Honda HR-V Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Honda HR-V is a compact SUV that mixes practicality, style, and Honda’s reputation for reliability. It has been praised for fuel efficiency and clever interior space, but like any car, it does have some problems. This guide explains the most common Honda HR-V issues and the repair costs you can expect in the UK.
About the Honda HR-V
The HR-V first appeared in the late 1990s and was relaunched in 2015 as a modern crossover. It has been sold with petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines. Buyers choose it because it offers:
- A raised driving position with the size of a hatchback
- Magic Seats that fold in different ways for space
- Good fuel economy and low running costs
- Strong resale values
Even though it is reliable overall, certain problems do affect it.
Common Honda HR-V Problems
- CVT gearbox judder
Cars fitted with the CVT automatic gearbox sometimes develop shuddering or hesitation. This is often caused by old fluid or wear inside the gearbox. - Clutch wear on manuals
Manual models can suffer from worn clutches, especially if used mostly in towns. - Diesel engine issues
Diesel versions may suffer from blocked DPF filters or faulty EGR valves if they are mainly driven on short trips. - Suspension noise
Worn bushes or anti-roll bar links can cause knocking sounds on rough roads. - Electrical faults
Infotainment screens can be slow, touchscreens can freeze, and dashboard warnings sometimes appear. - Air conditioning failures
Older cars often develop weak cooling due to failed compressors or leaks. - Hybrid battery
Newer hybrid HR-Vs have reliable batteries, but if they fail outside warranty, they are costly to replace. - Rust on older models
The first-generation HR-V from the late 1990s to early 2000s is known to suffer from rust on arches and sills.
Typical Repair and Service Costs in the UK
Below are average UK garage costs for common HR-V services and repairs.
| Repair or Service | What is Included | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual service | Oil, filter, checks | £150 to £220 |
| Major service | Plugs, filters, brake fluid, full inspection | £280 to £400 |
| CVT fluid change | Fluid replacement | £120 to £200 |
| Clutch replacement | Clutch kit, may include flywheel | £450 to £700 |
| DPF replacement (diesel) | New filter | £1,000 to £1,600 |
| Front brake pads and discs | Replacement | £160 to £260 |
| Suspension repairs | Bushes, shocks, anti-roll bar links | £180 to £350 per axle |
| Air conditioning service | Re-gas or compressor replacement | £90 to £300 |
| Hybrid 12v battery | Replacement | £120 to £180 |
| Hybrid main battery | Replacement (rare, usually under warranty) | £2,800 to £4,200 |
| Rust repair | Sanding, welding, repainting | £200 to £600 |
How to Keep Costs Down
- Change CVT fluid regularly to reduce gearbox wear
- Drive diesel cars on longer runs to keep the DPF clear
- Repair suspension knocks early before they cause bigger problems
- Service the air conditioning every few years
- Check older models for rust and repair small patches quickly
- Keep hybrid systems checked during regular servicing
Conclusion
The Honda HR-V is a practical and reliable small SUV, but it has some weak points. CVT gearbox judder, clutch wear, suspension knocks, and air conditioning failures are the most common problems. Diesel and hybrid versions can also have expensive repairs if the DPF or batteries fail.
Overall, with regular maintenance and early attention to problems, the Honda HR-V is still one of the best small SUVs you can buy in the UK.
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