2020 Honda City

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2020 Honda City, categorized by component, with a focus on accuracy and detail. The 2020 Honda City is a subcompact sedan known for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 1.5L i-VTEC petrol engine and a 1.5L diesel engine. The 1.5L i-VTEC produces around 119 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for the petrol engine and a 6-speed manual for the diesel. Owners generally appreciate the car’s reliability, fuel economy, and spacious cabin. Some common complaints include a somewhat uninspired driving experience, average build quality, and limited features on base models.

Engine

1.5L i-VTEC Petrol

• Engine Oil Dilution
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine oil dilution, where fuel mixes with the engine oil. This can lead to decreased engine performance, increased wear, and potentially engine damage. Symptoms include a strong fuel smell in the oil, rising oil level on the dipstick, and decreased fuel economy. This issue is most commonly reported in cold climates and during short trips where the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature.
  • Solution: Honda has issued software updates to adjust the fuel injection and combustion process to reduce the amount of unburnt fuel entering the oil. Regular oil changes with the correct specification oil are crucial. In severe cases, replacement of the oil and filter is necessary, and some users have had to deal with piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (oil change & filter), $100 - $200 (software update), $1,000+ (piston ring replacement if needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

1.5L Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with the DPF clogging prematurely, particularly in cars used primarily for short journeys at low speeds. Symptoms include a DPF warning light, reduced engine power, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Taking the car for longer drives at higher speeds allows the DPF to regenerate properly. In some cases, a forced regeneration by a mechanic is required. In severe cases, the DPF may need to be cleaned or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 (forced regeneration), $500 - $1500+ (DPF replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) - Petrol Engine Only

• CVT Juddering/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported juddering or hesitation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like a slight shaking or a delay in response when pressing the accelerator.
  • Solution: A software update to the CVT control module can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, a CVT fluid change with genuine Honda CVT fluid is recommended. In severe cases, CVT replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software update), $100 - $300 (CVT fluid change), $3,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of the suspension bushings, leading to clunking or knocking noises, especially when driving over bumps. This is more common on roads with poor surfaces.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings. It is recommended to replace bushings in pairs (both sides) for even wear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per side depending on labor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the infotainment system can be prone to freezing, lagging, or occasionally rebooting. This can affect navigation, audio, and other system functions.
  • Solution: A software update can sometimes resolve these issues. If the problem persists, a replacement of the infotainment unit might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update, if available), $500 - $1500 (Infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Weak AC Compressor
  • Description/Symptoms: Some have reported issues with the AC blowing warm air. Sometimes this can be a weak AC compressor.
  • Solution: Replace the AC compressor with a new one.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported various rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, and rear parcel shelf, particularly on rough roads. These rattles can be difficult to pinpoint.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the rattle and applying sound-deadening material or tightening loose components. This often requires trial and error.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the source and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Honda City, while generally reliable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil dilution and DPF issues (for the diesel) can be costly if not addressed promptly. CVT juddering can also be a concern. Interior rattles are more of a nuisance than a major problem. Suspension bushing wear and infotainment system glitches round out the most frequently reported issues. While most repairs are moderately priced, major component replacements like the CVT or DPF can be significant expenses. Overall, prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect the car, especially if it’s been primarily used for short trips, and ensure all recalls and software updates have been applied.