NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Honda HR-V
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Honda HR-V is a subcompact SUV that has carved out a loyal following among urban commuters, young professionals, and small families who want practical versatility without the bulk of a larger crossover. Now in its third generation for the covered model years, it sits at the entry point of Honda's SUV lineup, competing in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. Safety-conscious buyers will find a nuanced story here worth examining closely.
The 2021 Honda HR-V earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the HR-V as a sensible, space-efficient choice in the subcompact SUV segment, praising its clever interior packaging and easy maneuverability in tight urban environments. Most agree the redesigned third generation represents a significant step forward in refinement and driver-assist technology, though some note the driving experience remains more functional than engaging by segment standards.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15739
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER26V332000
Risk: Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH, NOC, POD, BOE, UOF, POB, EOG, AOI, QO8, TOJ, DO7, and SOK. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V064. Vehicle Identification Numbers
Reported 2026-05-21
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION24V384000
Risk: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the display audio unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2024. Owners may contact Honda service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are TIQ and DIR. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-046 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Reported 2024-05-31
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER24V064000
Risk: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, October 18, 2024, and August 2025. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
Reported 2024-02-01
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION23V046000
Risk: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the display audio unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 13, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is 6DW. This recall has been superseded by NHTSA recall number 24V-384. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-046 will need to have the new remedy completed under recall 24V-38
Reported 2023-02-02
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
61 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.