2019 Honda Clarity

Introduction: The 2019 Honda Clarity is a midsize sedan that offers a unique hydrogen fuel cell powertrain option alongside a plug-in hybrid variant. The fuel cell model boasts a 174 horsepower electric motor and a 10.5-gallon hydrogen tank, while the plug-in hybrid features a 181 horsepower 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a 177-horsepower electric motor. The Clarity received praise for its advanced powertrain technology, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some owners have encountered issues with certain components.

Engine

• 1.5L 4-Cylinder Gasoline Engine (Plug-in Hybrid)
  • Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
    • Description/Symptoms: Deposits accumulate on the intake valves, leading to reduced engine performance, rough idling, and decreased fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the intake valves.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Transmission Shudder/Hesitation:
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission exhibits shuddering or hesitation during gear changes, acceleration, or deceleration.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the CVT unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension:
  • Control Arm Bushing Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The bushings in the front control arms wear out prematurely, causing clunking or rattling noises during suspension movement.
    • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window motors malfunction, causing the windows to become stuck or move intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the window motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Seal:
  • Description/Symptoms: The trunk lid seal does not effectively prevent water entry, leading to moisture accumulation in the trunk.
  • Solution: Replace the trunk lid seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Software Glitches:
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system experiences software glitches, freezing, or displaying inaccurate information.
  • Solution: Update or replace the navigation system software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary: While the 2019 Honda Clarity offers an innovative and fuel-efficient powertrain, some owners have faced issues with the intake valve, CVT, suspension, power window motors, trunk lid seal, and navigation system software. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost of repairs can be substantial. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and to address them promptly to prevent further damage or inconvenience.