Service Bulletin - Oil leak at timing chain tensioner inspection cover due to possible insufficient sealant adhesion on inspection cover.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2020 Honda CR-V engine problems
moderate Owners of the 2020 Honda CR-V have filed 26 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 50,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
26
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2016 CR-V | 54 |
| 2017 CR-V | 364 |
| 2018 CR-V | 388 |
| 2019 CR-V | 71 |
| 2020 CR-V (this page) | 26 |
| 2021 CR-V | 20 |
| 2022 CR-V | 7 |
| 2023 CR-V | 12 |
| 2024 CR-V | 12 |
When does it fail?
Of the 26 engine complaints filed for the 2020 Honda CR-V, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 26 engine 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.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2019-2020 Accords, Civic Sis, and CR-Vs with a customer complaint of the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on with DTCs P030X (Cylinder Misfire Detected) and/or P0172 (System Too Rich [Bank 1]) stored. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to collect specific parts from the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2019-2020 Accords, Civic Sis, and CR-Vs with a customer complaint of the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on with DTCs P030X (Cylinder Misfire Detected) and/or P0172 (System Too Rich [Bank 1]) stored. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to collect specific parts from the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - The vehicle message "All Wheel Drive System Problem" is shown on the dash. The possible cause is the machining marks on the motor shaft allowed differential oil to be pulled into the motor assembly.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is investigating certain 2020-2022 Accords, CR-Vs, Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, Ridgelines, 2020 Fits, 2020-2021 Civic Hatchbacks, 2020-2023 Civic Sedans/Coups with a customer complaint of the Check Engine Light (CEL) on & the DTC P0087 (Fuel Rail Pressure Too Low [Loss of Fuel Pressure]) stored. In some cases, the customer may also experience such conditions as engine hard to start, no start or start & stumble in conjunction with CEL. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners describe sudden, unexplained power loss at highway speeds—the engine enters limp mode, the check engine light flashes, and the car either crawls at 20 mph or stalls entirely, particularly uphill. Restarting the vehicle restores normal operation until the fault recurs hours or days later. Dealers cannot reproduce the problem, find no stored fault codes after restart, and decline to repair. One owner with an 8-year warranty was told by Honda dealership they "simply aren't able" to fix it despite reproducing the issue; Honda refused buyback or replacement. Another owner hired an attorney.
Separately, owners report fuel contaminating engine oil at the first oil change (6,200 miles), making the oil overfull by roughly one pint and thin, with gasoline odor. Honda service managers confirm this is a known, unfixable problem on 1.5L turbocharged direct-injection engines, worse in cold climates and short-trip driving. Owners concerned about oil viscosity are told to manage it with frequent changes—some now changing oil every 1,500 miles instead of 3,000–5,000.
Turbocharger failure was documented in one case at 60,000 miles, with sudden deceleration and loss of all power; repair cost $5,779. Other isolated failures include throttle gumming, cylinder misfires, fuel injector leaks, and crankshaft seal failure. Dashboard warning lights illuminating en masse also appear in multiple reports.
Same Honda CR-V engine reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2019 · 2021 · 2023
Failure modes owners describe
Sudden loss of power and limp mode activation
Engine enters limp mode or loses motive power without warning at highway speeds. Vehicle loses ability to accelerate despite floored pedal, forcing driver to crawl at 20 mph or come to a stop. Restarting the vehicle temporarily restores normal function until the fault recurs. Flashing check engine light often accompanies the event, but after restart the light extinguishes and no fault codes remain stored for dealer diagnosis.
When: Across 6,300 to 121,766 miles; incidents range from near 27,000 miles to well over 120,000. Some owners report multiple occurrences over 1–2 year periods.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of acceleration at highway speed (50–70 mph); Vehicle unable to maintain throttle input despite depressed accelerator; Loss of power while uphill causes complete stall; Intermittent hesitation and power loss; rough idle possible; Flashing check engine light during events; Check engine light extinguishes after restart; No stored diagnostic trouble codes after restart; Vehicle returns to normal operation post-restart until next occurrence
Codes mentioned: P219F (misfires cylinders #3 and #4)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers unable to reproduce faults or retrieve stored codes; no repairs performed at Honda dealerships. One owner hired attorney after Honda refused to address the issue despite 8-year warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Action Number PE25016 referenced by owners; Honda has not issued a formal recall. Honda dealer in Rochester, Minnesota replaced turbocharger for $5,042.41 on one vehicle at ~60,000 miles, but that repair does not resolve the intermittent loss-of-power pattern reported by other owners.
Fuel dilution of engine oil
Gasoline contaminates the crankcase oil, detected as overfull oil level (approx. 1 pint excess), gasoline odor, and thinner-than-normal oil consistency. Honda has acknowledged the condition is linked to short-trip driving in cold climates and direct fuel injection design, but states there is no permanent fix. Service managers confirm it is a common problem. Owners concerned about oil viscosity degradation and excessive engine wear.
When: Discovered at first oil change (6,200–6,300 miles on new vehicles). Problem persists throughout ownership; some owners report requesting oil changes every 1,500 miles instead of the standard 3–5,000-mile interval.
Symptoms owners cite: Overfull oil level in crankcase (approximately 1 pint excess); Gasoline odor in oil; Oil thinner than normal appearance; Dark and cloudy oil within first 2,000 miles; Frequent oil-change requests (every 1,500 miles vs. standard 3,000–5,000 mile intervals)
Repairs/costs cited: No permanent repair available. Honda recommends regular oil changes to manage the condition. Owners report costs associated with frequent oil changes; no specific parts replacement mentioned.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda has acknowledged the issue is common on 1.5L direct-injection turbocharged engines and has no fix. Service advisors recommend monitoring and frequent oil changes. One owner contacted Honda corporate but received no response.
Turbocharger failure
Turbocharger fails suddenly without prior warning, causing rapid deceleration, loss of all power, and illumination of all dashboard warning lights. Vehicle becomes undriveable immediately. One documented repair shows full turbo replacement and oil system flush were necessary.
When: One confirmed incident at approximately 60,000 miles; another possible turbo-related failure mentioned in narrative #14 (dealer suspected turbo failure but diagnostic not confirmed).
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden rapid deceleration as if brakes applied; All dashboard warning lights flashing simultaneously; Complete loss of motive power; Vehicle unable to be driven under its own power
Repairs/costs cited: One owner had turbocharger replaced for $5,042.41 plus oil flush and change for $736.48 at Honda dealer in Rochester, Minnesota. Total repair cost approximately $5,779 (before tax). Vehicle was towed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer performed turbocharger replacement and oil system service. No recall or TSB mentioned for turbocharger failure.
Throttle gumming and unintended acceleration
Throttle body becomes gummed, causing unintended acceleration at low speed and requiring hard brake pressure to stop vehicle. Once engine is restarted, throttle returns to normal function but issue persists as a recurring defect.
When: Approximately 36,000 miles on one vehicle.
Symptoms owners cite: Unintended acceleration at low speed (4 mph in parking lot scenario); Increased brake pedal force required to stop vehicle; Warning light (symbol resembling letter 'I') illuminated; Vehicle unresponsive to accelerator after initial acceleration event; Normal operation restored after engine off/on cycle
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed throttle gummed and requiring replacement; repair was not completed as vehicle owner declined service at that time.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer was informed of the failure; no TSB or recall mentioned.
Engine misfire and cylinder malfunction
Engine misfires with check engine light blinking; can occur during highway driving. On one vehicle, diagnostic retrieval identified misfires in cylinders #3 and #4 (DTC P219F). No stored codes remain after restart in most cases.
When: One case at approximately 50,000 miles; another owner reports 10 occurrences across multiple months starting January 2025, accelerating in colder weather.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine hesitation or rough idle; Flashing check engine light; Loss of power accompanying misfire; Multiple occurrences (up to 10 reported in one case); More frequent in colder weather
Codes mentioned: P219F (misfires cylinders #3 and #4)
Repairs/costs cited: One owner replaced battery and four spark plugs without resolving issue. No repairs completed at Honda dealerships.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner checked codes at Honda dealer; no fix identified or offered. Manufacturer was made aware of at least one P219F misfire case.
Complete dashboard warning light illumination (electrical/systems malfunction)
All dashboard warning lights illuminate and flash simultaneously, including engine, brake, and adaptive control warnings. Occurs spontaneously and may indicate broader electrical or control module fault rather than a single component failure. One case resolved after overnight diagnosis; other cases remain unresolved or resulted in engine replacement recommendations.
When: One case at 65,000 miles; another at 14,700 miles (very early in vehicle life).
Symptoms owners cite: All dashboard warning lights illuminating simultaneously; Engine, brake, and adaptive control lights flashing; Loss of cruise control and lane-assist functions; No overheating reported in one case
Repairs/costs cited: One case resulted in dealer recommendation for full engine replacement (cost quoted at approximately $8,596 for used engine; extended warranty expired at 120,000 miles despite owner purchasing full coverage). Another case pending diagnosis.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No formal response or TSB mentioned in these narratives. Manufacturer was contacted; one owner reported they said they would follow up but then 'ghosted' the customer.
Crankshaft front oil seal failure
Front oil seal fails prematurely on a relatively young vehicle (5 years old / 2020 model), which the owner indicates is unusual for this age and mileage.
When: At approximately 5 years of vehicle age; specific mileage not stated.
Symptoms owners cite: Oil leakage from front of engine
Repairs/costs cited: Owner noted this failure is atypical for vehicles of this age; no repair details provided.
Fuel injector failure and leaking
Fuel injectors fail and develop leaks, creating fire hazard risk and causing all warning system lights to display and scroll across dashboard. Engine runs rough and misfires as a result.
When: Specific mileage not provided.
Symptoms owners cite: Fuel injector leaking; All warning system lights illuminated and scrolling across dash; Engine running rough; Engine misfiring; Fire hazard from fuel leak
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle brought to Honda dealership; repairs pending at time of complaint submission.
Synthesized from 26 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
The fuel injectors failed and were leaking. All warning system lights displayed and scrolled thru dash. We took to Honda dealership and are awaiting repairs. A fire hazard was present from leaking fuel and hazardous condition from lose of power as engine running rough and misfiring.
Every dashboard light came on. Engine, brake and all the adaptive controls were flashing. The whole dash was lit up and my cruise control and lane assist wouldn’t work. Among other things I’m sure. I want to know if this is going to happen again and what about the head gasket now? Can you do the update/ thermostat on my vehicle since obviously it is defective? The car only has 65,000 miles…
This past year, on 10 occasions, the car misfires and loses power. All but 1 of these occurrences have been on the highway. The check engine light blinks, I pull over, turn the car off, wait a couple minutes, start the car, and the problem disappears. I have had the codes checked by both Honda and my personal mechanic - and neither can find a code that anything is wrong with the car. I have…
Had engine trouble with your 2020 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 engine problem on the 2020 Honda CR-V?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 26 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 10 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 14,700 and 53,884 miles, with the median around 50,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 14,700; a quarter make it past 53,884. 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 $3,100 for engine 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 engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine 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/2020/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.