack) will be installed next week.
I traded in my #*@&$ 2000 Ford Taurus. I will not be sorry that I did it. I doubt that I will ever go back to Ford vehicles again.
Gosh, I guess that I need to change my Login Name!! ---- NO MORE "2000TAURUSSEL" ---- I think that I will change my Login name to "SURF_CITY_CRV"
If you decide to change your user name, you need to reregister with the Town Hall. After you have done that, contact one of the Hosts so we can delete your old username (our Terms of Use only allow one username!)
Thanks, Chas. Maybe the extra rpm on manuals accounts for some of the noise discussed recently?
Speaking of noise, Honda may have done something about it for the 2003 CR-Vs. The just-released 2003 brochure talks about sound damping materials on the floor, hood, door pillars and roof. Also, double door seals for wind noise. I don't know if these are new or if they are taking credit for what was already there.
Mainemanx, I was referring to the Honda company brochure for the 2003 CR-V. They started showing up in the dealerships around here (southeast Virginia) this past week.
Should it not be 500.00 above invoice? Its amazinging their selling below invoice even on a '02 leftover. Either way thats a pretty good price. Good luck from another previous Taurus owner.
Anyone want to help me find a way to install climate control in the US 2002 CRV's? In Europe they come equipped with temperature controls, you turn the dial to the right temperature and Voila!
The controls are very easy to remove, I have done such to install the fog lights myself. This unit could be replaced by a European one with the temperature gauge, then a sensor will probably be needed and can be tapped into a wire. Once we knew what to do it would be an easy install!
The auto temp control is not simply a dash control swap... there are multiple sensors on the interior and for outside temp, different HVAC box with computer controlled actuators, etc. It's a pretty complicated affair. Also, As somebody who always wished for auto climate control and then GOT IT.... I can tell you, it's not all it's cracked up to be. I mean, there are definately drawbacks. For instance, setting it to 74 degrees on one day seems too hot, other days fine, other days too cold. Then there is the issue where the fan goes to full blast to try and cool/heat the cabin and you find yourself coming out of auto to manual just to lower the fan... or raise it in some instances. Then there's moving it out of auto because at certain temps the "system" says air should be coming out of the dash vents only and you want it on the floor. Or your hands are cold and the 'system' decides to send it half to the floor and windshield.
You get the drift? I've had it in a number of cars now and if I could go back to manual, I would. The only cars I've seen it actually work in are some Lexus, infiniti, Caddy and Audi models... the expensive cars with great sophisticated systems that monitor humidity, sunlight and indoor/outdoor temps as well as having interior sensors in a few places in the cabin.
I stand corrected! Thanks! I feel like a fool by stating that I got $500.00 off Invoice. I found that the Honda Dealers that I visited were tacking on $1,900.00 - $2,000.00 to the sticker price. So when I was able to get mine for $500.00 under sticker, I was excited. I guess I was excited about getting rid of the Ford Taurus and I was under the Honda spell, that I misstated facts.
I have a question.... I was thinking of getting sheepskin seatcovers, but realized that I may not be able to because of the "side air bags" that are located on the side of the seats. Does anyone know if there are seat covers that leave the "side air bags" exposed? I haven't had the time to look on the internet yet.
I heard that the new Accord's oil change interval is every 10K miles. Is it amazing or what? The same service for the CR-V is 6 month / 6k miles, am I right? they have the same engine.
Comments
http://www.skytopia.com/project/science/sound.html#12
Interesting link. It surely is subjectice to the human ear.
To the contrary... That is exactly when you want a nice bit of engine song.
tidester
Host
SUVs; Aftermarket & Accessories
-juice
-If you leave the door open the 2002 CRV interior dome light will eventually shut off automatically (I never checked the headlights for this feature).
-When you unlock the doors with the remote the interior dome light does come on and remains on for some time.
My father looked at the Highlander and couldn't justify the extra $$$ for such a few unique features so he ended up with the 2002 CRV.
Unless someone else knows better. One thing on the CRV that is a bit of a curiosity. Why do you suppose that they didn't put a power door lock switch on the front passenger door? Just seems a bit odd, don't you think?
Finally, I know that I will need to upgrade the sound system. At least the speakers anyway because, simply stated, the factory speakers sound a bit a.m.-ish. Does anyone have some good advice for what kind of speakers, or how to make the systeme sound better without investing major $$$? THANKS!
I drove the vehicle for approx. 25 minutes... city streets and the freeway. I paid close attention to the noises and compared to my 2000 Ford Taurus... THERE WAS NO NOISE! I expect to have some road/wind noise, and I can live with some noise. Again, you want to hear noise? Drive a Ford Taurus. I also paid attention to the "pick up" the vehicle had during acceleration... IT WAS MORE THAN ACCEPTABLE!
The only thing that I was unable to confirm was reliabilty. I am taking everyones word that I will not be sorry for going to a Honda. I am able to testify that Honda's reliability has to be better than Ford's. For me... time will tell.
Anyway, I enjoyed the overall experience of the CRV. I too looked at all the other SUV's, and I can not justify spending anymore money or time. All I need to do now is find the "best buy" on a CRV.
Thanks for all the information... I found this website to be very helpful. I am glad to be part of the Honda Family.
through Yahoo Autos.When you find the particular vehicle you are researching scroll to the bottom and there is a link to autosite after you click
on performance.I think decibel readings will be different from each testing party.Edmunds lists
the CRV at 76db at 70mph vs Autosites reading of
70 db.
That is quite a bit of difference between 76 and 70 db! More or less doubling the sound the ear hears! Thanks for the source, it is cool...
In the past, the CR-V has been the top dog on the reliability charts (per Consumer Reports). We'll have to wait to see how well the newly designed CR-V will do. That magazine should be out in six months or so.
If I had to speculate, I'd guess that CR-V reliability is still above average, but not as high as the outgoing model. The 2002 redesign has/had some first year bugs to work out. That is to be expected with any new car.
when I bought a new 82 Accord it developed a short
in the wiring because a connector could not handle
the current and melted.Turns out it was a recall
that I did not learn about till I had already spent a lot of money on it.So first year models
are a gamble.In Hondas defense at least they say
(oops) and fix the problem not like some makers
who deny any design flaws.
But there are some growing pains. The Ody's sliding doors are still problematic, as are the trannies. The Civic only got an "average" reliability rating from CR, after decades of setting the standard.
The CR-V was among their best, so even if the new Civic platform isn't quite as reliable as the old one, and that affects the CR-V, IMO it'll still be near the top of the class.
-juice
Thanks for your inputs, and now I am sure CR-V is a smart choice to own for a mini SUV. What about the Honda's new Element? They share the same engine as the CR-V and it cost less. Any curent CR-V owner might change of heart if they knew about the Element is coming this Dec. Any inputs would be much appreciated ;o)
I would have considered the Element over the CRV, too late for the time being for me. Good lick deciding, I am sure you will love either!
I suppose for folks who ABSOLUTELY will not need four doors/ five seats the Element is a better deal, but otherwise it just has VERY little content.
I think the Element may help to get folks into showrooms, especically the "21 and under" crowd, but I don't feel that too many of even the 'young & hip' will choose the Element if they can afford the CR-V, IF they can live with four REAL doors
I don't see many 21 & unders driving Xterras or frankly new vehicles at all. I think the "entry level" job market has gotten hit VERY hard and the 21 & unders just are tapped out... Could make the Element a tough sell.
Just bought a CRV-EX and wondering if I should get the extended warranty, rust proofing, and paint protection for the vehicle?
Any suggestions???
Ext. warranties are a bet that something major will go wrong during the coverage period (i.e., the 4th through 7th year or so). You can buy it anytime before the factory warranty expires, so no rush.
Nobody much in the States gets rust protection anymore, but many of your fellow Canadians still swear by it.
Paint protection is car wax - cheaper to do it yourself.
my .02
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
The Element has a better cargo area, bed feature, and "more" style. In general, I'd say that the Element is a better utility vehicle for those who enjoy outdoor sports. It's also way more funky.
The CR-V gets better gas mileage, has a 5th seat, and better off-road ability. It's a better all-purpose vehicle. It works for most of the toys, but also accomodates the family.
Svenlusk - Ditto what Steve wrote. I wouldn't bother with any of it.
So choose based on merit, not price. Are 4 seats enough all the time for you? Do you mind a little more noise in order to get that hose-out interior? Do you like standing out from the crowd, and is that worth the trade-offs?
-juice
Remember that all dealer install options are under warranty for only 12month/12,000miles so the paint protection/rust proofing is useless
considering that you are cover under the honda factory warranty.
Greetings from sunny Miami
I think that if you do get the extended and have the DIO prior to delivery you then get extended on MOST DIOs too -- might some expert confirm?
As to the value of Ext Warranty, it is gamble, with the 'house' having odds stacked WAY in their favor, though if you are own the one-in-whatever who has a major system failure...
Rust proofing is just not worth it, if they charge enough to make money AND do a good job nobody could afford it. They just don't add enough EXTRA protection at a dealer to justify the cost.
No doubt, paint protection is TOTAL WASTE! Rip off. Pure profit. DO NOT EVEN CONSIDER!!
Besides, if they're not careful, they'll clog the drains under the side skirts. Pretty soon you'll hear water sloshing around your door sills.
-juice
What's a good "keep it looking new" protection? WD40, silicone spray, Mazola?
Honestly? I wouldn't put anything on.
-juice
The door panels and wheel arches on my 94 Jimmy are rusty, mostly from being parked on street in the winter so the city trucks literally coated the poor thing with salt...
I traded in my #*@&$ 2000 Ford Taurus. I will not be sorry that I did it. I doubt that I will ever go back to Ford vehicles again.
Gosh, I guess that I need to change my Login Name!! ---- NO MORE "2000TAURUSSEL" ---- I think that I will change my Login name to "SURF_CITY_CRV"
If you decide to change your user name, you need to reregister with the Town Hall. After you have done that, contact one of the Hosts so we can delete your old username (our Terms of Use only allow one username!)
tidester
Host
SUVs; Aftermarket & Accessories
Speaking of noise, Honda may have done something about it for the 2003 CR-Vs. The just-released 2003 brochure talks about sound damping materials on the floor, hood, door pillars and roof. Also, double door seals for wind noise. I don't know if these are new or if they are taking credit for what was already there.
Brochure? What brochure? Dealer? Or?
-juice
The controls are very easy to remove, I have done such to install the fog lights myself. This unit could be replaced by a European one with the temperature gauge, then a sensor will probably be needed and can be tapped into a wire. Once we knew what to do it would be an easy install!
Anyone wanna investigate this with me???
You get the drift? I've had it in a number of cars now and if I could go back to manual, I would. The only cars I've seen it actually work in are some Lexus, infiniti, Caddy and Audi models... the expensive cars with great sophisticated systems that monitor humidity, sunlight and indoor/outdoor temps as well as having interior sensors in a few places in the cabin.
-juice
I have a question.... I was thinking of getting sheepskin seatcovers, but realized that I may not be able to because of the "side air bags" that are located on the side of the seats. Does anyone know if there are seat covers that leave the "side air bags" exposed? I haven't had the time to look on the internet yet.