Used 2002 Honda CR-V Consumer Reviews
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Very Sad I just totalled my CR-V, I loved this car!
I loved this car it has been so reliable for the past 10 years. I had 197,000 miles on it and could have easily put on another 197,000 miles. Not one problem with it mechanically the engine had all original parts. Never had any of the recall issues either. My CR-V has gotten me home safely in some of the most extreme conditions driving from LA to Mammoth Lakes at least twice a month for the past 6 years. Until the night a deer took it out. I would recommend this car to anyone. Would love to buy a newer CR-V, but was laid off from work due to economy will have to try a KIA. Thats why I'm on here. Thanks to all who write reviews almost bought an SUV from US makers reviews scared me.
14 years later
Bought this new in 2002. So after 14 years, it is without a doubt the most reliable vehicle I ever owned. Normal things have worn. I'm afraid I will jinx myself if I list all the original equipment that hasn't needed replacement. We bought this for a something to haul around our Golden Retrievers, transport us in bad weather and pile a lot of stuff in. It has been GREAT! She
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- EX 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,950312 mi away
- EX 4dr SUVMSRP: $8,950313 mi away
- EX 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,299316 mi away
02 CRV still going strong
I got it brand new in 2002. First new car I ever bought. I've had it now for 14 years. Here are the repairs I have done: 1) A/C system was completely replaced under warranty after 2 years. 2) Throttle body was replaced under warranty in year 4. 3) Passenger side door actuator (lock mechanism) failed. Replaced all 4. 4) Struts replaced at 70,000 miles 5) A/C compressor replaced in 2015 Other than that it has just been batteries, tires and brake pads. The A/C systems in these vehicles can be problematic. The door actuators were a cheap design and tend to fail but are relatively cheap to replace. The engine, transmission, electrical system, AWD system, and audio are absolutely bullet proof in my experience. The paint finish still looks like new. The seats could be more comfortable but the material has held up well. When it is just me in the CRV the engine has a fair amount of pep. When you load it up with people and stuff - not so much. But it does get a consistent 25 MPG in mixed driving so I'm not complaining. Very easy to park and great visibility all around. The stereo system is reliable but the sound is pretty crummy by modern standards. It is extremely versitile. It serves just as well as a daily commuter as it does a grocery hauler. Currently I've got about 125,000 miles on it and it runs like a swiss watch. The only real complaint has been the A/C system. Other than that, it's been a very reliable and economical vehicle. I should be able to get 250,000 miles out of it if I continue to take care of it. Highly recommended.
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Great car
I've had this 2002 Honda CRV only since '08 but it is now at 181,000 KM and it is still a smooth ride. In interior comfort is very good and being a tall person I fit in it just fine. The cargo space is great and with the rear seats folded over I can transport a surprising amount of stuff (moves done with this). The engine is strong and it accelerates nicely even with 4 people in the CRV. The downside is the gas mileage, not as good as an Accord of similar vintage and engine size but the AWD does have a rear-differential so you must expect that feature will affect mileage in any truck.
It's Been a Great Ride!
Bought this car new and have 138K on it now. Has been a great car, very few problems. Driver's door window motor broke, and both rear brake calipers froze up around 75K, but other than that no problems. Great in the snow, comfortable, definitely not a luxury vehicle but love all the room and versatility. It handles like a little go cart...not tippy like some SUV's.
Bad quality Honda
Four (4) recalls and fourteen (14) trips to the dealer with problems in a two (2) year period. No more Honda's for me. This company is not user friendly when dealing with customer complaints.
Can’t kill it even when I tried
Bought the car in 07 with 83,000 Miles, hoping it would get me to 200,000. Well...I just took my family of five across the country on a 2,200 mile move and we are currently sitting pretty at 240,000 miles. At one point during a difficult time in life I let maintenance of the vehicle slack. By that I mean it ran bone dry on oil. I was concerned and perplexed that it wouldn’t go over 2800 rpm without engine power cutting out. I thought it was the end of the road for old faithful. I then checked the oil after the engine oil light came on and to my shock...bone dry. 4 qts later and it runs like a charm. So lesson learned, the car has proven to be better to me than I am to it. Yeah, there’s road noise but it’s not a Lexus. I think the hidden table makes up for the road noise. It’s got a freaking table in the back!!! If you happen to find an 02 crv snag it up.
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FANTASTIC VEHICLE!!
Let me start by saying is any vehicle perfect? No. But this CR-V comes close. It is very roomy, fun to drive, gets decent mileage (22 mpg all the time) for an SUV and is as reliable as can be. It is great in the snow and gives a firm but comfortable ride. We replaced an Accord wagon that was loved but this CR-V has surpassed our expectations. If you want reliable transportation wrapped in good looks and comfort, the CR-V is the way to go.
From an Accord to a CRV
Got a 2002 5 speed EX, traded in a 97 Accord. I wanted something bigger, higher, sportier & more flexible than my Accord. The CRV has the power and size to be a step up from my boring old Accord; the 2001 CRV was lacking. I am happy with everything. The 5 speed is fun (also eliminates any complaints about the dash shifter), plenty of perk & all the gadgets exceed my expecations. I paid sticker & waited 3 weeks. A lot of truck/car for $22,000!
Honda crv- never will but again
From the first day I bought this car I have had one problem after the other. I bought this car brand new and it had been a major disappointment. But the biggest shock was that Honda could care less. Their customer service is horrible. I made numerous calls and even wrote letters to the Honda Corporation- they could care less. I am in the process of getting rid of it and I will never buy a Honda again!!!!
My last Honda
This review is not to bash the Honda, but let people be aware of potential problems with this vehicle. At about 70k km. the power steering pump had to be replaced, no a big deal since it was under warranty. At around 80k km. both rear wheel bearings had to be replaced under warranty. Once the vehicle was off warranty the following items had to be replaced all wheel bearings, the whole struts assembly (over $1200), ABS sensor, catalytic converter (over $1000), recently my u-joints went but they cannot be replace the whole drive-shaft has to be replaced (over $1000). Currently some bushings should be replaced but I am putting this off, and seat belt sensor is not working ($300).
1800 miles and already broken
Today my one month old CRV stalled twice within a 5 min. period. I drove straight to the dealership only to be told they probably wouldn't be able to find the answer. Turns out there is a "bulletin" about this very problem which requires the computer to be reprogrammed. Uncomfortable seats,frequent fill-ups due to small tank and higher than promised mileage, and loud road noise all add up to sub- par transportation. I miss my Blazer!
Don't Buy This Honda!
I bought a '02 CR-V with 20,000 miles on it. My AC broke at 65,000 miles. I paid $150 to have it fixed. Broke again 2 months later. Honda quoted me $1000+ to fix it. I'm STILL making payments and cannot afford to replace it. Not fun in 100 CA weather. I've always sworn by Hondas. Even my Honda mechanic said "I don't know why you have so much trouble with this car you take such good care of it." It has electrical problems, the stereo had already been replaced when I bought it. Cruise control works when it feels like it. The rear door latch mysteriously stopped working. The cup holder is broken. Interior door panel by the window fell off. I baby this car! COME ON HONDA. REALLY???
Honda Doesn't Care -- SRS
SRS light on, Honda dealer ran codes, says need new SRS module or something, replacement of entire SRS at cost of nearly $1,000. Vehicle problem began at 105K, just outside warranty. I am second owner, purchased from sued dealer at 88k. Tried customer service, which at first sounded willing and able to to the right thing and fix it as a safety issue. Case worker at Honda says NO. It is a supplemental safety system- secondary and also I am not covered for any warranty consideration. Other 2002 CR-Vs had a recall on SRS. Not mine. Honda recently issued Warranty Extension on OPDS system to 120K/10 yrs., but this is NOT related to the entire SRS failure-sensor issue. Honda Corp-shame on you!
disappointing
I bought this car from private party who had leased it new and decided to sell it instead of turning it in at the end of the lease. Not long after I had it the Throttle sensor went out. You have to replace the whole throttle body. $750 at the dealership (parts only) I got one at a salvage yard for $300 plus $200 to replace. Next the AC compressor blew. $700 to fix. Next the TPS went out again. A new one this time. $900 to fix. Now the O2 sensor is bad at least another 3-$400. The tape player just went out. Two days ago my wife had it overheat while driving. It was out of coolant. I have no idea why. I refilled it and am holding my breath hoping it holds out long enough for me to sell it.
I am sorry I bought it
My last 3 cars have been Nissan's, but I wanted to try an SUV, and always liked the features in the CRV, Plus I figured you could not go wrong with a Honda as far as reliability was concerned. Wrong. The car has less than 4ooo miles and I've had to the dealer 4 times for a check engine light problem, the last time smoke was pouring in the car. The interior molding is Cheap! If you even brush by it with a backpack or shoe it's scratched. Carpeting is cheap and piling. And my gas milege is under 20 mpg. I wish I had bought the no- frills Ford explorer for a little bit more, but I am stuck with it. I will never buy another Honda!
Not sure i should have bought it
Well I traded in a Toyota 4runner 1994 for this since I bought it I had to have the a o2sensor and a catalytic converter and a 3rd gear throttle sensor and has a small oil leak road noise why why I have not even had it a year the interior scratches easy I had my Toyota with 108,000 and did not do anything for 3 years on it never a Honda again
02 CR-V - BAD CHOICE!
Pros: Door height - I don't bump my head getting in/out. Good little engine - strong, reliable Comfortable for around town driving Cons: 1. Air conditioning has gone out twice in last year. Bad compressor and dealer didn't offer me any deal, only a $3500 estimate. 1st time seals blew out, 2nd time bearings failed. 2. Black paint has white undercoat so every little scratch shows and it scratches VERY easily, despite frequent waxing. 3. Back seat legroom limited; OK for kids, tight for adults. 4. Has irritating rattle since new, especially when turning right. Dealer couldn't find cause under warranty. 5. If quality is so good, why does Honda have the worst warranty in the business?
Not what we expected from a Honda
We bought this car new and it was good for about 50k miles. First problem was that the front door locks simply stopped working. Then the cheap plastic parts in the interior started breaking. Then a problem with the VTEC system. A mechanic said that dirt had prevented the extra set of valves from engaging when the engine needed more power. We were not doing any heavy duty off-road driving, so that was strange. Now, like other readers, our throttle sensor has gone out and it is going to set us back $900 to replace the whole unit. I'm sorry, but this is not why we bought a "reliable" Honda. Seems like the company is coasting on its reputation and I'm not enthusiastic about buying one again.
Vehicle pulls to the right
I noticed on the way home from picking it up that it pulled to the right. The dealer has had it twice-aligned it twice-once with the additional spec from corporat. I cannot drive it yet without it wandering to the next lane, on any road, at any speed. I am only getting 18 mpg. The dealer said it would take 10,000 miles to break in the engine, and would not address the low mpg. There is only 700 miles on the vehicle. I have now noticed quite a few other people having this problem, with no real solution from Honda Corporate. This is my third Honda, and I cannot honestly recommend the CRV-EX to anyone, even though I am sure there are many satisfied customers out there.
mixedemotions
very capable machine. I've owned hondas for 15 years and it is every bit the quality and reliability that you expect from honda. been in shop twice, both for minor recalls. No malfunctions AT ALL. The killer is the seats. So uncomfortable that I can barely walk after my long trips (see annual milage). Wish I could stand to drive because everything else is perfect.
Best car ever
This has been the best car ever. I bought mine new many years ago, and have always loved this car. It has needed extraordinarily little maintenance over all these years, and still runs beautifully - I am even on the original clutch. Great Car!!!!!
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The worst vehicle I have ever owned
The road and wind noise is very, very bad.
Satisfy with CRV
I brought this car with 62,000 mi. Of course, the dealer offered an extended warranty which I refused. It's a Honda right? So,forget it. About six months later engine light was on, and the mechanic said it was the throttle body. Really? Never replaced one of these. I took the car to the dealer to confirm but, Honda corp ageed to replace the part. Honda paid for the part ($800), and I paid for labor. The AC compressor went out at 90,000 mi. My mechanic told me there is a problem with the compressor on these cars (depending on where the part came from) Again, Honda split the cost. Overall, I love my car. I have over 102,000, and have only replaced the brake pads. Love Honda.
Love my Honda CRV
I owned this vehicle for about 5 years. It is easy to get in and out of and is very comfortable. The heat works fast and so does the AC. The only vehicle i had that the rear tailgate opened sideways like a car door and the glass in the rear door could be open, making it easy to haul large items. It has 195,000 miles on it and I am going to need to get a new one. Hope a newer model is just as great.
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2002 Honda Reliable??
This is the third Honda I've owned and I must say the worst one, I've purchased 2 used Honda's in the past and they've been fine and I still have a 2003 Honda Odyssey van 138,000 miles on it, doing fine. But this 2002 CR-V is the pits, not because of its driveability but because the compressor in the air conditioning system blew up after the second week of ownership, it's presently being repaired at a cost of $1974.00. Honda America is paying $500.00 I guess as a matter of goodwill because they know this has been a defect with these models. I won't buy a used Honda again, one sting is enough for me.
6-year follow-up
Purchased vehicle new in January 2002. Currently have 60k miles and have been pleased with the overall performance and reliability. No mechanical issues except the a/c compressor mentioned in other posts. However, our mechanic (Honda of Fredericksburg, VA) did a little research and found this problem to be occurring with more frequency; called corporate Honda and replaced the a/c free of charge. This when the car already had 50k on the odometer (and no extended warranty). It's worth the time to question Honda on this one. The one complaint would be that, although Honda makes a great, reliable vehicle, they seem to go light on interior design quality.
A/C Did Me In
The a/c, as others have reported, is the worst part of owning this vehicle. First time it broke was long out of warranty and Honda didn't give a flip this was a common complaint. Second time, still under 1yr warranty from previous work. It took the mechanic three compressors before finding one that worked without failing instantly. Third time, I just gave up and am now looking for a new car. It was my second Honda. My first was a Civic which held up well in a very bad front end collision (I walked away uninjured from a car with no front end left) which led me to stay with Honda. The a/c experience and nearly constant check engine light are why I will leave.
80,000 Miles No Issues
Our CRV, which we bought new, is completing its 5th year on the road. So far nothing has gone wrong yet. I think that's pretty amazing. The vehicle also still looks very good. There is some small pitting on the hood and the black side rails are faded. I got 45,000 miles on the original Firestones and will change the next set at around 90,000. The recommended maintenance intervals are too far apart. Do the spark plugs at 75,000 and change the trans and coolant fluids at around 60,000 miles. Also if you notice a rumbling during slow tight turns, have the rear differential pump fluid changed. Change the pollen filters. When they clog, the AC works harder. That may be why compressors go bust.
AWD Control, Totally Reliable, Secret Picnic Table
My Honda CRV standard shift is 16 years old with 90,000 + miles, and hasn't let me down once. It is consistently reliable with excellent handling and good gas mileage. The standard shift and all while drive give me superior control in all kinds of traffic, terrain, and weather conditions. I removed the center rear headrest to make visibility perfect. My only complaints are minor: a somewhat inconvenient center console, a smallish glove box. The trunk space is ample and the back seat easily folds down to create a huge cargo space that conceals a "secret" picnic table for tailgating. This car will easily last another 90,000 miles.
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never again
2002 Honda CRV-this is the worst vehicle mechanically we have ever owned. We are getting rid of itBrakes came unglued at 37000 miles, air conditioning compressor has failed twice, air bag sensor went, alternator went, brakes again. major repairs all and to significant safety systems. Honda has refused to buy back vehicle- and while they have helped with parts after much fighting with them basic message is you are on your own if you don't have an extended warranty. In addition gas mileage is less than advertised and handling in the snow is just marginal. Good riddance
Worked for me for 8 years
Had this car for 8 years and recently decided to upgrade to a Pilot. Over the course of that time, I only had some minor issues with recalls. Other than that, I changed the oil regularly and kept the tires inflated. Cabin noise was awful, though, especially when it rained. The car was under- powered, which was a shame. Gas mileage was good, which was appreciated when gas prices went through the roof.
Best Car I have Every Owns
I'm getting a little teary eyed at the thought that I might soon part with my car. At 100K, it runs like a clock. You will never stop being amazed at all the space inside this vehicle; no one will feel cramped in the rear seat. The interior is spartan, but does not feel cheap at all. I have a 5 speed, so the 4 cyl engine never bothered me, and I get an MPG in the low to mid 20s despite the AWD. This may be one of the best used car values you'll ever find.
MiniTank
This CR-V is an all wheel drive model, with manual 5speed The winning attributes are: All wheel Drive (I live in MN) Mileage is 20 city 25 hwy. build quality is great. ride and handling are great. load capacity in interior square footage is great. although she sags pretty easily with a weighty load. Engine runs super. breaking is great. the negatives are: drivers legroom is cramped. rear hatch door opens to the side (poopy in the rain). if you are someone who appreciates practicality and reliability vs fluff, you will like this car. (lookout for the legroom issue)
A/C
My a/c compressor just went out on me a few days ago and the car has under 58,000 miles. I was informed by the dealership where I purchased my vehicle from that the repairs will not be covered by Honda since I did not purchased the extended warranty. I was very upset and dissappointed. This is my 5th Honda vehicles and everyone in my family has a Honda vehicle. I called the corporate office and they said that I'm out of luck since I did not listen to the dealership when they were trying to offer and sell me the extended warranty. I told them I will never ever by Honda car again and they replied back and said "It's your decision and unfortunately this problem is not caused by Honda!"
Should have got an Odyssey
The CR-V is horribly underpowered. It creeps up to highway speeds and in traffic that means I'm not so much in the flow but in the way. Weird steering wheel angle. Even though the wheel can be moved up or down, it is still an uncomfortable driving position. The cup holders need something to hold the beverages in place. Going around a corner, even at low speeds, beverages fall out. So far the best cup holders I have seen were in a Dodge truck. The holders had an adjustable arm that could slide open and close to fit any size beverage, and very sturdy holding power at any turning speed.
Outstanding CRV
This vehicle is flawless so far. Rides very good, has better performance than my 2001 model. This is the third new Honda purchased from Hugh White Honda of Columbus in three years.
Like but a problem
I like my vehicle when I bought it and at the current time. I bought my vehicle brand new. Once it reached 60K miles, I begin having mechanical problems. I had to replace the O2 sensor at $500 and after that was fixed, I had to replace the throttle body which cost approximately $1,000. The sensor within the body needed to be replaced but you had to purchase the complete throttle body for the simple part.
Best car I've ever owned!
The 2002 Honda CR-V was my favorite car! I originally bought it because it was easy to get in and out of for me and my infant with his car seat. It is an SUV with a small car feel. The cargo space is adequate. I was able to pack a bicycle, stroller, and a treadmill in the back. The 5th door opens "barn door style" and that was handy with groceries. To me, the look of it is one of the best years of the CR- V.
I'm Happy
Couldn't be happier with our 2002 CRV 5 speed EX. Highly recommend the 5 speed as it is fun, smooth and adds a lot of spunk. The engine power is perfect. The size of the vehicle suits our needs - not too small, not too big. The CRV is much roomier, sportier, and quick and than the Accord I traded. Very quiet, too. No complaints here other than having had to pay list price.
CR-V
Great vehicle overall but uncomfortable on long rides. Poor fuel economy, nowhere near the 25-30 mpg that is adverstised. Harsh riding because of smallish wheelbase.
Great little car!
Only thing I don;t like is Honda dealer's using receptionists. I want to talk to my mechanic & not just see his photo on my bill. Soon as my warrantee runs out, I'm going to a garage that let's you see & talk with the "technician". Also, a 20,000 mile checkup with oil change costs $90 at Honda & I got the same thing across the street at a "Tires Plus"for $18.95!
Good car but . . .
There is lots of room for improvement. I have the EX model with 15,000 miles on it and I get very poor gas mileage no matter how I drive, (17 mpg). At 6'1" tall, I barely fit in this car. I have one in black and the paint appears to be very thin and shows swirl marks and scratches easily. I added the aftermarket leather and aftermarket 16" wheels with Bridgestone Dueler tires to make the ride a little bit smoother but it is still rather punishing on the freeways. Overall I think the car is very good but I think the engineers at Honda could have put a little bit more thought into it to make it a really great little SUV.
Love mine
I love my 2002 CR-V. Anyone who wishes a quiet and more comfortable ride try the Goodyear Assurance Comfort Tread Tires. These tires are quiet. And they are not called comfort tread for nothing. My wife and I both notice a difference in the ride and handling.
lacking seat comfort for tall drivers
I bought the 2002 CRV EX for its generous and plain interior space. Performance & fuel economy: Good enough. Build Quality: Good enough. Reliability: Don't know yet. Comfort: I'm a 6 footer and I do seem to have a problem with the driver seat position/contour. After only a few minutes I feel the unpleasant sensation of my legs circulation being cut off. Is it the seat's angle/front edge, or lack of lumbar support? I wonder if there are other tall drivers with a similar experience.
good car
Good value. Roomy at rear, comfy at front. Good support for the torso on turns. Surprisingly quiet with open moon-roof even at 70 mph. 6-cd sounds good. Fuel light on after 270-290m, but only 11.6g fits, so 4g is there, enough for ~80m. Fuel economy is ok. On 4700m trip mean fuel consumption was 26.6mpg. Rear differential leaks after 9000m, fixed at 10000m service. Since than (12000+)-ok. Useless on deep sand - wheels are digging in instead of rolling over. 4w drive working good, very confident drive over puddles on hw - it pushing from back when front loosing grip. ABS working ok. Acceleration is good, esp.at 5000-5500 rpm. No feeling of underpower, quiet.
CRV
Awesome vehicle. Well designed and excellent engine. Not a single problem the first 1000 miles. Perfect SUV for my wife. Easy to drive and very safe.
HONDA CR-V FEEDBACK
I compared the CR-V to everything in its class and couldn't find anything worth a look. The 160 hp 4 cyl. motor has plenty of power and feels more like a V6 than a 4. Most of the major reviews on the CR-V listed "No available V6" under "CONS." Yes they are correct but I don't see need for a V6. Lets face it, your not intending to do a lot of hauling or pulling if your in the market for a MINI SUV? The All Wheel Drive is also a perfect fit for a vehicle of this type since regular 4 wheel drive is only used a small percentage of the time unless you live in a pretty nasty part of the country. So why pay all that $$$$$$ and not be able to use it?
Satisfied 8 Year Ownership
This is my 3rd and final review for this outstanding vehicle which I bought new and will be trading in soon with over 120000 miles. If you are reading this review, you are likely looking to buy a used CRV. I can honestly say that it still has a new car look and feel. The only repairs for malfunctions ever done were for A\C and brakes. All else was for preventative maintenance. I think buying a used CRV is a roll of the dice, but if you get one that has been properly maintained, you will not be sorry.
2002 Honda CR-V
I have never owned a more reliable and maintenance free car. I purchased this car new in 2002 and other than oil changes have never had any mechanical issues except for a heater sensor which I replaced last week. Of course there were a couple of "recalls" that I had done.
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