2002-2006 Honda CR-V: Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule for Honda CR-V (2002–2006, second-generation)

Data note and limitations

• Real NHTSA data provided: No owner complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination.
• Official recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database for this make/model/year.
• What this means for you: There are no dataset-identified complaints or recalls to flag reliability concerns for this specific range. This guide uses general automotive maintenance knowledge tailored to the 2002–2006 CR-V, not NHTSA defect history. Follow your Honda owner's manual for model-specific requirements and always prioritize your vehicle’s current condition.
• Practical scope: This is a maintenance schedule focused on preventive care, not troubleshooting for specific malfunctions. Cost estimates reflect typical U.S. prices in 2025 and can vary by region, shop, and whether you use OEM vs. aftermarket parts.

Overview: what this schedule covers

• Focuses on preventive maintenance to maximize reliability, safety, and resale value.
• Highlights maintenance you can realistically perform or verify yourself, plus when to seek a shop.
• Includes rough 2025 cost ranges for common services and parts to help you plan.

Important notes about the CR-V 2002–2006

• Engine/drivetrain: The second-generation CR-V (2002–2006) uses a belt-driven 4-cylinder engine. Timing belts were the standard method of timing; a failure can cause severe engine damage. Expect a timing belt replacement interval around 90,000–105,000 miles, with the water pump often replaced at the same time.
• Transmission: Most CR-Vs of this era use an automatic transmission if not specified as manual. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) service is commonly recommended around 60,000 miles (and again at intervals advised by the owner manual or a trusted shop).
• Filters and fluids: Engine air filter, cabin air filter (if equipped), serpentine belts, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, and other fluids should be checked and serviced per the intervals below.
• Tires and brakes: Regular inspection of brakes and tires is essential. Replacement intervals vary with driving style and conditions.

Maintenance schedule by mileage

0–5,000 miles (early break-in and setup)

• Oil and oil filter: inspect and plan the first change around 5,000 miles (or per manual; many owners run 5,000–7,500 miles with conventional oil).
• Tire pressures and spare tire check; tread condition.
• Visual inspection: belts/hoses, exhaust, undercarriage, brake lines.
• Fluid levels: coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid (if you know the level and color; do not overfill).
• Battery check: terminal cleanliness and charge state.
• Wipers: inspect and replace if worn.

5,000–7,500 miles (early routine service)

• Oil and filter change: standard if using conventional oil; consider synthetic if you’ve planned for synthetic usage.
• Tire rotation: promote even tire wear.
• Brakes: inspect pads, rotors, and calipers; listen for noise or pulsing.
• Belts/hoses: inspect for cracks or wear; replace if signs appear.
• Engine air filter: check; replace if dirty (often done around 15k, but inspect earlier if you drive in dusty conditions).
• Fluids: visually inspect coolant level, brake fluid level, and windshield washer fluid.

15,000 miles

• Engine air filter: replace if dirty.
• Cabin air filter: replace if equipped (replace more often in dusty or urban areas).
• Visual inspection: belts, hoses, battery, electrical connectors.
• Tire rotation: if not done with the oil change.

30,000 miles

• Engine air filter: replace if not done at 15k.
• Cabin air filter: replace as needed.
• Suspension and steering checks: inspect shocks/struts, ball joints, tie rods.
• Brakes: inspect pads/shoes and rotors/discs; look for uneven wear.
• Fluids: continue to monitor levels (coolant, brake, transmission if applicable).

60,000 miles

• Transmission service (automatic): ATF replacement/flush per shop guidance or manual (typical interval often around 60k–100k depending on condition and driving).
• Coolant/cooling system: coolant flushed and replaced (typical interval ~60,000 miles or every 5–6 years; use manufacturer-recommended coolant).
• Brake fluid flush: replace if moisture content is high or on schedule (commonly every 2 years in many cars).
• Timing belt and water pump: begin planning around 90,000–105,000 miles, but this is a good time to start preparing for a belt check if you’re near the range; if belt isn’t due yet, inspect belt condition and tensioner.
• Drive belts (serpentine): inspect for cracks and wear; replace if needed (often around 60k–100k, depending on wear).

60,000–90,000 miles (preparation window for major belt work)

• Timing belt/water pump replacement: plan for this around 90,000–105,000 miles if not already done. Replace water pump, tensioners, and idlers at the same time.
• Spark plugs: inspect or replace if they’re at or near 60k–100k (many engines of this era use platinum or iridium plugs rated to 100,000 miles; if you’re at ~60k, check condition and gaps).
• Air filters: engine air filter and cabin filter replacement as needed (often done around 30k–60k; check at 60k if not yet done).
• Coolant and fluids: confirm cooling System service; ensure hoses show no leaks.

90,000–105,000 miles (timing belt interval)

• Timing belt and water pump replacement: critical preventive maintenance. Expect typical combined parts and labor cost.
• Serpentine belt replacement (if not already done).
• Spark plugs (if not already): many plugs in this era last to ~100k; verify exact type and replacement interval.
• Transmission service/ATF: if not done earlier, perform per your transmission type.

100,000–120,000 miles

• Spark plugs: replace if not already done (common around 100k for this generation; use recommended type).
• Cooling system: coolant flush and refill if not done at 60k–90k.
• Brake fluid and ATF: ensure fluids are in good condition; flush as needed.
• Major inspection: check timing belt install date, inspect tensioners, pulleys, and belt wear.

120,000–150,000 miles

• Timing belt service completed: confirm belt installation was performed and record the next recommended belt interval.
• Spark plugs and wires (if applicable): replace to maintain engine efficiency.
• Shocks/struts: inspect for wear; replace as needed.
• Tires: inspect tread depth; replace if below safe levels; rotate regularly.
• Brakes: inspect pads/rotors; replace as needed.

150,000 miles and beyond

• Routine maintenance continues: oil/filter every 5,000–7,500 miles; tires, brakes, belts, hoses, and fluids as needed.
• Consider a comprehensive system check (cooling, transmission cooling, steering, suspension, exhaust) to preempt failures.

Seasonal and driving-condition tips

• Dusty, hot, or winter driving: increase the frequency of engine air filter checks; inspect cabin filter more often; check battery health more frequently.
• Short-trip city driving: more frequent oil changes (every 5,000 miles or 6 months) may be advisable because engine doesn’t fully reach operating temperature.
• Towing or heavy loads: follow the higher end of service intervals for fluids and belts; inspect cooling system and transmission more frequently.

Special notes on the timing belt

• The timing belt is a critical wear item on the 2002–2006 CR-V. Replacing it at or near the 90,000–105,000 mile window is strongly recommended to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
• Water pump is usually replaced concurrently because it’s driven by the belt and replacing it separately later can double labor costs.
• If you’re unsure of belt history, treat it as a high-priority service item once you approach 90k–100k miles.

Estimated 2025 costs (typical U.S. ranges)

• Oil change and filter (conventional): $40–$70; synthetic: $60–$100
• Engine air filter: $15–$40
• Cabin air filter: $20–$60
• Tire rotation: $20–$50
• Brake inspection: often included with service; parts vary
• Brake pads (front or rear pair): $150–$300 per axle (pads only); rotor machining or replacement can add $100–$300 per axle
• Brake fluid flush: $70–$120
• Transmission service (automatic ATF change): $150–$250
• Coolant flush: $100–$150
• Coolant/antifreeze (per bottle): $8–$20; coolant flush kits may be included in service
• Timing belt kit (belt, water pump, tensioners, idlers): $500–$900 parts and labor; some shops may quote $700–$1,100 depending on region and labor rates
• Spark plugs (platinum/iridium for this era): $60–$150 (parts) plus labor; total $100–$300 with labor
• Battery replacement: $100–$200 (typical group size) plus installation
• Serpentine belt: $30–$80 (parts) plus labor; many belts $100–$200 total
• Shock absorbers/struts (pair): $400–$1,200 depending on brand and whether you replace all four
• Tires (new set): $400–$1,000+ depending on tire size and brand
• A/C service (recharge or leak repair): $75–$150 for basic recharge; more if leak repair is needed

How to make the schedule work for you

• Start with the owner’s manual: use the official maintenance intervals as your baseline. The manual reflects Honda’s recommendations for your exact configuration (engine, transmission, drivetrain, and options).
• Track service history: keep a log of miles, services, and parts replaced. This helps you plan belt work and major replacements.
• Use a trusted mechanic or dealership for major services: timing belt/water pump, transmission service, and coolant flushes are high-stakes items where professional expertise is beneficial.
• Consider climate and driving patterns: dusty or extreme climates, frequent short trips, or towing can shorten service intervals. Adjust accordingly.

What this data is and isn’t

• This maintenance guide is grounded in general automotive best practices and typical CR-V maintenance needs for 2002–2006 models.
• The provided data snapshot indicates no reported recalls or complaints in the included dataset; this does not guarantee future performance or warranty status.
• Always verify specific intervals and parts with your owner’s manual and your trusted service provider, especially for critical items like timing belts and transmissions.

If you’d like, I can tailor this schedule further to:

• Your exact mileage, driving conditions, and climate
• Whether your CR-V has a specific drivetrain (2WD vs. AWD) or automatic vs. manual transmission
• A printable, week-by-week or month-by-month maintenance plan with reminders

End of guide.