Quick answer: Some 2017–2018 Honda CR-V and 2016–2018 Honda Civic models with the 1.5L turbo engine can collect unburned gasoline in the engine oil, especially in cold climates and on short trips. Honda released software updates and extended powertrain coverage on affected cars to 6 years with unlimited miles. 2019 and newer models received updates at the factory.
What is oil dilution?
In direct-injection turbo engines, a small amount of fuel can get past the piston rings into the oil, especially when the engine doesn’t fully warm up. In the affected Honda 1.5L turbo, owners reported rising oil levels and a gasoline smell from the dipstick, mostly in cold weather. Fuel-diluted oil lubricates less well and can, over time, increase engine wear.
Affected models and years
| Model | Years | Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V | 2017 – 2018 | 1.5L turbo |
| Honda Civic | 2016 – 2018 | 1.5L turbo |
The 2019 CR-V and Civic were updated at the factory and weren’t part of the warranty extension.
Symptoms
- Oil level rising above the full mark on the dipstick.
- Gasoline smell from the oil or the dipstick tube.
- Check engine light or rough running in cold weather.
- Engine running rough at idle after a cold start.
Honda’s fix and warranty extension
- Software updates to the engine and transmission controls help the engine warm up faster, reducing the chance of fuel collecting in the oil. Some cars also had an oil change and, in some regions, an AC/climate control update.
- Honda extended the powertrain warranty to 6 years with unlimited miles for affected 2017–2018 CR-Vs and 2016–2018 Civics.
- The extension is based on the original sale date, so for most cars it has now expired. Updates may still be available: ask a Honda dealer to check your VIN for open campaigns.
Repair costs if problems appear
Typical prices, October 2026.
| Repair | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Software update (if not done) | Often free from Honda |
| Oil and filter change | $60 – $120 |
| Spark plugs (if fouled) | $200 – $350 |
| Engine repair from oil-related wear (rare) | $3,000+ |
How to reduce oil dilution
- Drive longer trips regularly so the engine fully warms up.
- Check the oil level often in winter.
- Change the oil more frequently than the Maintenance Minder suggests if you mostly make short trips in cold weather.
- Make sure the software updates were done.
Should you buy a used 2017–2018 CR-V?
It can still be a good used car. Ask for proof that the updates were performed, check the oil for a fuel smell, and get a pre-purchase inspection. For other reliable options, see Most Reliable Used Cars Under $10,000.
Sources
- WardsAuto: Honda extends warranty to address 1.5L gas oil dilution problem
- Consumer Reports: Honda extends warranty on troubled turbo engines