What changed about the Honda CR-V in 2002?

Re Honda CR-V 2000 - 2003: was there a model upgrade in that period? Anything I should look out for?

Dan Devane (Tralee)

May 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Dan,

Indeed so. In fact, the CR-V changed utterly in 2002 with the introduction of an all-new model - and the first diesel version was introduced in 2003. Despite it looking rather similar to the first generation model (which debuted in 1995) the second-gen CR-V is bigger, heavier, more spacious and more sophisticated, even if it did retain the old-style spare wheel mounting on the tailgate. 

Early 2.2 CDTi diesel models have an odd fault - the oil warning light can come on even with a full sump of the black stuff. It seems to be a software issue. Listen for groaning or moaning from the rear differential for the four-wheel drive system (all second-gen CR-Vs were had four-wheel drive) as that can mean that the oil in the diff has degraded and the unit is starting to fail.

Other than that, they're solidly built and heartily recommended. 

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe