2018 Honda CR-V — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick Answer

• OEM Tire Size: 235/60R18 (most trims), 235/65R17 (LX trim)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 32 PSI (front and rear) for all trims
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm
• Wheel Size: 17x7.5J (LX), 18x8J (EX, EX-L, Touring)
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 103H (235/60R18), 104H (235/65R17)
• Spare Tire Size: T155/90D17 (temporary spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire Sizes by Trim

Wheel Offset

The OEM wheel offset for the 2018 Honda CR-V typically ranges from +45mm to +50mm. When considering aftermarket wheels, staying within a few millimeters of the OEM offset is recommended to maintain proper handling dynamics and prevent rubbing issues.

Recommended Replacement Tires

When it's time to replace the tires on your 2018 Honda CR-V, you have a wide range of excellent options. We recommend focusing on all-season tires, which provide a good balance of performance for various weather conditions.

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium Tier): Known for its exceptional longevity, quiet ride, and all-season traction. This tire offers a premium feel and excellent fuel efficiency. Expect to pay around $180-$220 per tire.
• Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (Mid-Range Tier): This tire is designed for long tread life and confident all-season performance. It offers a comfortable ride and good wet traction. Pricing typically falls in the $150-$190 range per tire.
• Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail (Value/Mild Off-Road Tier): If you occasionally venture off paved roads or live in an area with more challenging weather, the Wildpeak A/T Trail offers a more aggressive tread pattern while still maintaining good on-road manners. Expect to pay around $130-$170 per tire.
• Continental CrossContact LX25 (Premium All-Season): This tire provides a strong balance of comfort, quietness, and all-season performance, excelling in both wet and dry conditions. Prices are generally in the $170-$210 range per tire.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

For the 2018 Honda CR-V, you should never inflate your tires to the "max load PSI" listed on the tire's sidewall. This pressure is a maximum cold inflation pressure for the tire itself, not the recommended operating pressure for your vehicle. Always refer to the tire pressure placard located on the driver's side door jamb for the correct cold tire inflation pressure (32 PSI for all trims of the 2018 CR-V).

Max load PSI ratings are primarily relevant for heavy-duty trucks or commercial vehicles carrying extremely heavy loads, where maintaining maximum tire capacity is critical. Overinflating your CR-V's tires can lead to a harsher ride, premature tire wear (especially in the center of the tread), and compromised handling.

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

The proper lug nut torque is crucial for keeping your wheels securely fastened. For the 2018 Honda CR-V, the recommended lug nut torque is 80 ft-lbs (108 Nm). Always use a torque wrench to ensure accurate tightening. Do not overtighten, as this can stretch the studs or damage the wheel.

When tightening lug nuts, always follow a star pattern (also known as a criss-cross pattern). This ensures the wheel is seated evenly against the hub and prevents warping of the brake rotor or wheel. Tighten each lug nut snug, then go around the pattern tightening them to the final torque specification in two passes.

Common Tire Issues for This Vehicle

While the 2018 Honda CR-V is generally reliable, some common tire-related issues can arise:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This can be caused by improper tire pressure, misaligned suspension, or unbalanced wheels. Regular tire rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles) and alignments are key to preventing uneven wear and extending tire life.
• Road Noise: As tires wear, or if an aggressive tread pattern is chosen, increased road noise can occur. Keeping tires properly inflated and rotated can help mitigate this. Some tire models are also specifically designed for a quieter ride.
• Tire Vibrations: Vibrations felt through the steering wheel or seat can indicate unbalanced wheels, an out-of-round tire, or a damaged tire. If you experience vibrations, have your tires and wheels inspected by a professional immediately.
• TPMS Light Illumination: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light illuminates when one or more tires are significantly under-inflated or if there's a sensor malfunction. Always check your tire pressures manually if the light comes on, even if the tires don't look flat.

Regular tire maintenance, including consistent pressure checks, rotations, and alignments, will help you get the most out of your tires and ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience in your 2018 Honda CR-V.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.