Has the CR-V Engine Oil Dilution Issue Been Resolved?
3 Answers
Currently, the CR-V engine oil dilution issue has been resolved, but a very small number of owners still report experiencing this problem. It remains difficult to determine whether this is a common issue. More information regarding engine oil dilution is as follows: 1. The engine injects a large amount of gasoline during startup. Sometimes, due to excessive injection and incomplete combustion, the excessive pressure on the cylinder walls forces gasoline into the crankcase. 2. Normally, gasoline evaporates once the engine reaches operating temperature. However, during frequent cold starts and in cold weather, the engine oil temperature may not rise sufficiently, making it difficult for the gasoline to evaporate, which leads to the issue of continuously increasing engine oil levels.
As an owner of a 2018 CR-V, I personally experienced the oil dilution issue. The engine made abnormal noises during startup, and checking the dipstick revealed excessive oil levels—caused by fuel mixing into the crankcase. Honda initiated a large-scale recall in 2018, so I promptly went for an ECU software update and component replacement, which significantly improved the problem, though occasional monitoring is still needed. If you drive a similar model year, I recommend checking the oil frequently to prevent it from exceeding the maximum level; visit the dealership immediately if symptoms appear. Honda extended the warranty, and my car has been stable since. Newer models (2020 onwards) have mostly fixed the issue, but it's still wise to warm up the engine properly in cold weather.
From an automotive expert's perspective, the CR-V's engine oil dilution issue stems from a design flaw in the 1.5T engine, where fuel leaks into the oil causing dilution. Honda responded to customer complaints in 2018 by issuing a recall to update the control system and hardware, which resolved the issue for most vehicles. However, if not addressed promptly or under harsh driving conditions such as frequent short trips in cold weather, the problem may recur. It is recommended to warm up the engine for a few minutes before driving and avoid traffic congestion. Owners of older models should regularly check oil levels and contact service centers for software updates if levels rise. Honda's extended warranty program remains in effect to cover unexpected damages.
