Credit: @Ed's Garage
If you’ve clicked on this article and thought, “Why on earth is a car review channel talking about a refrigerator?” — trust me, you’re not alone. But here’s the twist: this refrigerator isn’t meant for your kitchen at all. It’s designed specifically for vehicles—RVs, trailers, SUVs, camper vans, you name it.
And even better? It’s from Bodega Cooler, a brand that has consistently delivered top-notch outdoor and automotive cooling gear. So today, let’s unpack the Bodega Cooler CR65 and see why this compact beast is becoming a must-have for campers and road warriors.
Why Review a Refrigerator on an Automotive Channel?
Reason #1: It’s Built for Vehicles, Not Homes
This isn’t your everyday fridge. The CR65 is built for off-grid life, RV setups, camper trailers, and any vehicle with a 12V or 24V system. It’s small enough to mount into cabinetry but powerful enough to function as a true refrigerator/freezer on the road.
Reason #2: Bodega Cooler Never Disappoints
I’ve tested several Bodega products before—portable fridge/freezers, battery packs, you name it. Every single one has been reliable, well-built, and surprisingly affordable.
So naturally, when the CR65 arrived, I had high expectations. Spoiler alert: it lived up to them.
First Impressions of the Bodega Cooler CR65
Sleek, Modern Design
Even unplugged, this fridge looks premium. The piano-black front panel, modern temperature dial, and clean edges give it a professional aesthetic that blends seamlessly into RV cabinetry.
Built-in Style for RV and Camper Installs
From the front, it looks like a high-end appliance. From the side, you’ll spot vent cutouts for airflow—one of the telltale signs that it’s made for an RV installation.
Power and Compatibility
Runs on 12V or 24V Systems
Whether you're driving a truck, SUV, RV, or camper van, this fridge fits in perfectly. It works with both 12-volt and 24-volt power, making it incredibly versatile.
Perfect for RVs, Campers, and Custom Vans
If you love road trips or off-grid weekends, this thing was practically designed for you.
Noise Level and Performance
Whisper-Quiet Pump System
The CR65 doesn’t use noisy Peltier cooling—it uses a proper compressor system, which is both more powerful and surprisingly quiet.
Even when standing close with a microphone, the noise barely registers.
Efficient Cooling Without the Hassle
Within just minutes of powering on, the freezer compartment begins dropping rapidly into ice-cold territory.
Inside the CR65: Storage, Build, and Layout
Secure Latch and Reversible Door
The door latch requires a gentle lift to open, preventing accidental opening in transit. You can also switch the hinge side—perfect for custom installations.
Smart Internal Layout and LED Lighting
Open the door, and you’ll find:
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Soft LED lighting
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Side shelving for bottles
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A pull-out drawer
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A freezer compartment with a lifting magnetic door
Silicone Ice Tray and Freezer Compartment
One of my favorite touches? The bendable silicone ice tray. No more wrestling with stuck ice cubes.
Energy Consumption and Battery Efficiency
70-Watt Max Draw
With only 70 watts maximum, this fridge is incredibly energy efficient.
Estimated Runtime on a Car Battery
If the compressor ran constantly, a 12V battery could power it for about 14 hours straight.
In reality, because it cycles on and off, you can get days of runtime.
Ideal for Off-Grid Camping
Pair it with a portable power station, and you’re good for an entire week.
Smartphone Integration with the Bodega App
Easy Setup with QR Code
Scan the code in the manual, download the app, and boom—you’re connected.
Temperature Control & Celsius/Fahrenheit Switching
You can adjust:
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Refrigerator temperature
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Freezer temperature
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Unit display (C°/F°)
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Power mode
All from your phone.
Lock Function and Power Adjustments
Want to keep kids or curious campers from pushing buttons? The app lock feature disables the control panel instantly.
Manual Controls and Interface
Temperature Adjustments
The plus and minus buttons on the front let you adjust temps on the fly.
Switching Between Freezer and Fridge Modes
Press the settings button to toggle which zone you're adjusting—simple and intuitive.
Battery Protection Settings — Low, Medium, High
This feature prevents draining your car or portable battery:
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High/Medium if plugged into a running vehicle
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Low if running from a portable power station or parked car
Smart, simple, essential.
Who Should Use the Bodega Cooler CR65?
RV Owners
Perfect for built-in cabinets or replacing old inefficient units.
Off-Grid Adventurers
Reliable cold storage when solar or battery-powered.
SUV & Vanlife Campers
Compact, quiet, and low-power—a dream for van conversions.
Learn more: Should You Get An RV Fridge For Your Mercedes Sprinter?
Final Thoughts: Why the CR65 Stands Out
After testing multiple portable fridges and freezers over the years, the Bodega Cooler CR65 easily stands among the best. It's efficient, whisper-quiet, smartphone-controllable, and built for serious road life.
If you're building an RV, upgrading your camper, or starting vanlife, this is an installation-friendly fridge you won’t regret.
Conclusion
The Bodega Cooler CR65 is more than just a refrigerator—it's a reliable companion for road trips, off-grid adventures, and full-time RV living. With efficient power usage, smart app integration, thoughtful design, and durable build quality, it sets a high bar for automotive refrigeration. If you're looking for a dependable fridge-freezer combo for your vehicle, this one deserves a serious look.
FAQs
1. Can the Bodega CR65 run on solar power?
Yes! Pair it with a solar generator or power station and it works beautifully.
2. Does the fridge stay cold while driving?
Absolutely. It’s designed for stable performance in moving vehicles.
3. Can I use it as a standalone portable fridge?
Technically yes, but it's designed primarily for built-in RV and camper setups.
4. How cold does the freezer get?
It reaches as low as -20°C, cold enough for ice cream and frozen meats.
5. Is the Bodega app required to operate the fridge?
No. The fridge works perfectly with the built-in controls— the app is just extra convenience.
Check the video review below:
