2011 Honda City

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2011 Honda City. This model was available with two engine options: a 1.3L i-VTEC producing around 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.5L i-VTEC producing around 118 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. The transmissions were either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the car’s fuel efficiency, spacious interior for its class, and reliability. Common dislikes include a somewhat bland styling and relatively basic features compared to some competitors.

Engine

1.3L i-VTEC

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replacing spark plugs and/or ignition coils. Diagnosis may be needed to pinpoint the specific cylinder affected.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.5L i-VTEC

• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idle, stalling, especially when coming to a stop. The IAC valve controls the amount of air entering the engine when idling.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the IAC valve. Sometimes the throttle body also needs cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable clunking or jerking during gear changes, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, uneven tire wear. Rear shock absorbers can wear out prematurely.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers. Replacing in pairs is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all, clicking sound from the door panel when the switch is activated.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system fails to operate correctly, doors not locking/unlocking with the remote or from the driver’s side switch.
  • Solution: Check fuses and relays first. If those are okay, the door lock actuator(s) may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per door actuator
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lens. This can reduce visibility and potentially damage the headlight bulb.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight assembly and drying it out. Applying sealant around the lens to prevent future moisture intrusion. In severe cases, headlight replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50 (sealant) or $100 - $300+ (headlight replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning blowing warm air, unusual noises coming from the compressor.
  • Solution: Replacing the air conditioning compressor. System evacuation and recharge are also required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking/Discoloration
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, discoloration due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement is the ideal solution, but it’s expensive. Dashboard covers or repair kits can be used as temporary fixes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (cover/kit) or $800+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Honda City is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners do report some common issues. Engine misfires and IAC valve problems can affect performance. Harsh shifting can occur with the automatic transmission. Suspension components like rear shocks can wear out. Electrical gremlins can cause issues with power windows and central locking. Exterior issues include headlight condensation. Interior problems involve AC compressor failure and dashboard cracking/discoloration. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs. The overall cost of ownership can be increased by addressing these potential problems proactively.