Honda Insight Common Problems and Solutions
Dipped Beam Headlight Malfunction
Problem:
Your headlights work properly until you dip the beams.
Solution:
This prompted a recall by Honda and requires replacing the headlight switch with the newly modified one. Unfortunately, you will also need to fit a new terminal for the dipped beam operation within the wiring harness, as it is likely to have been heat damaged. We have the modified switch and wiring harness terminal available for order at all times.
Difficulty level
Headlight Switch
Rough Idle
Problem:
The car idles roughly, and you struggle to start the engine. The check engine light might come on.
Solution:
You have a faulty EVAP emission control solenoid, and you'll need to remove it and fit a new one. A mechanic might charge a lot for this fairly simple repair, but you can order an inexpensive solenoid from our parts page and fit it yourself to save a considerable amount of money.
Difficulty level
Check Engine Light and Stuck Fuel Cap
Problem:
Your fuel cap is stuck, and the check engine light is on.
Solution:
This is a common issue reported with the Insight, so you're not alone. You will need to install a new filler neck, which you can find using our registration number search function.
Difficulty level
Fuel Filler Neck Pipe
Gear Shudder (All Automatics)
Problem:
When the automatic gearbox shifts gears, you can feel it shudder.
Solution:
Your start clutch has probably worn out. Although this is a tricky job, there are plenty of online guides available, and you can have a new start clutch delivered when you order directly from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
AC Malfunction
Problem:
The air conditioning has stopped working.
Solution:
Road debris can cause serious damage to the AC condenser, which you'll have to replace. Installation is very straightforward and should take less than five minutes. We always have AC condensers available for quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Aircon Condensor
Surge While Accelerating
Problem:
The car surges forward when you accelerate gently. There may also be black smoke coming from your exhaust. The engine might start overheating, and the check engine light could come on.
Solution:
It's likely that you have a blocked EGR passage. Check the passages near the electrical wiper, as this is the most common area for build-up. You can try cleaning them by hand, but this requires specialised tools and can be quite challenging. Usually, it's more cost-effective and less labour-intensive to replace the passages with new ones from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Engine Not Restarting
Problem:
The Auto-Stop function does not restart the engine.
Solution:
The Auto-Stop feature that is standard on the Insight is very useful, but it is common for the system to occasionally stop working. This means the engine does not restart when it should. Resolving this is simply a matter of ordering a new battery from our parts page for the Insight.
Difficulty level
Battery
Battery Light
Problem:
The battery warning indicator has illuminated.
Solution:
This is the most common problem reported by Insight owners, but it isn't too serious. It requires replacing the battery, but if your car is still under warranty, Honda should do this for free. If you're not covered, you can find a new hybrid battery in our online store, and installation is quite straightforward.
Difficulty level
Check Emission Light Illuminated
Problem:
The check emission light on your dashboard has illuminated. The car may also be hesitating or lurching forwards when driving.
Solution:
Check your spark plugs. If they are badly worn, they will need replacing. You will also need to order new pistons and rings from our parts list and fit those as well. In most cases, this will solve the problem. In the rare instances where it does not, you will need to install a new short block. Some drivers have reported that this also doesn't resolve the issue and end up replacing the entire engine. You can find everything from spark plugs to a complete engine in the BreakerYard shop for quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Knocking noise from gearbox
Problem:
There has been a known issue with hearing a knocking noise from the CVT gearbox when accelerating, when the vehicle is in motion, or when shifting into D. The CVT gearbox is very complex and there are several potential faults that could occur.
Solution:
The best thing to do is to take it to a professional so they can correctly identify the exact problem. If you need an affordable replacement gearbox, we can assist.
Difficulty level
Ground cables corroding
Problem:
It is common for these vehicles' ground cables to corrode from the inside, which can prevent the car from starting. There are three ground cables prone to corrosion. The ground cables are situated between the battery and firewall, between the left side and the transmission, and between the left side and the air filter support.
Solution:
Replacing the above-ground cables should solve the problem.
Difficulty level
Suspension problems
Problem:
When driving over rough surfaces or speed bumps and you hear a clunking noise from the rear suspension, there is an issue with the rear shock absorbers. This is caused by the excess weight of the hybrid battery.
Solution:
You will need to fit replacement shock absorbers to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Shock Absorber
Corrosion on A-pillar
Problem:
There is a known issue with the A-pillar corroding rapidly between the outside of the pillar and the windscreen. There are also corrosion problems on the doors and the bonnet around the edges.
Solution:
This problem can be fixed under warranty; otherwise, you will have to pay for the repair. Get a body repair expert to examine the issue.
Difficulty level
Fuel cap release switch problem
Problem:
It is common for the fuel cap release switch on the Honda Insight to fail. The switch is located on the right-hand side of the driver's side footwell, and the issue is usually caused by corrosion or a failure of the release spring.
Solution:
You will need to get a replacement spring fitted, and it's best to have someone who knows what they're doing take a look. If your car is still under warranty, it can be fixed free of charge; otherwise, you'll have to pay for the repair.
Difficulty level