2020 Honda Fit

The 2020 Honda Fit is a subcompact hatchback known for its exceptional fuel economy, spacious interior (thanks to its “Magic Seat” configuration), and nimble handling. It’s powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 128 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). People generally appreciate the Fit’s practicality, versatility, and reliability. Common complaints often revolve around its somewhat noisy engine, basic interior materials, and the CVT transmission’s driving feel.

Engine

1.5L Four-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and the need to add oil more often than expected. This may be caused by piston ring issues.
  • Solution: In some cases, Honda dealers have performed oil consumption tests and, if excessive consumption is confirmed, replaced the piston rings and other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the repair and whether it’s done at a dealership or independent shop.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Shuddering/Hesitation During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a shuddering or hesitation feeling during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like a slipping transmission or a lack of power.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) has been reported to resolve this issue in some cases. In more severe cases, a transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for a software update, $3,000 - $5,000+ for a transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced premature battery drain, especially if the car sits unused for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws (devices that continue to draw power when the car is off). A new battery or replacement of components causing the draw may be needed. A software update for the ECU may resolve the issue in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for a new battery, $100 - $500+ for diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain issues.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their windshields are prone to cracking from small impacts, such as road debris. The glass may be thinner than expected.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can occasionally freeze or crash, requiring a restart. This can affect the navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: Software updates from Honda may address these issues. In some cases, replacing the infotainment unit might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update, $500 - $1,000+ for infotainment unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Overall Summary:

The 2020 Honda Fit is generally a reliable car, but some owners have reported issues, especially with the CVT transmission and the infotainment system. The potential for excessive oil consumption in the engine is also a concern. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but major repairs like transmission or engine work can be expensive. Addressing smaller electrical or infotainment issues might be more manageable. It’s important to thoroughly inspect a used 2020 Honda Fit and review its maintenance history before purchasing.