The most commonly reported problems with the Honda Crosstour tend to cluster around the automatic transmission, higher-than-expected oil consumption in the 3.5-liter V6 engines, and occasional electrical or rear-hatch faults, along with safety recalls that affected certain model years. The Crosstour was sold from 2009 to 2015 as a hatchback-style variant of the Accord, delivering cargo space and practicality but carrying these reliability notes.
Originally launched in 2009 as a practical liftback version of the Accord, the Crosstour ran until 2015. While many owners praise its cargo flexibility and ride comfort, independent reviews and owner reports highlight issues in the areas described below. This article outlines the main problems, why they occur, and what to check if you're considering a used Crosstour.
Most commonly reported problems
These issues have repeatedly appeared in owner anecdotes, consumer reviews, and service records. Not every Crosstour experiences them, but they are the categories most often discussed when reliability is evaluated.
- Automatic transmission problems: shifting irregularities such as slipping, hard shifts, or hesitation, particularly on earlier 5-speed automatics paired with the 3.5L V6.
- Oil consumption in the 3.5L V6: some engines in this generation were reported to burn or consume oil more quickly than expected, leading to frequent top-ups or service inquiries.
- Electrical and infotainment issues: faults with dashboard gauges, warning lights, Bluetooth/nav systems, or infotainment screens that can interrupt normal operation.
- Rear hatch/hinge and strut wear: worn or failing gas springs can cause the hatch to sag, rattle, or fail to stay open, and seals can deteriorate, increasing the potential for leaks.
- Safety recalls: Takata airbag inflator recalls affected many Crosstour units, along with other safety-related recalls (airbags, seat belts, ABS) for specific years. VIN-specific recall status is important to verify.
In summary, transmission reliability, oil management, and electrical/hatch components have been the most frequently flagged concerns among Crosstour owners and analysts.
What to check when shopping for a used Crosstour
Before you buy, these checks help you identify cars that may carry the common issues and avoid risky purchases. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a current recall/VIN check are essential.
- Service history and maintenance records: look for regular oil changes and any notes about oil consumption or transmission service, as well as documented repairs to electrical components or the hatch system.
- Test drive for transmission behavior: pay attention to smoothness of shifts, any slipping or delayed engagement, and note any warning lights that come on during diagnostics.
- Engine and transmission leak check: inspect for oil leaks around the engine or transmission, and check the oil level and condition during a cold start and after a drive.
- Rear hatch and seal inspection: test the hatch operation, inspect gas struts, hinges, and seals for wear or leakage in the cargo area.
- Recall status and VIN verification: verify open recalls with the vehicle’s VIN and ensure prior recalls have been completed; check with Honda/NHTSA databases or a reputable dealer.
By focusing on these checks, prospective buyers can better assess a Crosstour’s reliability and negotiate from a position of knowledge.
Summary
The Honda Crosstour blends practicality with distinctive styling, but buyers and owners should be mindful of common issues in transmission behavior, oil consumption in the V6 engines, electrical system quirks, and rear-hatch components, plus the need to confirm safety recall work. A careful pre-purchase inspection, thorough test drive, and VIN-based recall check are the best ways to mitigate risk and identify well-maintained examples from the 2009–2015 run.