2020 Honda Clarity

Introduction:

The 2020 Honda Clarity is a midsize sedan available with either a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or fuel cell (FCV) powertrain. The PHEV model has a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors, producing a combined 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. The FCV model uses a hydrogen fuel cell stack to generate electricity, powering an electric motor that produces 174 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Both models come standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Clarity is known for its fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and spacious interior, but it has faced some criticism for its high price and limited driving range for the FCV model.

Engine/Electric Motor

1.5-Liter 4-Cylinder Gasoline Engine (PHEV)

• Noisy Fuel Pump:
  • Symptoms: Whining or buzzing noise from the fuel tank area when the fuel pump is running.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder Misfire:
  • Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs or ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Stack (FCV)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT)

• Shifting Hesitation:
  • Symptoms: Delayed or jerky shifting, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Update the transmission software or replace the transmission control module (TCM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Failure:
  • Symptoms: Transmission slipping, no movement, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging:
  • Symptoms: Uneven tire wear, reduced ride height at the rear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear suspension springs or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, slow engine cranking.
  • Solution: Replace the battery or diagnose and repair electrical system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dash Camera Malfunction:
  • Symptoms: Dash camera does not power on or record video.
  • Solution: Replace the dash camera unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Seal Leakage:
  • Symptoms: Water leaks into the interior during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Paint Bubbling:
  • Symptoms: Small bubbles or blisters appear in the paint, often on the hood or roof.
  • Solution: Paint repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control A/C Compressor Failure:
  • Symptoms: A/C does not blow cold air.
  • Solution: Replace the A/C compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Trim Panel Rattle:
  • Symptoms: Rattling noise from the center console trim panel.
  • Solution: Tighten or replace loose screws or clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2020 Honda Clarity has received mixed reviews regarding reliability. While it offers impressive fuel efficiency and advanced technology, it has faced some issues, particularly with the CVT transmission and electrical components. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some can be quite expensive to repair. It is recommended that potential buyers carefully consider the potential risks before purchasing this vehicle.