The Honda CR-Z Years To Avoid
Honda CR-Z by Vauxford - CC-BY-SA-4.0
The Honda CR-Z is a unique hybrid sports coupe that was introduced by Honda in 2010. Contrary to the common misconception, the CR-Z is not an SUV (understandable since it sounds very close to CR-V); it’s a compact coupe that boasts sporty aesthetics with hybrid efficiency. The name “CR-Z” stands for “Compact Renaissance Zero,” reflecting Honda’s aim to reinvent the compact car with a new focus on environmental consciousness without compromising driving pleasure.
While the CR-Z garnered attention for its distinctive design and hybrid powertrain, it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as some of Honda’s other models, especially in the SUV segment. Its niche positioning as a sporty hybrid coupe meant that it catered to a specific audience. Eventually, the CR-Z was discontinued. Sales numbers were less robust than Honda might have hoped. In many markets, especially in the United States, the sales figures were below expectations.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE HONDA CR-Z
It can be difficult to invest in the right choice with so many options. You might wonder - what is the most reliable Honda CR-Z year on the market?
If you want to buy a used Honda CR-Z, you have several model years to choose from. But like all vehicles, some Honda CR-Z years are less reliable than others. Today, we walk you through the Honda CR-Z years to avoid if you’re buying a used model. Let’s take a look.
Which Honda CR-Z Years To Avoid?
Honda is known for its reputation for making reliable and durable vehicles. It certainly applies to the Honda CR-Z. RepairPal says the Honda CR-Z is the 12th most reliable subcompact car out of 21 models from other brands. But as mentioned, one particular year is more problematic than others, the 2011 Honda CR-Z.
2011 Honda CR-Z
Generally, we advise our readers to avoid the first production years, especially when buying used. Debut models may have reliability woes and quirks that may not surface until consumers drive them in real-world conditions. First production years don’t benefit from the polish made in subsequent years. As such, the 2011 Honda CR-Z is a car we can’t recommend.
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2011 CR-Z has received 62 complaints and three recalls. Many issues of the 2011 CR-Z were relatively major, and we’ll break them down below.
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Airbag Issues
Apparently, the 2011 CR-Z had a somewhat problematic airbag system. Multiple owners reported situations where the airbags didn’t deploy during significant collisions. Of course, this raised concerns about the reliability and safety of the airbag system.
In addition, multiple owners also expressed concerns about the notorious Takata airbag recall. Some reported that they were informed parts were unavailable for repair, leading to prolonged waiting times. Others mentioned receiving recall notices but facing delays and a lack of communication from dealerships and Honda.
Meanwhile, some complaints highlighted that the seat belts and airbags had syncing issues. In some instances, the seat belt did not hold the occupant securely, leading to injuries when the airbag deployed. Apart from the airbag system, there were also reports of other instrumentation issues, such as unreliable airbag lights and speed gauges.
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Body Structure Problems
The CR-Z also struggled with various body structure problems, including persistent door handle issues, rusting, actuator failures, and more.
Multiple owners experienced problems with the door handles, both on the driver and passenger sides. These faulty handles, especially when they can’t open the doors from the outside, pose a significant inconvenience and potential safety concern. Some people also reported that the door locks don’t respond to both the interior buttons and the key fob, indicating a potential widespread issue with the lock actuators.
Also, the mention of rust, especially on the inside of the hatchback, is concerning. Rust can compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity over time and may point to potential issues with material quality or water sealing.
Steering System Issues
Multiple owners reported a sudden and unexplained loss of power steering. An owner mentioned that after receiving a “check tire pressure” alert, they also got a “check power steering” alert. The power steering assist was utterly non-functional, making the car difficult to maneuver. Another frustrated driver reported that the vehicle’s engine could stall, and the hybrid system’s electric motor might move the car unexpectedly in the opposite direction of the selected gear.
In addition, the power steering system seems to be draining batteries prematurely, indicating potential electrical issues. Some reports expressed concerns that the unexpected behavior of the steering system, especially in wet conditions, might have contributed to accidents.
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Which Honda CR-Z Years Are Safe to Buy as Used?
Now that the least reliable Honda CR-Z is out of the way let’s pick out some of the most reliable years of this hybrid hatchback.
2012 Honda CR-Z
Thankfully, after its debut, the next CR-Z model is widely known for its long-term reliability and has escaped the first-year quirks. CarComplaints has documented only ten complaints and two recalls for the 2012 Honda CR-Z. There are a few reports regarding the airbag system’s failure to deploy, but it’s unlikely to be a prevalent issue.
With that said, the 2012 Honda CR-Z is a solid option for used car buyers looking for an older hybrid coupe. It offers nimble handling, responsive brakes, and a comfortable ride.
2013 Honda CR-Z
The 2013 model is one of the best versions of the Honda CR-Z. For starters, this year marked a facelift for the CR-Z with slightly different front and rear bumpers. As you might expect, the 2013 CR-Z offers more fun driving dynamics than comparable hybrid vehicles in that year. Plus, it also provides plenty of standard features, which is always a plus if you’re buying a decade-old coupe.
If an older two-seater is on your shopping list, the 2013 Honda CR-Z is an excellent pick with good long-term reliability.
2016 Honda CR-Z
On the flip side, the last model year of the Honda CR-Z is your best bet if you want a newer unit. The 2016 Honda CR-Z received the all-important interior and exterior aesthetics and loads of tech features. However, despite the sporty name and agile handling, the CR-Z is not a very athletic hybrid coupe. Furthermore, its fuel economy pales in comparison to segment rivals like the Toyota Prius C.
FAQs: Honda CR-Z Years to Avoid
Q: Which Honda CR-Z year is recommended to avoid?
A: The 2011 Honda CR-Z is particularly advised against due to its debut model status. This model often has reliability issues and quirks that emerge under real-world driving conditions. This year has seen a notable number of complaints and recalls, making it less desirable for potential buyers.
Q: What body structure problems were reported in the 2011 Honda CR-Z?
A: Owners of the 2011 CR-Z reported various body structure issues, such as persistent door handle problems, rusting, and actuator failures. These included difficulties opening doors from the outside and unresponsive door locks to interior buttons and the key fob.
Q: What were the major issues with the 2011 Honda CR-Z?
A: The 2011 model faced several significant problems, including a problematic airbag system where airbags failed to deploy during collisions, issues related to the Takata airbag recall, and synchronization problems between seat belts and airbags.
Q: Were there any steering system issues in the 2011 Honda CR-Z?
A: There were multiple reports of sudden loss of power steering, which could be particularly alarming. Issues included unexpected engine stalling and the hybrid electric motor causing unintended vehicle movement.
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