Expensive and reliable, the 2009 Honda CR-V has fewer complaints than other compact SUVs. Ranging from $8,869 to $11,239 the CR-V is a winner in 2009. A lifespan of over 250,000 miles with no mechanical problems make it a great choice.
2009 Honda CR-V: Quick Overview
- We rate the Honda CR-V reliability as excellent, and J.D. Power gave it a great rating when SUV was new. This is based on not finding any serious mechanical problems as the SUV has aged.
- Only one engine is available, a 4-cylinder with less power than some of the competitors.
- Fuel economy is good for the class, ranking 6th out of 25 compact SUVs from 2009 with a combined rating of up to 23 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are exceptional, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2009 Honda CR-V ranks 2nd out of 25 compact SUVs based on owner reviews. Dependable powertrains and more room than the competition made 2009 be a great year for the CR-V.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2009 Honda CR-V Have?
There are fewer problems with the 2009 CR-V than other compact SUVs from the same year. The newer 2010 model has more problems, making 2009 one of the best years for the CR-V.
Problems with door locks are a common complaint from owners on vehicles with about 100,000 miles. Door lock actuators are noisier than other vehicles, and excessive noise can be a sign of components wearing out. Replacing the actuators fixes the problem, costing about $300.
Tires wearing out quickly is another frequent problem happening every 30,000 miles. There are a few reasons tires wear out quickly. The first is the original tires from Honda just simply don’t last very long. Another is alignment issues, which cause uneven wear. An alignment costs about $250 depending on local labor rates.
Air conditioning problems, including failed compressors at 100,000 miles, are also mentioned. As vehicles age the parts wear out and the only solution is replacing the compressor with a new one, costing about $1,000.
There are 11 recalls, which is worse than some other SUVs from 2009. The recalls include automatic transmission control module software. The other ten for airbags, which have plagued every car manufacturer and are not a concern when they’re replaced.
How Much is the 2009 Honda CR-V Worth?
Ranging from $8,869 to $11,239, the CR-V is more expensive than its competition. When new, the price was $21,245 to $27,745. Depreciation is better than other compact SUVs, dropping about 7% per year on the used market, compared to 12% for the competition.
What Are the Models & Specs?
LX is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Cruise Control
- Keyless Entry
- Adjustable Steering Column
- A 4-Speaker Stereo System
EX is in the middle of the lineup, adding:
- 17-inch Alloy Wheels
- Improved Cloth Seating
- Sunroof
- Steering Wheel Audio Controls
- Cargo Space Shelf
- Improved 6-Speaker Stereo System
- 6-CD Changer
EX-L is the flagship version with premium features including:
- Leather Seating
- Heated and Power Front Seats
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- 7-Speaker Stereo System
- Satellite Radio
How Long Will the 2009 Honda CR-V Last?
A properly maintained 2009 Honda CR-V will last over 250,000 miles, which is very good for the class. According to Repair Pal, the regular annual maintenance costs are $50 cheaper than the RAV4, and $150 cheaper than the Commander at $404 per year.
As the 2009 CR-V reaches 120,000 miles, there are some expensive repairs owners should prepare for. These include starter motor replacements costing about $700, new window regulators for $400, as well as oxygen sensors for $500.
It is very reliable. The only problems are the pressure sensor for the tires. Sometimes the vehicle is unable to auto detect the pressure so I have to check it manually for safety precaution.
Have not encountered any major problems. Bought it new and have tried to keep up with all needed maintenance.
Very reliable SUV. Other than normal maintenance, there have been no major problems that needed fixing.
I haven't had any issues other than needed my air conditioning replaced but that wasn't a vehicle problem. It is been a great car.
No it does not have any problems and has been very reliable. It does well on gas mileage. We've had it for 1/2 year and haven't had to take it to the shop yet.
It is a reliable vehicle. I have not had any problems with mine so far. Even though it is 10 years old, it still runs well and gets me to where I need to go.
It is very reliable. There is only the one problem with the air compressor that I replaced about 4 months ago.
The 2009 CR-V is very reliable, although I do have problems starting it in the winter when it gets very cold outside.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology in the 2009 Honda CR-V is good for the year since most of the features were introduced for the 2007 model year, although the systems feel dated to use by modern standards.
- Standard technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input jack, and 4 speakers.
- Optional upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system, as well as 6 and 7-speaker stereo systems.
- Standard safety features include antilock brakes, air bags, and stability control. Optional upgrades include parking sensors, and a back-up camera with the navigation system.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2009 Honda CR-V comes standard with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine which produces 166 horsepower. Performance is weak for the class compared to the faster RAV4, taking 10 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the CR-V?
The 2009 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV, more spacious than some rivals from the same year. Passenger room is excellent for the class, with plenty of room for adults in the back seats. There’s also 35.7 cubic feet of room with the seats up, and 73 cubic feet when folded flat, more than enough room for 5 suitcases.
How Does the 2009 Honda CR-V Compare to Other SUVs?
Ranking 2nd out of 25 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2009 Honda CR-V is near the top of the class.
A close competitor tying for 2nd place, is the more expensive Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 offers a slightly better long-term reliability rating, has more power with the optional V6, and is one of the only compact SUVs to offer three rows of seating. Where the CR-V comes out ahead is with more passenger room and better technology. Overall, the two SUVs are very close to each other and the decision comes down to personal preference.
Another rival is the less expensive Jeep Commander. The Commander has more powerful engine choices available, and is better off-road. On the other hand, the CR-V has significantly better reliability ratings, lower ownership costs, and a more comfortable suspension. Between the two SUVs, the CR-V is the better choice since they last much longer.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Honda CR-V a Good SUV?
Yes, the 2009 Honda CR-V is a good SUV. We came to this conclusion after considering 304 verified owner reviews, with owners rating the CR-V 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some positives include more passenger room than competitors, and excellent safety scores. Downsides are weaker engines than others in the class, and the infotainment system can be tricky to use. Overall, 2009 is a good year for the CR-V and is one we recommend.
Yes. It is very gas efficient and reliable. It also has a very spacious trunk for moving and transporting large items. In addition the vehicle is elevated so it is easier to get in and out of the car.
Yes. I like my CR-V. Looking to upgrade to a newer model once I am in the market. Like the AWD feature. Very dependable vehicle.
Yes, reliable and good gas mileage. Comfortable to drive. Does well in long distances. Made well with little repairs needed.
Yes, my favorite I have ever owned. It has heated leather seats, cruise control, auxiliary input, drives great. The seats are comfortable.
Yes, it is roomy and very reliable. I love that the back seats fold down, making lots of room in the trunk.
Yes, it is a good vehicle. While it may be a little outdated, the vehicle runs very smoothly. It still gets decent gas mileage as well, even though it is 10 years old.
Yes, it gets good gas mileage, runs well, and is easy to maintain. I have only had to replace the air compressor and I have had it for two years.
Yes, I have had it for a very long time and it is very reliable. Currently has 230,000 miles on it and runs just fine.