Honda CR-V 1996-2001 (1st gen)

The first-generation Honda CR-V, produced from 1996 to 2001, marked the debut of Honda's compact crossover SUV, aimed at providing practicality and versatility for urban and suburban lifestyles. It featured a unibody construction, which offered car-like driving dynamics while maintaining a higher seating position for better visibility. With its boxy and compact design, the CR-V maximized interior space, providing ample cargo room and seating for up to five passengers.

The 1st Gen CR-V came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive system. While it may not have been a powerhouse, it was fuel-efficient and suitable for daily commuting and light off-road adventures. This generation of the CR-V established a reputation for reliability, durability, and practicality, making it a popular choice among families and individuals seeking a comfortable and versatile SUV.

Honda CR-V specification, engine oil capacity, spark plug gap, safety rating, fuel consumption, transmission, and light bulb sizes.

Engine 2.0L 4-Cylinder DOHC

• Recommended oil viscosity: 5W-30
• Oil certification: API
• Drain plug torque: 33 ft-lbs
• Oil capacity: 3.7 quarts

Spark Plug Gap

• 2.0L 4-Cylinder: 0.044”

Fuel

• Capacity: 15.3 US gal (58.0 L)

Coolant

• Capacity: 
  • Manual: 1.59 US gal (6.0.1L)
  • Automatic: 1.56 US gal (5.9 L)

Automatic Transmission Fluid

• Type: Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) preferred, or a DEXRON III ATF as a temporary replacement
• Capacity: 
  • 4WD: 7.2 US qt (6.8 L)
  • 2WD: 6.2 US qt (5.9 L)

5-Speed Manual Transmission Fluid

• Type: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motor oil as a temporary replacement
• Capacity: 2.2  US qt (2.1L)

Rear Differential Fluid

• Type: Honda Dual Pump Fluid preferred, or a DEXRON® III ATF as a temporary replacement
• Capacity: 1.3 US qt (1.2L)

Windshield Washer Reservoir

• Capacity: 
  • US: 2.6 qt (2.5 L)
  • Canada: 4.8 qt (4.5 L)

Power Steering Fluid

• Type: Honda Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF

Refrigerant

• Type: HFC-134a (R-134a)
• Capacity: 22.9-24.7 oz. (650-700g)

Lubricant

• Type: SP-10

Powertrain

Engine

• Gasoline:
• 2.0 L B20B/B20Z I4

Transmission

• 5-speed SBXM AWD manual
• 5-speed SKH FWD manual
• MDMA 4-speed automatic
• MDLA 4-speed automatic

Fuel Consumption

Safety Ratings

Front Lights

• Front Sidemarker Light Bulb: 1157NA
• Front Turn Signal Light Bulb: 1157NA
• High Beam and Low Beam Headlight Bulb: 9003

Rear Lights

• Back Up Light Bulb: 921
• Brake Light Bulb:
  • 7443-SCK
  • 7443
• Center High Mount Stop Light Bulb: 7440
• License Plate Light Bulb: 175
• Parking Light Bulb: 168
• Rear Sidemarker Light Bulb: 168
• Rear Turn Signal Light Bulb: 7440
• Tail Light Bulb:
  • 7443-SCK
  • 7443

Interior Lights

• Ash Tray Light Bulb: 74
• Dome Light Bulb: DE3175
• Instrument Panel Light Bulb:
  • 158
  • 74
• Luggage Compartment Light Bulb: DE3175
• Map Light Bulb: DE3022