Skip to main content

Used 2003 Honda CR-V Consumer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
487 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

A long term friend

ELAINE LICARI, 04/03/2016
updated 04/05/2018
2003 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
67 of 69 people found this review helpful

I hate to sell this car after 13 years of great service. The only reason I am buying a new car is b/c the 2003 has 180,000 miles and I didn't want to push the luck I had for so long. When I went to buy another Honda CRV (stick with a winner), there was another car on the lot just like mine (except it had automatic transmission and mine was manual). It had 400,000 miles on it. I now own a 2016 Honda CRV based on the great experience I had with the 2003, but I must admit, despite the additional bells & whistles on the newer car, I definitely miss my 2003. In addition, I see many of that model on the road after all these years. I wish I could buy another 2003 but brand new.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse

4.88 out of 5 stars

LOVE!!! I dread the day I have to replace it

tessa77, 01/04/2012
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
49 of 51 people found this review helpful

This is the best car I have ever purchased!!!! I bought my 2003 Cr-V brand new and 9 years later have put 160,000 miles on it. I have had no major repair issues that are not associated with normal wear and tear. I did have to replace the A/C compressor, but only once and after 100,000 miles of use. I put mainly highway miles on it in New England with snow, ice, road salt, and a heavy lead foot without a problem. It drives like a dream and I have no issues with noise. I have been rearended on the highway 3 times and only sustained significant damage with the 3rd accident. This car is very well built and incredibly safe. I wish Honda still made them the same way.

Report Abuse
2003 Honda CR-V for sale near you
Showing 3 of 81 listings
See all 81 listings

4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Reliability and Safe Too

Chad, 11/04/2009
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
35 of 37 people found this review helpful

This car was a fantastic buy for my family. After 140,000 miles and nothing more than oil changes, brakes and tires it was tragically destroyed in a pretty serious car accident. $15k in damage later and on one was seriously injured. Never had any issues with A/C... We liked this car so much, we found the exact same car and bought it with the insurance money.

Report Abuse

4.75 out of 5 stars

3 yrs and counting...

esteeze, 10/26/2006
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
23 of 24 people found this review helpful

Have had my CR-V for 3 years now, and it has generally been an excellent vehicle. It is used mostly for daily work commuting (about 25 miles round trip), in a hilly, city environment. Also used as 2nd vehicle to carry our 3 kids, and for carrying tailgating equipment (during football season... Roll Tide!).

Report Abuse

5 out of 5 stars

Best Car I have Ever Owned!

Chris, 11/05/2015
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
53 of 59 people found this review helpful

My 2003 CRV EX with over 242,000 miles has been the absolute BEST car I have ever owned in terms or reliability, minimal repairs and overall performance in all weather conditions. The only complaint I have is the driver side door lock actuator which needed replacement and apparently has been an issue with this year Honda. However, when I decided to buy a new car for business needs, I choose another CRV without hesitation.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.38 out of 5 stars

Great First Car!

bsmithmcrobie, 03/13/2012
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
16 of 17 people found this review helpful

My mom bought this car used when it was 7 years old and we used it for me to learn how to drive and to have. It was a very reliable car and I loved to have it. It came in handy when all my friends and I wanted to go to the ocean for a weekend and we'd pack my CR-V and fit comfortably. I got a decent trade-in and got a Honda Civic so I had something better on fuel that I would have after college.

Report Abuse
3.88 out of 5 stars

A/C On Elm Street

jboo, 07/19/2010
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV w/ Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
27 of 30 people found this review helpful

Yes, another A/C nightmare story! I am on my 6th, yes SIXTH, A/C since I bought this otherwise nifty car new in 2003. Not happy here, however, the A/C guy is thrilled.

Report Abuse
3 out of 5 stars

Good car Except for expensive A/C repair

Mark, 10/13/2015
updated 04/19/2021
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
27 of 30 people found this review helpful

Bought this w/ 94K miles and overall its OK. As expected, it is very weak and slow. However, what’s unexpected was poor gas mileage. This car is both slow and thirsty! I only get 20-22mpg mixed and for a 4cylinder this is unacceptable. I've gotten better gas mileage w/ V-6's. Also, the A/C compressor problem is not a rumor. I knew about this problem after reading reviews but I did not think it was common enough to be a risk, so bought the car anyway. I was wrong and 3 months after purchasing it the A/C compressor broke. Seems like not a big deal since its not engine/trans related but guess again. From the dealer, the A/C repair was quoted at $4000! because they need to replace the entire system. Thats more than an engine or transmission. Luckily I found an indy mechanic that fixed it for $1800. Still alot of $ to spend especially when comparable RAV4s don't have any of these costs.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.38 out of 5 stars

Great Car for Long term Purchase

zhenchok, 12/03/2013
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
38 of 43 people found this review helpful

I bought this car off lease when it had 18k it now has 150k with no issues. I keep saying to myself I'll buy a new car when my current car breaks, but it still works perfectly. Sure it't not as smooth as it was when I first got it, but at 150k this is the best vehicle purchase I've ever made. I recently bought 90k warranty tires because I know that it will last another 100k without any issues. I basically did my oil changes, regular maintenance, break replacement, and tire replacements. Two years ago my a/c went out and I had to replace a rear door lock sensor, but other than that I have not had any mechanical issues at all. If you want a reliable car for long term purchase, get a CRV!

Report Abuse
3.63 out of 5 stars

Beware cruise control

dave, 08/20/2009
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful

Never wanted a Honda CRV. Caved into the dealership sales pitch. Took awhile, but really enjoy driving it, very much. Mine has 67,000 miles and will simply keep driving it. Two things, 1.) the CRUISE CONTROL separated from its location in the engine at 57,000 miles. Dealership said "out-of-warranty" and quoted $986.00 to fix, then indicated that this happened to another customer. They said they would supply the part, I pay for the labor. OK. That was a year ago, and even after several phone calls to them, I still have no cruise control. Also, at 17,000 miles the drivers side floor carpet split, Honda said it was due to "usage". No, it was poor installation.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

I Love My CR-V

Cass, 12/19/2016
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful

I bought this car after my first car was totaled in an accident and am absolutely in love with it. I bought a 2003 with a little under 150,000 miles on it and in the past two years I have put right around 30,000 miles on it and it's held up way better than I expected. I get suprisingly good gas milage for an SUV averaging around 25 MPG and sometimes getting as many as 27 miles to the gallon. It's extrememly reliable and handles great in the snow and is easy to judge. My only issue with the car is the A/C went out last fall and was estimated at over $1,000 to repair. I decided it wasn't worth it so I just roll the windows down in the summer. But overall, I love my car and am going to be sad when I see it go which is hopefully many years down the road.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Best Value SUV

KungPhu, 08/07/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

Smooth, high-revving engine that gets most jobs in most situations done-and done well. More spacious than the Accord wagon I had back in college and looks better too. I get about 22 mpg which is more than I expected. All in all, I love the thing.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Love the CR-V

Jeffreys, 04/22/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

After doing much research between the CR-V and Toyota RAV4, I decided that the CR-V would suit me better. It's an enjoyable car to drive and has the space to haul cargo, unlike the RAV4. I absolutely love the fuel economy that I get with the CR-V (especially coming from a gas-hogging Jeep Cherokee). It offers a very smooth ride, is responsive in steering, and has a slick and stylish design.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Good Buy for a reliable SUV

RFluke, 08/05/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Excellent car. I drive it long miles to work everyday. I have about an hour and a half commute one way. It has not failed me yet and would recommend it to anyone looking for good gas mileage in an SUV

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

LOVED My CR-V

jval, 08/17/2011
2003 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful

My dad purchased the 2003 CR-V LX 4WD new in 2002. When I was ready to drive, he passed it down to me. I drove it for the next eight years with only a few fixes. The front/rear brakes and alternator were the most major repairs, but with good reason. I went to school in Ithaca, NY for four years and the snow/sleet/hail took its toll. For the winter beatings it went through, it held up great. I recently got in an accident and my CR-V was totaled - a Chevy truck hit my front passenger wheel. The impact hit all the right spots and my poor CR-V couldn't be repaired. It was only at 78,500 miles. It's a HUGE shame - this car had many years left in it. I miss it greatly.

Report Abuse
1.88 out of 5 stars

Honda CR-V Air Conditioner Issue Cover Up

Mac PSP, 07/13/2010
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV w/ Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
21 of 26 people found this review helpful

Purchased my Honda CR-V new, it now has just over 70,000 miles, last week the air conditioning system failed and wiped out the entire system. The dealer wanted $2000 to replace the system. I refused and checked out the issue on line. As it turns out there are multiple year air conditioning failures on the CR-V. Honda's USA Corporate office is refusing to acknowledge to there is an issue. I am contacting the California State Attorney General and an attorney. Honda's Corporate Customer Service Rep would not let me make a point on the phone and told me, "I might want to be quiet before I stuck my foot in my mouth!" This is typical of how Honda has handled this problem. Stay tuned!

Report Abuse
2.63 out of 5 stars

Piece of JUNK!

Michael, 07/22/2008
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful

I have less than 53,000 miles on my 2003 CR-V and have spent over $4,500 on it in the past 8 months. New AC, new struts, new ABS brakes, new emissions controller, new SRS controller and more. And of course, all this started happening very shortly after my warranty expired.

Report Abuse
3.63 out of 5 stars

High maintenance after 75000 miles

T Anderson, 03/06/2010
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful

Very noisy - hard to hear radio on most roads in the Northwest. Very high maintenance after 75000 miles. Examples: Drivers side door lock malfunction. 2. Left passenger door lock actuator malfunction.3. Cruise control computer system malfunction. 4. Air bag indicator malfunction. 4. Timing belt side mount replacement. Items 1-4 cost $1200 in repairs! Honda dealer had a very hard time diagnosing cruise control problem. i.e., many false fixes.

Report Abuse
4.5 out of 5 stars

very good, but could be better

runswithsizzers, 08/13/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Too soon to tell about durability, but I have Great Expectations. Overall, I'm very happy, but there are a few ergonomic glitches that need work. The dash mount shift lever is too easily confused with the wiper lever, steering wheel is too stiff and heavy for one-hand steering, and the OEM tires are very poorly rated at tire racks website. ABS not avail on LX.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Good for 200,000 miles

Billy Ray, 05/13/2018
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Bought used in 2005, at 30,000ish miles. Great ride until 200,000 miles. Starting to need repairs including catalytic converter and AC, so time to trade it in.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Wife will grip steering wheel as I try to sell it.

Jack Bender, 06/06/2018
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

A very reasonably priced vehicle that owes us nothing. Very reliable. Squared off compared to newer models, giving it good room for luggage.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Decent rig

Jakob Verlinde, 08/24/2016
2003 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful

I traded in my 2003 Murano that was about to blow up for this 2003 base line CRV. At first I didn't like it but it was the ol' ladies car so it's whatever. Bought it for $5,000 off the lot after everything said and done. The fuel economy is great but the tank is really small so you can get about 300 miles per tank if you don't crack vtec every take off and do massive burnouts... the engine has 140,000 miles and starting making a horendous valve ticking sound I guess it's common and its recommended to get it adjusted every 60,000 miles for $350 at the local Honda dealer (Klein Honda) I said screw that I can get a used engine from Japan with 45,000 miles for $600 if it blows up. I use diesel oil for oil changes and it seems to actually run better on it and it quiets the ticking down. It is a base model so nothing special, the radio screen kinda turns off but if you hit the dash hard enough it turns back on. It's only 2wd which concerned me but I took it out on the beach and smashed on it in the sand, took it out in the mud once too, of course I cleaned it good so I wouldnt be in the dog house but it never once got stuck and it pulled through well. Also I used it to pull my father in laws dodge ram 2500 out from the side of the house and it did great. I use it for everything it's not intended for and it works great.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
1 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3.13 out of 5 stars

Honda has lost another customer

Angel T. B.Hall, 07/14/2004
2003 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

three months off the truck, the transmission completely obliterated. Seemingly, endless recalls. Most recently, air bags. In the sixteen months that we have owned this vehicle we have experienced complete A/C failure, trouble switching gears, four recalls for potentially fatal mishaps. And of course the transmission that died on us on our drive back from vacation. Don't make the mistake we did.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

My First Japanese Vehicle

pnmvroom, 03/08/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I never could bring myself to buy a foreign car but thankfully, I changed my mind. Our Honda CRV has been a pleasent surprise. The I4 cylinder engine has plenty of pep around town. My only complaint; passing power above 60 mph (give yourself a little extra room). It's very comfortable, easy to manuver and park. Interior cargo and passenger room is ample. I'm getting 21 mpg in town; 28 on the highway. I did a lot of research before purchasing my CRV. Bottom line...dollar for dollar this is the best SUV on the market, hands down.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

i love my cr-v!

melissad, 08/27/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

i love the way the cr-v feels almost as if i am driving a car, not an suv. the vehicle has a very roomy interior.

Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

Great Overall Vehicle

Robert Henley, 02/16/2017
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV w/ Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This car gets decent mileage. Easy to park. Great driving visibility all around except for the center rear seat headrest. I simply removed it and solved the problem. GREAT in the snow or rain. Only bad thing is going through tires. After a 4 wheel strut change, no problems.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Always wanted one

rroadking, 04/20/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I orignially purchased a left over 2002 Honda accord EX-L, but was very upset with the engine vibration. Dealership and Honda said it was charactoristic. Well, after driving it for two months, I went back to dealership and bought a CRV LX. It is my work vehicle, so I did'nt need all the bells and whistles that the accord had. No problems with the V and I'm very pleased with it. Fun to drive and easy on gas. It is turning into the vehicle of choice every time my wife and I go somewhere. (her vehicle is a volvo)

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

I love my CR-V

debbie , 09/06/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This is my first new car. After much research, this was the car that had excellent crash test results in addition to other benefits. What a great vehicle.

Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

110,000 miles, I started chasing an RPM flutter

long time owner, 05/10/2019
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Owned it from day one. Car has been great for the first 100k miles. Careful regular maintenance per manual. Burns tires a bit fast due to AWD. Mild rust showed up 2014. Both O2 sensors have been replaced. New Plugs 3X. Coil packs 2x. Belt 3x. Air filter yearly. Tranny fluid 2x. Right around 110k miles, it started a low rpm flutter that magically disappears at 50mph+. Changed tranny fluid, flutter went away for 1 year. About 130k, it gave me misfire codes. Mpg went from 24/25 to 19/21. Changed plugs, coil packs, had mechanic adjust valves (3 of 4 out of spec, 1 completely closed). Engine light has been on ever since. Through blogs and Eric the Car Guy, I think it is narrowed down to a torque sensor in the tranny. My intension was to turn this into the kids school car. I haven't made up my mind yet.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Great first car!

Aubrey, 03/25/2016
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful

I bought this car when I was 18 as my first car. It has been reliable and great ever since I have owned it! The only problems I have been incurring are the various headlight bulbs have been going out. First, my driverside rear blinker went out; second, my passenger rear running light went out; third, my front driverside headlight went out; fourth, my front driverside blinker went out. All cheap do-able fixes. But I love my car, it has been great for me!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
2 out of 5 stars

Totally Disappointed in Honda Quality

Martha , 08/14/2009
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful

Like other 2003 CRV owners, I bought with expectations of "Honda quality." My air conditioner went out at 56K miles, and to their credit, Honda paid for parts; I paid for labor. At 118K it went out again. I was told it was "too far out of warranty" for them to replace the AC again. I assume keeping a Honda for 200+K means replacing the AC every 55K miles??? The oxygen sensor is also out, so I am a soon-to-be EX-Honda owner. Had planned to buy a Civic next, but not now. Detroit should be a lesson on squandering a good reputation and letting quality slip. I don't know what it costs for Honda to get a new customer, but it cost them an AC replacement to lose a "Honda for life" customer.

Report Abuse
2.38 out of 5 stars

CRV is a DISASTER!

Honda NO more!, 01/22/2010
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 16 people found this review helpful

I am so frustrated right now, it seems our mechanic sees the car more! We have had front strut issues, tire issues, brakes going to early, AC issues, and when I am driving it sometimes feels like I have a manual trans and have the gear too high, I am afraid what that means. Now the emissions warning is on, back door latch is getting lax. I want to get rid of this terrible terrible car soon! I like the looks hate the car. We don't have alot money to constantly be fixing this!!

Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

Bell of the repair shop.

n collins, 10/04/2017
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful

I bought a new 2003 Honda CRV AWD. It has been in the shop more than on the road. I have spent more in repairs than I almost paid for the car. It has still not reached 100k miles yet and now needs a rebuilt engine. The first time the engine locked up at 86k miles. It cost me 1700 dollars to replace the engine head gasket. Less than 10k miles later it needs a nother head gasket. Since it was in years past the warrenty for the drivetrain warranty. It has has 2 radiators. It has had a new alternator. It has had all 4 coils replaced 2 times. The sparkplugs need changed as often as it needs gas. It is a money pit. It has has 2-6 disc cd changers. Ac system went at 36,400 miles so Honda had no choice but pay the $3,000 for that little repair. Sometimes it would just shut down and later just crank and run like nothing ever happened. It still only has 93,400 miles and the engine has overheated again and has a blown headgasket. So here is another $1500 to $2000 if the engine is not cracked from the overheating. Again all my problems not Honda.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Ridiculousness

Alex, 08/15/2021
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

2003 CRV AWD. Bought it with 150k miles on it, brought it to 220k before an Elk totaled it. Broke my heart because it seemed like it was barely even close to it’s half-life. I drove it all across the west, never got stranded. The few times I needed repairs, it was so easy to fix that I just did them myself. One time the camshaft sensor went out, and it felt like it was on its last legs trying to get me to the nearest town. I was worried. So I took it slow. Got the sensor for $50, replaced it in 15 minutes, and drove it another 400 miles that same day. that’s what I call reliability, not waiting 3 days for a shop and paying $600 for parts and labor. I never dealt with this AC issue, but I have researched it and it seems to me like people aren’t understanding a crucial part: you must replace the entire system ($300 in parts), and flush/evacuate the hoses. If you just replace the compressor, you don’t get rid of the real culprit, which is debris in the hoses and drier. that’s what kills your new compressor in a year After replacement. Replace the entire thing and it will probably last you another 100k. Which sucks You have to worry about that, but it’s not the worst thing. Also, For the record this car has THE BEST AC. it’s incredible for how old they are. it feels the same way a very cold water fountain tastes. The speakers are booming for stock. The cup holders are very well placed. I lived in it for 6 months while traveling, took out the back seats and laid a cot in the back. Never got stuck in mud, never lost traction in snow. it’s an excellent blend between practical city driving and off road. Not the best at either, but above average at both. Usually got 27-30 mpg Highway, 65 mph is the sweet spot. Took that thing into some questionable off road spots that I would never go back to.... but it got me in n out. It’s a fun car The only thing I don’t like is that they don’t make them anymore. I want to buy a brand new 2003 model! I am literally buying the same exact car with my insurance money. I don’t see any other way. If you like to do some easy off road stuff and like camping in cars, and live somewhere with lots of snow, you would probably love this thing.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3.25 out of 5 stars

This LEMON should be selling lemonade!

mbpace, 09/23/2009
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful

We bought this car new in May 2003. 2 weeks later the radio stops working. It's "fixed" and then stops working 2 months later. This time the radio is replaced. About 15 months later radio goes out again. After "fixing" twice, radio is replaced AGAIN! Dec 2003 drivers seat won't lock in place fixed 2 times and then new seat put in. Feb 2005 locks don't work and fixed Apr 2006 CD player stops working "fixed" Sept 2007 A/C compressor- pin shears off and sends metal fragments through A/C, entire system replaced Jan 2009. CD player won't release CD's Sept 2009 A/C broken AGAIN, bucking like a horse when idle $1500 to fix what they "think" is wrong since car drove ok for them except for A/C!

Report Abuse
3.25 out of 5 stars

Less enthusiastic after 3.5 years

ajchien, 09/13/2006
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

When first purchased, I experienced the PTTR issue. I had to tell the dealership about the TSB that was available to fix it. After the TSB, the PTTR was gone, and has been done for the next 50k+ miles. Now at 50k+ miles @ 3.5 years, the dreadful, well known on many websites (search for it), air conditioning failure occured. Total cost was $2840. American Honda decided to goodwill $2000 of the cost. It is still disappointing, becuase there really is no definite fix to the AC failure and it could happen again. The AC should not be a wear & tear item. There have been 3 actual safety recalls on the vehicle.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

No disappointments

DJ Vale, 03/23/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Silver LX 4x4 auto. Drives beautifully, interior a little blah at first but quickly grew on me. Comfortable seats, lots of room, especially in back, great acceleration for a 4-cylinder, mileage great so far with terric Honda quality and resale value. A few negatives: Paid almost full MSRP via the internet due to popularity; adequate stereo but not great; no standard keyless entry on LX model; Lots of road noise particularly on rough road surfaces; poorly designed rear door opens on left with tire mounted outside causing potential high- cost from a rear-end minor collision.

Report Abuse
3 out of 5 stars

No more Honda's

Hondanomore, 09/05/2007
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have owned Honda's for over 20 years, but the CRV makes me think I will never own another. 4 years and 66,000 miles the air compressor blow's apart. dealership wants $1,500 to replace it. Too much money for too little of a car. I just got a new Honda eliment, if this happen sooner I would never have gotten another Honda. I will be trading this in on a Saturn Vue.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

A Thankful Purchase

lonefish, 04/22/2009
2003 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I really have no complaints about this vehicle, and can come up with none. I did not purchase it for off road use, but being a handicapped/disabled male, 57 years of age, it sure fit the bill!

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Third Honda

David and Donna, 07/27/2003
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Excellent vehicle! Would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a small SUV. Very quiet and gets pretty good gas mileage (25 MPG). Reasonably peppy but would like a little more horsepower. Real-time FWD works very well. Love the 6-disc CD changer. Air conditioner works extremely well, cooling the car in seconds.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Damn Good Car

Man-o-war, 11/29/2002
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Have had it for about a month and I'm really impressed. Looks kinda small from the outside and blows you away with the space inside, especially with the rear seats folded (really cool feature). Peppy without being gas guzzly, and the looks are in line with the clean, classic Honda look. Is much quieter than my old Corolla, and I don't slow down as mych in the rain. Really happy with my purchase.

Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

Reliable light car with the space of an SUV

Matt A., 08/12/2017
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

My CRV is going strong at over 143,000 miles and is great for city/suburb driving and commute, moving lots of stuff or large items, and the occasional camping or road trip. Engine/transmission and electrical are very reliable but acceleration is starting to drag a little bit, and the door lock actuator is broken (as in other reviews). But I have done all regular maintenance and major services like brake replacements, and the car is fine. It's easy to park and fits lots of stuff with fold-down seats. The seats aren't plush, but the interior is roomy and practical with good driving visibility if you remove the rear headrests. Roof rack has come in handy. Reasonably safe, although you wouldn't want to be in a side-crash as many vehicles are larger/heaver than this. Feels like a light car with the space of an SUV. Paint and finish have held up perfectly.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

99 crv

linc, 07/25/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

29 mpg highway,27 mpg city,lots of features,the others don't have !!

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Best Mini SUV Out There !

Ustii-Yonv, 11/07/2002
2003 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I test drove every other mini-suv on the market today and the CR-V is tops in just about every category. Its engine might not be the most powerful out there but its response and smoothness more than make up for it. The CR-V handles very well on-road for an SUV and is a snap to park in even the tightest spots. For its size the CR- V is incredibly spacious. There are so many places to put things, that you might never use them all. The interior is my favorite part of this Honda. At 6'2" I have more than enough leg, head and shoulder room. With the front seats all the way back, I even have enough room in the back seats to sit comfortably.

Report Abuse
4.63 out of 5 stars

Honda CRV

sgtspike, 08/05/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I was lookig for a small SUV with great mileage but was comfortable for a big guy (6'1", 280 lbs). It was like they took a midsize SUV interior and managed to put it inside a small body. It is ROOMY, comfortable, gets much better mileage compared to the midsized SUV and it is a Honda so it is reliable. If I was in the market for a small SUV again today, I would go straight to my Honda dealer. The ingeneous interior design and features, the reliability, the room and comfort, the AWD all add up to one phenominal little SUV. PS when are you going to build a small pickup truck?

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Shalee's Little Red Lady

QueenShalee, 08/05/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought my CRV in New York State. The winters there can be bad at times. But my Little Red Lady has stood them well and gets me where I had to be without any problems. It starts everytime and is comfortable to be in for everybody.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Great CR-V

g8rl, 08/05/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

great CR-V. fun to drive, dependable SUV. Has been more than i thought it would be. I used to have a cabrio, VW. The CR-V is much better!

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Cheap Quality SUV

ttn, 07/26/2003
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

We put over 13,000 miles within 8 months of ownership. There is no problem or whatsover with this quality SUV. I could not notice the difference between this SUV and the MDX that my brother just bought. Mine is just quiet as his except for $20K less.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Second time customer doubly pleased!

Sameer, 11/18/2002
2003 Honda CR-V LX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I had a 98 Honda CR-V and when it was totalled, I immediately got the then brand new 2003 CR-V. This was in the first week of January when finding one at any price at any dealership was a tough job. I still happily paid the premium (you get what you pay for- about $600 less than MSRP) and since then have been 100% satisfied. High marks for the thoughtful and family friendly interior. You'd be surprised how much space there is when you fold the rear seats! We loved the picnic table a lot (made our car popular among friends!) and it returns in an even bigger form!

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

CRV = Creates Real Value

The Beek, 04/18/2018
updated 04/27/2020
2003 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV w/ Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Fun spunky car that is just so easy and friendly. Purchased with 70K miles with a reputation for being able to go another 200K. Everything works great and easy. So simple there is little to break down. Road noise is substantial on rough highway and gas milage at 22 MPG overall is not overly impressive, but it's a box. Other than those two things, it's superb.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
Items per page:
50