CarComplaints.com Notes: It's rare when a newer vehicle has defect trends, & the 2017 Honda CR-V has at least two — overfilled oil levels with a gas smell, & heat not working.

Both problems affecting the Honda CR-V's 1.5L "Earth Dreams" engine appear to be related to cold-climate regions.

CR-V owners report overfilled oil levels due to fuel in the oil, & sometimes a gas smell in the cabin. That problem appears to be related to fuel injection which Honda hopes to fix via a software update. Honda so far has only conducted a recall in China & a "product update" in Canada.

CR-V owners also report no heat even after warming up their CR-Vs for 30 minutes — not even enough to defrost the windshield. So far, there has been no fix from Honda for this issue.

8.0

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$300
Average Mileage:
12,550 miles
Total Complaints:
89 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (37 reports)
  2. no solution!!! (18 reports)
  3. no solution; Honda told me to check oil every 500 miles (13 reports)
  4. tech says nothing wrong (8 reports)
  5. change oil frequently (4 reports)
  6. software update (3 reports)
2017 Honda CR-V engine problems

engine problem

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2017 Honda CR-V Owner Comments (Page 1 of 5)

problem #89

Sep 012018

CR-V EX-L 1.4L Turbo

  • CVT transmission
  • 5,075 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

When you pull the oil dip stick, there is a gas smell. A few times I've smelled gas within the inside of the car. So I've read far the problem is not as bad in the south but my concern is the long term effect the oil and gas mixture will have on the engine life. So far I have not heard of a fix but it's very concerning for owners who have purchased mainly due to the reliability of the Honda name! That was my main reason for purchasing a Honda again!

- E W., FORT LAUDERDALE, US

problem #88

Oct 012019

CR-V EX 1.5t

  • Automatic transmission
  • 18,641 miles

I'm seriously fed up with Honda cars, this will be my last one. No solution to it. At least they can come up with some heater and sensor to remove excess gas from oil when detected.

I won't trust Honda's name anymore.

- Rahul D., Toronto, ON, Canada

problem #87

Dec 012022

CR-V Touring 1.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 111,111 miles

It smells like gas pretty much all the time. It's terrible and the only solution seems to be getting an annoying amount of oil changes. Honda suggests that I just not take lots of short trips. K. I just won't drive to work anymore???? Only long road trips with oil change before and after I guess. Seems like everything I want out of a car.

- Emily P., Fredericksburg, US

problem #86

Mar 012019

CR-V LS 1.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 21,748 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

I can't believe Honda is still selling this 1.5 fuel leaking engine on an unsuspecting customers. If you have purchased a vehicle with one for these 1.5 turbo engines and figure it won't happen to you or, that if it does, Honda will fix it... guess again...

This has been going on for months, probably years, and still no real fix from Honda. The only real fix is to replace the defective engine and put in one that works, you know, like what you thought you had purchased. I guess this is just another example of defective product that Honda refuses to correct, see Civic AC issues for similar defective product. It's the same shameful behaviour, they do next to nothing meaningful and run out the warranty so your client is then responsible to correct your garbage... thanks for nothing, Honda.

- Steve C., Burlington, ON, Canada

problem #85

Feb 012018

CR-V EX-L 1.5L Turbo

  • CVT transmission
  • 5,000 miles

Oil level rises about 1/4" in 3000 miles; lately if oil filled to top of orange dipstick (as dealer has done twice), the oil level rise seems slightly less. This is in a warm area, the southern California coast. I think overfilling at an oil change, which Honda says will not affect the engine, is a good practice, as the % of gas in the oil will be less! Worry about inadequate lubrication throughout the engine which seems to cause cam destruction for some. Warranty for engine should be 150K miles, 20 years, which is what I thought would be the lifetime of this vehicle for me. I have been changing oil at 3K mile interval to limit this problem, but that defeats the environmental promise of 7.5K miles between changes for the "Earth Dreams" engine normal operation and costs extra to the customer.

- Thom C., Ventura, US

problem #84

Sep 212019

CR-V Touring 1.5L Turbo

  • CVT transmission
  • 12,492 miles

My Honda CR-V 1.5t turbo engine has an oil dilution problem. Dipstick indicates increase levels of over 1/2 inch over full. The oil on the dipstick smells like gas, and it is black in color after 2000 miles on oil change. I purchased "Honda care maintenance" which allows oil changes every 4000 miles. The local Honda dealer says until I have a fault indicator on my dashboard nothing can be done. So far, after 26,500 miles, the engine is still performing okay. Not sure how long this engine will last with this oil dilution problem.

- Ron R., Larkspur, CA, US

problem #83

Jan 062022

CR-V LX 2.4L

  • CVT transmission
  • 11,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

My 2017 2.4L crv, has the oil dilution problem, changed the oil 6 months ago, put 4.6 quarts with new filter and after driving 1061 miles, drained 5.1 quarts, oil was very thin and strong smell of gas, never before measured the drained oil, until this time, but always had the smell at the oil filer cap and the dip stick, called honda got a case number, suppose to take it to my local dealer , but not sure if they would do anything, my other car is a 2019 accord 2.0T, has the same problem, local dealer sealed the dip stick and said come back at 1000 miles to drain and see how much extra we have, I suspect that they will do the same with the crv. Always had hondas, since 1982 since got my license, currently have 5 crv's in our extended family, so it's not about bashing honda, its matter of us putting money in a company that doesn't really do anything here in States to solve the issue like they did in China.

Update from Jan 22, 2022: So I sent a sample of the last oil change to Blackstone, the results came back with 3.5% fuel in oil, anything over 2% is harmful for the engine.

- 2017crvlx2.4, Glendale, ca, US

problem #82

Sep 012020

CR-V EX-L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 69,000 miles

All instrument panel lights came on, telling me that there were problems with brakes, cruise, lane assist, etc. I googled it and found a service bulletin for it, but the car still ran just fine and the lights only came on every so often. Then they all lit up one morning, and the engine light started flashing when I was about a mile from my house. All acceleration stopped past 12 mph. I had to cruise into a parking lot. Once the car was turned off and turned back on, it worked fine again.

Took it to Honda and they wanted to charge me for new spark plugs because there was an engine misfire. (They said that was what caused all of my instrument lights to come on.) I looked up the issue and found the extension on the warranty for spark plugs - not the dealership - I found the service bulletin with this on it. Saved myself $200. They changed the plugs and once I started it up the next morning - same thing. All lights on. Took it back AGAIN and they said it was the fuel injectors. I have NEVER had to replace fuel injectors on any of the six Hondas we have owned, EVER.

This is a 3 year old car with 70k miles on it, and they want me to put $900 into parts that shouldn't need to be replaced. I called Honda USA to see if they would cover it, and they can only cover $300, which I shouldn't be upset about, but seriously, I don't think they would even need to be changed if not for this gas mixing with the oil problem. I take it for new fuel injectors tomorrow. I hope that will fix it. Otherwise, this is the last Honda for our family.

- Meredith H., Fort Thomas, KY, US

problem #81

Mar 012019

CR-V LX 4

  • Automatic transmission
  • 15,000 miles

As far as non-CVT CR-V's, is this a significant issue? Do you see it in warm-weather states?

- Mike C., Montebello, CA, US

problem #80

Jan 032019

CR-V Touring 1.5L T

  • CVT transmission
  • 7,705 miles

We purchased our new CR-V in August of 2017. I noticed the oil level in the engine increasing from purchase date to December 2017. It had risen 1/4" on the dipstick during that time. I did some research and found this is a common problem with the Earthdreams 1.5 turbo Honda engines. Honda replaced the A/C control unit, performed a software update and changed the oil to address the problem. It DID NOT fix it. In January, 2018 I decided to send an oil sample to Blackstone Labs for analysis and again in July 2018 after it had risen again 3/8" on the dipstick. The results were as follows

JANUARY ANALYSIS (#1) : The spectral results are normal for a new engine like this one. High iron and copper show lingering wear-in still washing out, while silicon is form assembly sealers and lubes. This looks to be the second oil change, so there is certainly room for these elements to improve. Fuel is the only possible problem in these results. 2.3% fuel is a bit high, causing the low viscosity. Fuel system issues are a common concern for these 1.5L's, so we'll watch fuel closely. Change the oil then re-sample in about 5,000 miles. Averages for the engine type are based on an oil run ~4,800 miles.

JULY ANALYSIS (#2) : Most of the wear metals and silicon are lower, likely showing wear-in stuff washing out. Iron is the only metal that's still on the high side next to universal averages. It shows excess steel wear. Since the other metals are low, we're leaning towards steel-on-steel like something in the valve train, but it's hard to say for sure. If the engine saw a lot of idling during the cold winter months, that might be contributing. Fuel is still on the radar too. 2.5% is still enough to show a possible fuel system problem. Watch for an increasing oil level. Repeat this interval and check back.

Both analyzed as high in iron. First was 41 on a 16 average and the second was 44 on a 16 average. These numbers tell me there is something wearing at over 2.5 times the normal rate in this engine.

I delivered both reports to the dealership to be filed with my records there. They said Honda considers the fuel/oil contamination issue normal for the 1.5 Turbo and this is true, as they ALL do it so that makes it "normal" for that engine. It just doesn't make it GOOD for that engine.

Last week we received a letter from Honda extending the warrant from 5 yrs. to 6 yrs. and unlimited mileage. They specifically mentioned the camshaft, rocker arms and spark plugs being covered. Very interesting that the camshaft and rocker arms are in the valve train and mentioned as a possible source of the steel on steel contaminants by Blackstone Labs. I am very concerned about the longevity of this engine and what this issue will do to the value of the vehicle. Very disappointed in Honda's handling of this issue.

- David C., Springfield, US

problem #79

Mar 262018

CR-V EX-L 1.5L 4-cyl

  • CVT transmission
  • 2,708 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

This happens to me without any solution from Honda. My first visit to DCH Honda Paramus was my oil was over the level and Honda blames the outside shop whom I had my first oil change. They said that my oil was over filled. Honda solution was to have an oil change on that day, March 26 and After 3 days, I checked my oil and has a strong smell of fuel in my oil and went back on March 29, Talked to Mr. Frank Russo and said that nothing is wrong with my car and it is normal to smell gas in the oil dipstick and he said that as long as "no warning" sign on my dash, I don't have to worry about my car. My car will be 2 years old this coming February 2019, I hope I am still covered under warranty or Lemon Law here in New Jersey. If only Honda will admit that they have problems and will find a solution to fix it and have their customers to have extended warranty.

Just now after driving for 30 mins, a strong smell of fuel inside my cabin.

- sermar, Dumont, US

problem #78

Jan 102019

CR-V Touring 1.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 8,478 miles

Brought in our CR-V for an overfilled crankcase. The oil had a strong smell of gasoline. The dealer did a product campaign #1245A2. Two plus months later I noticed my oil is now over filled again. Also getting a strong gas smell when I turn on the defroster. I had called Honda company direct and the told me they would have a Rep call me. Never did. Also I had asked the dealer to write on the service ticket about the gas in the oil as I'm worried about future engine problems. The dealer refused to do it. Seems like Honda is trying to cover this up in the event of a future recall or litigation. If I didn't buy the extended warranty I would get rid of this car in a hurry. I have also had other problems with it and with the dealer.

- Philip M., Wolcott, US

problem #77

Aug 012017

CR-V Touring 1.5L Turbo

  • CVT transmission
  • 13,450 miles

GAS IS MIXING WITH MY OIL AND IT CAN RUIN MY MOTOR

- lemondrop119, Toms River, US

problem #76

Jan 182019

CR-V Touring 1.5t

  • CVT transmission
  • 33,800 miles

I had the recall (Software Update & A/C Control unit replaced) done on my CR V back in January 2019. I never had the gas smell, but the Engine Temp does seem to rise quicker now after the recall work was completed.I drive 17 miles one way to work and Highway miles, so the engine has ample time to "burn off" (eye roll) the gas in the cylinders.

When I picked it up, the oil was exactly between the full and add marks on the orange read tip. I just checked it after putting 2,777 miles on it since the recall, Its above the Orange Tip by about a quarter of an inch. I contacted Honda, was assigned a Ticket number was told to call back with the ticket number. I have have called 3 times left message and my ticket number to "Geneva". One week has past (3/23/19) no one has returned my call. My first Honda, and may be my last, they (HONDA) simply are ignoring this issue.

But why should I be surprised, When I first bought the CR V in 2017 (first one sold at my local Honda Dealer) I called Honda and asked about an issue I had with the Hankook Tires, The representative that day argued that ALL CR-V on the new re-designed CR-V come with Bridgestones! I guess I should have know then that HONDA is NOT the company they were at one time.

- Robert S., Greencastle, PA, US

problem #75

Mar 022019

CR-V EX 1.5L Turbo

  • Automatic transmission
  • 5,926 miles

When checking the oil level on the dip stick, it was about a half inch higher above the full level and smelled like gasoline. Apparently Honda is aware of the problem but does not know how to fix it, no help for the owners. NOT HAPPY!!!

- ludwig.richardj, HEMPFIELD, US

problem #74

Sep 012018

CR-V EX AWD 1.5L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 15,000 miles

After finding out about the gas in oil problem for CRVs, checked our 2017 and sure enough, excess fluid on dipstick, very black, smelly. Upon draining, smells far worse than any of 100s of oil changes I’ve done ove 50 years. Sent sample in to Blackstone Labs, gas over 4% of volume, way over average values, lowered viscosity, and higher flammability - at lower temperatures. Have complained via email to owner of selling dealership, Moss Honda in Moreno Valley Ca, no reply. Plan on continuing to pay for oil tests at labs to validate and substantiate my issue. Have read people being told to watch levels, change oil? Great ideas? Just keep changing the oil? Even for free it would be a pain. Supposedly being fixed in newer models, but this is my, 2017 1.5l turbo. Very concerned about resale, reliability, breakdowns, and mechanical damage due to reduced viscosity and flammability. Also there’s claims it’s a cold weather, infrequent use, low mileage trip problem. I live in hot Southern California, we drive frequently and many miles (24,000 in less than 2 years) and never take short trips, so it’s happening in hot climates too.

- Frank D., Highland, US

problem #73

Jan 252019

CR-V EXL 1.5L Turbo

  • CVT transmission
  • 29,000 miles

Checked oil at 1600 miles and it was way over full mark smelled like gas. Called dealer and they said there was an open recall on the vehicle and bring they would not admit it was for this problem. They did update and changed oil but not filter. Gas mileage has dropped since software update. I will be keeping a close eye on oil level now.

- Nick S., Park Rapids, US

problem #72

Feb 062019

CR-V Touring 1.5L 4-cyl

  • CVT transmission
  • 27,000 miles

I am the 2nd owner of a 2017 CRV Touring class which only had 27k miles. After owning it for only a few months I receive a product update letter from Honda regarding a needed software update and A/C control unit replaced. I wasn't experiencing any of the noticeable signs that other owners cited regarding gas smell or heater problems. However, I did have the shift button on the handle come off (cheap part!).

As I was enroute to the dealership to have my product update performed my car suddenly lost power from 65 mph on a busy highway dropping down to 25 mph with semi-trailers riding up on my bumper! A very frightening experience! I managed to eventually pull over and wait for roadside assistance. I had to be towed the rest of the way to the dealership! Fun time!

The dealer performed the update and I was feeling good about the fix until I started monitoring my oil levels and found the problem had persisted. Oil levels continue to be high! So the update didn't fix the problem! I am continuing to work with my dealer but to no avail!

This is a calculated measure that Honda is playing so they won't be subjected to Federal regulations if they did a recall. By just doing a product update they retain control but unfortunately they don't have a fix! They're kicking the can down the road! Shame on you Honda! Someone is going to get hurt or worse but they decide they would rather gamble and pay less legal costs in litigation than the expensive recall costs. They are rolling dice with our lives!

I filed complaints with the NHTSA and currently taking some lemon law recourse to return my CRV! This is my first and soon-to-be last Honda! Ridiculous!

Honda"s mission statement - “Maintaining a global viewpoint, we are dedicated to supplying products of the highest quality, yet at a reasonable price for worldwide customer satisfaction.”

...And they recalled over 400,000 CRVs & Civics in China!

- tscor, Fairfield, US

problem #71

Jan 022019

CR-V LX 1.5L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 10,000 miles

When taking in with fuel in oil I was told normal. Then when pushing matter dealer Wilde Honda agreed there was problem but they are waiting on Honda to advise them . I have their service package on wife car so they do All maintenance on vechical. Had less than 1000 miles on previous oil change and dipstick level was over 1/2” over full level and smelled like gas. I demanded that oil be changed and after being told I’d have to pay for it . After arguing they finally agreed to change oil. I demanded that tech document oil level and how it smelled to which not done. Another issue is that they replaced battery 2 times in last 1 1/2 years and when asked what’s killing battery they couldn’t find anything. I’ve noticed that there’s something running under car after car has been shut off. It’s not all the time only on occasion and it’s a humming sound and it there for over 6 hrs. When asking dealer about this they said that there’s only 2 things under car that could be running the evap system or fuel pump. The evap system may run a minute or so after car shut down and it makes ticking noise. When asked about fuel pump I was told it makes humming sound. When asked again about that being possible issue with gas in oil I was told I didn’t know what I was talking about. I was told next time I hear noise I should take cell phone and put under car to record. It’s happened 3 times since Jan but didn’t have phone handy. I find it hard to believe that Honda recalls CRV’s in China but not here in US. I also that neither Honda Corp and dealerships aren’t all over the gas in oil for liability issues with it being 1of there best sellers. The only way China got are all was to get social media to get things done.LETs GET on HONDA

- John B., Wales, US

problem #70

Nov 152018

CR-V EX 1.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 18,029 miles

After hearing about the recall I checked the oil level and sure enough it was substantially above the orange marker on the dip stick. My dealer applied the software fix provided by Honda and I will check very soon whether the oil level issue is still present.

Update from Mar 11, 2019: Oil level is still above normal and oil is quite dark at 2000 kms after oil change. Has anyone else seen this condition?

Car is still slow to warm up and heat indicator seems to stick at half way and then move up to normal quite fast.

- Mj H., Calgary, AB, Canada

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