NHTSA complaint #11667689

Owner complaint summary

I’m reporting a high-pitched noise issue with my 2025 Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid. At highway speeds (approximately 68–74 mph), a persistent, high-frequency tone becomes audible from the front driver’s side of the vehicle. It is sharp, constant, and noticeably affected by the vehicle’s battery charge and speed. There are no warning lights, messages, or error indicators. However, the sound is extremely distracting and physically uncomfortable to endure. My wife has a preexisting auditory condition (tinnitus), and this sound makes it extremely difficult to drive or ride in the vehicle without pain or aggravation. It has made the vehicle nearly unusable for her on highways. I’ve brought this to a dealership, where multiple technicians and even a factory engineer inspected the vehicle. They confirmed the presence of the sound using audio measurement tools, and noted that similar sounds are present in other CR-V Hybrids. Despite this, I was told by the manufacturer that the sound is “normal” and that no fix is currently available. This issue has been present since I first took possession of the vehicle. The dealership and manufacturer have confirmed that it exists, but no resolution has been provided. While I may be one of the first people to raise the issue, I believe this may become a much broader concern. A continuous, high-pitched noise at highway speeds could be dangerous—it might distract drivers, cause fatigue, or even lead to long-term hearing discomfort or damage. I am hoping that NHTSA will investigate this issue or track whether other drivers begin reporting similar experiences. I would welcome any guidance on what steps I can take next, or whether further inspection of the vehicle is possible.