The Honda HR-V (2014-2018) is a compact crossover SUV that has gained popularity for its stylish design, reliability, and versatile interior. Offering a combination of practicality and comfort, it’s often seen as a more affordable alternative to larger SUVs. However, as with any vehicle, the HR-V is not without its issues. In this article, we will explore the common problems associated with the Honda HR-V 5-door model from 2014 to 2018, what to look for when buying one, the cost of ownership, and provide some better alternatives to consider.
Common Problems of the HONDA HR-V (2014-2018)
1. Transmission Issues (CVT Problems)
One of the most frequently mentioned issues with the 2014-2018 Honda HR-V is related to its continuously variable transmission (CVT). While CVTs are known for their smooth driving experience and fuel efficiency, some HR-V owners have reported specific problems related to the CVT system. These issues can range from mild drivability problems to more serious mechanical failures.
Symptoms of CVT Problems:
- Sluggish acceleration: The HR-V may experience delayed or sluggish acceleration, particularly during hard acceleration or when merging onto highways.
- Strange noises: Some owners have reported whining, grinding, or other unusual sounds coming from the transmission, particularly when the vehicle is under load or during acceleration.
- Transmission slipping: There have been reports of the transmission slipping, where the engine revs but the car doesn’t accelerate as expected, which is a clear sign of internal CVT failure.
- Shuddering or jerking: A shuddering or jerking feeling while accelerating can indicate that the CVT is struggling to maintain smooth operation.
What to Look For:
- Test drive the car: Pay close attention to how the car accelerates. If there’s any noticeable delay or hesitation, it might point to issues with the CVT.
- Listen for noises: Any grinding or whining sounds should be taken seriously and could signal a problem with the transmission.
- Check for a smooth driving experience: Ensure that the HR-V shifts smoothly with no jerking or shuddering, particularly under heavy acceleration or when changing speeds.
2. Air Conditioning Problems
Air conditioning issues are another common problem with the 2014-2018 HR-V, with some owners reporting that their air conditioning systems either failed entirely or didn’t blow cold air as expected. This could be caused by various issues, such as refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or faulty climate control sensors.
Symptoms of Air Conditioning Issues:
- Weak airflow: When the air conditioning is turned on, the airflow may be weaker than expected, especially at higher fan settings.
- No cold air: Even with the air conditioning set to its coldest setting, the air coming out of the vents may not be cool, indicating a problem with the cooling system.
- Strange smells: A musty or strange odor coming from the vents could indicate mold or mildew growth in the system, which is more likely if the air conditioning hasn’t been used for a while.
What to Look For:
- Test the air conditioning: Turn on the air conditioning during a test drive to see how well it cools the cabin. Pay attention to any strange smells or weak airflow, as these could point to problems with the system.
- Check the temperature: Ensure that the air conditioning blows cold air consistently, even on a hot day.
- Listen for unusual sounds: Any hissing or unusual noises could indicate a refrigerant leak or compressor problem.
3. Braking System Issues
A small but notable number of Honda HR-V owners have reported issues with the braking system, particularly with premature wear of the brake pads and rotors. These problems can be more frequent in high-mileage models or those driven in stop-and-go traffic.
Symptoms of Braking Issues:
- Squeaking or grinding noises: If the brake pads are worn down, they may emit a squeaking or grinding sound when the brakes are applied.
- Vibration or pulsation: A pulsating or vibrating sensation in the brake pedal can indicate warped brake rotors, which can affect braking performance.
- Reduced braking efficiency: If the car takes longer to stop or the brake pedal feels softer than usual, it could indicate that the braking system needs attention.
What to Look For:
- Test the brakes: During a test drive, apply the brakes gently and then more forcefully to see if they respond smoothly. Listen for any strange noises or vibrations.
- Check the brake pads: Have the brake pads inspected, especially if the car has higher mileage. Worn pads or rotors can be expensive to replace if not addressed early.
- Brake fluid: Ensure that the brake fluid is at the appropriate level and doesn’t look contaminated.
4. Infotainment System Glitches
Honda’s infotainment system, especially in earlier models like the HR-V (2014-2018), has been criticized for being unintuitive and prone to glitches. Some owners report that the screen freezes, the touch controls stop working, or the system doesn’t sync correctly with smartphones.
Symptoms of Infotainment Problems:
- Freezing or lagging: The infotainment screen may freeze or lag when trying to switch between apps or use touch controls.
- Bluetooth connection issues: Problems with syncing your phone to the system via Bluetooth can result in dropped calls, no audio, or poor quality connections.
- Unresponsive touchscreen: The touchscreen may fail to respond to inputs, or it may take several attempts to get it to register commands.
What to Look For:
- Test the infotainment system: During the test drive, try out the infotainment system, including connecting your smartphone via Bluetooth and using various features like navigation and media. Ensure that everything responds quickly and without freezing.
- Check for software updates: Ask the seller if the infotainment system has received the latest software updates, as outdated software can lead to glitches.
- Listen for any unusual sounds: If the system starts emitting beeping or other noises unexpectedly, this could indicate a malfunction.
5. Suspension and Steering Issues
While not as widespread as some other issues, a few owners have reported problems with the suspension and steering of the HR-V. These can include unusual noises or poor handling due to worn components or issues with alignment.
Symptoms of Suspension and Steering Problems:
- Pulling to one side: If the vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight, this could indicate alignment issues or uneven tire wear, often related to suspension components.
- Steering wheel vibration: Vibration or shakiness in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds, could point to problems with the steering or suspension systems.
- Noises when turning: Clunking, popping, or grinding noises when turning the wheel can suggest issues with the steering or suspension components, such as worn-out bushings or struts.
What to Look For:
- Test the handling: Drive the HR-V on straight roads as well as curves to check for any pulling or instability. Pay attention to the steering wheel for any odd vibrations or noises.
- Listen for unusual sounds: During tight turns or when going over bumps, listen for any clunking or squeaking noises that could indicate suspension issues.
- Inspect tires for wear: Uneven tire wear can be a sign of suspension or alignment problems.
6. Electrical Problems
Electrical issues in the HR-V, while not extremely common, have been reported by some owners. These can range from faulty sensors to issues with the power windows or central locking system.
Symptoms of Electrical Issues:
- Non-functioning power windows or locks: If the power windows or central locking system fail to operate properly, it could be a sign of an electrical problem.
- Sensor failures: Issues with parking sensors, reverse cameras, or other electrical sensors have been reported in some HR-V models.
- Dashboard warning lights: Flickering or illuminated warning lights on the dashboard, especially if they persist after restarting the vehicle, can point to an electrical fault.
What to Look For:
- Test all electrical systems: Check all windows, locks, and electrical systems during the test drive. Ensure that everything works as expected, from the lights to the infotainment system.
- Inspect for warning lights: Be sure to check for any warning lights on the dashboard, particularly check engine lights or alerts related to sensors.
What to Look for When Buying a HONDA HR-V (2014-2018)
When buying a used Honda HR-V, it's crucial to look for specific details that can help avoid potential problems down the road. Here's what to focus on:
- Service History: Make sure the vehicle has been well-maintained, with records of regular oil changes, brake checks, and transmission fluid replacements. Ask for documentation on any major repairs, such as CVT transmission work or air conditioning service.
- Vehicle History Report: Ensure that the car has not been in any significant accidents. A vehicle history report can give you an overview of any prior incidents or title issues.
- Mileage: HR-V models with higher mileage may have more wear on the transmission, suspension, and braking systems. Ensure that the car's mileage is consistent with its age and maintenance history.
- Test Drive: Pay attention to how the car drives. Listen for any unusual sounds, check the transmission performance, and ensure that the AC works properly.
How Expensive is It to Own a HONDA HR-V (2014-2018)?
The Honda HR-V is known for being affordable to own compared to many competitors in its class. Here's a breakdown of typical costs:
- Fuel Economy: The HR-V offers good fuel efficiency, with an average of around 28-31 mpg in combined driving, depending on the engine variant. This makes it economical to run, especially for daily commuting.
- Maintenance Costs: Routine maintenance for the HR-V is generally affordable, with oil changes, brake pads, and tire replacements falling within the mid-range for compact SUVs. However, problems with the CVT transmission or AC system can lead to more significant repair costs.
- Insurance: The HR-V is inexpensive to insure, typically falling into the lower to mid-tier insurance brackets depending on the model year and driver profile.
Better Alternatives to the HONDA HR-V (2014-2018)
If you’re considering other options, here are some reliable alternatives to the Honda HR-V:
- Mazda CX-3 (2015-2018): Offers sporty handling, a stylish design, and strong reliability. It’s a great alternative if you want something more fun to drive.
- Toyota C-HR (2017-2018): A compact crossover with bold styling and excellent reliability, offering better standard tech features than the HR-V.
- Hyundai Kona (2018): Known for its value for money, the Kona offers a solid mix of features, style, and performance at a competitive price point.
- Nissan Juke (2014-2018): For those seeking a more distinctive design, the Juke provides fun driving dynamics and a unique look in a compact SUV.
Conclusion
The Honda HR-V (2014-2018) offers a solid and reliable compact crossover, but like any used car, it does have its share of common issues. From CVT transmission problems to air conditioning failures, it’s important to be aware of these potential concerns when considering a purchase. By checking the vehicle’s history, testing its performance, and ensuring that all components function properly, you can avoid common pitfalls.
While the HR-V offers excellent reliability and fuel efficiency, if you’re looking for an alternative, consider models like the Mazda CX-3 or Toyota C-HR, which offer competitive features and performance with fewer reported issues.