Driving your Honda CR-V should give you peace of mind, not worry about whether your vehicle might suddenly stall or develop a dangerous fuel leak. If you own a Honda CR-V manufactured between 2017-2020 or 2023-2025, you might be affected by one of two major fuel pump recalls that impact over 2.3 million Honda vehicles. These aren’t minor issues—they involve potential engine stalling and fire risks that demand your attention.
Which Honda CR-V Models Are Affected by the Fuel Pump Recalls?
Honda has issued two distinct fuel pump recall campaigns affecting different model years and types of defects:
2017-2020 Models: Low-Density Impeller Recall
This recall specifically covers:
- 2018-2020 Honda CR-V (standard gasoline engines)
- 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid
The problem involves defective fuel pump impellers manufactured by Denso. These impellers were improperly molded with insufficient density, causing them to absorb fuel and swell over time. When the impeller swells, it interferes with the pump housing and can prevent proper rotation, potentially disabling the entire fuel delivery system.
Honda announced this recall in December 2023 under campaign number 23V-704, expanding previous recalls from 2020 and 2021. Owner notification letters began mailing in February 2024.
2023-2025 Models: High-Pressure Fuel Pump Recall
This newer recall covers:
- 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid models
This recall addresses a completely different issue involving high-pressure fuel pumps supplied by Hitachi Astemo. These pumps can develop cracks in the solenoid core component due to excessive torque and inadequate baking conditions during manufacturing. The cracks allow pressurized fuel to leak out, creating both fire and vapor hazards.
Honda announced this recall in October 2024 under NHTSA campaign 24V763000, with owner notification letters beginning December 4, 2024.
What Are the Warning Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump?
Being able to identify potential fuel pump problems could help you avoid dangerous situations. The warning signs differ between the two recall issues:
Signs of the 2017-2020 Impeller Problem:
- Difficulty starting your vehicle (extended cranking time)
- Engine hesitation during acceleration
- Engine stalling while driving
- Complete inability to start the vehicle
- Check engine light illumination
These symptoms typically develop gradually as the impeller swells and loses efficiency, eventually leading to complete fuel pump failure. The most serious risk is sudden engine stalling while driving, especially at highway speeds or in heavy traffic.
Signs of the 2023-2025 High-Pressure Pump Issue:
- Fuel odor in or around the vehicle
- Visible fuel vapor or mist under the hood
- Puddles of fuel beneath the parked vehicle
- Engine warning lights
- Reduced fuel economy
Unlike the impeller issue, the high-pressure pump cracking may not prevent your vehicle from running. However, it creates a more immediate fire hazard as pressurized fuel can leak near hot engine components.
What Are the Safety Risks of These Defects?
Both recall issues present serious safety concerns, though in different ways:
2017-2020 Model Safety Risks
The primary danger with the impeller defect is unexpected engine stalling while driving. When your fuel pump fails completely:
- Your vehicle can lose power suddenly without warning
- Power steering and power braking assistance may be reduced
- You could be stranded in unsafe locations
- Risk of collision increases if stalling occurs in traffic or on highways
While Honda hasn’t reported any crashes directly attributed to this defect, the sudden loss of engine power creates clear safety hazards, especially in high-demand driving situations.
2023-2025 Model Safety Risks
The high-pressure pump cracking creates different but equally serious concerns:
- Leaked fuel creates fire hazards near hot engine components
- Fuel vapor can accumulate in enclosed spaces
- Exposure to gasoline vapors poses health risks
- Potential for vehicle fires
Honda has documented 145 warranty claims related to fuel leaks and odors through September 2024, though no actual fires have been reported yet. The presence of fuel vapor remains a serious safety concern requiring immediate attention.
How Do I Check If My Honda CR-V Is Affected?
There are several easy ways to verify if your vehicle is included in either recall:
- Check your VIN using Honda’s recall lookup tool: Visit honda.com/recalls and enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (found on the lower corner of your windshield on the driver’s side).
- Use the NHTSA’s recall database: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration maintains an independent database of all vehicle recalls. Enter your VIN to see any outstanding recalls.
- Call Honda Customer Service: Contact Honda directly at 1-888-234-2138 to verify your vehicle’s recall status.
- Check for recall notices: Honda has mailed notification letters to owners of affected vehicles. Check your mail for any notices from Honda.
Remember to check for both recall campaigns if you own a CR-V from the affected model years. The 2017-2020 recall is campaign number 23V-704, while the 2023-2025 recall is campaign 24V763000.
What’s the Repair Process and Timeline?
If your Honda CR-V is affected by either recall, here’s what you can expect during the repair process:
Initial Inspection and Diagnosis
Honda dealerships will perform a comprehensive inspection of your fuel system to determine if your vehicle shows signs of the defect:
- For 2017-2020 models, technicians will test fuel pump pressure and flow rates
- For 2023-2025 models, they’ll check for fuel leaks, vapor odors, and pressure drops
This diagnostic process typically takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on your specific model.
Replacement Parts and Repair Time
Both recall issues require replacing defective components with redesigned parts:
2017-2020 Models: Dealers will replace the entire fuel pump module with one featuring improved impellers manufactured with better density specifications and enhanced quality control.
2023-2025 Models: Technicians will replace the high-pressure fuel pump with a redesigned version incorporating improved solenoid components with enhanced dimensions and modified baking conditions to prevent crack formation.
The actual repair process typically requires 2-4 hours, though you should plan to leave your vehicle at the dealership for at least half a day.
Cost and Timing Considerations
All recall-related inspections and repairs are completely free of charge to vehicle owners, regardless of age, mileage, or warranty status. However, there are some important scheduling considerations:
- Part availability: Supply constraints may affect repair scheduling, especially for the newer high-pressure pump recall
- Service scheduling: Make your appointment as soon as possible, as dealer service departments may have limited availability
- Repair priority: Honda prioritizes vehicles showing active symptoms of fuel pump failure
What Should You Do While Waiting for Repairs?
If you own an affected Honda CR-V but haven’t been able to schedule repairs yet, consider these interim safety measures:
For 2017-2020 Models (Impeller Issue):
- Be alert for warning signs: Pay attention to difficulty starting, hesitation, or rough running
- Maintain at least a quarter tank of fuel: This helps keep the pump submerged and cooler
- Consider limiting long trips: If possible, avoid extended highway driving until repairs are complete
- Have backup transportation plans: Know what you’ll do if your vehicle becomes undrivable
For 2023-2025 Models (High-Pressure Pump Issue):
- Check for fuel odors: Before driving, check around the vehicle for gasoline smells
- Park outdoors when possible: Avoid enclosed garages if you detect any fuel odors
- Schedule your repair ASAP: Due to the fire risk, these repairs should be prioritized
- Stop driving immediately: If you detect strong fuel odors or see visible fuel leakage
Can I Get Reimbursed for Previous Repairs?
If you paid out-of-pocket for fuel pump repairs related to these defects before the recall announcements, you may qualify for reimbursement from Honda. The process requires:
- Documentation of repairs: Gather all receipts, work orders, and payment records
- Proof the repair addressed the recall issue: The documentation should clearly show that the repair involved the specific defect covered by the recall
- Submission to Honda: Contact Honda Customer Service to initiate the reimbursement claim process
Honda will review reimbursement claims on a case-by-case basis. Claims must typically be submitted within a reasonable timeframe after the recall announcement, usually within one year of notification.
How Has Honda Addressed These Manufacturing Issues?
Both recall campaigns have prompted Honda and its suppliers to make significant changes to their manufacturing processes:
Improvements for 2017-2020 Impeller Issue
Honda and Denso have:
- Redesigned fuel pump impellers with improved density specifications
- Enhanced quality control procedures during manufacturing
- Used materials less susceptible to fuel absorption and swelling
- Implemented additional testing protocols for fuel system components
Improvements for 2023-2025 High-Pressure Pump Issue
Honda and Hitachi Astemo have:
- Modified the manufacturing process to eliminate machining chip contamination
- Improved dimensions and inner diameter machining for solenoid components
- Changed baking conditions to prevent crack formation
- Added quality inspection steps to detect potential defects before installation
These improvements should prevent similar issues in future production runs, though affected vehicles still require the recall repairs to address the existing defects.
Technical Comparison of the Two Recall Issues
The two Honda CR-V fuel pump recalls involve fundamentally different problems:
| Feature | 2017-2020 Impeller Recall | 2023-2025 High-Pressure Pump Recall |
|---|---|---|
| Affected Component | Fuel pump impeller | High-pressure direct injection fuel pump |
| Supplier | Denso | Hitachi Astemo |
| Root Cause | Low-density impeller material absorbs fuel and swells | Manufacturing defects create cracks in solenoid core |
| Primary Risk | Engine stalling while driving | Fuel leakage creating fire hazard |
| Warning Signs | Extended cranking, hesitation, stalling | Fuel odor, visible leakage, vapor |
| Vehicle Impact | Complete engine failure possible | Engine may continue to operate with leak |
| Approximate Repair Time | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours |
The Regulatory Response and Honda’s Actions
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains active oversight of both Honda CR-V fuel pump recall campaigns through its recall management system.
Honda’s reporting timeline shows a responsible approach to these safety issues:
- For the high-pressure pump issue, Honda received its first warranty claim in February 2023
- By March 2023, Honda had initiated a formal investigation
- By September 2024, Honda voluntarily stopped production of affected vehicles
- In October 2024, Honda formally announced the recall
NHTSA requires Honda to provide quarterly reports on recall completion statistics and any additional incidents related to these fuel pump defects. This regulatory oversight helps ensure that Honda properly addresses these safety concerns.
How Common Are Fuel Pump Failures in Honda CR-Vs?
While these recalls affect millions of vehicles, not every Honda CR-V will experience fuel pump failure. Based on warranty claim data and industry analysis:
- For the 2017-2020 impeller issue, the failure rate increases as vehicles age, with most problems appearing after 3-5 years of service
- For the 2023-2025 high-pressure pump issue, problems can appear much earlier, sometimes within the first year of ownership
The severity and timing of failures depend on several factors:
- Driving conditions and patterns
- Fuel quality and ethanol content
- Climate and temperature variations
- Manufacturing date (earlier production runs may show higher failure rates)
It’s worth noting that even without visible symptoms, the underlying defects still exist in affected vehicles, which is why Honda recommends completing the recall repairs regardless of whether you’ve experienced problems.
Taking Action: What to Do Next
If you own a Honda CR-V that might be affected by these recalls, take these steps immediately:
- Verify your recall status: Use Honda’s recall lookup tool or the NHTSA database to check if your specific vehicle is included
- Schedule your repair appointment: Contact your local Honda dealership to book a service appointment as soon as possible
- Watch for warning signs: Be alert for any symptoms of fuel pump problems while waiting for repairs
- Keep documentation: Maintain records of all communications, appointments, and repairs related to these recalls
Remember that all recall-related repairs are provided free of charge, and Honda is legally required to fix these safety defects regardless of your vehicle’s age or warranty status.
With proper attention to these recall notices and timely repairs, you can help ensure your Honda CR-V remains safe and reliable for years to come.
