Thinking about buying a used Honda CR-Z (2010–2016) in New Zealand? We've documented 15 known faults for this model spanning electrical, transmission, brakes, and suspension. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
15
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$400–$1,800
Typical repair
5
Systems covered
Known Honda CR-Z faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01IMA DC-DC converter failure
CriticalOccasionalElectrical $900–$2,800 to fix
The DC-DC converter steps down IMA high-voltage battery output to charge the 12V accessory battery. Converter failure causes the 12V battery to drain and eventually leaves the car unable to start or operate electrical systems. The IMA and charging warning lights both illuminate. The converter is a sealed unit requiring specialist replacement and is often misdiagnosed as a standard 12V battery fault.
Symptoms to notice
IMA system warning light on
Charging system warning light on simultaneously
12V battery repeatedly going flat despite being new
Multiple electrical systems failing at once
Car won't start despite good 12V battery
What to check
Scan for IMA and charging system codes together. Check 12V battery voltage and charging voltage with engine running — should be 13.8-14.4V. If charging voltage is absent with IMA system active, suspect DC-DC converter. Ask if car has had repeated 12V battery replacements.
Where to look: DC-DC converter within the IMA system electronics, typically under the boot floor alongside battery pack
Ask the seller
“Has the IMA or charging warning light appeared?”
“Has the 12V battery been replaced more than once?”
“Has the car ever failed to start due to electrical issues?”
02CVT shudder on the automatic models
MinorOccasionalTransmission $300–$3,500 to fix
CVT-equipped CR-Zs can develop shudder and hesitation, especially at low speed or when the fluid is old, as the belt and pulleys wear. Regular CVT fluid changes are essential and neglected units can fail.
Symptoms to notice
Shudder at low speed
Hesitation from a stop
Droning under acceleration
Slipping feeling
What to check
Test drive feeling for shudder and hesitation, and check CVT fluid service history and condition.
Where to look: CVT transmission
Ask the seller
“Any shudder or hesitation?”
“Has the CVT fluid been changed regularly?”
“Any transmission warnings?”
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13 more documented faults on the Honda CR-Z
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 15 documented faults for the Honda CR-Z, the recurring problem areas are electrical, transmission, and brakes. A Honda CR-Z with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Honda CR-Z?
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We've catalogued 15 known faults for the Honda CR-Z, covering electrical, transmission, and brakes. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Honda CR-Z?
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Most single repairs on the Honda CR-Z fall between $400–$1,800 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 15 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Honda CR-Z?
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Yes. A Honda CR-Z inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.