2005 Honda CR-V used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Headlights failing or too dim127 owner complaints, usually around 88,000 miles, owners paid about $2,500

  Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.

• Pulls to one side32 owner complaints, usually around 100 miles

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

• Airbag warning light29 owner complaints, usually around 80,500 miles, owners paid about $800

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Electrical systemRecall number 20V768000, Dec 10, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 19V499000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V501000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V182000, Mar 6, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 18V268000, Apr 26, 2018
• Air bagsRecall number 17V029000, Jan 10, 2017
• Air bagsRecall number 16V344000, May 23, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 15V320000, May 28, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 14V700000, Nov 4, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 14V353000, Jun 20, 2014
• Electrical systemRecall number 12V486000, Oct 5, 2012
• Air bagsRecall number 04V526000, Nov 8, 2004

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Customer Support Program For Front Passenger's Airbag Inflator.Jun 30, 2026
• Revision summaryNov 10, 2022
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMay 3, 2022
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsJun 7, 2018

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.