The 2020 Honda CR-V offers a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern technology, appealing to a wide range of drivers․
This manual provides essential information for owners, covering operation, maintenance, and safety features, ensuring a confident driving experience․
Overview of the Vehicle
The 2020 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV designed for versatility and reliability․ It comfortably seats five passengers and offers ample cargo space, making it ideal for families and individuals alike․ Available in various trims – LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring – each model builds upon the previous one with added features and refinements․
This vehicle boasts a standard 1․5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering a balance of power and fuel efficiency․ The CR-V is known for its responsive handling and comfortable ride quality, suitable for both city commuting and highway travel․ Its robust build quality and Honda’s reputation for dependability contribute to a long-lasting ownership experience․
Understanding the features and controls detailed in this owner’s manual will allow you to maximize the enjoyment and safety of your 2020 CR-V․ From the infotainment system to the advanced safety technologies, this guide provides comprehensive instructions for optimal vehicle operation and care․
Key Features and Specifications
The 2020 Honda CR-V presents a compelling package of features․ Standard equipment includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Honda Sensing suite of safety features, and a multi-angle rearview camera․ Higher trims add features like a larger touchscreen, navigation, leather upholstery, and a premium audio system․
Key specifications: Engine – 1․5L Turbocharged Inline-4; Horsepower – 190 hp; Torque – 179 lb-ft; Transmission – Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT); Fuel Economy – Up to 28 City / 34 Hwy MPG (FWD)․ Cargo Volume – 39․2 cu ft (behind 2nd row), 75․8 cu ft (with 2nd row folded)․ Available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive․
This manual details how to utilize these features effectively․ Familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s dimensions, weight capacity, and available options to fully appreciate its capabilities․ Understanding these specifications will enhance your driving experience and ensure proper vehicle maintenance․

Understanding Your Vehicle’s Systems
This section details the intricate workings of your CR-V, from the engine and transmission to the braking system, empowering you with knowledge for optimal performance․
Engine and Powertrain
Your 2020 Honda CR-V is equipped with either a 1․5L turbocharged inline-4 engine or a 2․0L inline-4 engine paired with an intelligent all-wheel drive (i-VTEC) system․ The turbocharged engine delivers a balance of power and efficiency, while the naturally aspirated engine offers responsive performance․
Understanding the powertrain components is crucial for maintaining optimal vehicle operation․ The engine utilizes direct injection technology for improved fuel economy and reduced emissions; Regular oil changes, as outlined in the maintenance schedule, are vital for engine longevity․ The powertrain control module (PCM) manages various engine functions, ensuring smooth and efficient operation․
Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations emanating from the engine compartment, as these could indicate a potential issue․ Familiarize yourself with the location of key engine components, such as the air filter and coolant reservoir, for routine inspections․ Proper maintenance of the engine and powertrain will contribute to a reliable and enjoyable driving experience․
Transmission Operation

The 2020 Honda CR-V features a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) designed for smooth and efficient power delivery․ Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, the CVT utilizes a belt and pulley system to provide an infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range․ This results in optimized engine performance and improved fuel economy․
The CVT operates seamlessly, without noticeable gear shifts․ However, you may experience a slight engine speed increase during acceleration, which is normal CVT behavior․ The transmission includes a Sport mode for more responsive acceleration․ Avoid prolonged operation at high engine speeds, as this can reduce transmission life․
Regular transmission fluid checks and replacements, as specified in the maintenance schedule, are essential for maintaining optimal performance․ Be mindful of any unusual noises or vibrations during operation, and consult a qualified technician if you suspect a problem․ Proper CVT care ensures a smooth and reliable driving experience․
Braking System Details
The 2020 Honda CR-V is equipped with a sophisticated braking system designed for optimal stopping power and control․ It features a hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs․ Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, preventing wheel lockup during hard braking for enhanced steering control․
The vehicle also incorporates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which automatically adjusts braking force to each wheel based on vehicle load and road conditions․ Brake Assist detects emergency braking situations and applies maximum braking force to shorten stopping distances․ Regularly inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels․

Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for brake inspections and fluid replacements․ A properly maintained braking system is crucial for safety․ Be aware of any unusual noises, pulsations, or increased pedal travel, and have the system inspected by a qualified technician promptly․

Interior Features and Controls
The 2020 CR-V’s cabin prioritizes comfort and convenience, offering intuitive controls and spacious seating․ This section details operation of the infotainment, climate, and seating adjustments․
Seating and Adjustments
Your 2020 Honda CR-V offers versatile seating designed for comfort and adaptability․ The driver’s seat features manual or power adjustments, including fore/aft positioning, seatback recline, and height adjustment, allowing for a personalized driving position․ Many trims include power lumbar support for enhanced lower back comfort on longer journeys․
Front passenger seats typically offer similar manual adjustments․ Rear seats provide ample legroom and comfortable seating for three passengers․ The second-row seats also feature a 60/40 split folding configuration, enabling flexible cargo space expansion․ To fold the rear seats, locate the release levers on the seatbacks or cargo area․
Head restraints are adjustable for all seating positions, promoting proper neck support and safety․ Always ensure head restraints are positioned correctly before driving․ Refer to the vehicle’s detailed diagrams for specific adjustment locations and procedures․ Proper seat adjustment is crucial for safe and comfortable operation of your CR-V․
Infotainment System Guide
The 2020 Honda CR-V’s infotainment system provides access to various features, including audio, navigation, and smartphone integration․ The system typically features a touchscreen display, offering intuitive control․ Utilize the touchscreen to navigate menus, adjust settings, and select media sources․
Connectivity options include Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB ports for device charging and data transfer, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility for seamless smartphone integration․ These features allow you to access apps, make calls, and listen to music directly through the vehicle’s system․
Volume and tuning controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel, enabling easy adjustments while driving․ Explore the system’s settings menu to customize display preferences, audio settings, and connectivity options․ Refer to the detailed system guide within the owner’s manual for comprehensive instructions and troubleshooting tips․
Climate Control Operation
The 2020 Honda CR-V’s climate control system ensures passenger comfort in varying weather conditions․ The system offers dual-zone automatic climate control on many trims, allowing independent temperature settings for driver and passenger․ Manual controls are also available on base models․
Utilize the temperature dials to adjust the desired cabin temperature․ The fan speed control regulates airflow intensity, while the mode selector allows you to choose between defrost, floor, vent, and blend settings․ The recirculation button enables the system to draw air from inside the vehicle, useful for quickly cooling or warming the cabin․
The automatic mode maintains the set temperature automatically, adjusting fan speed and airflow as needed․ For optimal efficiency, use the automatic mode whenever possible․ Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed instructions on utilizing all climate control features, including rear ventilation controls if equipped․

Safety Features and Systems
The 2020 CR-V prioritizes occupant protection with advanced systems like Honda Sensing, airbags, and collision mitigation․ This section details these features for safe operation․
Honda Sensing Suite
The Honda Sensing suite is a comprehensive collection of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies designed to help enhance awareness and mitigate potential hazards on the road․ This system utilizes a forward-facing camera and radar to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings․
Key components include Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or lessen the severity of a frontal collision․ Road Departure Mitigation System (RDMS) helps steer the vehicle back into its lane if it detects unintentional lane departure․ Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead․
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) assists in keeping the vehicle centered in its lane․ Recognizing Traffic Signs (RTS) displays speed limit and other important road information to the driver․ Pedestrian detection is also included within the CMBS․ Proper functioning relies on clear visibility of road markings and sensors; refer to the owner’s manual for limitations and optimal performance․
Airbag System Information
The 2020 Honda CR-V is equipped with a sophisticated airbag system designed to provide occupant protection in the event of a collision․ This system includes front airbags for both driver and passenger, side airbags mounted in the front seats, and side curtain airbags that deploy along the side windows․
The airbag system is designed to work in conjunction with seat belts, and proper seat belt usage is crucial for optimal protection․ Sensors throughout the vehicle detect the severity and type of impact, determining which airbags to deploy․
Important safety precautions include never placing rear-facing child seats in the front passenger seat when the passenger airbag is active․ Regularly inspect the airbags for any signs of damage or tampering․ The system features a warning light on the instrument panel to indicate any malfunctions; if illuminated, have the system inspected by a qualified Honda technician immediately․ Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed information regarding airbag operation and safety guidelines․
Collision Mitigation System
The 2020 Honda CR-V’s Collision Mitigation System (CMBS) is a suite of advanced safety features designed to help avoid or lessen the severity of a potential collision․ This system utilizes a forward-facing camera and radar sensor to monitor the road ahead, detecting vehicles, pedestrians, and other potential hazards․
CMBS includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW), which alerts the driver with audible and visual warnings if a collision is imminent․ Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) automatically applies the brakes if the driver does not respond to the warnings, helping to reduce impact speed or even avoid the collision altogether․
It’s crucial to understand that CMBS is not a substitute for attentive driving․ The system has limitations and may not function correctly in all conditions, such as inclement weather or poor road markings․ Always maintain a safe following distance and be prepared to take control of the vehicle․ Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed information on CMBS operation, limitations, and maintenance․

Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance is vital for your 2020 CR-V’s longevity and performance․ This section details recommended schedules, fluid checks, tire care, and other essential procedures for optimal vehicle health․
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining your 2020 Honda CR-V according to the recommended schedule is crucial for its reliability and longevity․ This schedule, detailed in your owner’s manual, outlines specific inspections, replacements, and services at various mileage intervals․

Every 7,500 miles (or 12 months), you should perform an oil and filter change, tire rotation, and a comprehensive inspection of key components like brakes, fluids, and belts․
At 15,000 miles (or 24 months), in addition to the 7,500-mile services, consider replacing the air cleaner element, inspecting the drive belt, and checking the cooling system․
Major services are recommended at 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000 miles, including fluid replacements (transmission, coolant, brake fluid), spark plug replacement, and more in-depth inspections․ Following this schedule helps prevent unexpected repairs and ensures your CR-V operates efficiently and safely for years to come․ Refer to your owner’s manual for the complete and detailed maintenance schedule specific to your driving conditions․
Fluid Checks and Replacements
Regularly checking and replacing fluids is vital for the optimal performance of your 2020 Honda CR-V․ Your owner’s manual details the specific types of fluids required and the recommended replacement intervals․
Engine oil should be checked monthly and replaced every 7,500 miles (or 12 months) with the specified grade․ Coolant levels should be inspected regularly, and the coolant flushed and replaced every 30,000 miles or 24 months․
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing braking efficiency; it should be replaced every three years․ Transmission fluid maintains smooth shifting and requires replacement around 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions;
Power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid also require periodic checks and refills․ Using the correct fluid types is crucial to avoid damage to your vehicle’s systems․ Always consult your owner’s manual for specific fluid specifications and replacement procedures․
Tire Information and Maintenance
Maintaining proper tire condition is crucial for safety and performance in your 2020 Honda CR-V․ Your owner’s manual provides detailed specifications regarding tire size, load capacity, and recommended inflation pressure․

Tire pressure should be checked monthly and adjusted to the values listed on the driver’s side doorjamb․ Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and handling, while overinflated tires can lead to uneven wear․
Tire rotation is recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles to ensure even tread wear․ Tread depth should be regularly inspected; tires with less than 2/32 inch of tread are unsafe and require replacement․
Visual inspections for cuts, bulges, or uneven wear are also important․ The manual details the correct tire replacement procedure and emphasizes using tires of the same size and type․ Proper tire maintenance extends tire life and enhances vehicle safety․