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Honda HR-V: which year should you buy?

Across the 2016 to 2025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2021 (78/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2021 78 · 2025 77 · 2016 77 · 2022 74

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202577/100
Buy

39 complaints · 1 recalls

202465/100
Caution

106 complaints · 4 recalls

202363/100
Caution

680 complaints · 3 recalls

202274/100
Buy

81 complaints · 3 recalls

202178/100
Buybest year

61 complaints · 4 recalls

202064/100
Caution

79 complaints · 5 recalls

201963/100
Caution

215 complaints · 7 recalls

201864/100
Caution

151 complaints · 3 recalls

201677/100
Buy

237 complaints · 2 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2021?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2021 Honda HR-V’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Honda HR-V head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Honda HR-V as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.