On august 28 I went to start my car and it would not turn on. I called the dealership and they jumped it and the car started. They tested the battery and it was fine but changed it anyway. On december 23 it would not start and had to be jumped. This happened again on december 26 and 27. The car is currently at the dealership. They have said nothing is wrong with the battery or the car even though…
2019 Honda CR-V electrical problems
moderate 138 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
138
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
1crash
1injury
What stands out
Owners have filed 138 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA electrical complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 5 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
The failure pattern owners describe
Buyer takeaway: 2019 CR-V electrical gremlins are not just annoyances—owners face real safety hazards from fuel injector failures that knock out safety systems, unintended hard braking, and unexplained battery drain. Independent diagnosis before purchase is essential; expect potential fuel injector replacement ($1,700-$3,000) and verify recall work completion.
The 2019 CR-V has spawned a flood of complaints around cascading electrical failures, many tied to fuel injector problems. When fuel injectors fail, owners say the dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree—not just a check-engine light, but every safety system warning at once: collision mitigation, lane keeping, adaptive cruise, parking brake, ESC, and more. Some vehicles suddenly stall or lose power on highways; others lose the ability to accelerate. Diagnostic codes point to fuel system richness (P0172) and ECM issues, yet dealers sometimes claim the ECM is fine.
The infotainment head unit glitches constantly—screen beeps and cycles brightness without anybody touching anything, making it impossible to use navigation or climate controls while driving. A TSB exists but dealers won’t fix it unless they witness the failure in-house.
Battery drain is another recurring complaint: vehicles won’t start after sitting 1–2 days, requiring jump-starts or tow trucks. Dealers quietly admit it’s “common” but offer no real fix—just suggest owners disconnect the battery nightly.
Unexpected automatic emergency braking has thrown passengers forward violently, with no object in front of the vehicle. Windows and sunroofs open on their own while parked, especially at night, yet Honda calls it a “feature.” Exposed wiring behind the rear-view mirror can short out when items are hung there, disabling brakes entirely—repairs run $900+. Several owners report finding gasoline in their engine oil, sometimes within days of an oil change, but Honda shrugs it off as “normal for the 1.5L Turbo.”
Failure modes owners describe
Fuel Injector Failure Cascading to Full System Shutdown
Faulty fuel injectors trigger massive dashboard warning light displays that disable multiple safety systems—brake assistance, collision mitigation, lane keeping, adaptive cruise, parking brake, tire pressure monitoring, and others. Vehicle experiences sudden stalling, power loss, and inability to accelerate. Owners report losing safety feature functionality rather than just a check-engine light.
When: Occurs between 50k and 70k miles on most reported cases; some as early as 12 miles or <10k miles
Symptoms owners cite: All dashboard warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Multiple safety system failures (collision mitigation, lane assist, ACC, parking brake, ESC, brake hold, power steering); Sudden loss of power or stalling while driving; Unable to accelerate or significant deceleration; Fuel system codes (P0172 fuel system too rich) combined with ECM failure codes (U0401-68); Check engine light
Codes mentioned: P0172, U0401-68
Repairs/costs cited: All six fuel injectors replacement; costs cited at $1,730 to $3,000+ depending on parts and labor. 6-month waiting period for parts reported. Spark plugs and oil degradation also noted. Software updates performed but do not resolve root cause.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Fuel Injection Pump Recall (issued 12/28/2023); however, many owners report ongoing delays in parts availability stretching from August through fall 2024. Dealers state no parts available. Goodwill assistance requests have been denied. Honda states fuel injector issues are 'normal' or claims ECM is functioning properly despite fault codes.
Infotainment System (Head Unit) Glitches and Uncontrolled Brightness Cycling
Audio head unit software/hardware repeatedly resets, beeps wildly, and cycles brightness without user input while driving. Screen goes blank, switches screens randomly, or becomes unresponsive. Navigation, climate control, and radio controls become inaccessible, creating distraction and potential safety hazard.
When: Onset within first year of ownership; recurs intermittently throughout vehicle life. Some reports after multiple dealer visits or software updates.
Symptoms owners cite: Screen beeping and flashing repeatedly; Brightness cycling between dark and bright without user interaction; Screen going blank or changing screens randomly; Navigation and audio controls unresponsive or inaccessible; Loud static noise from speakers; Radio turning on/off unexpectedly; Issue occurs while driving or parked
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers unplug and replug unit or perform software updates; issue recurs shortly after. Honda TSB exists (MC-10163184-0001) but dealers often refuse to replace unit unless problem can be reproduced on-site. Multiple replacements have not resolved issue for some owners. Costs not consistently cited but replacements implied to be expensive.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB released (MC-10163184-0001) acknowledging the problem. However, dealers inconsistently apply fixes and often dismiss complaints if the malfunction cannot be demonstrated during service visit. No recall issued despite widespread reports online.
Battery Drain and Starting Failures
Vehicle battery drains completely when parked for 1-2 days without driving, or drains excessively fast even when not in use. Car fails to start, clicks only, or requires jump-start. Issue recurs after battery replacement or software updates. Roadside technicians note parasitic drain is common but dealers do not disclose.
When: Can occur from early ownership (101 miles) through years 2-3; mileage range 1,900 to 42,000 miles reported
Symptoms owners cite: Battery completely dead after 1-2 days of no driving; Car will not start; only clicking sound; Requires multiple jump-starts or tow service; Battery drains while sitting parked in garage or airport; No warning signs prior to failure; Issue recurs within 2 weeks after battery replacement
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replacement under warranty (when covered); replaced once or twice but problem persists. Dealers recommend disconnecting battery nightly or not leaving vehicle parked more than one day, or purchasing jumper cables. Software reboot attempted but ineffective.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer confirms issue is 'common with the make and model' but will not disclose it to customers. Manufacturer provided case numbers but offered no solution. Suggests unhoking battery if parked more than one day. No recall or TSB issued for software parasitic drain fix.
Automatic Emergency Braking System Unintended Activation
Collision mitigation and automatic emergency braking systems engage without obstruction present. Vehicle suddenly slams brakes hard, throwing occupants forward. No vehicles, objects, or pedestrians in front, beside, or rear of vehicle at time of activation. Multiple incidents separated by weeks or months.
When: Multiple incidents reported; first around summer 2021, recurring through 2022 and beyond. Mileage range 15k to 65k+ miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden hard braking with no object in path; Brake warning light flashes on dashboard; Physical jolting and whiplash-like motion; Loss of steering capability for 1-2 minutes after event; Panic and anxiety in occupants; Recurs on separate days/trips
Repairs/costs cited: Not repaired; dealers state they have not heard of such issues or claim problem cannot be reproduced. No diagnostic codes generated.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers recommend bringing vehicle in if incident recurs but offer no investigation or preventive measures. No recall or service bulletin issued.
Key Fob and Passive Keyless Entry System Malfunctions
Vehicle systems activate unintentionally without key in ignition or intentional button press. Windows, sunroof, and air conditioning open on their own while parked, especially during rain or at night. Key fob batteries fail or stop communicating with vehicle. Passive entry systems fail to recognize key proximity.
When: Occurs while parked overnight in driveway, garage, or at airport. First reported September 2019, recurring April 2020 and beyond. Can happen at any mileage.
Symptoms owners cite: All windows roll down without key insertion; Sunroof opens automatically; Air conditioning activates with car off; Wipers and radio activate unintentionally; Events occur in middle of night during rain; Key fob does not unlock or communicate with vehicle; Car interior becomes soaked from rain
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers claim issue is 'feature' requiring specific key fob button sequence and suggest using hard case for key fob to prevent accidental pressing. One owner reported dealer recommended replacing rear-view mirror assembly wiring ($2,000).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: American Honda states 'feature' cannot be disabled and claims buttons must have been pressed unintentionally. Suggests hard case for key fob. No TSB or recall issued. Denies it is a known defect.
Rear-View Mirror Wiring Harness Damage and Brake System Failure
Exposed wiring in rear-view mirror assembly is vulnerable to damage from hanging items (handicap placards, ornaments, air fresheners). Damaged wires cause electrical short circuits that disable entire brake system and other safety systems. Brake lines can burst. Repairs cost over $900 to $3,600.
When: Can occur anytime; one incident at ~15k miles, another during normal driveway parking
Symptoms owners cite: All brake system warning lights illuminate; Inability to shift gears or move vehicle; Complete loss of braking power; Brake fluid leaking in engine compartment; All safety systems disabled; Vehicle will not start after incident
Repairs/costs cited: Wiring harness in roof must be replaced; costs $922 to $3,650. Brake lines may burst and require replacement. Not covered under warranty despite manufacturing design flaw. One owner forced to pay $922 for repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers claim hanging items are owner responsibility and deny warranty coverage. State it is a 'manufacturing defect' in design that should be recalled. No recall issued.
Soy-Based Wiring Harness Attracting Rodent Damage
Main wiring harness is made with soy-based insulation that attracts rodents. Mice, rats, squirrels, and other animals chew through and destroy wiring, causing electrical system failures. One owner reports main harness replaced three times. Costs ~$1,400 per replacement. Issue known since at least 2017 model year but not recalled or disclosed.
When: Occurs within first year of ownership; can recur multiple times in vehicle's life
Symptoms owners cite: Electrical system malfunction; All computer controls fail; Vehicle becomes inoperable
Repairs/costs cited: $1,400 per main harness replacement. One customer reports three replacements necessary. Cost not covered under warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall. No warranty coverage for rodent damage. Honda known this issue since 2017 model year but continued using soy-based wiring.
Gasoline Contamination in Engine Oil
Engine oil becomes diluted with gasoline, causing oil level to exceed maximum mark by 1/4 inch within 200 miles of an oil change. Oil turns black and dirty in 4 days. Issue occurs even on brand-new vehicles with <200 miles. Honda claims 'normal for 1.5L Turbo engine' despite gasoline smell in oil.
When: Occurs from earliest ownership; reported at 12 miles, 200 miles, and throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level rises above maximum mark despite recent oil change; Oil mixed with gasoline (evident by smell); Oil becomes black/dirty within days of change; Gasoline odor at dipstick; Oil deteriorates rapidly
Repairs/costs cited: Owner drained 1/4 quart oil to bring level down. Performed multiple oil changes at own expense. Dealer offered no solution. If trend continues, oil changes every week would be required.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer admits gasoline smell in oil but claims it is 'typical' for 1.5L Turbo engine. Tells owner to contact Honda Engineering. No service bulletin or recall issued. Honda known this problem since 2017 model year.
Electronic Display and Infotainment Unit Failure
Electronic display unit that controls vehicle information and settings fails intermittently or completely. Unit becomes unresponsive or ceases to function. Issue is recurring and intermittent—occurs while driving and parked.
When: Issue first reported; can recur sporadically throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Display unit fails to function; Unable to access vehicle controls and information; Unit unresponsive
Repairs/costs cited: Unit replaced with remanufactured part (not new) at dealer cost ~$1,800. Owner states replacement likely ineffective as issue traces back to 2016 model designs. Dealer misrepresented failure as 'sound system issue' when customer knew actual root cause.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer replaces unit but with remanufactured part. Issue persists across multiple model years. Extended warranty offered at several hundred dollars per month.
Loss of Power and System Resets at Low Voltage Drop
Computer system resets when battery voltage drops low, even temporarily. Reset disables critical safety systems including electronic parking brake, adaptive cruise control, tire pressure monitoring, blind spot monitoring, and hill start assist. Vehicle becomes unsafe and uncontrollable. No warning before reset occurs.
When: Can occur at any mileage; one case at 66,888 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Computer reset occurs; Electronic parking brake disabled; Safety systems disabled (ACC, TPMS, blind spot, hill start); No warning prior to reset; Vehicle becomes unsafe during operation
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel injector replacement addressed voltage drop issue. Warranty extension available for some VINs but not all; owner's VIN not covered despite being same model year.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership advises to drive into dealership for service despite safety risk. Warranty extension coverage is inconsistent and not applied to all affected vehicles.
Airbag Deployment While Parked
Airbag deploys unexpectedly while vehicle is stationary in driveway. Accompanied by extremely loud alarm, smoke from dashboard, and significant safety concern. Occurs after software issues and turbo replacement, suggesting electrical problem.
When: Reported June 8, 2019; approximately 17 days after first oil change and within 2 weeks of software recall work
Symptoms owners cite: Loud shrieking alarm from vehicle; Airbag deploys while parked and not moving; Smoke pouring from dashboard; No crash or impact occurred
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle towed to dealer; awaiting repair. No details on repair costs or parts replacement provided.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall issued July 8, 2019 (per complainant), but took over one month to address despite known hazard. Honda employees expressed shock, stating owner was 'lucky you weren't killed if that happened while driving.'
Synthesized from 138 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
Was parked on side of road. No previous warning lights. Car would not start. Unable to put on hazard lights in dark on highway. Had to be towed. All dash wearing lights on only. Was at dealer 2 months prior due to all dash lights on and power failure. Replaced battery and car was re coded per dealer. Prior to that all dash lights came on when car turned off and had to disconnect battery…
Rear doors will not open when getting out or opening. I changed batteries in key fob, but didn't help. 12/27/23 all lights on dash went black and stayed off for about 5 miles. I've had the brakes stop me and I was thrown forward hard. My main worry is if my electrical system goes out while driving, will my car lock up and cause an accident?
Had electrical trouble with your 2019 Honda CR-V?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2019 Honda CR-V?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 138 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 52 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 4,536 and 23,000 miles, with the median around 9,500. A quarter of owners report trouble before 4,536; a quarter make it past 23,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2019/Honda/CR-V.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.