What 120 owners told NHTSA about the 2017 Honda HR-V

SAFETY HAZARD NOTIFICATION: INTERMITTENT IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE & STRAND RISK I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a known manufacturing defect in the ignition start/stop switch of my 2017 Honda HR-V. This component is suffering from an intermittent failure that creates an unpredictable and immediate strand risk, compromising driver safety by leaving the vehicle unable to start or power down correctly in potentially hazardous or isolated environments. Manufacturer American Honda Motor Co. is fully aware of this systemic defect, having issued Technical Service Bulletin TSB 20-116 (Diagnostic Trouble Code DTC B12C5) specifically addressing ignition start/stop switch failure. Despite this being a documented engineering flaw admitted by the manufacturer, American Honda Case Management (Case 16436837) is actively enforcing predatory financial barriers to prevent remediation. They are refusing to issue a conditional diagnostic waiver to verify the code, choosing instead to force an upfront out-of-pocket dealer diagnostic fee onto the consumer with no guarantee of goodwill coverage. Furthermore, corporate representatives handling this file on July 1, 2026, actively refused to provide their names or employee identification numbers when requested. I request that NHTSA review this case file and investigate American Honda’s bad-faith deployment of cost barriers to intentionally depress the reporting and remediation of a documented, safety-critical manufacturing defect.

NHTSA ODI 11747739

THE CVT TRANSMISSION BELT IS BREAKING APART WHICH SUDDENLY SLOWED THE CAR WHILES DRIVING ON A FREEWAY, AMERICAN HONDA QUIETLY SENT NEW BULLETIN TO DEALERS WITHOUT INFORMING ME AS A OWNER OF THIS CAR FROM 02/2019. AMERICAN HONDA NEW ANOUT THE BELT DETERIORATION AND DID NOT TOOK STEPS TO SAFEQUARD MY INVESTMENT, LIKE ADVISING TO CHANGE TRANSMISSION FLUIS MORE FREQUESNTLY THAN MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDATIONS. THIS IS LACK OF COPORATE GREED AND WHEN I ASKED FOR A GOODWILL REPAIR THEY DENIED IT WITHOUT ANY REMORSE OF THEIR WRONG DOING. AN APOLOGY WOULD HAVE BEEN ACCETABLE. SINCE AMERICAN HONDA ID NOT CORRECTING THERIR ACT, IAM REQUESTING NHSA TO ADVISE DMV TO NOT RENEW THESE UNSAFE CARS UNTIL HONDA FIXES ITS PROBLEMS.

NHTSA ODI 11742593

The car suddenly was unable to move forward or back even though engine was still running. I was able to roll to a stop in the parking lot at work, but moments before had been on the highway. Tow truck driver noted cap to transmission fluid had popped off. The car was towed to Honda dealer which determined new transmission needed. Even though there had been Honda technical service bulletins describing issues with transmissions for Honda HRVs for years 2016 to 2020, both the dealership (not purchased there), corporate Honda and dealer where car was purchased, all refused to pay for the problem.

NHTSA ODI 11741082

cVT transmission failure Honda Eatontown diagnosed and gave 8400 estimate to replace/repair it

NHTSA ODI 11738312

While driving, starting from a stop sign / or traffic light, the vehicle will stall out upon light acceleration. Going through the recall information, it appears that many 2017 Honda HRV and 2018 Honda HRV have a safety recall for the fuel pump ( located inside the fuel tank / under the drivers seat). For whatever reason, my HRV is not included in the recall but suffers from the exact same problems as the recalled vehicles. This has happened numerous times, in light traffic and in extremely heavy traffic where my life was put in danger by this stalling issue.

NHTSA ODI 11737980

BCM module failure. Car controls flash on and off. Vehicle won’t start. Alarm goes off randomly.

NHTSA ODI 11737460

issues with my car paint peeling. many hondas and other makes have had issues with the white paint peeling off in specks and in sheets

NHTSA ODI 11732977

Dear American Honda Motor Co., Inc. ,I am writing to formally document my experience with a premature failure of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in my Honda HR-V. The vehicle was covered under the extended warranty program Honda implemented specifically for the known CVT issues affecting 2016–2020 model years.In On 3/10/26 the CVT failed at approximately 96,000 miles. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Honda dealership, where technicians confirmed premature belt deterioration and breakage. Prior to the failure, I had the vehicle serviced at the dealership for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software update outlined in Honda Service Bulletin 21-047. During that visit, I reported a noticeable burning smell, which I now believe originated from the failing transmission belt. The dealership assured me there were no issues and stated that the software update had adjusted the gear ratio to reduce strain on the transmission. The vehicle was returned to me with no further action recommended. Subsequent communication with American Honda revealed that the company had been aware of widespread CVT belt issues in these model years. Rather than issue a full recall, Honda extended the powertrain warranty to 7 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurs first). My repeated attempts to escalate the matter with Honda Customer Service, including multiple requests for contact information for a regional manager, were unsuccessful. After several weeks of delays—during which my vehicle remained at the dealership for over 20 +days—Honda Corporate initially offered to cover a remanufactured CVT replacement at a cost of $4,500 to me. The dealership ultimately assisted by reducing my out-of-pocket expense to $2,900.I find it unacceptable that a vehicle with only 96,000 miles required a major transmission replacement costing nearly $3,000, especially after Honda had already acknowledged the defect through a technical service bulletin and an extended warranty. The dealership’s

NHTSA ODI 11730064

I own a 2017 Honda HR-V with White Orchid Pearl paint (NH-788P) that has experienced significant paint peeling and flaking on the roof, hood, and upper panels despite normal care. This appears to be a known manufacturing defect affecting many vehicles with this paint code. **Honda Motor Company acknowledged the issue in Service Bulletin A19-064 and extended the warranty for paint failure, but Honda refused assistance because my vehicle is slightly outside the warranty period. The defect significantly impacts the vehicle’s appearance, value, and could eventually lead to corrosion. Additionally, my vehicle has had a long-term water leak from the rear hatch/roof area, with water entering the tail lights and interior. The leak has worsened and is now soaking the seats, seatbelts, and headliner inside the vehicle. The dealership says they must remove the headliner and wants to charge 1,500 just for diagnosis, which I cannot afford. I believe this is also a manufacturing defect, as similar roof and water leak problems have been reported by other Honda owners. I am requesting that this issue be investigated and that the manufacturer be held responsible for these defects.

NHTSA ODI 11724050

There is premature belt deterioration that ultimately caused the transmission to be a complete failure. It has been confirmed by the dealership. My parents were driving down the i95 when this randomly occurred. There was no warning message. TSB 21-047 Warranty Extension: 2016-20 HR-V CVT Premature Belt Deterioration

NHTSA ODI 11723451

While traveling on a highway at approximately 70 mph, the vehicle experienced a sudden and severe loss of motive power. At the same time, the dashboard illuminated multiple warning lights simultaneously and the vehicle entered limp mode without warning. The vehicle rapidly decelerated and was unable to maintain speed with surrounding traffic. This created an immediate and serious safety hazard and nearly resulted in a collision, as vehicles behind were approaching at highway speed. The driver was forced to make an emergency maneuver to reach the shoulder and stop to avoid a crash. After this incident, the vehicle was parked and not driven. Several days later, the vehicle would start and shift normally, but would not move in Drive, Reverse, or any gear. The gear selector moves and the gear indicator changes, but the vehicle does not engage or move at all. The engine revs normally with no propulsion. This condition is consistent and reproducible. The failure appears to involve the continuously variable transmission (CVT) or an internal drivetrain component. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This defect posed a significant risk to the safety of the driver and other motorists due to the sudden loss of propulsion at highway speed and the inability to safely maintain speed or clear traffic. The later total loss of drive further increases the risk of becoming stranded in unsafe locations such as roadways or intersections. A Honda dealership was contacted but did not provide a resolution. No repairs have been performed. No collision occurred. No police report filed.

NHTSA ODI 11710134

I am experiencing repeated water intrusion in the front passenger footwell of my 2017 Honda HR-V. The flooding occurs during or after moderate rainfall. The water pools under the carpet and creates a damp environment that could lead to mold, electrical damage, and safety hazards. I’ve researched this issue and found that many other HR-V owners have reported similar problems, especially in 2016–2018 models. There appear to be Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to cabin water leaks and A/C drain line issues, but no official recall has been issued. This issue poses a potential health and safety risk due to mold exposure and possible electrical malfunction. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this matter and consider whether a recall or manufacturer action is warranted.

NHTSA ODI 11693077

Metal shards from the belt are breaking off into the fluid and damaging the transmission. This led to issues with the dashboard and issues with the braking system as well.

NHTSA ODI 11693148

My 2017 Honda HR-V in White Orchid Pearl (NH-788P) has severe paint peeling on multiple panels (hood, roof, door). Honda issued Service Bulletin 19-064 covering this exact defect. However, I have been informed by Honda customer service and Honda dealers that my vehicle is no longer covered because it is 1 year beyond the 7-year extension period, even though the defect matches the exact conditions described in the bulletin. This is clearly a manufacturing defect, not normal wear. A consumer fairness concern, as the defect appears years before what should be the normal paint life of a vehicle. A potential safety concern, since exposed bare metal can lead to rust and structural weakening. I suggest an investigation into whether Honda should expand the paint defect warranty to include affected vehicles beyond the 7-year cutoff. As I believe paint on those defect vehicles don’t usually start peeling until about 7 year old or later and once they start to peel, they peel rapidly. I have attached photos of the peeling paint for your reference. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

NHTSA ODI 11687575

Merging into traffic and car began shaking, stuttering, dash lights all flashing. Pulled to side of highway + shut vehicle off. Checked exterior of vehicle + tires, all ok. Turned back on and unable to drive it safely. Got to Tires Plus (closest open facility) CVT belt deteriorated in transmission. Notorious issue for the 2017 HR-V. Towed to O'Malley Honda in Wausau, WI, for 2nd opinion. Concurred with transmisdion replacement needed due to deteriorating CVT belt. Would like financial assistance to repair vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11681595

.While driving my car on a two lane 50mph highway my car began lurching but the engine was running at a high rpm with no power. I had a shoulder to pull off on so I did. The engine never stalled but would not go into gear. There were six lights that lit up on the instrument safety panel as well as the transmission indicator light was flashing with no clear indication as to what gear it was in. After sitting along side the road waiting for a ride the car had cooled off. I was able to restart the car and move it to a safe location with the aid of a pilot car. After inspection at the local Honda shop it was determined that the CVT transmission had failed. I have been a reliable owner and have taken this vehicle for every service recommendation but was never warned that this could happen until it failed. Then was told that they were surprised I had gotten as many miles as I had (160,000). I was fortunate to have been in a spot to pull off the road when this occurred. Had I been on my usual travel rout on a 70mph 4 lane freeway I feel I would have been a huge safety concern to myself and others! I also feel that if I had been warned that this could occur or have had some warning As to what was occurring, I would have included this as a repair at a time when I was more able to absorb the extensive cost! ( almost $10,000 ) As well as avoided the safety issues involved.

NHTSA ODI 11680240

My car’s warning lights came on and it had a hard time staying in gear. The engine was making a screeching sound and it stuttered when I drove it. I took it to my local mechanic and they found metal shavings and chunks in the transmission. They said they had seen this problem before. I called Honda and they requested I take it to Honda service station to do an additional assessment. Service center said the same thing- it was a faulty design in this make and model and the transmission belt was being ground down causing the metal chunks to cause damage. Honda is refusing to stand by their product and cover the cost of the repair.

NHTSA ODI 11677328

There was a light on the vehicle with the sensor P2337 & parking brake sensor and I took the vehicle to a garage who evaluated the car, cleared the light. They stated if the light came back on to return to the dealer. While I was driving the car, the lights returned when the car suddenly lost acceleration while driving the day after the licensed mechanic had evaluated it and stated it was fine. I was on a 55MPH highway and was able to brake at the nearest stoplight by placing the car in neutral. It would not move forward or reverse or engage in gears. I turned off the car, placed in neutral, and pushed the car with my wife pushing as well as steering the car into the nearest safe area. I had it towed to the Honda. The transmission was cracked all the way down the side and fluid had metal in it. The dealer inspected the vehicle and told me that the transmission (CVT) needs to be replaced and that it is a known issue, though my VIN is not included. I requested from Honda an expansion of VIN.

NHTSA ODI 11669674

The contact owns a 2017 Honda HR-V. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to restart. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) drive belt, resulting in damages to the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 21-047. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 134,000.

NHTSA ODI 11664896

Water has been leaking into interior part of my hatchback and has moved into the tail lights for years. Honda dealerships have been aware of that problem I have been having. Now water is leaking inside the car causing the seatbelts to be wet and the seats to be wet and damaged and the interior headliner is soaked and dripping inside the car. I currently have the car at the dealership. They could not figure out what was causing this in their initial diagnosis. Now they want to take off the headliner for a ridiculous sum in which I can not afford. I called Honda customer Care as I believe my car has a manufacturer defect from the beginning. There has been recalls on other vins with this exact problem, but they refuse to acknowledge that my car had these issues and should be fixed like the ones that were recalled. I believe my car should be part of that recall and fixed. The dealer has been dealing with my car leakage problems that have gotten significantly worse. Honda customer service refuses to call the dealer to have them do a diagnosis. Honda wants me to pay the outrageous fee the dealer wants to charge me. The dealer wants to charge me $1395.00 just to look at the car. That’s not even to fix it. I am aware of a class action lawsuit that Honda is knowingly selling cars with defective sunroof issues. My car has a sunroof in it. The dealer claims my sunroof is not the problem. I want this looked into please as there are many complaints out there about HRV and roof leaking. Not to mention recalls for leakage in Hondas. Dealer wants me to trade in my car. I feel they are trying to cover up what’s really going on with these cars and roof leakage.

NHTSA ODI 11659377

4/22/2025, my Honda HRV 2017 is parked and locked. The front/rear head lights will come on after the car is locked for 45 second and around 5 seconds after the lights came on it will sound off the alarm. The next day i took it to Honda to do diagnostic and they told me is the Body Control Module(BCM) issue. It will cause $1,350 +tax to replace it. It is pricey but it seems odds an eight years old car barely 45k miles with good taken care that a module so easy to went bad. Also all services(transmission oil, synthetic oil change, brake fluid, etc...) are done at the dealership nothing being done outside. I also found online there are some amount people complain about the same issue and same model year/model. One with the highest quote of $1,800+ to replace the BCM. I don't see any recall on this 2017 Honda HRV related to the BCM. But there is a related to BCM for 2018-2020 Accord, Accord hybrid, & Insight. The year of recall very close and there are some amount people complains about the BCM for Honda HRV 2017. Could have they used the similar BCM for HRV then follow through to the later year that for Honda Accord/Insight and got the recall? Could the HRV model be in the recall as well? It is just vert odd a good taken care car with low miles that the module so easy went out.

NHTSA ODI 11657394

I am the owner of a 2017 Honda HR-V with paint code NH-788P (White Orchid Pearl). Over time, I began to notice significant paint peeling and flaking, primarily on the roof, hood, and upper panels. This defect progressed despite routine washing and care. Based on my research, this is a well-documented and widespread issue affecting many Honda vehicles with this specific paint code. Honda issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 19-064) acknowledging this defect and offered an extended warranty for paint repair. However, my vehicle is just slightly outside the 7-year window, and Honda has refused to assist. The cause appears to be a defect in the factory paint or application process, resulting in poor adhesion and premature paint failure. This has impacted the appearance and resale value of the vehicle and may also lead to long-term corrosion if the issue continues to spread.

NHTSA ODI 11656420

My 2017 Honda HRV 1.8 the transmission went bad it started to lose speed and a the was making a lot of noise so I stopped the can an have not move the car it has around 120k + miles

NHTSA ODI 11650600

A few years ago my 2017 Honda HRV appeared to have what I thought was a glitch with the gas/millage gage. As time went on the glitch happened more frequently and the gage would either be blank or only fractions lit making it unusable. At times I was unable to tell how much gas I had and since I could also not track my miles I could not calculate. I have to drive for work and at times in remote and unsafe areas, having a reliable and fully functioning vehicle is very important. I also ran into in issue while having my oil changed causing a delay in service. Luckly after about 30min-1hr and some flickering the gage returns however I'm worried this will continue more and more frequently and eventually last longer all go out all together. When I was having some unrelated work on my car, I enquired about this issue believing it may be a fuse however I was told its a known issue the cluster panel and would run a minimum of $1,600. Because it was a known issue I assumed there would soon be a recall but that has not yet happened and soon the repair will be unavoidably necessary and I will be out of pocket for something that is known. I understand that not all issues become a recall but wanted to make sure that I reported it so that it could be taken into consideration along with any other reports you receive. Thank you for taking the time to look into this

NHTSA ODI 11641587

The fuel gage/odometer light in the vehicle cluster goes in and out and turns off randomly, particularly during cold weather/high humidity. It seems like there is a faulty electrical connection behind the fuel cluster. It will go out sometimes for long periods of time without warning.

NHTSA ODI 11638888