Crankcase (pcv) Problems of Honda CR-V - part 1

Honda CR-V owners have reported 42 problems related to crankcase (pcv) (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Honda CR-V based on all problems reported for the CR-V.

1 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2020 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/15/2021

Crankcase fuel/oil dilution problem on Honda 1. 5l direct fuel injected, turbo engine. Upon the first oil change on our 2020 Honda Cr-v exl at about 6300 miles we found the oil level in the crankcase to be overfull by approximately 1 pint. The oil smelled faintly of gasoline and appeared thinner than normal. See attached picture. We live in a town of 22,000. Most trips around town are 2 miles each way at most, which according to Honda is part of the problem as the engine does not run at normal operating temperature long enough to evaporate fuel in the crankcase. We do take occasional trips of an hour or more each direction. Honda says this problem is made worse by cold climates, however, our winter where we live had been very mild compared to most winters when our oil was changed. Most days the outside air temp had been in the 30's to low 40's. I've been told by my Honda dealer's service manager this is a common problem and Honda has no fix for this problem. I am concerned about having proper oil viscosity. If the oil level in our Honda engine crankcase was a pint over full, that would be equivalent to a 13% fuel content since the engine only holds 3. 7 quarts of oil. That seems excessive and viscosity has to suffer allowing excessive engine wear. Honda says it will be fine. I have written to Honda corp. About this problem and have not received a reply.

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2 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2019 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/30/2020

Vehicle has a demonstrable problem with the engine oil being diluted with fuel that causes the oil to be thinned out to a point where it is no longer in spec for the viscosity. The oil level in the crankcase rises and causes a check engine light to be illuminated and also causes a strong fuel smell to be present in the cabin. This is an ongoing problem that has been reported to both Honda dealers as well as Honda USA and they have chosen to take no action.

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3 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/10/2020

My engines crankcase is filling up with gasoline. I'am afraid of a fire.

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4 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 09/25/2019

My 2018 Honda cr v has the 1. 5 litre turbo engine. I have reviewed several hundred complaints that have been filed regarding the mixing of the fuel/gas with the engine oil. The issue seems to be more prevalent in the north, however, I have the same issue here in oklahoma. Upon engine start there is a strong odor of gasoline coming from the rear passenger seating. I have also noted increase oil levels in the engine crankcase. Also the smell of gasoline coming from the oil dipstick. I am writing to inquire if Honda motor company intends to do something to remedy this issue. The smell starts at the moment the engine is started. . The car can be stationary and I can still notice the smell of fuel. Prolonged exposure of fuel in the crankcase will certainly reduce the life of these engines. Please advise me as to how I can resolve this matter with Honda? thank you.

5 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 08/10/2019

Car purchased new from west hills Honda, bremerton wa, in December 2017. Equipped with 1. 5 liter engine. Gasoline is getting into the engine oil; high oil levels in crankcase. Gasoline fumes. Stationary and in motion; car is driven daily.

6 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 04/12/2019

Initial oil change on 2018 Honda Cr-v ex with 1. 5 turbo engine at 2303 miles. One week after changing oil noticed oil level had increased over 1/8" on dipstick and that oil on dipstick smells strongly of gasoline (oil level check was performed several hours after driving). Dilution of oil with gasoline is obviously detrimental to continued engine operation - therefore I can no longer drive my new vehicle. Research of the issue and identical symptoms from numerous owners clearly proves that Honda does not accept responsibility for this catastrophic design flaw (not in America anyway). Appears only possible solutions are class action lawsuit, lemon laws or waiting for Honda to man up. The obvious misinformation and corruption of the manufacturer toward their customers, concerning this well documented issue, is (imho) disgusting! it is not normal or in anyway safe or ok for engine crankcases to fill up with gasoline. . . . Ever!!! the fuel in oil issue is not the issue (design flaws happen when manufacturers fail to properly test new designs). . . Honda's corrupt treatment of customers with the issue is the real issue and continued similar behavior just might put them out of business permanently.

7 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 03/30/2019

The level of the fluid on the oil dipstick will increase after an oil change. And upon removing it smells of gasoline. 2000 miles after an oil change the level on the dipstick will read 1/2� higher than normal. Which tells me gas is somehow entering the crankcase and diluting the oil.

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8 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 03/26/2019

Oil diluted by gas. Gas smell in oil. Also causes overfill of crankcase. Gas in oil dilutes oil causing excessive and unnecessary wear and tear.

9 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 02/26/2019

Crankcase oil dipstick reading way over full 3000 miles after oil change. Oil with heavy gas smell. Apparently gas seeping into crankcase.

10 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 02/11/2019

This car was purchased new in July 2018. After about 2 months of ownership, it was observed that the oil level was significantly above the "full" mark on the dipstick. Checked on-line and learned that many other owners had made the same observation, noting a strong odor of gasoline in the oil on the dipstick. Dealer acknowledged that 1. 5 liter turbo engines are having this problem with increasing frequency. Dealer changed oil and filter at no charge. Problem persisted, with 3 more oil changes at no cost over next 4 months due to gasoline dilution of oil and consequent overfill of crankcase as read on the dipstick. Honda dealership carried out a Honda product update on this vehicle referenced as "1245a2 product update campaign" that involved a software update in which the pcm and tcm were programmed and the a/c control unit was replaced. Oil levels seemed normal for about two months, but once again were well over the full mark and had a strong gasoline odor on February 11, 2019. Took car to dealership to have problem checked and was informed that Honda now states that this condition is "normal" for this vehicle and that oil changes for overfilled oil condition will no longer be done at no charge. I scheduled an oil change and will have this done in one week. Car has 12,000 miles on the odometer. This seems to be a widespread problem with 2017 and 2018 Honda crv's with the 1. 5 liter turbo engine. Honda needs to solve this problem or offer a refund on the vehicle. The potential for early engine wear and failure seems obvious due to gasoline diluted oil. Also, there is sometimes a gasoline odor in or near the vehicle.

11 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/30/2019

Purchased January 2018. Noticed occasional gasoline smell, engine slow to warm up and oil level rising way above maximum. Oil testing showed over 7. 5% gasoline in crankcase. Reported to dealer, who denied knowledge of problem. Reported to Honda of America and was ignored. I understand a fix is available for people in northern tier of states. I live in flagstaff, az at 7,000 feet elevation. Temperatures similar to northern states.

12 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/07/2019

Gas is entering and raising engine crankcase oil levels. Concerned that software updates made by dealer will solve this issue. Worried about long term engine reliability. Honda should extend engine warranty coverage to protect us down the road.

13 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/04/2019

Oil dilution, gasoline getting into crankcase.

14 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/02/2019

The oil dipstick is showing the oil level to be substantially higher than the max oil level. I took it to the Honda dealer 1/2/19. They showed me a service bulletin indicating that gas could be mixing with the oil, but Honda considered that a normal operating condition for that model. They offered no solution to the problem, but did change the oil at my request. I consider gas mixing with the crankcase oil a serious problem. Action should be taken to remedy this problem.

15 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 01/01/2019

Oil dilution. The oil level in the crankcase continually rises due to gas seepage causing premature wear to the engine. Ongoing since purchased vehicle new. The engine also never warms up to operating temperature unless your going highway speeds. This is highly unsatisfactory when around town.

16 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 12/24/2018

My 2017 Honda crv has fuel in the oil, confirmed by dealership. The last time I had it to dealership they confirmed it had 2 quarts of fuel in the crankcase oil . This is a hazard because the engine could overheat and lock up as I drive, which could lead to an accident. This also lowers the value of my car. The dealership can't fix it! I have driven the car approximately 800 miles since last oil change . It is currently a quart high on dipstick and oil smells of fuel.

17 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 12/04/2018

Strong smell of gasoline from oil and from crankcase when oil cap is removed. Smell of gasoline very noticeable from oil dip stick when removed. Smell of gasoline is present in oil and crankcase whether engine is cold or hot. Smell of gasoline in cabin when car is restarted when engine is hot.

18 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 11/26/2018

My 2017 Honda crv ex 1. 5 ltr turbo engine has an oil delution issue fuel is getting into the crankcase deluting the oil took it to the dealer all they did was change the oil I contacted Honda got a case number#09145359 they said someone would call me about the issue. No one has called at this time Nov 26th 2018.

19 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 11/20/2018

Engine oil being diluted by gasoline contamination, overfilling the crankcase. Liquid level is above the maximum level permitted on the dipstick. Known problem with 2017-2018 Honda Cr-vs. Safety issue because it can cause stalling while driving, though I have not experienced that yet. Vehicle was stationary when discovered.

20 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 11/09/2018

Crankcase is filling with gasoline from the cylinders causing a high level on the oil dipstick (approx. 1/2 inch above the high mark) also known as oil dilution. Oil had no viscosity when I changed it and it reaked of gasoline. Two different Honda dealers and american Honda customer service all acknowledged that there aware of the issue but they haven't come up with a remedy yet. Meanwhile my vehicles engine and I am sure thousands more are being prematurely abused and worn because of gasoline (solvent) in the oil. Honda needs to make this right and soon!.

21 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2016 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 11/03/2018

Engine oil level increased by 1/8 in on only 20% oil life used (approx 2200 miles used). The dipstick smells as if fuel is in the oil. Engine components increasingly are getting louder-- the rattle of the cams atop the engine. Oil used was synthetic mobil one + new wik filter. The car had the pcv valve replaced, by owner, on a maintenance recommendation at 30,000 mi. Car has 57,879 mi. Car will be investigated by dealer on may 19. Car still under full power train guarantee.

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22 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 11/01/2018

There is unburnt fuel in the crankcase causing severe exhaust fumes in side the passengers compartment. Any long ride in vehicle cause passengers to get nauseous and light headed.

23 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/30/2018

I checked my oil after reading about other people having an issue with gasoline in the crankcase. The oil level was over the fill mark by a substantial amount and there was a distinct smell of gasoline coming from the oil filler cap. The car was two weeks old and had 225 miles on it. I took it to dealer and was told they did not smell gasoline and the oil level looked good. Total lies. They told me I was the first one to complain about this issue. They basically told me there was no problem. There was an obvious problem but did not want to deal with it.

24 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/26/2018

2018 Honda crv, 8000 miles, fuel is entering the crankcase creating an overfull condition. Concerns are noxious fumes in the cabin and extreme early wear of all lubricated engine components. Dealer informs me that this is a normal condition. I opened a case with Honda and was told the same . I intend to speak with the dealership owner and ask if I might come once each week and add gasoline to his oil over the next year.

25 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/24/2018

Fuel is mixing with the engine oil in the crankcase. The problem was verified by the service deoartment of the local Honda dealership, and the oil was changed.

26 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/24/2018

Fuel is mixing with the engine oil in the crankcase, making oil viscosity thinner and smell of gasoline. The problem was acknowledged and verified by our Honda service department on October 24, 2018. They said problem is exacerbated by cold weather and short trips. We were told a fix for the problem has been identified and we will be notified by letter prior to November 22, 2018 to schedule a time for repairs. If we do not receive notification, call the dealership back at that time.

27 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/13/2018

This is an addendum to complaint number 11140475. Besides a maintenance issue of the oil dilution by gasoline leakage into the crankcase, as reported in that complaint, there is a safety issue with the gasoline mixing with the engine oil on the 1. 5 liter turbo. There are raw gasoline fumes in the passenger compartment with the engine running in city traffic. This has caused headaches and nausea to children in the rear passenger seat and problems for the driver as well. The only source of the gas fumes appears to be the gas leakage into the engine.

28 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/08/2018

At 15,000 miles, I have found that gasoline is contaminating the crankcase oil even though I do not live in a cold climate or drive very short distances. My local Honda dealer has confirmed this problem but has no fix and has received no guidance from Honda.

29 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/05/2018

While driving on a city street, the engine of our 2018 Honda Cr-v (1. 5 l turbo) suddenly lost power and smoke began pouring out of the exhaust, this happened during rush hour on a busy portland, oregon, street on a dark and rainy October evening. Thankfully, the driver of the Cr-v managed to get off the street and roll into a gas station without getting rear-ended. The Cr-v was towed to a Honda dealer's service department, where the cause of the problem was identified as "oil level above spec. " rising oil level is a common problem in 2017-18 Honda Cr-vs, caused by dilution of crankcase oil with unburned gasoline due to an engine design flaw well known to Honda. Driving a vehicle with an engine that could fail at any time/place is definitely a safety issue, and the affected Honda vehicles should immediately be recalled in the u. S. They already been recalled in china!.

30 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 10/05/2018

Gasoline smell in passenger cabin when driving car. Gas somehow leaks into engine crankcase and dilutes oil and causes oil level to be overfilled. This is a continuing issue, not just a single occurrence.

31 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 09/11/2018

Our new 2018 Honda cr-ex-l has the 1. 5l turbo engine. After 1,012 total miles, the oil was more than a quart high and smelled of gasoline. I had checked the oil level when we received the vehicle new and it had been normal - between the upper and lower marks while cold. I could smell gasoline both on the rag and coming from the crankcase. I took the car to the Honda dealership and communicated the above plus I expressed safety concerns from the gasoline. The dealership contacted the regional Honda service rep and they decided to change the oil and filter as a temporary solution. Honda USA paid for the oil change and told the dealer that �we know about the problem and are working on a solution but we do not have one yet. � Honda was unable to answer any of our safety related concerns. We asked about: engine fire, fuel vapors in the passenger cabin, engine stalling, heater/defrost not working in winter, damage to the engine from fuel contaminated oil. All questions had no answer from either Honda USA nor from the dealer. After ~ 600 miles of additional driving, the problem is back as the oil is over-full again. It is looking like the oil will need to be changed every 800 miles of driving. We remain concerned about the health and safety risks of the vehicle due to the fuel accumulating in oil problem. We assume that the gasoline is accumulating in the oil during engine running useage of the vehicle; so injector spray is wrong rather than a fuel-line leak.

32 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 08/27/2018

This car has suffered from oil dilution with gasoline since it was purchased in August 2018. I have taken it to the dealer who changed the oil at my expense and claimed that increasing oil in the crankcase is normal and should be expected. The oil level increases about 1 quart for every 2000 miles driven and the oil smells like gasoline. This problem happens at all ambient temperatures, and regardless of whether the vehicle is traveling in short trips or extended highway drives.

33 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 08/16/2018

At about 810 miles on odometer, I checked the engine oil and it smelled like gasoline. I brought the car to dealer 2 times and left car there for 3 days the second time. Service manager said that this gas smell is normal in the engine oil. I also noticed oil is turning black and the level is rising (due to gasoline entering the crankcase. Dealer drove it about 200 miles and when I got car home, the smell of gasoline in oil was worse and the oil level was above the full mark (due to gasoline entering into engine oil. This poses a very dangerous threat of an accident because the engine could seize or the gasoline in oil could start a fire. I called Honda and they said that this is normal.

34 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2017 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 08/04/2018

Engine oil overfill condition exists as early as 700 miles after oil change at the dealership. Engine oil is above the 'full' mark on the dipstick and the engine oil has the distinct smell of gasoline present. This problem is reported on numerous Honda Cr-v owners forums and is associated with the 1. 5 turbo engine. It is our fear that if this overfill condition is due to the presence of gasoline mixing with the crankcase engine oil that the results could be catastrophic engine failure, explosion, sudden loss of engine power, sudden loss of vehicle control, etc.

35 Crankcase (pcv) problem of the 2018 Honda CR-V

Failure Date: 06/29/2018

Oil level in crankcase rising from fuel dilution.


Other Common Engine And Engine Cooling related problems of Honda CR-V


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