1997 - 2001 Honda CR-V review

	Honda CR-V was first introduced in 1996. It was one of the first small car-like SUVs on the market. Even though it was slightly underpowered (126 hp), many customers appreciated the unique combination of low fuel consumption, all-wheel drive, spacious interior and reliability. Thanks to unibody construction and light weight (only 3160 lb or 1433 kg), the Honda CR-V has very predictable car-like handling. Inside you will find well-designed, user-friendly instrument panel, easy to use controls, lots of cargo space and many convenience features, including even a fold-out picnic table under the trunk carpet. There are number of cup holders and storage compartments, there is even a storage box under the front passenger's seat. The rear seats fold almost flat for extra cargo space. The Honda all-wheel drive system is very helpful on slippery roads, although it's not designed for real off-road adventures. In normal conditions the Honda CR-V is powered by the front wheels. As the front wheels lose traction and start slipping, the rear wheels kick in to help. This is accomplished through the use of viscous clutch to engage the rear wheels.

Strengths

- Good reliable engine.
- Good fuel economy for an SUV
- All-wheel drive system
- Practical interior design
- Lots of cargo space
- Four-star frontal crash rating for a driver and five-star for a front passenger based NHTSA rating for 1999 model.
- Excellent resale value.
- Japan built.

Weaknesses

- Road and engine noise
- Slightly underpowered
- No V6 engine
- Rear wheels kick in with a short delay after front wheels start slipping
- Low towing capacity
- Unstable in high winds, as any other light-weight tall vehicle

Overall

In my opinion, the Honda CR-V is one of the best small SUV you can find on the market. It's fun to drive, fairly reliable, and has good fuel economy for an SUV. Roomy interior makes Honda CR-V perfect for travel, including light off-roading. Simple four-wheel drive system works fine on snowy roads. If a small SUV is what you are looking for, I recommend to consider Honda CR-V.

What to look for when buying a used Honda CR-V

As a first step prior buying a used car I always recommend to check the history records - it can save you lots of money. Follow this link: How to check car history by VIN number
Look for the trailer hitch - if the car was used for towing a trailer, it's very possible the transmission is excessively worn.
A jerk or a clunk when shifting the automatic transmission into reverse is another indication of excessive transmission wear.
Follow this link to learn more: What to look for when buying a used car - illustrated checklist.
As a final step prior purchase, I always recommend to have the car properly inspected by a mechanic.
Check our step-by-step Used car buying guide

Honda CR-V service and maintenance tips

- Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint.
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in good shape.
- Try to avoid overheating the engine; it may cause serious problems.
- Change transmission fluid as recommended in the owner's manual.
- Rear differential fluid also needs periodic changes; use only original Honda fluid.
Worn out differential fluid may cause groaning or humming noise from the rear end while turning.
- Valves need to be adjusted at certain interval.
- Stick with original Honda parts.
- Follow recommended maintenance schedule and keep all the fluids clean and topped up.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in the garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at one of those fast lube places; the vehicle must be on the lift.
Check more Car maintenance tips
- If you want to tow your Honda CR-V, the only recommended way is on the flatbed truck or with all four wheels on the ground.

Honda CR-V Specifications (1999 model)

Links

If you are looking for more detailed technical information

If you want to find technical information about you car such as repair manual, check engine codes description, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, fluid type, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, recalls, etc. follow this link:

by Vlad Samarin