Hello Jake, are you in the market for a reliable and affordable used car? Look no further than the Honda CRV! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about buying a used Honda CRV, from its specifications to its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
1. History of Honda CRV
The Honda CRV first hit the market in 1995 as a compact crossover SUV. Since then, it has gone through several major redesigns, with the latest model being the fifth generation. The CRV has gained popularity over the years for its reliability, safety, and versatility.
2. Why Choose a Used Honda CRV?
Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, as long as you choose the right vehicle. Honda CRVs are known for their longevity and durability, so buying a used one can still provide you with many years of reliable use. Plus, buying used can save you money upfront and in the long run, as used cars have lower insurance rates and depreciate less quickly than new cars.
3. Things to Consider Before Buying a Used Honda CRV
Before you start shopping for a used Honda CRV, there are a few things you should consider. First, determine your budget and what features are most important to you. Next, research the different model years and trims to find the one that suits your needs. You should also get a vehicle history report to check for any accidents or other issues.
4. Where to Find Used Honda CRVs for Sale
You can find used Honda CRVs for sale at dealerships, private sellers, and online marketplaces. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to do your research and shop around to find the best deal.
5. Financing a Used Honda CRV
Financing a used car is similar to financing a new car, but there are a few key differences. You may have to pay a higher interest rate on a used car loan, and you may have to put down a larger down payment. However, you can save money by getting pre-approved for a loan and negotiating the price of the car.
6. Tips for Test Driving a Used Honda CRV
When test driving a used Honda CRV, pay attention to the way it handles, the condition of the brakes and tires, and any unusual sounds or smells. Take it on different types of roads and test out all the features to make sure they’re working properly. You should also have a mechanic inspect the car before you make a purchase.
7. Negotiating the Price of a Used Honda CRV
Negotiating the price of a used car can be intimidating, but it’s an important step in getting a good deal. Do your research beforehand to find out what similar models are selling for, and be prepared to walk away if the seller won’t budge on the price. You can also try to negotiate extras like a warranty or maintenance package.
Specifications
1. Engine and Transmission
The Honda CRV comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission. The engine produces 184 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, giving it plenty of power for daily driving.
2. Fuel Economy
The Honda CRV gets an estimated 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice for commuters.
3. Interior Features
The Honda CRV comes with a variety of standard and optional features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, heated front seats, and a sunroof. Higher trims also offer features like leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a premium audio system.
4. Safety Features
The Honda CRV is known for its high safety ratings, with features like a backup camera, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning coming standard on all trims. Higher trims also offer additional safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
5. Cargo Space
The Honda CRV offers a spacious cargo area, with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row and up to 75.8 cubic feet with the second row folded down. This makes it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul large items.
6. Trim Levels
The Honda CRV comes in four different trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Each trim offers different features and amenities, so be sure to research which one is right for you.
7. Warranty
Used Honda CRVs may still be covered under the original manufacturer’s warranty, but it’s important to check the details of the warranty before you buy. You may also be able to purchase an extended warranty for additional coverage.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
1. Reliability
The Honda CRV is known for its reliability, with many owners reporting that their vehicles have lasted for hundreds of thousands of miles with few mechanical issues.
2. Safety
The Honda CRV has earned high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
3. Versatility
The Honda CRV offers plenty of cargo space and a flexible interior, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul large items.
4. Fuel Efficiency
The Honda CRV gets good gas mileage for an SUV, making it an affordable choice for commuters.
5. Comfort
The Honda CRV offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, with plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers.
6. Resale Value
Honda CRVs tend to hold their value well, making them a good investment if you plan to sell or trade in your vehicle in the future.
7. Affordability
Used Honda CRVs are often more affordable than new models, making them a great choice for anyone on a budget.
Disadvantages
1. Noisy Cabin
Some owners have reported that the Honda CRV’s cabin can be noisy, especially at high speeds or on rough roads.
2. Lack of Power
While the Honda CRV’s engine is adequate for most daily driving, some owners have reported that it lacks the power needed for more demanding situations like towing or off-roading.
3. Limited Towing Capacity
The Honda CRV has a towing capacity of just 1,500 pounds, which may not be enough for those who need to tow larger items like trailers or boats.
4. Bland Styling
While the Honda CRV is a practical and functional vehicle, some owners may find its styling to be a bit bland or uninspired.
5. Expensive Repairs
Honda CRVs can be expensive to repair, especially if you need to replace major components like the engine or transmission.
6. CVT Transmission
Some owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) used in some Honda CRVs, including jerky acceleration and transmission failure.
7. Limited Off-Road Capability
The Honda CRV is not designed for serious off-roading, so if you plan to take your vehicle on rough terrain, you may need to invest in modifications or a different vehicle altogether.
Honda CRV Used Cars for Sale: Complete Table
| Year | Price Range | Mileage Range | Trim Levels | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | $17,000-$25,000 | 10,000-50,000 | LX, EX, EX-L, Touring | 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty |
| 2018 | $20,000-$28,000 | 5,000-30,000 | LX, EX, EX-L, Touring | 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty |
| 2019 | $24,000-$32,000 | 0-20,000 | LX, EX, EX-L, Touring | 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty |
| 2020 | $26,000-$35,000 | 0-10,000 | LX, EX, EX-L, Touring | 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty |
FAQs
1. How does the Honda CRV compare to other SUVs?
The Honda CRV is known for its reliability and safety, and has earned high ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. It also offers good fuel efficiency and ample cargo space, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul large items.
2. What features come standard on the Honda CRV?
All Honda CRVs come with a backup camera, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning as standard features. Higher trims offer additional features like leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a premium audio system.
3. How much can I expect to pay for a used Honda CRV?
Prices for used Honda CRVs vary depending on the year, mileage, and condition of the vehicle. Generally, you can expect to pay between $17,000 and $35,000 for a used Honda CRV.
4. Are Honda CRVs good for towing?
The Honda CRV has a towing capacity of just 1,500 pounds, which may not be enough for those who need to tow larger items like trailers or boats.
5. What should I look for when test driving a used Honda CRV?
When test driving a used Honda CRV, pay attention to the way it handles, the condition of the brakes and tires, and any unusual sounds or smells. Take it on different types of roads and test out all the features to make sure they’re working properly. You should also have a mechanic inspect the car before you make a purchase.
6. Can I finance a used Honda CRV?
Yes, you can finance a used Honda CRV through a variety of lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Be sure to shop around for the best interest rates and terms.
7. Are Honda CRVs expensive to maintain?
Honda CRVs are known for their reliability, but like any vehicle, they do require regular maintenance. The cost of maintenance will depend on the age and condition of the vehicle, but overall, Honda CRVs are considered to be affordable to maintain.
8. How do I negotiate the price of a used Honda CRV?
Do your research beforehand to find out what similar models are selling for, and be prepared to walk away if the seller won’t budge on the price. You can also try to negotiate extras like a warranty or maintenance package.
9. What is the warranty on a used Honda CRV?
Used Honda CRVs may still be covered under the original manufacturer’s warranty, but it’s important to check the details of the warranty before you buy. You may also be able to purchase an extended warranty for additional coverage.
10. Can I trade in my old car when buying a used Honda CRV?
Yes, many dealerships and private sellers will accept trade-ins as part of a used car purchase. Be sure to research the value of your old car beforehand to make sure you’re getting a fair trade-in offer.
11. How many people can the Honda CRV seat?
The Honda CRV can seat up to five people.
12. What is the fuel economy of the Honda CRV?
The Honda CRV gets an estimated 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
13. Are there any known issues with the Honda CRV?
Some owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) used in some Honda CRVs, including jerky acceleration and transmission failure. However, overall, the Honda CRV is considered to be a reliable and safe vehicle.
Conclusion
1. Recap of Key Points
The Honda CRV is a reliable, safe, and versatile vehicle that makes an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a used car. When shopping for a used Honda CRV, be sure to consider the model year, trim level, and overall condition of the vehicle.
2. Encouragement to Take Action
If you’re interested in buying a used Honda CRV, start by doing your research and determining your budget. Then, shop around to find the best deal and be prepared to negotiate the price. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect used Honda CRV for your needs.
3. Disclaimer Regarding Risks
Buying a used car always comes with some risks, including the possibility of mechanical issues or unexpected expenses. Be sure to do your research and have the vehicle inspected before making a purchase to minimize these risks.
