2012 Honda Fit

The 2012 Honda Fit is a subcompact hatchback known for its exceptional fuel economy, spacious interior (“Magic Seat”), and reliability. It’s powered by a 1.5L inline-4 cylinder engine producing 117 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Fit’s practicality and fuel efficiency, but some dislike the road noise and somewhat stiff ride.

Engine

1.5L Inline-4 (L15A7)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored closely.
  • Solution: Regular oil level checks and using a higher viscosity oil may help. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ (Piston Ring Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light. Ignition coils can fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (per coil, depending on whether you replace one or all)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially when cold. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change with genuine Honda ATF-DW1 fluid may improve shifting. In some cases, valve body issues may require repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200 (Fluid Change), $500-$1500+ (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, excessive bouncing, visible fluid leaks from the rear shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or creaking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700 (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight, slow starting, dead battery after sitting.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draw and address the underlying issue, or replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for a new battery, additional for diagnosing and fixing parasitic draw.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear wiper not working, slow or erratic movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair. This is mostly cosmetic but some owners replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Honda Fit is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners experience issues like excessive oil consumption, transmission harshness, and suspension problems. The engine and transmission issues, while not extremely common, can be costly to repair if they occur. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase, paying close attention to the engine’s oil level and the transmission’s shifting behavior.