2019 Honda Insight

The 2019 Honda Insight is a hybrid sedan that combines fuel efficiency with a comfortable ride. It is exclusively offered with a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle inline-4 engine paired with Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, producing a combined 151 horsepower and 197 lb-ft of torque. The Insight utilizes an e-CVT (electronic continuously variable transmission). Owners appreciate the Insight’s fuel economy, spacious interior, and smooth ride. However, some common complaints include the infotainment system’s complexity, road noise, and the limited trunk space due to the battery pack.

Electric Motor

1.5L Atkinson Cycle Inline-4 Engine with Two-Motor Hybrid System

• Hybrid Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy and decreased electric-only driving range over time. This is a natural consequence of hybrid battery aging, but some owners report faster-than-expected degradation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

e-CVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Judder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shaking or shuddering sensation, especially during light acceleration from a stop or at low speeds.
  • Solution: A software update from the dealer, a CVT fluid change, or in severe cases, replacement of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $4,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or lags significantly when performing actions such as changing radio stations, using navigation, or adjusting climate controls.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset, updating the software (if available), or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (system reset) to $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the 12V battery, leading to difficulty starting the car or electrical system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacing the 12V battery with an upgraded or more robust battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Susceptibility to windshield cracking from small impacts or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck. These noises are often difficult to pinpoint and can be exacerbated by rough road surfaces.
  • Solution: Identifying and isolating the source of the rattle (often requiring dealer intervention or DIY solutions such as adding felt pads).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) to $100 - $300+ (dealer diagnostic and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2019 Honda Insight presents a mix of minor and potentially significant issues. The infotainment system problems are annoying but not debilitating, while the CVT judder and potential hybrid battery degradation could lead to more costly repairs. Windshield cracking is also a common issue reported by owners. While the Insight offers excellent fuel economy, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision. The average repair cost is moderate but repairs could quickly add up.