Rear differential groan or shudder on AWD cars
A groan, graunch or vibration from the back when moving off, reversing on lock, or turning slowly in a car park.
Should I buy a 2012–2018 Honda CR-V 2.0 Petrol Automatic?
Considering a 2012–2018 Honda CR-V 2.0 Petrol Automatic? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.
At a glance
We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.
This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.
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Common Honda CR-V (2012–2018) problems
Cold-start rattle from valve timing hardware
A short metallic rattle right after a cold start, usually after the car has been left overnight.
Air-conditioning compressor or clutch failure
Cold air comes and goes, the system blows warm on hot days, or the air conditioning stops working altogether.
Honda CR-V buying questions
Is a 2012–2018 Honda CR-V worth buying?
It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 2012–2018 Honda CR-V 2.0 Petrol Automatic, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.
What common problems affect the Honda CR-V (2012–2018)?
The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.
What should I check before buying a Honda CR-V?
Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.
A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.
The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.
Or enter the vehicle manually