What are the most common Honda Insight problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2012 Honda Insight has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations), CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen), 12V Battery Premature Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Honda Insight reliable?
The 2012 Honda Insight has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations) and CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Honda Insight problems?
Repair costs for known Honda Insight issues range from $50 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations), typically costs $400-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2000-2022 Honda Insight IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations)?
All Honda Insight generations (2000-2006, 2010-2014, 2019-2022) experience IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) hybrid battery failures, typically between 75,000-175,000 miles (8-15 years). Symptoms include IMA warning light, reduced fuel economy, lack of electric assist, poor accelerat… Repairs typically run $400-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2014 Honda Insight CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen)?
The 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) CVT transmission experiences judder, shuddering, knocking noise during acceleration, and complete failure. Early CVT steel belt failures were identified. When CVT fails, the green "D" indicator on dash blinks. The transmission shudd… Repairs typically run $150-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2022 Honda Insight 12V Battery Premature Failure?
Honda Insight models (especially 2010-2014 and 2019-2022) experience premature 12V battery failures. The small 12V battery (not the IMA hybrid battery) dies unexpectedly, often within 2-3 years. Symptoms include no start, electrical gremlins, and hybrid system errors. The Insight… Repairs typically run $150-$250. Severity: medium.
What is the 2010-2014 Honda Insight Ground Cable Internal Corrosion (No Start)?
The 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) has ground cables that corrode from the inside, preventing the vehicle from starting. There are three ground cables prone to corrosion: (1) between battery and firewall, (2) between left side and transmission, (3) between left side… Repairs typically run $50-$200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2010-2014 Honda Insight Rear Suspension Clunking (Shock Absorber Failure)?
The 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) experiences rear suspension clunking and noise over bumps and rough roads. The rear shock absorbers fail prematurely due to the excess weight of the hybrid battery in the rear. The clunking is most noticeable over speed bumps and po… Repairs typically run $200-$400. Severity: low.
