general problems of the 2003 Honda CR-V

18 problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 2003 Honda CR-V. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Honda CR-V based on all problems reported for the 2003 CR-V.

1 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 11/28/2020

My low beams do not work on 2003 Honda crv. I bought the car in 2015, and see there was a low beam headlight recall in March/ April of 2012. Since the issue just started in my vehicle, and there was a prior recall on this issue, I would like the recall to be sent to me. Also, my vehicle is showing a code p1259 vtec system malfunction showing up.

2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/04/2018

When in drive, at a light, with foot on the brake, the engine suddenly accelerates briefly, then returns to normal. This happened 3 or 4 times over the last year or 2. On 06/04/18, when in motion,in reverse, the engine suddenly accelerated. I dropped it into drive, it continued until I braked and jammed it into park, then the engine returned to idle.

3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2017

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Cr-v. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, and the engine fan was inoperable causing the engine to overheat. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who replaced the thermostat, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000.

4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/18/2015

On December 18 my youngest daughter was returning from a babbysitting job. . Her 2003 crv accelerator stuck open . . For 5 to 7 miles she pressed on brakes as car was accelerating over 100 mph. . She managed to slow to 60 and engage neutral while car still revving. . And shut off vehicle. . No dash or warning lights. . The car is now at a Honda dealership in chattanooga. . The dealer has pics of what happened and brakes were fried as they were new. . Im 2 1/2 weekks waiting on a reply or investigation from Honda . . Im out a car and my daughter needs to get to college. . She was on a long stretch of highway at incident. Which is what likely saved her by the grace of god. . Or could have been serious injury or death.

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/04/2014

Tl-the contact owns a 2003 Honda Cr-v. The contact stated that while in park, the vehicle failed to start. The contact independently replaced the battery twice. However, the failure recurred. The contact then removed the remote starter with instruction from the dealer. However, the failure recurred. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer who was unable to diagnose or repair the vehicle. The failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 137,000. Oo.

6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/16/2013

My family and I were driving on an interstate, traveling up a slight hill at 65 mph. I stepped on the accelerator to increase power, and the pedal suddenly went right to the floor and the engine rpms increased from 3k to about 5. 5k. The crv accelerated rapidly, approaching 80 mph, and I removed my foot from the pedal. The engine was completely unresponsive, and the crv continued to accelerate to 85 mph. At this point, I made sure that the cruise control was turned off. I quickly realized something was wrong, so I began to apply the brakes, gently at first, but the engine was racing and accelerating the crv, so I had to smash on the brake with both feet. I was able to bring the crv down to about 45 mph and exit the interstate at a rest area. Once on the off-ramp, I put the transmission into neutral because the brakes were under a lot of stress. The engine rpms shot even higher, so I cut the ignition and coasted into the rest area. We had to call for a tow truck. A mechanic confirmed (as I suspected) that the butterfly valve in the engine throttle body was stuck in the open position. A few days later, a Honda parts inspector reviewed the crv and determined that the problem was caused by normal wear and tear, and that we were responsible for paying for a new throttle body. A series of calls with corporate Honda ensued, wherein they refused to acknowledge any responsibility for the defective part. After much complaining on my part, Honda agreed to pay for a new throttle as long as I would sign a waiver absolving them of all future legal liability. I refused to do so. Ultimately, I worked with my local dealership to trade-in the crv for a newer model. I do not know the fate of the 2003 crv. The incident on the road was horrifying, and then to be treated poorly by corporate Honda was infuriating. The national safety database shows that this is not a new problem.

7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/28/2012

On my 2003 Honda at around 66,000 miles the air conditioning quit working. Although I hardly use a/c since I only have a short drive to work. I took the vehicle into a Honda dealer. It was reported that the a/c blew up and was contaminated throughout the system. I had to replace everything including lines. Although they claim this happens, im concerned since the a/c was rarely used. Clearly a defect in the a/c. Ive owned other vehicles with only having to do regular maintenace on the a/c with no problems. This repair costed 2,611. 70. I had an extended warrenty which did not help much either. I have been told or read other problems with the a/c in Hondas.

8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/06/2012

Heater core leaking into passenger side and dripping on passenger's foot. Passenger was not injured but potential for burn.

9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/28/2010

While driving the 2003 crv, I heard what sounded like marbles going through the ac vents, then saw a puff of smoke from under the hood, the ac quit blowing cold air. I contacted the dealer who said that this is a common occurrence with the crv, he said contact american Honda since you are a loyal customer and the probably would cover it under a good will gesture. No such luck, the person we spoke to said that they would give us nothing, since this is not a Honda issue. I requested to speak to some one higher up and the gentleman , stated he makes the decisionso it does not have to go any further than him, I asked how can you be the only person who decides this, I then asked to speak to his supervisor and he stated he would not talk to me any further about this either, that the decision is with him. I requested one more time, he then hung up on me. I called back a day later and got the same results, as soon as you give them your VIN # , I got put on hold and sent to the same person as before. I wanted to talk to a different person. I got several estimates now to replace the ac, anywhere from $2900 to $4500 depending on where I take it. Honda dealers are requiring the whole system to be replaced, compressor, dryer unit, condenser and lines. Apparently it sends metal particles through out the whole system. If it is not flushed or replaced it will occur again. I have now tried to get the dealer to help the will cover 25% of the cost on parts only. I will probably get the system repaired or sell the vehicle as is. Unsure. Parts will be available when I do have it repaired, I will ask for them back. I will continue to call american Honda until I receive some type of resolution, my wife is writing a letter to Honda. I searched the internet and this seemed to be a major issue with 2002 to 2004 Honda crv's . Never buy again.

10 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/06/2010

The ac compressor on my 2003 Honda Cr-v, 60917 miles, destroyed itself internally causing the engine to cut off. I had difficulty pulling the car off the road since there was no power steering. Local Honda dealer said the compressor came apart sending metal shavings throughout the system. This will require a complete a/c system replacement, cost $3300. After checking on the internet, this seems to be an ongoing problem with the Cr-v.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 04/25/2010

I recently purchased a 2003 Honda Cr-v ex with 62k miles on it. After driving the car for less than 3k additional miles the air conditioner just stopped working. We were driving with the air conditioner on and then next thing you know it just stopped blowing cold air. I took in to be diagnosed and was told the air compressor needed to be replaced. The total repair cost is about $1200. I haven't had it repaired yet because I don't have the extra cash. Looks like this is a widespread problem with Honda.

12 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/27/2008

2003 Honda Cr-v air conditioner/compressor blew up at approx 97,600 miles. Mechanic said because of debris, filings, etc. , cost for repair is $3800.

13 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/19/2008

The contact owns a 2003 Honda crv. While driving between 25-30 mph, the compressor seized. The contact was able to continue to her destination. The dealer stated that due to a lack of lubrication, the compressor seized and caused damage to the air conditioning unit. She was first informed that this was an isolated failure with vehicles from another country with specific vehicle identification numbers. Her vehicle is no longer under warranty; however, the dealer is willing to pay for half of the repair. The current mileage was 73,000 and failure mileage was 72,000.

14 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/03/2008

My wifes 2003 Cr-v has had 3 compressors explode. The first time was at 17,000 miles, the second was at 41,000 miles, and the third was 3 weeks ago at around 65,000. The entire system was replaced 2 times by Honda at no cost (once under warranty and the second time as a goodwill gesture). Though they deny any knowledge of a history of air conditioner problems with Cr-vs, they have agreed to replace the entire system this third time for only the cost of labor ($699).

15 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 10/12/2004

Concerned with recent reports of fires associated with 2003 vehicle8n`sugest NHTSA reopen investigation possible design flaw of vehicle. . Read more...

16 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 10/08/2004

While driving, the vehicle caught fire. The oil was changed on yesterday. The consumer was waiting for a response from the manufacturer.

17 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/17/2003

I brought my 2003 Honda Cr-v ex model in to maine mall Honda in south portland, maine for routine 10,000 mile scheduled maintenance, which includes changing the oil, rotating tires and inspecting fluid levels. Within 5 miles of leaving the dealers location, the engine caught fire and the car was a total loss. I first noticed smole by looking in the rear view mirror approxiamtely 2 miles after leaving the dealers location. Thinking it was just some spilled oil, I kept on driving until I noticed the low oil light come on the dashboard. I pulled the car over and smelled oil. At that point I opened the hood of the car and saw flames in the engine. The maine state police arrived within 5 minutes and determined that the fire was too far progreesed to save the car. The south portland and scarborough maine fire departments arrived within 10 minutes to put out the fire.

18 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/08/2003

While driving at 40 mph and after the very first oil change consumer felt the vehicle trembled violently. Vehicle was pulled over, and the consumer smelled something burning. Also, consumer saw that oil was dripping out of the vehicle. There had been a report on television concerning the oil filter. The problem with this vehicle was that the mechanic neglected to return the oil pan plug.



Safety Ratings of CR-V Cars
Fuel Economy of CR-V Vehicles
CR-V Service Bulletins
CR-V Safety Recalls
CR-V Defect Investigations