Honda Insight: common car problems and what you need to know about them

The Honda Insight is a hybrid car with an impressive history, but it also has characteristic car problems that owners and buyers need to be aware of. IMA batteries (the hybrid drive batteries) degrade over time. In addition, transmission issues and electrical faults occur regularly. This article provides a complete overview of the key points to watch out for with this hybrid saloon. Keep reading to discover which problems occur most often and how to recognise them before they catch you out.

Why is it important to know about car problems with the Insight?

Over the years, the Honda Insight has evolved from an ultra-lightweight two-seater into a modern compact saloon with advanced hybrid technology. Each model has its own strengths and specific weaknesses. For potential buyers of a used Insight, understanding common defects is essential for making a well-informed choice. For current owners, it helps to plan maintenance better and recognise symptoms at an early stage.

Many car problems with the Insight are related to the hybrid system, which is more complex than a conventional powertrain. The generation also plays a major role: older models have different issues than more recent versions. By knowing the most common faults, you can avoid costly surprises and extend the lifespan of your car. You can find more information about possible defects in Honda models on the page about Honda car problems.

Overall reliability of the Honda Insight

The Honda Insight generally has a fair to good reputation when it comes to reliability. Honda is known for durable engines and solid build quality, and the Insight largely benefits from this. Various owners report few problems with the basic mechanical components such as the petrol engine itself. However, there are areas where the Insight is more vulnerable than comparable Honda models.

In particular, the hybrid system and associated electronics require extra attention. The first and second generation Insight struggle more often with problems around the IMA battery and transmission than newer models. The third generation, produced from 2018 onwards, no longer suffers from many of these early teething troubles, but does have its own points to watch. In general, good maintenance and awareness of the most common problems make the Insight a reliable choice for drivers who want to save fuel.

The IMA battery: the Insight’s biggest weak spot

The Integrated Motor Assist battery forms the beating heart of the hybrid system in the first and second generation Insight. This NiMH battery degrades over time and loses capacity. That is by far the most common and most expensive problem in older Insight models. The lifespan of the original IMA battery is on average between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometres, but some units fail earlier.

Symptoms of a worn IMA battery include:

• An illuminated IMA warning light on the dashboard
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Slow charging or no longer charging of the battery
• Lack of electric assistance during acceleration
• The engine starts more often than normal, even at low speeds

Replacing the IMA battery with a new unit quickly costs between €2,000 and €4,000, depending on the model and the garage. A cheaper alternative is a reconditioned or refurbished battery, which often costs around €1,000 to €1,500. There are also specialists who replace individual cells instead of the complete battery, which also reduces the cost. Preventive maintenance hardly helps here: battery degradation is a natural process that is accelerated by extreme temperatures and regularly fully discharging the battery.

Transmission problems in earlier generations

The second generation Insight is fitted with a CVT transmission (a continuously variable automatic) which causes problems in some cars. Owners report jerking during “shifts”, unusual noises and, in some cases, even complete failure of the transmission. These problems occur mainly in models built before 2012 and in cars that have been used intensively in city traffic.

Common complaints are:

• Juddering or vibrations at low speed
• Delayed response when pulling away
• Irregular engine speed during acceleration
• Noticeable squealing or humming noises from the transmission

The cause often lies in worn CVT fluid, a defective belt drive or software issues in the transmission control module. Regular replacement of the CVT fluid in line with the service schedule significantly reduces the risk. Even so, the CVT remains a vulnerable component, and replacement can run to €3,000 to €5,000. When buying a used Insight, it is therefore important to test the transmission thoroughly during a test drive.

Air conditioning and climate control: faults that give you chills

The air conditioning in the Honda Insight regularly suffers from problems, especially in older cars. The AC compressor can fail, leading to insufficient cooling or no cold air at all. In addition, leaking condensers and damaged pipes are common causes of faults in the cooling system.

Owners report the following symptoms:

• Warm air from the vents, even with the AC at maximum
• Unusual noises when the air conditioning is switched on
• Condensation or damp patches inside the car
• Unpleasant odours when using the climate control

Repair costs vary widely. Replacing the compressor costs between €500 and €1,200, depending on the type of part. Leaking pipes or a damaged condenser are often cheaper to fix but do still require a thorough diagnosis. If in doubt, have the system checked for leaks and have the refrigerant regularly topped up or replaced. Preventive maintenance on the air conditioning improves comfort and prevents expensive repairs.

Electric power steering: known faults

The Honda Insight uses electric power steering (EPS), a system that is more economical than hydraulic assistance but also more prone to faults. Particularly in the second generation there are frequent complaints about steering assistance cutting out or becoming heavy. In some cases, a warning light appears on the dashboard, in others it happens with no prior warning.

The symptoms are easy to recognise:

• Suddenly heavy steering while driving
• EPS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
• Irregular assistance: sometimes light, sometimes heavy
• Fault codes related to the steering angle sensor

The cause often lies in a defective steering angle sensor, a fault in the control unit of the EPS system or a problem with the electrical connection. In some models, a software update is enough to solve the problem. In more serious cases, the entire EPS unit has to be replaced, which can cost €800 to €1,500. As soon as you notice the first signs, have a diagnosis carried out immediately, because a failing steering system is a safety risk.

Electronic faults and sensors

The Honda Insight is equipped with numerous sensors and electronic systems that control the engine, transmission and hybrid powertrain. That level of complexity also brings vulnerability. Owners regularly report warning lights that come on without an obvious cause, fault codes in the ECU (engine control unit) and failures of various sensors.

Common electronic problems include:

• Illuminated check engine light with no clear symptoms
• Fault codes related to oxygen sensors
• Problems with the mass air flow (MAF) sensor, which measures the amount of air going to the engine and affects the fuel-air ratio
• Faults in the crankshaft position sensor
• Failure of parking or collision detection sensors

The causes range from defective sensors to loose connections and software errors. A thorough diagnosis with an OBD2 scanner is the starting point. Some faults are easy to fix by cleaning a sensor or reconnecting a connector. Others require parts to be replaced. Costs are usually between €100 and €500 per sensor, depending on the type and location.

Exhaust system and catalytic converter

The catalytic converter in the Honda Insight can become clogged or damaged over time. This problem is more common in cars that make many short journeys and do not regularly reach operating temperature. A defective catalytic converter affects performance, fuel consumption and emissions.

Symptoms of catalytic converter problems include:

• Reduced engine performance and sluggish acceleration
• Increased fuel consumption
• Rattling noises under the car
• The car fails its MOT because emissions are too high
• An illuminated check engine light with fault code P0420 or P0430 (these codes indicate catalytic converter efficiency problems)

The cost of replacing a catalytic converter is between €600 and €1,500, depending on the type and fitting costs. As a preventive measure it is sensible to make regular longer trips so that the catalytic converter reaches full operating temperature. Also use good-quality fuel and ensure the fuel system and oxygen sensors are correctly maintained.

Rust and bodywork problems

Honda is generally known for good corrosion protection, but the Insight is not completely immune to rust. Older examples from the first and second generation in particular sometimes show rust in specific areas. This is especially true for cars used in regions where a lot of road salt is spread in winter, or that are not washed regularly.

Areas at risk of rust include:

• The bottom edges of the doors and sills
• Wheel arches, especially around mounting points
• The rear of the rear bumper
• The underside of the car, particularly around the exhaust and suspension

Rust often starts as a superficial problem but can spread quickly if not dealt with. Regular cleaning of the underside, especially in winter, helps remove salt deposits. Have small rust spots treated immediately before they grow. When buying a used Insight, it is wise to inspect the bodywork thoroughly, including underneath the car.

Other points to watch and recalls

In addition to the main problems mentioned above, there are a few less frequent but still relevant points to watch with the Honda Insight. Honda has carried out several recalls for specific model years. These are often related to safety systems or software issues.

Other known problems include:

• Defective fuel pumps in some 2018–2020 models
• Problems with the automatic emergency braking function in certain versions
• Failures of the starter motor or battery in extreme cold
• Poorly functioning windscreen wipers or washer system

Check whether your Insight is affected by recalls via the Honda website or at an authorised dealer. Recalls are carried out free of charge and often resolve problems that might otherwise lead to safety risks or failures. Also keep an eye on general wear parts such as brakes, suspension bushes and shock absorbers, especially in cars with high mileage.

Recognising symptoms: what should you look out for?

Spotting car problems early can save you a lot of money and frustration. With the Honda Insight there are several warning signs that should make you sit up and take notice. Pay particular attention to warning lights on the dashboard, changes in driving behaviour and unusual noises.

Important signs to look out for:

• IMA light on: have the hybrid battery and system checked
• Check engine light: have fault codes read with a diagnostic tool
• Jerking or vibrations: may indicate transmission or engine problems
• Heavy steering: have the electric power steering inspected
• Reduced cooling performance: have the air conditioning and cooling system checked
• Increased fuel consumption: may point to battery, engine or catalytic converter issues

Do not ignore these signs and do not wait until the problem gets worse. The sooner you take action, the lower the risk of major damage and high repair costs. If in doubt, make an appointment at a specialist garage or Honda dealer for a thorough inspection.

Solutions and preventive maintenance

Most problems with the Honda Insight can be prevented or limited through proper maintenance and by being alert to early symptoms. Follow Honda’s service schedule closely and use quality parts for repairs. Routine maintenance on the hybrid battery, transmission fluid and cooling system extends service life significantly.

Practical maintenance tips:

• Replace the CVT fluid every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometres
• Check the IMA battery status regularly via the on-board computer or app
• Clean sensors and electrical connections at each major service
• Have the cooling system and air conditioning inspected yearly
• Regularly drive longer distances to keep the battery and catalytic converter working properly
• Avoid extreme loads and hard acceleration where not necessary

For those who are technically minded, there are also DIY options such as replacing sensors yourself, topping up fluids and reading fault codes. Online forums and YouTube videos offer many practical guides specifically for the Insight. However, always leave complex repairs to the hybrid system, transmission and steering to professionals.

Buying tips for a used Honda Insight

When buying a used Honda Insight, a thorough inspection is half the battle. Do not just look at the mileage and service history, but also specifically check the points to watch described in this article. A test drive is essential to assess driving behaviour, the transmission and the hybrid system.

Essential checks when buying:

• Check the IMA battery status via the on-board computer or a diagnostic tool
• Test the transmission for smoothness, jerks and strange noises
• Ask about the service history, especially CVT fluid and cooling system maintenance
• Check the dashboard for warning lights during the test drive
• Inspect the bodywork for rust spots, especially wheel arches and sills
• Test the air conditioning, electric power steering and all sensors
• Ask whether recalls have been carried out and request proof

If in doubt, have a pre-purchase inspection carried out by an independent garage or specialist. The investment of a few dozen euros can save you thousands in hidden defects. Models built after 2018 are generally more reliable and suffer from fewer teething troubles, but the hybrid components still require attention.

The Insight remains a smart choice with the right knowledge

The Honda Insight offers impressive fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience but also has specific points to watch. The IMA battery, transmission and electric power steering require extra attention, especially in older models. With regular maintenance, alertness to symptoms and a thorough inspection at purchase, the Insight remains a reliable and economical choice.

By preparing properly and knowing the most common problems, you can make a well-considered decision. You may be thinking about buying an Insight. You may already own one. In both cases, knowing about these points to watch helps you enjoy this hybrid saloon for longer and with fewer problems.