The 2008 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV with a price range of $7,080 to $10,067. Fewer mechanical problems than most competitors and a spacious cabin help the CR-V earn our recommendation.
2008 Honda CR-V: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2008 model year are minimal and just include some minor changes to the options packages.
- Reliability ratings are great according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the older 2007 model.
- One engine is available and is a 4-cylinder with less power than some competitors.
- Fuel economy is good, trying for 6th place out of 23 compact SUVs with a combined rating of up to 23 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are great, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests, and a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2008 Honda CR-V ranks 3rd out of 23 compact SUVs based on owner reviews. A combination of a reliable engine and spacious cabin help the CR-V stand out as a great choice for buyers.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2008 Honda CR-V Have?
The 2008 Honda CR-V has fewer problems than other compact SUVs on the market, and most are not mechanically serious. There are even fewer complaints on the 2009 model, making the extra $1,800 worth the price difference.
Malfunctioning door locks are the most widespread problem. The actuator and lock assemblies are both weak spots. Replacing the actuator and lock fixes the problem, costing about $400 depending on local labor rates.
Chipping paint is another common complaint from owners. The paint chips easily when the layers don’t bond properly, leaving the top coat brittle. Repainting the affected panels is the only solution, costing about $1,000 per panel.
Premature tire wear is another frequent issue. Tires wear out faster when the alignment is incorrect, so getting the alignment checked regularly is a good idea to save money on tires. Many of the Bridgestone tires supplied by Honda also wear out faster than tires from some competitors.
There are 10 recalls, which is worse than some other SUVs from the same era. The recalls include one for automatic transmission software, and nine for airbags. Addressing airbag recalls is important for safety.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2008 Honda CR-V is a more expensive compact SUV than a lot of the competition, with a price range of $7,080 to $10,067 depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price was $20,700 to $28,400. Depreciation is better than a lot of the rivals, only losing about 35% of the original value over the first 5 years.
- LX is the entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, keyless entry, power locks and mirrors, and a 4-speaker stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input.
- EX falls in the middle of the lineup with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, cargo compartment storage cover, and a 6-speaker stereo with a 6-CD changer in the dash.
- EX-L is the flagship model adding leather seating, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a 7-speaker stereo system with a subwoofer.
How Long Will the 2008 Honda CR-V Last?
A properly cared for 2008 Honda CR-V will last over 250,000 miles, which is good for the class. Standard annual maintenance costs are more affordable than a lot of the competition. Repair Pal estimates them to be $401 per year, based on over a decade of data.
There were three overall recalls. One was for crash bags, but that was most Japanese cars. However, there were door lock attenuators and air condition, which was also a problem.
It is super reliable. As long as you performed the required preventive maintenance, you shouldn't have any issues.
It is an extremely reliable vehicle that has cost us almost nothing to keep and maintain. I would say that anyone who desires an extremely reliable vehicle cannot go wrong with a Honda CR-V.
It is reliable, no issues or problems other than the clutch and the gearbox and other routine maintenance.
It is reliable since it has lasted since 2008. We have some issues with the battery recently, but we just replaced the battery. We also have issues with the door opener, which makes a noise once in a while
I took it down south from Michigan and had no problems whatsoever. It is a great SUV. The brakes and wipers worked great while driving through rain storms and guys working on the roads. Thank goodness the AC worked great cause it was super hot that week.
Some time break is noise. I have a some time It's problem not all time. Some time break is working not good
The Honda CR-V is a reliable vehicle. I trust going in it for long trips. I own other Honda vehicles and they have over 250,000 miles on them. I expect this CR-V to do the same!
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very basic in the entry-level models of the CR-V, but there are some good optional features available compared to other SUVs from 2008.
- Standard technology includes a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, and a 3.5mm AUX input.
- Optional upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 6 or 7-speaker stereo systems, a 6-CD stereo, and navigation.
- Standard safety features include anti lock brakes, airbags, traction and stability control. There’s an optional rear view camera available with the navigation system.
What Engine Options are Available?
Only one engine is available in the CR-V and is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 166 horsepower. Performance is weak for the class, taking 9.5 seconds to go 0 to 60 miles per hour.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the CR-V?
The 2012 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV, similar in size to a lot of the rivals. There’s more passenger room in the back seats than some competitors, fitting adults comfortably. Cargo space is excellent, with 35.7 cubic feet of room behind the back seats, and up to 73 cubic feet when folded flat.
How Does the 2008 Honda CR-V Compare to Other SUVs?
Ranking 3rd out of 23 compact SUVs based on owner reviews, the 2008 Honda CR-V is near the top of the class.
A very close competitor in the same price range is the Toyota RAV4. Where the RAV4 stands out is with an optional 3rd row, and a more powerful optional V6 engine. The CR-V has more room for passengers, and higher-quality interior materials. Both SUVs are extremely reliable and were both redesigned for the 2007 model year. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference.
A more affordable compact SUV is the Nissan Rogue. The Rogue offers a more engaging and nimble driving experience, as well as higher quality interior materials. On the other hand, the CR-V has better long-term reliability ratings, and more room for passengers. Between the two choices, the CR-V is the winner since they spend less time in the shop.
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Honda CR-V a Good SUV?
Yes, the 2008 Honda CR-V is a good SUV based on information including 387 verified owner reviews as well as 14 government and automotive websites. Positives include a dependable engine, and a comfortable interior. Downsides are less power than some rivals, and more road noise than other SUVs in the same price range. Overall, the 2008 CR-V is a great choice for shoppers, but the 2009 model has fewer complaints.