Honda Fit Years to Avoid and The Best Years

Honda Fit Years to Avoid – Are you considering purchasing a Honda Fit, the popular subcompact car known for its practicality and compact size? As with any vehicle, it’s crucial to be well-informed about the model’s history and potential concerns before making your purchase.

In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable insights into the Honda Fit and highlight the years to avoid, helping you make an informed decision and find a reliable Fit that meets your needs.

The Honda Fit, also known as the Honda Jazz in some markets, has gained a reputation for its impressive interior space and versatility despite its small footprint.

It has been a go-to choice for urban dwellers and those seeking a fuel-efficient and practical vehicle since its introduction in 2001.

Knowing Which Honda Fit Years to Avoid

While the Honda Fit is generally known for its reliability, there have been certain model years that experienced more issues or required frequent repairs.

By identifying these “worst years,” you can save yourself potential headaches down the road and select a Fit that will provide you with years of trouble-free ownership.

Throughout its various generations, the Honda Fit has undergone updates and changes.

While it’s essential to note that individual experiences can vary, certain model years have garnered more complaints or reported issues compared to others.

By being aware of these years, you can narrow down your search and focus on more reliable options.

2007 Honda Fit: A Challenging Start

As one of the earliest Honda Fit models, the 2007 version has encountered several issues. According to CarComplaints.com, it received 485 complaints, primarily related to power steering failure, clutch issues, and uncomfortable seats.

The power steering problem is a significant concern, as it can occur unexpectedly and lead to a loss of control while driving.

Honda acknowledged the electronic steering module issue and issued a warranty extension of up to 10 years.

However, the average cost to repair this problem is approximately $790. Additionally, some owners reported premature clutch failure around 40,000-60,000 miles.

2015 Honda Fit: Electrical and Comfort Concerns

The 2015 Honda Fit, with 389 complaints, is another year to avoid. Consumer Reports highlights reliability issues with the car’s electrical systems and interior accessories.

Users reported problems with the electric system, such as flickering or shutting off meters and malfunctioning power plugs.

Comfort also becomes a major concern as numerous drivers experience back and neck discomfort due to the Fit’s uncomfortable seats, especially during long drives.

2016 Honda Fit: Uncomfortable Seats and Body Integrity Problems

Consumer Reports rates the 2016 Honda Fit with a reliability score of 3 out of 5, marking it as another year to be cautious about. Once again, uncomfortable seats are a significant complaint.

Owners have also expressed concerns regarding power equipment, fuel system reliability, and body integrity.

The fuel injection system in the 2016 Fit has been reported to affect fuel efficiency, leading to lower mileage, with repair costs averaging around $1,200.

Additionally, several customers noted squeaks, rattles, and poor soundproofing, resulting in increased road and wind noise.

2008 Honda Fit: Clutch and Paint Issues

The 2008 Honda Fit, with 304 complaints, has notable concerns related to clutch failure, paint chipping, and transmission slipping. Owners have reported clutch failure despite relatively low mileage, even after replacement.

Repairing this issue can cost around $1,590. Furthermore, some users have experienced chipping and peeling paint, which typically requires an approximate repair cost of $700.

2013 Honda Fit: Rodent Damage and A/C Problems

The 2013 Honda Fit, with 220 complaints, has received reports of rodent damage to the fuel pump, faulty air conditioning, and uncomfortable seats.

While the issue of rodents chewing on soy-based coatings for the fuel pump causing oil leakage was only reported once, it’s important to note.

A/C problems have been reported, with some owners finding the system either faulty or insufficient, particularly in warmer states.

In severe cases, drivers opted to operate their Fit exclusively during nighttime to mitigate the climate system’s shortcomings.

Which Year is the Best for Honda Fit?

If you’re considering purchasing a Honda Fit, it’s crucial to determine which model year offers the best combination of features, reliability, and value.

Here we’ll explore the best years for the Honda Fit based on expert ratings, reliability, and overall customer satisfaction.

By understanding the strengths of each year, you can make an informed decision and choose the Honda Fit that suits your preferences and requirements.

2017 Honda Fit: Quality and Value

According to the U.S. News and World Report, the 2017 Honda Fit is one of the best subcompact cars available. With an impressive rating of 8.6, it excels in several key areas.

The 2017 Fit offers a spacious cargo area, high safety ratings, and upscale interior materials. It strikes an excellent balance between quality and value, making it a top choice in its segment.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded and reliable Honda Fit, the 2017 model should be high on your list.

2019 Honda Fit: Reliability and Fuel Efficiency

The 2019 Honda Fit receives high praise from Consumer Reports, earning a perfect reliability rating of 5 out of 5 for a subcompact vehicle.

This is a significant achievement, highlighting Fit’s dependability.

The 2019 Fit delivers a classy and roomy interior, nimble handling, outstanding fuel economy, and excellent safety scores.

While its feature updates may be minimal, with the addition of automatic high-beam headlights, the 2019 Fit remains a fantastic choice if you desire a newer model with exceptional value.

2012 Honda Fit: Fuel Efficiency and Versatility

The 2012 Honda Fit was a standout year for Honda, and it continues to be highly regarded in the subcompact segment. Not only does it offer solid fuel economy ratings, but it also provides versatile cargo space and a fun-to-drive personality.

Industry experts have given the 2012 Fit rave reviews, recognizing its overall performance and value.

Additionally, if you’re seeking a budget-friendly option, the 2012 Fit often receives recommendations as an excellent choice for a subcompact car under $10,000.

Determining the best year for the Honda Fit depends on your specific preferences and requirements.

Consider your priorities and conduct thorough research to find the perfect Honda Fit model that aligns with your needs and preferences.

What is the Common Problem with Honda Fit?

The Honda Fit is renowned for its reliability, earning an impressive reliability score of 4.5 out of 5.0 from Repair. However, like any vehicle, the Honda Fit is not immune to common problems that owners may encounter.

Here, we’ll explore some of the common issues reported by Honda Fit owners.

Understanding these problems will help you make an informed decision and be better prepared for potential challenges.

1. Ignition Coil Failure: A Widespread Issue

One common problem that has been reported across several Honda Fit model years, specifically from 2007 to 2016, is ignition coil failure. When the ignition coil fails, it can lead to driveability issues such as stalling, loss of power, and stuttering.

Many Fit owners have had to replace their coil packs to address this problem.

It is advisable to monitor the performance of your ignition system and consult with a trusted mechanic if you experience any of these symptoms.

2. Uncomfortable Seats: A Concern for Comfort

Despite its many strengths, the Honda Fit has garnered complaints about uncomfortable seats.

Numerous reports indicate that the Fit’s interior is not a particularly comfortable place to be. Many drivers have experienced neck and back pains due to flat and unsupportive seats.

To alleviate this issue, some owners have resorted to purchasing seat cushions and headrests for added comfort during their journeys.

3. Starter Failure: Issues with Starting the Engine

The 2015 Honda Fit had reported difficulties with its starter failing at approximately 46,000 miles.

Some owners stated that their Fit would intermittently fail to start, causing inconvenience and frustration.

In some cases, drivers resorted to using jump-start battery packs to get the engine running.

If you encounter persistent starting issues with your Honda Fit, it is advisable to have it inspected by a qualified technician to diagnose and resolve the problem.

4. Fuel Filler Door Malfunction: Difficulty Opening

Owners of certain Honda Fit model years, including 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2014, have complained about issues with the fuel filler door not opening.

This problem can be particularly inconvenient, as it prevents easy access to refuel the vehicle.

To address this issue, owners have found that obtaining a revised fuel-fill push lifter from Honda can rectify the problem.

Consulting with a Honda dealership or authorized service center is recommended if you experience this specific issue.

While the Honda Fit is widely regarded as a reliable vehicle, it is essential to be aware of the common problems reported by owners.

If you experience any of these common issues or encounter other concerns with your Honda Fit, it is advisable to consult with a trusted mechanic or authorized Honda service center.

Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and open communication with professionals will contribute to keeping your Honda Fit running smoothly for years to come.

How reliable is a Honda Fit?

The Honda Fit has a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, making it highly dependable and ranking it 4th out of 21 subcompact cars. Its excellent ownership costs and low severity of repairs contribute to its reputation as a reliable vehicle.

Are Honda Fits expensive to fix?

The cost of maintaining and repairing a Honda Fit can range from $95 to $3,664, with an average cost of $284. These costs are generally considered reasonable and affordable compared to other vehicles.

Is Honda Fit good in snow?

The Honda Fit, like any other small front-wheel-drive (FWD) car, performs well in light snow conditions. However, the key factor determining its performance in snow is the tires. Equipping the Fit with good-quality snow tires enhances its traction and makes it a capable snow car.

Is insurance high on a Honda Fit?

Compared to many other cars, insuring a Honda Fit is relatively affordable. On average, the annual insurance cost for a Honda Fit is around $1,141, which is lower than the average cost of insuring most other vehicles.

Is Honda Fit good on gas?

The Honda Fit is known for its fuel efficiency. It can achieve up to 33 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway, resulting in an average gas mileage of 36 miles per gallon. This makes the Fit an economical choice for those seeking good fuel efficiency.

Is Honda Fit a good car?

Consumer Reports has awarded the 2019 Honda Fit a reliability rating of 5 out of 5, showcasing its exceptional reliability within the subcompact vehicle segment. With its positive reliability rating and other desirable features, the Honda Fit is widely regarded as a good car choice.

Conclusion

While the Honda Fit has earned a reputation for its reliability and fuel efficiency, it’s important to be aware of certain years that may have had common issues.

When considering a Honda Fit, it’s essential to research the specific model year you’re interested in, take note of common issues, and carefully inspect the vehicle before making a purchase.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for ensuring a positive ownership experience.

While there have been certain Honda Fit years to avoid due to reported problems, there are also standout years that offer reliability, value, and desirable features. Conducting thorough research and considering expert opinions will help you make an informed decision when choosing a Honda Fit that suits your needs and preferences.