2021 Honda Clarity problems
The Honda Clarity is a nameplate used by Honda on alternative fuel vehicles. It was initially used only on hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles such as the 2008 Honda FCX Clarity, but in 2017 the nameplate was expanded to include the battery-electric Honda Clarity Electric and the plug-in hybrid electric Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, in addition to the next generation Honda Clarity Fuel Cell. Clarity production ended in August 2021 with US leases for the fuel cell variant continuing through to 2022.
Honda FCX Clarity (2008–2014)
History
The Honda FCX Clarity is based on the 2006 Honda FCX Concept and only available as a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle. The FCX Clarity had electric car qualities such as zero emissions while offering five minute refueling times and long range in a full function large sedan. It was the first hydrogen fuel cell vehicle available to retail customers.
Production began in June 2008 with leasing in the U.S. commenced in July 2008. It was introduced in Japan in November 2008. The FCX Clarity was available for lease in the U.S., Japan and Europe. In the U.S., it was only available to customers who live in Southern California where several hydrogen fuel stations are available. FCX Clarity were leased for US$600 a month in 2010, including collision coverage, maintenance, roadside assistance and hydrogen fuel. There were around 10 others on lease in Japan and another 10 in Europe in 2009. One of the reasons for such a low number of cars in the U.S. was a lack of hydrogen filling stations. In 2014 Honda announced to phase out the FCX Clarity. From 2008 to 2015, Honda leased a total of 48 FCX units in the US.
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Common 2021 Honda Clarity problems
The 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is a vehicle that has garnered some attention due to certain issues reported by its owners. One common problem is the check engine light, which can be caused by various factors. A loose or dead battery is one possible reason, as the battery plays a crucial role in the car's functionality. Without a properly working battery, the car may not start, and essential features like headlights, radio, and phone charging may be affected. Another potential cause for the check engine light is a malfunctioning catalytic converter, which is responsible for converting carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide during the combustion process. A damaged catalytic converter can negatively impact engine performance, fuel economy, and even lead to overheating issues.
Another issue that has been reported is related to the Honda Clarity's A/C system, which has been described as having poor design and failing annually. This can result in significant repair costs for the vehicle's owners, potentially reaching thousands of dollars per year. The A/C system's poor design and frequent failures have raised concerns among those considering purchasing a used Clarity, as the expenses associated with these issues can outweigh any savings on gasoline.
The Honda Clarity's reliability has also been questioned, with some owners reporting multiple visits to the dealership for various repairs. These issues include software updates for over-reporting of EV range, wheel bearing replacements, and A/C condenser core replacements. The frequent need for repairs has led some owners to question Honda's commitment to engineering a reliable automobile and standing behind their product.
In addition to these issues, the Honda Clarity FCV, which was discontinued in 2021, faced challenges due to a lack of infrastructure for fuel cell vehicles, including a low market demand for fuel cell vehicles, a dearth of hydrogen fuel stations, and a lack of government subsidies for fuel cell vehicles. This lack of infrastructure contributed to the Clarity FCV's failure in the market.
In summary, the 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid has been associated with several issues, including check engine light problems, A/C system failures, and reliability concerns. These issues have led some owners to question Honda's commitment to engineering a reliable automobile and standing behind their product. The Honda Clarity FCV, which was discontinued in 2021, faced challenges due to a lack of infrastructure for fuel cell vehicles.
Is Honda Clarity reliable?
In other words, the Clarity shares all its major drive components with other Honda vehicles. Those hybrid vehicles have been proven to be reliable so the Clarity should be as well. The big question mark is the traction battery, which is unique to the Clarity.
Why is Honda discontinuing the Clarity?
According to Honda's official statement on why the Clarity FCV was being pulled from its line-up, it cited a low market demand for fuel cell vehicles, the dearth of hydrogen fuel stations, a lackluster market reception, and a lack of government subsidies for fuel cell vehicles.
How long will a Honda Clarity battery last?
How often should you replace your 2020 Honda Clarity Plug-In battery? Every 3 to 5 years, but you should have your battery tested regularly for extreme drops in voltage to make sure it's operating at a dependable level.
Is there a recall on Honda Clarity?
2021 Honda Clarity Recalls
There have been no safety recalls issued from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
2021 Honda Clarity complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Honda Clarity.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2021 Honda Clarity car reviews
Positive 2021 Honda Clarity car reviews
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I'm currently at 1,900 miles and still have over half a tank of gas left. The mileage is incredible, and I can go up to 5,000 miles on a single tank of gas (7 gallon tank). I plug in at work for free, so my electricity cost is low. Charging at home usually costs me $1.40, and I can travel 50-60 miles per charge. My daily work commute is 56 miles, and I make it 99% of the time on all electric. I love this car because it's quiet, spacious, fast enough, and gets crazy gas mileage. I also own a Volt, but the Clarity PHEV is better in most ways. I have had no mechanical issues with it, and it still performs like new even after 56,000 miles. The PHEV Clarity is one of the best plug-in hybrids on the market. It's really saving me money with $6 gas in California. I can literally go months before I have to refill its small 7-gallon gas tank. As complex as this drive train is, it runs perfectly so far.
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Big Red (as I call her) suffered damage when she was rear-ended in September 2023. We were apart for 3 months while they found parts, but I battled the insurance company and they put her back together. Now, 90 days and $13k later, she is back and better than ever. The comfort, reliability, looks and quality remain true. As she is the Crimson Sunrise Red, a full detail was part of her time in 'rehab', and the compliments just keep coming. If you're looking for a car that's been well-maintained and is available at a decent price, now is the perfect time to discover what a full-size dose of Clarity can do for you.
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I'm three months into driving my 2021 Clarity and I must say, everything about this car has been excellent. The electric-only range is impressive, reaching up to 60 miles in nice weather. The driving experience is comfortable and smooth, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well certain features, like hybrid charge mode, work. Although there are a few minor dislikes, such as the clunky cup holders and the lack of a volume knob, they are hardly worth mentioning. On the other hand, the back seat is surprisingly roomy for a car in this price range, and the trunk is spacious enough to accommodate all my needs. I'm also impressed by the car's acceleration, which is often underestimated by others, both from zero and when passing on the highway. Overall, I'm only three months in, but I'm already loving it!
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I've been driving the Canadian touring version for almost 6 months now and I absolutely love it! The car is perfect for our needs and the gas consumption is incredibly low. Since we do most of our driving in the suburbs, we're able to get an overall average of under 1L per 100 Km, with all of the gas being used on just a few longer trips. It's like having an electric car with the option of longer range with gas assist when needed. The only things I would change are that the car doesn't have electrical seats, and instead uses a battery warmer. I would have preferred to have both. Additionally, the Honda link app can be a bit quirky, but it eventually gets the job done.
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It's great to hear that the car met all of your expectations and even exceeded them. The extra room in the front and back is definitely a plus compared to other electric cars. As advertised, the car has a range of close to 47+/- miles on electric alone, which is impressive. I hope it performs just as well during the cold winter months. Charging the car overnight with a regular 120V outlet at home is convenient and usually gets you ready to go. Additionally, a couple of hours of charging at work makes it even better. It's been a few weeks and you haven't had to add gasoline yet, which is fantastic. The driving experience is very enjoyable and it's great to know that you're doing your part for mother nature. Although they no longer ship to some states, you can still order it through dealers. If you have the chance, it's definitely worth taking a look at.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Honda Clarity problems:
Honda Clarity Complaints, Issues And Problems | Honda Clarity Forum
Have an issue with your 2018+ Honda Clarity? Share your complaints and discuss all related problems.
Honda Clarity Battery: FAQs, Replacement Guide & Common ...
Dec 4, 2020 ... I'm sure this isn't easy on you. Did you have any issues prior to the dead battery or no?
The Worst EV company ever | Honda Clarity Forum
Jan 25, 2023 ... Let me know if this problem is common among Honda clarity cars. If it is common, there may be a chance to have a class action lawsuit. Like.
Emissions System Problem | Page 2 | Inside EVS Forum
They would probably have been happy to keep the loaner and you'd be happier driving your Clarity. Jul 10, 2021 ...
2018 Honda Clarity reliability is very poor. | Honda Clarity Forum
Jan 3, 2024 ... I sold my 2021 Clarity touring last month. 56k miles and never a problem. Yes, the guess o meter is not accurate. Don't use it as gospel - its a ...
Other years of Honda Clarity
Are you having problems with your 2021 Honda Clarity?
Chandler Greenfelder 2024-09-27
Leased a Fuel Cell Clarity, great car. However, Honda could improve their customer service by providing loaner cars when hydrogen stations are offline. Additionally, a recall took over 3 months to fix, which could be improved. It is important for Honda to ensure their CS reps are knowledgeable and able to provide better solutions. In contrast, Toyota proactively provides loaners to their customers.
Javonte Bartell 2024-09-23
The Clarity is a great car with a stunning exterior and an interior that surpasses many higher priced models. It comfortably accommodates five adults with ample leg room. The electric engine is powerful and quiet, providing good torque. However, the range is limited, especially in the Northeast during winter. The gas engine can be noisy and the transmission has been problematic. Despite multiple visits to the dealership, the issue was not resolved. The gas engine struggles to switch gears resulting in high RPMs between 15 to 35 mph. Unfortunately, there is no manual shift button to alleviate this issue. Despite these challenges, the Clarity is a great car and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable hybrid. However, I am considering other options such as a Tesla or a Toyota Hybrid. Thank you for considering my feedback.
Johnathan Jacobs 2024-09-19
I've been driving Hondas since 1991, starting with an Accord and then a Civic. I was initially drawn to their reliability, as well as their comfortable and tight handling. Recently, I was considering a plug-in or all-electric vehicle and test drove a Clarity. Unfortunately, it didn't quite meet my expectations in terms of handling, so I decided not to purchase it.
Edwardo Pouros 2024-06-05
I leased a Honda Clarity Fuel vehicle and unfortunately experienced several issues with it. The hydrogen tank, fuel stack, water pump, and main circuit board all had recalls, which caused me to spend countless hours dealing with Honda customer service. While the representatives were friendly, they were not always able to provide me with the assistance I needed in a timely manner. I found it frustrating that they would promise to call me back within 24 to 48 hours, but then expect me to be available to answer their call at any time. It would have been much more convenient if they had offered alternative methods of communication, such as email or chat. Additionally, I was disappointed to find that the call back number they provided was often not answered, leading to a frustrating game of phone tag. Overall, I had a difficult time dealing with Honda's customer service and would caution others to consider this before leasing a vehicle from them.
Percy Casper 2024-04-09
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2020 Clarity Touring that I bought last September with 45,000 miles. I noticed that the car's MSRP shows it has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, which is true, but it only gives a warning when one of its tires is low. Unfortunately, it doesn't show the tire pressure to each tire. Additionally, I've found that the main battery only allows for 39-40 miles after being fully charged, rather than the advertised 48. Just wanted to give you a heads up!