2012 Honda Insight

The 2012 Honda Insight is a hybrid sedan with two engine options: a 1.3-liter gasoline engine and a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The 1.3-liter engine produces 98 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.5-liter engine produces 110 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. The Insight gets an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway with the 1.3-liter engine, and 40 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway with the 1.5-liter engine.

The Insight is praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and spacious interior. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior.

Engine

• 1.3-liter gasoline engine
  • Oil consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing piston rings and valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing chain failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the timing chain, leading to engine misfires, loss of power, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 1.5-liter gasoline engine
  • Engine mount failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the engine mount, leading to excessive engine vibration.
    • Solution: Replacing the engine mount.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel injector failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning fuel injector, leading to rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and decreased fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replacing the fuel injector.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
  • Transmission shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration and shuddering during acceleration or deceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear or failing to engage properly.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the front suspension struts, leading to decreased ride quality, handling, and braking performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the front suspension struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension bushing failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Deterioration or failure of the rear suspension bushings, leading to excessive noise, vibration, and decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the electrical system, affecting various components such as lights, gauges, and accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing faulty electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the vehicle through the sunroof, causing damage to the interior.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or warping of the dashboard material, potentially affecting visibility and aesthetics.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat adjustment failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning seat adjustment mechanisms, preventing proper seat positioning.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the seat adjustment mechanisms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Honda Insight is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has experienced some issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential issues and to have their vehicles regularly inspected and maintained to prevent or mitigate them.