- OVERVIEW
This diagnostic guide is based strictly on the NHTSA data provided for Honda CR-V (2017-2023) with the issue “AC Condenser Failure.” In the supplied data set, there are no owner complaints and no official recalls documented for this specific make/model/year/issue combination. Limited NHTSA data available for this issue.
Because there are no complaints in the data, there are no verbatim owner descriptions to quote. Check NHTSA.gov for current recalls for your VIN, as the data here show no recalls. Based on the scenario input, a typical condenser-replacement scenario carries a repair cost range of about $800–$1,400 (2025 estimates), but the dataset provides no direct cost reports from owner complaints to anchor those figures. Based on 0 owner reports.
- SYMPTOMS
No NHTSA-documented symptoms for AC condenser failure in this specific CR-V data set (Based on 0 owner reports).
Data limitation: The supplied NHTSA data contains 0 complaints, so symptom descriptions are not available from the official records you provided. If you experience symptoms, consult a qualified shop for an HVAC/system diagnosis.
- ROOT CAUSE
With no complaints in the dataset, there is no complaint-pattern evidence to pinpoint a single root-cause scenario for this issue on the 2017–2023 CR-V.
General engineering context (not data-derived from this dataset): AC condenser failures are commonly associated with refrigerant leaks through condenser tubes or fins, corrosion over time, physical damage from road debris or front-end impacts, debris blockage reducing airflow, improper service leading to contamination, or wear in connections at the condenser. In the absence of NHTSA-reported cases, uncertainty remains about prevalent failure modes for this exact model/year in the data.
Acknowledge uncertainty: Because the dataset shows zero complaints, any root-cause discussion is best treated as general automotive knowledge about condenser systems rather than a data-supported pattern for this vehicle.
- WHY THIS AFFECTS HONDA CR-V
Data limitation: There are no complaint records to indicate how frequently AC condenser issues appear in the Honda CR-V (2017–2023). Therefore, it’s not possible from the provided data to claim a frequency pattern or model-specific vulnerability.
General factors to consider (non-data-derived): The CR-V’s condenser is typically located at the front of the cooling pack and is exposed to road debris, heat, and airflow. If leaks or airflow restriction occur, refrigerant pressure can drop, reducing cooling performance. These are common considerations for condenser-related issues in many vehicles, but the above points are not confirmed by the supplied NHTSA dataset for this exact vehicle.
- OBD2 CODES
Complaint data shows varied codes - professional scan recommended
Note: The provided data set contains no specific OBD-II codes for this issue. A professional scan is advised to identify any codes that might correlate with HVAC or refrigerant-system faults in your particular vehicle.
- TSBS AND RECALLS
No recalls found in NHTSA database. Verify at NHTSA.gov for your VIN.
Check with dealer for TSBs (no TSB numbers are provided in the data you supplied).
Because there are no recalls documented in the data, there are no exact campaign IDs to cite. If you are troubleshooting, a dealer or certified shop may have TSBs or service bulletins relevant to condenser or HVAC system concerns, but none are listed here.
- DIAGNOSTIC STEPS
Since there are no complaint data points to guide a vehicle-specific sequence, rely on standard condenser/HVAC diagnostics:
Visual inspection: Check condenser for visible damage, bent fins, debris blockage, oil or refrigerant residue around the condenser area, and any signs of impact.
Refrigerant system check: Connect a proper AC/R (refrigerant) gauge set to inspect high- and low-side pressures when the system is operating. Look for abnormal pressures that indicate a leak or restricted flow.
Leak detection: Use UV dye or an electronic refrigerant leak detector to identify leaks in condenser lines, end tanks, or fins.
Airflow assessment: Ensure cooling fans are functioning (both radiator and condenser fans as applicable) and that there is no obstruction upstream of the condenser hindering airflow.
Electrical/connector inspection: Inspect wiring to the condenser fans, pressure switches, and sensors for damage or corrosion.
Associated components: If refrigerant charge is low, inspect for leaks; assess the compressor, receiver/drier, and orifice tube/expansion valve as needed since failure in these can accompany or mask condenser issues.
Document conditions: Note weather, driving conditions, and bumper-to-front-end impact history that could contribute to condenser damage.
Safety considerations: Handling refrigerant requires proper certification and equipment. If a leak is found or suspected, treat as a professional service event.
- REPAIR SOLUTIONS (with 2025 costs)
Primary option: Condenser replacement
- Estimated 2025 cost range: $800–$1,400 (parts and labor). This range reflects typical condenser replacement scenarios for a CR-V and aligned with the scenario’s cost context.
- Safety-critical/skill considerations: Professional Only for refrigerant system discharge/recharge and condensation unit replacement. Proper refrigerant recovery, evacuation, and recharge must be performed by a qualified technician.
Secondary/adjunct options (scope depends on findings):
- If refrigerant charge is low due to a leak: repair the leak and recharge the system. Costs vary upward depending on leak location and the need for replacement of o-rings, seals, or adjacent components.
- If additional components are damaged (e.g., receiver/drier, expansion device, or compressor): replacement costs increase accordingly.
Note: The data provided do not include owner-reported repair bills or parts lists. The above cost guidance uses the scenario-specified range and general industry expectations for condenser replacement. Actual charges vary by shop, region, and whether additional parts are required.
- EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE
No recall remedies are listed in the data for this issue. Check with the manufacturer for potential warranty extensions or coverage that may apply to condenser-related failures.
If a recall or warranty bulletin becomes applicable to your VIN, follow the remedy instructions in the official recall or warranty documentation. The data provided do not include such extensions or program numbers.
- PREVENTION
With no documented complaints in the data, concrete prevention guidance specific to this issue cannot be drawn from NHTSA records for this model/year.
General preventive maintenance (not data-derived):
- Keep the front grille and condenser area clear of debris; wash the area to reduce buildup.
- Inspect the condenser fins during routine service and straighten any bent fins to maintain airflow.
- Schedule periodic HVAC/system checks as part of regular maintenance to detect early signs of refrigerant leaks or cooling inefficiency.
- If you notice reduced cabin cooling, unusual smells, or visible leaks, have the system inspected promptly to avoid refrigerant loss and compressor damage.
- OWNER REPORTS & RELIABILITY DATA
- Based on 0 owner reports
- Limited NHTSA data available for this issue
- No mileage data is provided in the dataset for this specific issue
- Therefore, no frequency or reliability statistics can be stated from the supplied data.
- RELATED ISSUES
- Potentially related HVAC/AC symptoms or system components (not data-derived for this case but common in condenser-related failures):
- Refrigerant leaks and recharges
- AC compressor issues
- Front-end damage or debris causing condenser fin obstruction
- Cooling system interaction (radiator and condenser airflow)
Important data notes and how to use this guide
Data status: This guide relies solely on the NHTSA data you supplied. There are zero owner complaints and zero recalls documented for the Honda CR-V (2017–2023) with the issue of AC condenser failure in the provided dataset.
Data limitations: Because there are no complaints in the dataset, symptom lists, specific OBD-II codes, and frequency data cannot be drawn from NHTSA for this issue. The guide therefore uses general condenser repair knowledge and the cost framework provided in your scenario.
Recalls and TSBs: No recalls are listed in the dataset. For current recalls and any possible TSBs, check NHTSA.gov and consult your dealership with your VIN.
Costs: The primary cost guidance comes from the scenario-provided repair cost range of $800–$1,400 for condenser replacement (2025 estimates). Individual pricing will vary by region, labor rate, and whether additional parts or services are required.
Safety emphasis: When refrigerant handling is involved (evacuation/recharge), this work must be performed by a certified technician following proper procedures and environmental regulations.