Common Problems with the Honda CR-V Hybrid
If you’re driving a Honda CR-V Hybrid around Hamilton – whether it’s the 2020 or 2021 model – you’re probably loving the lower fuel bill, especially with all that sitting in traffic on Ulster Street or cruising out to Ngaruawahia or Cambridge. But like any hybrid (or any car, to be fair), there’s a few quirks and things to keep an eye on, especially with NZ road conditions.
Honda CR-V Hybrid 2020 – Noises and Acceleration Woes
Some folks who bring their 2020 Hondas in, tell us about the acoustic warning system being a bit of a racket – loud enough to wake the neighbours in Rototuna. There’s not much you can do about that one, unfortunately, unless those warning noises change suddenly or get erratic. If that happens, definitely best to swing by the workshop for a look.
One thing you really want to watch for (and it’s not just Honda, we’ve seen everything from older Toyota Estimas to newer Peugeot 3008s play up here) is the car accelerating when it should be slowing down. Unintended acceleration when shifting gears, coming off cruise control, or even hitting the brake can sometimes be a sticky throttle or an issue with the transmission. It’s not super common, but it’s something that’s popped up in petrol CR-Vs too.
If your car does start surging forward when you’re trying to pull up at the lights in Te Awamutu or creeping over the speed humps in Hillcrest, here’s what we recommend:
Hard, steady pressure on the brake pedal – don’t pump it.
Shift into neutral (that’ll take the power away from the wheels).
Once it feels safe, flick the engine off.
Noticed any shuddering at low speeds, or is the engine suddenly making weird whining or rumbling noises? Could be a transmission issue, which is worth sorting before you end up stranded outside The Base. More details on unintended acceleration here or if you’re curious about throttle bodies, have a squiz at this throttle body article.
Any weird acceleration stuff is always a “bring it in right now” situation – doesn’t matter if you’re driving a CR-V, a Mazda CX-5, or even a Nissan Serena.
Honda CR-V Hybrid 2021 – Fewer Issues So Far
Honestly, the 2021 model hasn’t had much drama come through our doors yet. Most drivers are pretty happy, especially running errands from Chartwell to Raglan, or the school run through Hamilton East.
Keeping Your Hybrid Battery Happy
One of the big questions new hybrid owners ask: How long’s the battery going to last? Most will make it to around 10 years, but with all the Hamilton stop-start driving, potholes, cold mornings, and the odd roasting-hot summer day, actual battery life can vary a bit.
To keep that battery ticking along:
– Get a yearly service (no matter if you mostly park up in Hamilton CBD or clock up the miles to Morrinsville).
– Try and keep it under cover over winter – those foggy mornings aren’t battery-friendly.
– If you suddenly see your charge drop, warning lights pop up, struggle with acceleration, or notice the fuel economy turn rubbish, it’s time to get the battery checked.
We see all sorts come in for battery issues (not just Hondas – plenty of Subaru XV Hybrids, Audi e-trons, even the odd Hyundai Ioniq), and can sort you out with battery diagnostics, reconditioning, or replacement if needed.
Got Honda CR-V Hybrid Problems?
So, if your CR-V Hybrid is acting up – or maybe you just want peace of mind before that next WOF Hamilton inspection – pop into Grimmer Motors. We’re local, straight-talking, and used to seeing all sorts from all over Hamilton, Huntly, and Cambridge. Whether it’s a weird dash light, a battery check, or something you’re just not sure about, we’ll give your car a proper look over and explain what’s going on in plain English.