2015 Honda Insight Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2015 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2015 Honda Insight has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations) ($400-$4,000 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 2 Known Issues
On the 2000-2022 Honda Insight, 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 acceleration, and frequent battery recalibrations. The battery cells degrade over time, especially in hot climates. First and second generation batteries are more prone to failure. Third generation (2019-2022) batteries have better warranty coverage (8yr/100k miles in CARB states, 3yr/36k elsewhere). Replacement cost: $1,500-4,000 depending on generation.
Common Symptoms
- IMA warning light on dashboard
- Reduced fuel economy (MPG drops significantly)
- Lack of electric motor assist during acceleration
- Poor acceleration and sluggish performance
- Battery gauge fluctuating or always empty
- Frequent battery recalibrations
- Check engine light with P1xxx hybrid codes
How to Fix
Options: (1) OEM Honda replacement battery ($2,500-4,000 installed), (2) Refurbished battery from specialist like Bumblebee Batteries or HybridReVolt ($1,200-2,000), (3) DIY battery rebuild ($400-800 in parts if mechanically skilled). For 3rd gen (2019-2022), check warranty coverage - 8yr/100k in CARB states (CA, NY, etc). InsightCentral.net forum has extensive guides on battery testing, reconditioning, and replacement. Some owners bypass IMA entirely and run as gas-only ($0-300) but lose hybrid benefits.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeInsightCentral.net trusted rebuilders: Bumblebee Batteries ($1,500-1,800) and HybridReVolt ($1,200-2,000) - both offer warranties and have rebuilt 1,000+ Insight batteries.
- TipBattery doesn't "fail" instantly - slow charging/discharging gives warning weeks ahead. Monitor battery gauge and MPG for early detection.
- NoteHot climates kill IMA batteries faster (Arizona, Texas, Florida). Parking in shade and avoiding extreme discharge extends life significantly.
- TipDIY rebuild: Individual cells cost $5-10 each (20 cells total). InsightCentral has step-by-step guides - saves $2,000+ if mechanically inclined.
On the 2010-2022 Honda Insight, 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 uses a smaller 12V battery than other vehicles due to space constraints, and it's more sensitive to parasitic drain. Weak 12V battery can also trigger false IMA battery warnings.
Common Symptoms
- No start condition
- Clicking when trying to start
- Electrical system warnings
- Hybrid system errors (false warnings)
- Battery dies after sitting overnight
- Dim interior lights
How to Fix
Replace 12V battery with AGM battery (better than flooded) rated for hybrid vehicles ($150-250). Test for parasitic drain if battery keeps dying (normal is <50mA). Common causes of drain: trunk light staying on, aftermarket accessories, faulty BCM. Charge battery with low-amp charger (2-amp max) - high amp charging can damage hybrid system electronics.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeGen3Insight.com top pick: Interstate or DieHard AGM batteries - last 5+ years vs OEM lasting 2-3 years. Worth the extra $50.
- NoteNEVER jump-start a hybrid - use proper jump points in fuse box (see manual). Jumping at battery terminals can damage hybrid electronics.
- TipWeak 12V battery can cause false IMA battery warnings. Replace 12V first before assuming IMA battery is bad - saves $1,000s.