1991 Honda Crx problems
The Honda CR-X (styled in some markets as Honda CRX), originally launched as the Honda Ballade Sports CR-X in Japan, is a front-wheel-drive sport compact car manufactured by Honda from 1983 until 1991 with nearly 400,000 produced during this period. The first-generation CRX was marketed in some regions outside Japan as the Honda Civic CRX. Although there are many supposed definitions for the initialism CR-X, the most widely accepted is "Civic Renaissance Experimental".
In the U.S., the CRX was marketed as an economy sport Kammback with room for two passengers while Japanese and European market cars came with a 2+2 seating arrangement. Redesigned for the 1988 model year and produced until 1991, the CRX was popular for its performance, nimble handling, and good fuel economy. The CR-X was replaced by Honda's CR-X del Sol, which was marketed as a CR-X in some markets.
First generation
Overview
In 1983 for the 1984 model year, Honda introduced an all-new two-seater that shared the drivetrain with the Civic but offered unique styling and interior furnishings. At its introduction, the CR-X was available in Japan through Honda Verno dealership sales channels, and accompanied the Vigor, the Quint, and the Prelude. In North America, the CRX was marketed in two versions: economy and sport. The economy model used a new aluminum 1.3-liter CVCC four-cylinder engine. The sportier model featured an aluminum 1.5-liter 12-valve engine and was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission.
For 1985, Honda North America replaced the economy model with an HF (high fuel) model featuring a 1.5-liter engine which uses an aluminum block but the 1984 CVCC cylinder head (two valves per cylinder) instead of the new aluminum head with three valves per cylinder. In spring 1985, Honda introduced an Si (Sports, injected) model featuring a more powerful 1.5-liter SOHC PGM-FI four-cylinder engine. The Si model included a power sunroof, standard dual remote exterior mirrors, rear wiper, 13-inch alloy wheels and an Si-exclusive ducktail spoiler for the hatch.
For 1986, Honda updated the CRX with new aerodynamic headlights. The Si received body color matched lower cladding, a revised rear spoiler, new bumper covers and 14-inch alloy wheels. The interior was upgraded and added a center console with cassette tape storage. 1987 was virtually unchanged from 1986 and would be the final year of the first-generation CRX.
Social links
Common 1991 Honda Crx problems
The Honda CRX 1991 is a popular car among enthusiasts, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the issues that CRX owners have reported:
- Rust: Rust is a significant problem with the Honda CRX 1991, particularly in areas with harsh winters and salted roads. The car's frame and body panels are particularly susceptible to rust, and once it sets in, it can be challenging to fix. If you're looking to buy a CRX, be sure to check for rust, especially in the usual suspects like the arches, footwells, and bottom of the doors.
- Leaky Sunroof: The sunroof on the CRX is prone to leaking, which can cause water damage to the interior of the car. If you're considering buying a CRX, it's essential to check the sunroof for leaks and ensure that it's been properly sealed.
- Cracked Climate Control Unit: The climate control unit on the CRX is also prone to cracking, which can make it difficult to regulate the temperature inside the car. If you're looking at a CRX, be sure to check the climate control unit for cracks and ensure that it's functioning properly.
- Transmission Noise: Some CRX owners have reported transmission noise, particularly when shifting gears. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out gears or a lack of proper maintenance. If you're considering buying a CRX, be sure to have the transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic.
- Seatbelts Don't Retract: Another common problem with the CRX is that the seatbelts sometimes don't retract properly. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out retractors or a lack of proper maintenance. If you're considering buying a CRX, be sure to check the seatbelts to ensure that they're functioning properly.
- Modifications: Many CRX owners modify their cars, which can cause problems down the line. While some modifications, like suspension upgrades or engine tuning, can improve the car's performance, others, like engine swaps or extreme suspension changes, can cause issues with the car's reliability and durability. If you're considering buying a CRX, be sure to check for any modifications and ensure that they've been done correctly.
- Rubbers: The brakes and suspension rubbers on the CRX tend to wear out over time, especially if the car is driven hard. If you're considering buying a CRX, be sure to check the brakes and suspension for any signs of wear or damage.
In summary, the Honda CRX 1991 is a great car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. By being aware of these issues and taking the time to inspect any potential CRX before buying, you can ensure that you end up with a reliable and enjoyable car.
Why was CRX so good?
Its most unique feature was that it allowed its users to drive at peak speed while still conserving a significant amount of fuel. Another interesting thing was that compared to other cars, Honda CRX required lesser fuel even while driving fast, which saved both money and time wasted at the gas station.
Why was the Honda CRX discontinued?
Changing consumer tastes have resulted in many models, some with rabid followings, heading to an early grave. No matter how cool or iconic a car is, dwindling sales often lead an automaker to discontinue the model. One model that's disappeared, unlikely to return, was the Honda CRX.
How many 1991 Honda CRX were made?
Production by model year
| Model | 1988 | 1991 |
|---|---|---|
| Honda CRX HF | 12,281 | 8,863 |
| Honda CRX | 18,995 | 17,111 |
| Honda CRX Si | 17,886 | 14,295 |
| Total | 49,162 | 40,269 |
What is the fuel consumption of Honda CRX?
| Honda CRX II 1.6i Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Consumption - Economy - Open road: | 44 MPG 5.4 L/100 km 52 MPG UK |
| Fuel Consumption - Economy - Highway: | 35 MPG 6.8 L/100 km 42 MPG UK |
| Fuel Consumption - Economy - City: | 28 MPG 8.3 L/100 km 34 MPG UK |
| Range : | 417 miles / 671 km |
1991 Honda Crx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda Crx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Structure problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Honda Crx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Honda Crx complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Honda Crx.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-12
- VIN: JHMED8359MS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-04
- VIN: JHMED936XMS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR HAS HAD A PROBLEM FOR AWHILE REGARDING THE SEAT BELT WARNING WOULD SOMETIMES GO OFF WHEN THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS UNHOOKED WHEN IT HADN'T BEEN CONNECTED SINCE STARTING THE CAR. I WOULD HAVE TO LEAVE IT HOOKED UP. ABOUT A TWO MONTHS AGO I NOTICED AN OCCASIONAL BURNING SMELL. OVER THE LAST FEW WEEKS MY CORNER MARKER TURN SIGNALS STOPPED FUNCTIONING CORRECTLY. WHEN THE SIGNAL WAS IN THE RIGHT TURN POSITION THE CORNER MARKER SIGNAL ON THE RIGHT WOULD FLASH DIM AND THE LEFT WOULD FLASH. THE REVERSE WOULDN'T HAPPEN WHEN SET TO LEFT TURN. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH THROUGH SERVICE MANUALS AND ONLINE I TRACED THE PROBLEM BACK TO THE "INTEGRATED CONTROL UNIT" (ICU) WHICH IS PLUGGED INTO THE BACK OF THE "FUSE BOX". IT CONTROLS FUNCTIONS SUCH AS TURN SIGNALS, BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE WARNING, WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND SEAT BELT WARNING. THIS UNIT CARRIES THE PART NUMBER 38600-SH3-A11. IT HAS BEEN USED THROUGH OUT A NUMBER OF HONDA VEHICLES SUCH AS THE CIVIC AND CRX I THINK FROM 1988 TO 1991. I CONTACTED A HONDA DEALERSHIP ABOUT THIS PART AND I WAS INFORMED THIS PART IS DISCONTINUED. I CONTACTED THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE REQUESTING INFO ON THIS PART, THEY CONTACTED THEIR ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT. I WAS INFORMED THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE ANY SCHEMATICS OR SPECIFICATIONS ON THIS PART. I MANAGED TO FIND A REPLACEMENT IN A SALVAGE YARD IN A '90 CIVIC. WHEN I PULLED THE FAILED PART OFF MY CAR I NOTICED THE BOARD HAD BURN SPOTS WHERE THE LEADS WERE BURNT AND SOLDER HAD COMPLETELY MELTED FROM THE BOARD. THE PLASTIC CASE HAD A LIGHT BURN SPOT ON IT ALSO. IN MY ONLINE RESEARCH IT SEEMS THIS PART IS KNOWN TO BURN OUT. MY CONCERN IS THAT IT'S A FIRE HAZARD IN ALL THE VEHICLES IT'S USED IN AND HONDA SHOULD TAKE RESPONSIBILITY TO SUPPLY A SAFER REPLACEMENT FOR THE ICU. I HAVE A PHOTO OF THE BURNS OF THE FAILED PART. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-09
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1991 HONDA CRX , TRAVELING WESTBOUND WHEN THE HOOD LATCH FAILED. THE HOOD CAME OPEN AND STRUCK THE WINDSHIELD. *BF (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0519-90)*JB
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-12
- VIN: JHMED8365MS
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, THE FRONT HOOD FLEW UP AND SLAMMED INTO THE WINDSHIELD WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT FURTHER INCIDENT. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION BY THE CONTACT, THE WINDSHIELD GLASS HAD SEVERAL SMALL FRACTURES AND THE HOOD WITH DAMAGED AS WELL. THE CONTACT TIED THE HOOD DOWN WITH A CABLE. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-26
- VIN: JHMED8456MS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MAIN RELAY- POOR SOLDER JOINTS ON THE CIRCUIT BOARD CAUSE HOT STARTING PROBLEMS. THIS HAS BEEN CLEARLY DOCUMENTED @ THE FOLLOWING WEBSITE HTTP://WWW.MARKL.F9.CO.UK/HOWTO/ELECTRICAL/MAIN-RELAY/MAIN-RELAY.HTM THIS IS A BLATANT FACTORY FLAW WHICH SHOULD HAVE BEEN DEALT WITH VIA RECALL YEARS AGO. I SOLVED THIS ISSUE BY FOLLOWING THE DIRECTIONS AND RE-SOLDERING 2 BROKEN CONNECTIONS AND ONE DRY SOCKET. THE PROBLEM CEASED IMMEDIATLY. THESE WERE INFERIOR FACTORY SOLDERS. THANK YOU.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-25
- VIN: JHMED8451MS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE EXITING FREEWAY AT 30 MPH TEMPERATURE GAUGE WENT TO HOT, AND VEHICLE STARTED SMOKING AND DIED. VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED, AND ON THE SAME DAY IT DIED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-20
- VIN: JHMED9362MS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HATCH BACK DOOR ASSEMBLY BROKE, CAUSING DOOR TO BE RELEASED FROM UPRIGHT POSITION. *AK THE HYDROLICS ON THE HATCHBACK FAIL TO KEEP THE DOOR OPEN IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION. THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE STATES THAT THE HATCH BACK DOOR IS TO HEAVY FOR THE HYDROLICS. THE OWNER BELIEVES LOADING AND UNLOADING USING THE HATCHBACK IS UNSAFE. *YH
1991 Honda Crx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1991 Honda Crx.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Honda Crx problems:
Common Problems With a CRX - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
Jul 1, 2004 ... Honda CRX / EF Civic (1988 - 1991) - Common Problems With a CRX - I'm getting ready to buy a car and thought that a CRX would be a good buy.
1991 Honda CRX Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 1991 Honda CRX? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1991 Honda CRX.
EF Hatch - Common problems? - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
Feb 5, 2003 ... Honda CRX / EF Civic (1988 - 1991) - EF Hatch - Common problems? - Hey guys, I'm currently driving an integra, but I'm hoping to get a ...
Q&A: Honda Civic Overheating Problems - Temperature Gauge ...
Aug 17, 2006 ... 1991 Honda crx ... Customer reply. Reply to Tech444's Post: Where is the coolant tempature sensor ...
Common problems for late 80s Civic? - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
May 25, 2005 ... Honda CRX / EF Civic (1988 - 1991) - Common problems for late 80s Civic? - Hi, I'm new on the board. I'm taking a look at a 1989 Civic Wagon ...
Other years of Honda Crx
Are you having problems with your 1991 Honda Crx?
Leave your review of 1991 Honda Crx