Honda Hr-v problems

The Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured and marketed by Honda over three generations.
The first generation HR-V was based on the Honda Logo. It was marketed from 1999 to 2006 in Europe, Japan and select Asia-Pacific markets – and featured three doors (1999–2003) or five doors (1999–2006). The two configurations were internally designated GH2 and GH4 respectively.
After a seven-year hiatus, Honda reintroduced the nameplate for the second generation HR-V, based on the third-generation Honda Fit. Production began in late 2013 for the Japanese domestic market as the Honda Vezel (Japanese: ホンダ・ヴェゼル, Hepburn: Honda Vezeru), while production started in 2015 for North America, Australia, Brazil and select Asian markets as the HR-V. Apart from Japan, the model is also sold as the Vezel in China.
For the third-generation model, the nameplate is split between two different vehicles, one for the global market (sold as the Vezel in Japan), and a larger model based on the eleventh-generation Civic destined for North America and China. The latter model is sold outside those markets as the Honda ZR-V.
According to Honda, the name "HR-V" stands for "Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle", while the name "Vezel" is coined from "bezel", the oblique faces of a cut gem, with the "V" for "vehicle".
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Honda Hr-v model years
Common Honda Hr-v problems
The Honda HR-V is a popular subcompact crossover SUV known for its lively handling, generous cargo space, good fuel economy, and wide range of useful features:
- Low-quality paint: This is the most common problem reported by Honda HR-V owners. In some instances, owners complained about the paint on the crossover SUV bubbling, while others reported that, after a few years of driving, large sections of paint would flake off the roof. Rust can also corrode the paint and bodywork, requiring repainting of the HR-V, which can cost thousands of dollars depending on the extent of the paint problem.
- Complications with the accelerator: There are two variations of this problem. The first one is when drivers lightly press on the throttle from a complete stop, and the crossover SUV suddenly leaps forward as if someone slammed on the gas pedal. The second issue occurs when driving at highway speeds, where the HR-V starts to slow down and continues to lose speed, even when applying more throttle. To address either of these accelerator complications, a mechanic must first conduct a diagnostic check to get to the root of the problem. The solution could be as simple as an electric control (ECU) update, which Honda might provide for free. However, at the opposite end of the repair spectrum, a part of the engine bay might need to be replaced, which can cost owners around a few hundred dollars.
- Loose or dislodged window gaskets: A window gasket is the rubber section at the window frame that forms a tight seal when the windows are rolled up to the top. It keeps rain, wind, and other weather elements out of the vehicle. However, HR-V drivers have complained about the window gaskets becoming loose or getting dislodged. Rectifying this issue typically requires replacing the window gaskets, which consist of four parts. All four cost around $100, along with the cost of labor if completed by a service center.
It is important to note that most HR-V models are not affected by these issues, and they don't necessarily affect all model years. However, they are the most frequently reported problems, so it is essential to be aware of them when considering the purchase of a Honda HR-V.
Does the Honda HR-V have any problems?
Like the previous model year, the 2019 Honda HR-V by itself is a reliable vehicle but has some problems that may affect your ownership experience. CarComplaints has documented 81 complaints and four recalls for the 2019 Honda HR-V. The prominent trouble spot of this SUV is its fuel propulsion system.
What is the weakness of the Honda HR-V?
The HR-V has a relatively roomy interior for its size, user-friendly controls, and 27 mpg overall fuel economy. But ride comfort and sound insulation are weak points. Handling is ordinary but ultimately secure. We found that the 158-hp, 2.0-liter engine and CVT feel underpowered.
What is the most reliable year of Honda HR-V?
What model years of the Honda HR-V are best? If you are looking for a pre-owned certified Honda HR-V, it's best to look for one that was made within the last five years. According to NHTSA statistics, model years 2020, 2021, and 2022 were the most reliable model years.
How many miles will a Honda HR-V last?
According to hotcars.com, the Honda HR-V will last 150,000-200,000 miles with solid care. The lifespan is partially dependent on random forces but dependent on how well you care for and drive the car on the road.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Honda Hr-v years
We have researched Honda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Honda Hr-v cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Honda Hr-v model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Honda Hr-v model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Honda Hr-v years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Honda Hr-v car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Honda Hr-v , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Honda Hr-v vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Hr-v model years
A total of 69 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Hr-v model years
There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Hr-v model years
There were a total of 39 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1262 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Honda Hr-v . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Honda Hr-v vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Honda Hr-v 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 3CZRU6H35JG
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Honda HR-V. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Hr-v 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 3CZRZ2H36RM
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: While on cruise control on the freeway, car suddenly decelerated 20+ MPH. There was nothing ahead of me on the road at the time, no cars, no debris or construction materials, nothing. I was nearly rear ended. Car has not been inspected yet. Many alerts go off on the dash for unexplained reasons - that various safety mitigation systems are offline due to debris on windshield for example, when the windshield is totally clean. But there were no alerts prior to this deceleration at all. Drivers side speaker shorts out intermittently. Car is available for inspection on request. I haven't used cruise control since this incident.
Honda Hr-v 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 3CZRU6H12LM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2020 Honda HR-V Sport with digital gauge cluster failure. The LCD screen that displays the gas level, vehicle mileage, and gear the vehicle is in has gone to a blank screen. Or at times, it will display random numbers and letters that don't translate to any meaning. As others have reported, this leads to us not knowing what our fuel level is or the gear the vehicle is in. There were no warning indications before this issues started occurring. It happens in all variations of temperatures.
Honda Hr-v 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Honda HR-V. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V744000 (STEERING); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. The VIN was not available.
Honda Hr-v 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 3CZRZ1H3XRM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On the 2024 HRV LX the unlock button on fob unlocks all doors at the same time when you press the unlock button once. It should only unlock the driver’s door when you press it once and should unlock all doors when you press it twice. The car manual itself states this should be the default setting however it is not. This is basic safety feature that has been used on most vehicles for last 10 plus years Honda included so it doesn’t seem feasible they would suddenly remove it. This was an oversight and a dangerous one!
Honda Hr-v 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3CZRZ2H74RM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owned a 2024 Honda HR-V. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, she had a crash which resulted in a roll-over of the vehicle. The contact stated that the police and EMS arrived and she was transported to a hospital. The contact stated that she had no memory of the accident and had no memory due to a brain injury. The contact stated that she had no other injuries. The contact stated that the vehicle had been towed to an impound lot and that her insurance provider had declared the vehicle a total loss. The vehicle was not diagnosed either by the insurance company or a dealer. The contact stated that she had recently received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V744000 (Steering) and related the crash to the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 13,500.
Honda Hr-v 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 3CZRU6H76GM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: There is a bad hlear on radio when sunroof is opened gery blinding can’t see display
Honda Hr-v 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 3CZRU6H55
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Honda HR-V. The contact stated that the instrument cluster speedometer and gauges were inoperable during cold temperatures. On several occasions, the instrument cluster screen was flickering. The contact had to bang on the dashboard for it to turn the instrument panel on. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000.
Honda Hr-v 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 3CZRU6H39KM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: A recall was issued in 2023 for a problem with the fuel pump which can cause a serious accident in the event of a failure. I've received two notices for the recall, however the dealer where I purchased the vehicle has not yet been able to obtain the parts from the manufacturer. I'm very concerned because of the potential consequences of failure of the fuel pump and would like to have the recall remedied as soon as possible.
Honda Hr-v 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 3CZRZ2H75PM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Honda HR-V. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic signal, he heard an abnormal popping sound from the rear of the vehicle. The contact turned and looked and observed that the entire rear windshield had shattered. The contact stated that there were only a few small pieces of the windshield left in the frame. The contact stated that he had engaged the rear window defroster to clear condensation on it and that the rear defroster was still engaged when the windshield shattered. The contact was on his way to work and stated that there was no other driver at the traffic signal near his vehicle. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or glass repair shop. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Honda Hr-v 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 3CZRU6H33KG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas gauge and mileage odometer lighted area blink Amon and off and sometimes go out completely for any length of time. Seems more so in colder temperatures
Honda Hr-v 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 3CZRU6H50HM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The start button doesn’t work properly. I have to push it many times to start the car or turn it off. Sometimes doesn’t work at all.
Honda Hr-v 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 3CZRU6H19KM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering. Risk of crashing. Lundgrens Honda of Greenfield, MA. Lundgrens diagnosed and replaced. Steering started creaking in May 2024 slowly got worse to a popping. Took to Lundgrens, they diagnosed and replaced. $1925.44. Diagnosed steering gear assembly worn out at coupler connecting to inner shaft and steering gear box replaced.
Honda Hr-v 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 3CZRU6H39KG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The instrument cluster is glitching and it does not display the amount of fuel in the tank, the mileage/odometer reading that is necessary to know when we are low on fuel. The digital display is blank and people that have same issue state that the soldering done on the cluster was manufactured improperly causing the display to short out.
Honda Hr-v 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 3CZRU6H57GM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I bought this car at 2016 4 months later I'm hearing metal to metal noise at driver side wheel Then I took it to the dealer they said is the seat belt making that noise. I ask, then are you sure not from the driver side wheel. They no it's from the seat belt. Then I. Said ok but the sound through the year it becomes loader Then I look online for most common problems on honda hrv. Then I found about 5 or 6 forum for honda hrv bad bearing on front driver side. 2020 I took it back to the dealer and they said no its not the bearing is the seatbelt that there finding again second tome around. Then I took it to a tire shop. They said my bearing was bad and it's been like that for a long time they said. They said the honda dealer should at list found this problem on the second time I complain. I said no,they still said is the seat belt. The tire shop said I have to change the bearing because is worn out so bad that they don't recommend me to drive it. So I have them change it. Do I have a reason to complain at honda company about my problem
Latest 5 recalls Honda Hr-v
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 26 recalls for different components of the Honda Hr-v.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Honda Hr-v 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-03
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
- Consequence: Difficulty steering can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the worm gear spring and redistribute or add grease as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 18, 2024. Owners may contact Honda Customer Service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are SJS, MJU, QJT and VJV.
- Model: Honda Hr-v 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-03
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
- Consequence: Difficulty steering can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the worm gear spring and redistribute or add grease as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 18, 2024. Owners may contact Honda Customer Service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are SJS, MJU, QJT and VJV.
- Model: Honda Hr-v 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-31
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles that were previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 23V-046. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the display audio unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2024. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are TIQ and DIR. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-046 will need to have the new remedy completed.
- Model: Honda Hr-v 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-31
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles that were previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 23V-046. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the display audio unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2024. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are TIQ and DIR. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-046 will need to have the new remedy completed.
- Model: Honda Hr-v 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-31
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles that were previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 23V-046. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the display audio unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2024. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are TIQ and DIR. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-046 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Latest negative Honda Hr-v car reviews
Latest positive Honda Hr-v car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the Honda HRV LX. I was pleasantly surprised by the power it had, especially after reading some reviews that said it lacked power. I even tried going uphill on the freeway and it had great zip with no lagging, unlike a Prius. I also didn't notice any excessive noise, which some reviews had mentioned. I just wanted to address these two cons in case anyone else was skeptical after reading them. Overall, I highly recommend trying out the Honda HRV for yourself. The electronics are decent in the LX, but the EX offers additional perks like better trims, a sunroof, keyless entry, touchscreen controls, and more. The MPG is also quite impressive. The car looks and feels like the real deal. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Vehicle year: 2018
I own a Honda HR V and I am extremely satisfied with it. I strongly disagree with the expert reviews by Edmunds regarding their cons. Acceleration? This car is not meant for racing, but it has great gitty up. User-friendly technology? Absolutely! The technology and climate control are comparable to those in top-end vehicles. Engine noise and vibration? I'm not sure what the experts were driving, but the HR V has minimal vibration at start-up and little to no motor noise while driving or at idle. When parked, the engine is hardly audible. Overall, I really enjoy this little SUV.
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Vehicle year: 2019
I don't understand why the Kona and the Soul are being rated higher than this car! I test drove all three and this car is a standout! It has a smooth drive and plenty of pickup on acceleration. The cargo space is much better than the Kona, which was as small as my old Versa. There are many safety options available. It feels solid and drives great. I highly recommend it.
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Vehicle year: 2016
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my thoughts on the new Honda HRV. In my opinion, it's a fantastic value for the price. While my girlfriend's 2015 Subaru Forester may have more comfortable seats, be quieter, and have more acceleration, it's also a much more expensive vehicle. For a commuter vehicle, the Honda HRV is a great choice. The 1.8L 4 cylinder engine is incredibly smooth and delivers plenty of power, while also getting an impressive 37 mpg on the road. I actually bought a 2001 Honda CRV for about the same price as the 2016 HRV, and I have to say, the HRV is a much better vehicle. I recently gave the 2001 CRV to my son, who is in college, and it still runs like a top with over 208k miles on it! While a more expensive vehicle may offer a better ride, the HRV is a great all-around vehicle with plenty of space to haul things or furniture with the rear seats down. I recently drove it to Arizona and back, and it held up well in a snowstorm in NM. Overall, I'm still very happy with my HRV after putting over 34,000 miles on it. Thanks for listening to my thoughts!
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Vehicle year: 2021
I'm so glad that Honda had a small SUV available with so many excellent features, especially the safety features. It's cute, runs extremely well, and is very fuel efficient. I'm still learning about all this car has to offer, but I'm very happy with it.
Akeem Quigley 2025-03-29
Vehicle year: 2021
I thought the HRV would be similar to the CRV, but it turned out to be different. I'm used to having power seats, power lift gates, and other features.
Andy Kilback 2025-03-21
Vehicle year: 2016
We really wanted to like the car and overall we did, but there was one little thing that bothered us. The acceleration was a bit sluggish. If the car had 30 more horses, it would be a real winner!
Jess Gutkowski 2025-03-12
Vehicle year: 2023
Hi there! I have a 223 HR-V Sport and I must say, it's a blast to drive! The 4wd is especially great in deep snow. However, I have noticed a few issues with the car in cold weather. The screen tends to freeze up and frost over, which can take a while to thaw out. Additionally, the heater sometimes struggles to keep up and doesn't get warm even after half an hour of driving. Lastly, I've had some trouble with the battery. After only 2 months, it could no longer command-start the car, so I had to buy a trickle charger and plug it in each night to keep it charged enough to run the car. I live in Winnipeg where the temperature can get as low as -20 Celsius, but I don't drive the car much, only about 500 km per month. The Honda dealer told me that I don't drive it enough to keep the battery charged, which I found odd since my previous 2019 CRV with virtually the same features, climate, and driving style didn't have any of these problems. Overall, I still enjoy driving my HR-V Sport despite these minor issues.
Otto Goldner 2025-03-10
Vehicle year: 2018
We really like pretty much everything about the car, including the magic seats, fuel economy, and how easy it is to drive. However, we have been experiencing an extremely annoying vibration in the front passenger seat while the car is running and parked, which the dealer has been unable to solve. The dealership folks said it's something that we have to learn to live with and is an issue in the HRV. We believe that Honda should provide a recall repair for this aggravating seat vibration.
Lambert Sawayn 2025-03-09
Vehicle year: 2017
I had some issues with my car after only 40k miles. The rear shocks were leaking and ruined my tires, but unfortunately the extended warranty did not cover them. Although the defective shocks caused the problem, the warranty still would not cover the tires. Aside from that, I found the gas tank under the front seat to be uncomfortable as it limits foot space. The charging ports are also in an inconvenient location and the cup holders are too deep or too short. However, I do appreciate how the back seats flip up or lay down for more storage and the car has a good price point with an average of 36 mpg. After 120k miles, the shocks have gone bad twice, but luckily they were covered by the warranty I purchased. The temperature gauge and A/C also stopped working, but were also covered. Overall, I would consider buying the 2WD HRV again, but only if I can purchase the Toyota Care Premium warranty again. It's still not the most comfortable car, but for the price point and mpg, it's a good option.