2012 Honda Insight problems
The Honda Insight (ホンダ・インサイト, Honda Insaito) is a hybrid electric vehicle that is manufactured and marketed by Honda. Its first generation was a two-door, two passenger liftback (1999–2006) and in its second generation was a four-door, five passenger liftback (2009–2014). In its third generation, it became a four-door sedan (2018–2022). It was Honda's first model with Integrated Motor Assist system and the most fuel efficient gasoline-powered car available in the U.S. without plug-in capability — for the length of its production run.
Honda introduced the second-generation Insight in Japan in February 2009 and in the United States on March 24, 2009. The Insight was the least expensive hybrid available in the US. In December 2010, Honda introduced a less expensive base model for the 2011 model year. The Insight was launched in April 2009 in the UK as the lowest priced hybrid on the market and became the best selling hybrid for the month.
The Insight ranked as the top-selling vehicle in Japan for the month of April 2009, a first for a hybrid model. During its first twelve months after first available in the Japanese market, the second-generation Insight sold 143,015 units around the world. In July 2014, Honda announced the end of production of the Insight for the 2015 model, together with the Honda FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel-cell car and the Honda Fit EV electric car.
At the 2018 North American International Auto Show, Honda announced the third-generation Honda Insight prototype, based on the tenth-generation Honda Civic sedan. Unlike the previous Insight, it was a traditional sedan, not a five-door liftback. The third-generation Insight went on sale later that year.
In April 2022, Honda announced that the Insight would be discontinued after the 2022 model year, with production ending in June. It has been replaced by a new Civic Hybrid.
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Common 2012 Honda Insight problems
The 2012 Honda Insight has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
Another common problem reported with the 2012 Honda Insight is excessive oil consumption, which can be caused by faulty gaskets, higher engine temperature, or the wrong type of oil being used. This issue can lead to engine failure if not addressed promptly.
The engine jerking while accelerating is another problem reported by Honda Insight owners, which can be caused by issues with the car's transmission. This problem can be diagnosed and repaired by taking the car to a garage for inspection.
The engine stalling while driving is also a common problem reported by Honda Insight owners, which can be caused by problems with spark plugs. It is recommended to get the car checked out to establish exactly what's wrong, and increased fuel consumption, difficulty starting the car, and loss of power also indicate that the spark plugs might need to be checked.
The 2012 Honda Insight's transmission also faced issues, with some drivers reporting rough shifting or even total transmission failure in severe cases.
Electrical glitches, including problems with power windows and door locks, have also been occasional concerns for Honda Insight owners.
In summary, the 2012 Honda Insight has several common problems, including battery system challenges, excessive oil consumption, engine jerking while accelerating, engine stalling while driving, transmission issues, air conditioning problems, and electrical glitches. It is essential to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the car's longevity.
What is the problem with the Honda Insight hybrid 2012?
The 2012 Insight is considered the worst year for this model of car. Excessive oil consumption, engine failure, the engine jerking while accelerating and stalling while driving were among the problems drivers reported. In 2013, some of the same issues were seen again, including the vehicle unexpectedly stalling.
What is the common problem Honda Insight?
Problem: It is common on the Honda Insight for the fuel cap release switch to fail. The fuel cap release switch is located at the right hand side of the drivers side footwell and the problem is caused by corrosion, or failure of the release spring.
How many miles will a 2012 Honda Insight last?
On average, a well-maintained Honda Insight can last 200,000 miles or even more, according to MotorBiscuit. This longevity is partly due to Honda's meticulous engineering and the hybrid technology that the Insight employs.
Are Honda Insights reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 16% for the Honda Insight, compared to an average of 9% for alternative fuel vehicles and 12% for all vehicle models.
2012 Honda Insight car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda Insight problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Honda Insight vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Honda Insight
The NHTSA has received 58 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Honda Insight. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Honda Insight vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- VIN: JHMZE2H39CS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Roof and hood of car lost all paint and clear coat. Starting to rust
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-19
- VIN: JHMZE2H53CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil consumption issues. I can't drive my car 10 feet without dying. I was stuck in traffic when my car died from the issues. Look up TSB 15-015
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- VIN: JHMZE2H53CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Honda Insight. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle jerked forward. The contact stated that the check engine, emissions, and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to park near a gas station. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing an oil consumption test to completed. The dealer informed the contact that the pistons needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-15
- VIN: JHMZE2H31CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TTHIS CAR HAS SAFETY PROBLEMS BURNS OIL LIKE CRAZY , MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING DOWN 81 WHEN THE DASH LIGHTS CAME ON THE CAR WAS SHAKING SO SHE PULLED OVER AND CALLED THE POLICE WHO IMPOUNDED THE CAR 300 TO GET IT OUT THEN WE HAD IT TOWED OVER 100MILES . HONDA DEALER SAYS THE SPARK PLUG FAILED AND WENT INTO THE ENGINE . GETTING PRICES ON A NEW ENGINE .
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-03
- VIN: JHMZE2H77CS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR MALFUNCTIONS. CONTINUES TO LOCK ITSELF WHEN DRIVING, CONTINUES TO LOCK ITSELF WHEN SITTING AND CAR IS NOT RUNNING. ONGOING FOR MANY MONTHS. HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS TO REPLACE, I'M OPTING TO DISCONNECT AND LIVE WITH MANUAL LOCKS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-12
- VIN: JHMZE2H50CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ABOUT TWO MONTHS AGO, MY CAR BEGAN FLUTTERING AFTER I STARTED THE ENGINE AND BEGAN ACCELERATING. THE POWER FELT REDUCED AS WELL. LIKE MOST PEOPLE'S FIRST INSTINCT, I BEGAN CHECKING THE OIL AND NOTICED THE OIL APPEARED LOW ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING THAT I HAD RECEIVED AN OIL CHANGE NOT LONG BEFORE THIS OCCURRED. SINCE THEN I'VE HEAD TO CHECK THE OIL INCESSANTLY AND AM CONSTANTLY ADDING OIL TO SUPPLEMENT. THEN I BERGEN NOTICING AN OIL LEAK IN MY DRIVE WAY AND ALMOST ANYTIME I PARKED SOMEWHERE FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. THEN MY ENGINE LIGHT BEGAN COMING ON TELLING ME TO CHECK THE VEHICLE'S EMISSIONS SYSTEM. THIS WAS AN ISSUE I HAD NEVER SEEN BEFORE. NOW I REALIZE THIS MESSAGE IS ILLUMINATED DUE TO A HIGH OIL CONSUMPTION OF THE VEHICLE. THE FINAL STRAW THAT BROKE THE CAMEL'S BACK WAS, WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY MY VEHICLE BEGAN LOSING ENGINE POWER AND COULD NOT GET ABOVE 65 MPH. THE ENGINE BEGAN MAKING LOUD PUTTERING NOISES, THAT WERE ESPECIALLY INTENSE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS COSTING AND IMMEDIATELY UPON ACCELERATING FROM A COMPLETE STOP. MY FEAR IS THAT THE ENGINE IS SHOT AT THIS POINT. I'M EVEN MORE CONCERNED AFTER SEEING THIS IS A CHRONIC ISSUE WITH MANY OWNERS OFF THIS YEAR - MAKE - MODEL. UNFORTUNATELY, I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE USED AND HAVEN'T HAD IT EVEN A YEAR.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-18
- VIN: JHMZE2H51CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THIS CAR IS THE ABSOLUTE WORST CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED. THE OIL CONSUMPTION IS OUTRAGEOUS AND THE CAR ONLY HAS 89K MILES ON IT. IT ALSO BURNS THROUGH SPARK PLUGS LIKE CRAZY, I'VE PROBABLY PUT CLOSE TO 500 DOLLARS INTO IT AT LEAST JUST IN OIL AND SPARK PLUGS THIS YEAR ALONE. IN THE TWO YEARS I HAVE OWNED IT, IT HAS LEFT ME STRANDED IN STRANGE NEIGHBORHOODS, PARKING LOTS, AT MY JOB, AND AT MY HOME BECAUSE OF IT THROWING THE SPARK PLUGS WITH NO WARNING. UPON CHANGING THE PLUGS, ALL CYLINDERS, ESPECIALLY FOUR, ARE FILLED WITH OIL. MOST RECENTLY, I CHANGED THE SPARK PLUGS IN MY WORK PARKING LOT, AND REFILLED THE OIL. A WEEK LATER, I FOUND MYSELF REPEATING THE SAME PROCESS BECAUSE IT KILLED THE PLUGS AGAIN. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND SUDDENLY LOST ACCELERATION, IN TRAFFIC, AND HAD MY DASH LIGHT UP LIKE A CHRISTMAS TREE. TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE, THE 2012 AND 2013 ENGINE CONTAINS EXPERIMENTAL PISTON RINGS, WHICH ARE CLEARLY FAULTY. NOT JUST BY MY OWN ACCOUNT, BUT BY COUNTLESS OTHERS AS WELL. I DO NOT HAVE FIVE GRAND TO REPLACE THE ENGINE OR HAVE IT REBUILT, AND I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO. HONDA NEEDS TO BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR MISTAKE AND SHOULD BE FORCED TO RECALL THESE ENGINES. THE CONSUMERS WHO PURCHASED THESE VEHICLES SHOULD NOT BE FORCED TO PAY FOR SOMETHING THAT IS OUT OF THEIR CONTROL. THESE CARS ARE TICKING TIME BOMBS, I WOULDN'T RECOMMEND THEM TO MY WORST ENEMY. I WILL BE FILING COMPLAINTS WITH HONDA ITSELF AS WELL AS THE BBB IN ADDITION TO THIS ONE. PLEASE DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS, I SAW HOW MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS YOU HAVE RECEIVED IN REGARDS TO THIS ISSUE. IT'S TIME TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS INSTEAD OF IGNORING IT AND LETTING HONDA GET AWAY WITH IT. IF IT DIED ON THE FREEWAY, WHICH IT ALMOST HAS, IT WOULD BECOME A SERIOUS THREAT TO MY SAFETY AND THOSE AROUND ME.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-17
- VIN: JHMZE2H78CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE A 2012 HONDA INSIGHT WITH 80000 MILES AND AM HAVING EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION AT 1 QUART OF OIL PER 2000 MILES OF DRIVING PER THE DEALERSHIP. HONDA SAYS THIS IS ACCEPTABLE AND ONLY A PROBLEM AT 1 QUART PER 1000 MILES DRIVEN. I HAVE READ THE CONCERNS AND THE VEHICLE HAS POORLY SEATED RINGS DUE TO A DESIGN DEFECT ADMITTED BY HONDA. MY CONCERN IS THIS IS RESULTING IN LOSS OF COMPRESSION AND RESULTING TOTAL LOSS OF POWER LEAVING PEOPLE WITH VEHICLES ROLLING DOWN THE ROAD AND THEN THE ENGINE DROPS OUT TOTALLY. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE, ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE AND OF COURSE CUSTOMER THEFT ISSUE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-30
- VIN: JAM2E2H5005
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY HONDA INSIGHT 2012 IS BURNING OIL. AFTER AN OIL CHANGE I DRIVE AROUND 800 MILES I'M 1/2 QUART LOW ON OIL. THIS IS NOT NORMAL AT ALL.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-23
- VIN: JHMZE2H38CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE A 2012 HONDA INSIGHT. ON 12/23/18 I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE POWER CUT OUT. THIS IS THE 3RD INCIDENT IN A ONE YEAR AND HALF WHERE THE SPARK PLUGS HAVE BLOWN CUTTING THE POWER TO THE CAR. MECHANIC TOLD ME IT WOULD BE $1700. I COULDN'T GET IT FIXED I WAS GETTING ON A PLANE 3 DAYS LATER FOR THREE WEEKS. EVIDENTALLY IT HAS TO SOMETHING WITH THE EXCESS BURNING OF OIL GETTING TO THE SPARK PLUGS. I'VE FOUND WHERE OTHERS HAVE THIS PROBLEM ALSO. ITS QUITE EXPENSIVE TO FIX. THIS HAS TO BE A MANUFACTURER PROBLEM. NOW I'M WITHOUT A CAR AGAIN. AT THIS TIME I AM WALKING WITH A WALKER AND NO CAR. THIS KEEPS HAPPENING! WHAT IS GOING ON.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-05
- VIN: JHMZE2H59CS
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: OIL CONSUMPTION AND SHAKING
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-14
- VIN: JHMZE2H35CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CAR QUITE RUNNING ON BUSY INTERSTATE I MANAGED TO GET OFF NEAREST EXIT ALMOST GOT HIT BY SEVERAL VEHICLES.HAD TO HAVE TOWED TO AUTO SHOP THAT HAD REPLACED 8 SPARK PLUGS 8 MONTHES EARLIER. AUTOMOTIVE SHOP REPLACED PLUGS 8 PLUGS SAID THEY WHERE UNDER WARRANTY BUT FOUND NO COMPRESSION IN CYLINDERS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-03
- VIN: JHMZE2H72CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY HONDA INSIGHT 2012 IS BURNING OIL. AFTER AN OIL CHANGE I DRIVE AROUND 3500 MILE AND THE RED ENGINE OIL WARNING LIGHT COMES ON. FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED I TOOK THE CAR ,LIKE 3-4 YEARS AGO, TO THE DEALER. THEY REPLACED THE PISTON RINGS UNDER WARRANTY BUT IT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. I AM DEALING WITH THIS PROBLEM FOR THE LAST AROUND 3-4 YEARS. IT ALWAYS HAPPENS AFTER AROUND 3500 MILE, I GET THE RED LIGHT. I TAKE IT TO DEALER AND DEALER STARTS OIL CONSUMPTION TEST AND TELLS ME NOTHING IS WRONG. THEY DID OIL CONSUMPTION TEST 4 OR 5 TIMES ALREADY. ONE TIME THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD TO ADD 3.5 QUART OIL AND THE ENGINE BLOCK NEEDS TO BE REPLACED SINCE PISTON RINGS ARE ALREADY REPLACED. I WAS INEXPERIENCED TO NOT GET A WRITTEN DOCUMENT STATING THEY ADDED 3.5 QUART OIL. THEN THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY WILL CONTACT HONDA ABOUT IT. A FEW DAYS LATER THEY CALLED ME AND SAID HONDA THINKS IT IS NORMAL. RECENTLY DUE TO JOB CHANGE I DRIVE VERY LITTLE THAT IS WHY IT TAKES TIME FOR ME TO REGENERATE THE PROBLEM BUT I KNOW IT HAPPENS. IT HAPPENED LIKE 5 TIMES SO FAR. THE EXTENDED WARRANTY WILL END IN 2020. I HAVE LIKE A YEAR TO DEMONSTRATE IT. SOME PEOPLE HAD POWER LOSS ISSUES ON FREEWAY. I DID NOT HAVE THAT SO FAR BECAUSE I DO NOT TAKE LONG FREEWAY RIDES WHEN I REACH TO 2K MILE AFTER LAST OIL CHANGE. WE USE MY WIFE'S CAR IF I HAVE TO TAKE FREEWAY.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-11
- VIN: JHMZE2H51CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA INSIGHT. THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF THE DRIVER. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND ALL THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, BUT IT FAILED TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DRIVER'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN TO PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON (LOCATED AT 4115 W MERCURY BLVD, HAMPTON, VA 23666, (757) 838-1252) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PISTON THREE IN CYLINDER THREE, VALVE, AND ENGINE HEAD NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-11
- VIN: JHMZE2H51CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER'S HONDA INSIGHT EXPERIENCED THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUE. HER VEHICLE LATER HAD SEVERE ENGINE PROBLEMS AND STALLED AT 6:00 AM ON I-64. A HONDA DEALERSHIP DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS DAMAGE TO CYLINDER, PISTON, CYLINDER HEAD AND VALVES OF CYLINDER NUMBER 3. ALL OTHER CYLINDERS WERE WITHIN NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS. MY COMPLAINT IS THAT THE NOTICE SENT TO CONSUMERS OMITTED THAT THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION COULD LEAD TO ENGINE FAILURE AND AN ACCIDENT. CONSUMERS WITH LITTLE OR NO MECHANICAL KNOWLEDGE WHO PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE USED, MAY NOT BE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND WILL NOT BE AWARE OF THE RISK AND SEVERITY OF THE PROBLEM. THOSE WHO NOTICE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION MAY ASSUME THAT IT IS FROM AGE AND NOT A DESIGN DEFECT THAT COULD PLACE THEIR LIFE IN DANGER. THE SERVICE BULLETIN SENT BY HONDA TO ITS DEALERSHIPS IS ALMOST IDENTICAL TO THAT PROVIDED THE CONSUMER WITH ONE EXCEPTION. THE SERVICE BULLETIN INCLUDED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DESCRIBING THE POTENTIAL DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE FROM THE MANUFACTURE'S DEFECT. WHEN THE NATURAL CONSEQUENCES OF THIS MANUFACTURE'S DEFECT OCCUR IT THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY LOSES POWER AND WILL NOT RUN. IN MY DAUGHTER'S CASE IT WAS EARLY IN THE MORNING WITH LITTLE TRAFFIC. HOWEVER, SHE WAS ON I-64 ABOUT TO MERGE ONTO I-95. HAD THE ENGINE FAILED AT A LATER TIME IN THE DAY SHE WOULD HAVE LOST POWER IN TRAFFIC ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY. VEHICLES BEHIND HER WOULD HAVE NO REASON TO EXPECT A SUDDEN LOSS OF ACCELERATION. THE POTENTIAL FOR REAR-END COLLISIONS AND/OR CRASHES WHILE THE OPERATOR OF THIS MODEL HONDA IS ATTEMPTING TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY WITH NO POWER IS VERY HIGH.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-25
- VIN: JHMZE2H51CS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN THE DRIVER STEP ON IT'S BRAKING SYSTEMS BY FOOT TO STOP THE THIS CAR, IT WILL STARTS TO WOBBLE IT'S BACK BODY OF THIS CAR AND SHAKES IT SEEMS THE BRAKING SYSTEM ON IT'S BOTH REAR BRAKING SYSTEM ARE DRAGGING IN EVERY TIME WE STEP ON IT'S BRAKING SYSTEM. IT WILL RATTLE THE DRIVERS WHEN STEPPING ON THE BRAKING SYSTEM IT'S REAR BODY WILL SHAKES AND WOBBLES FROM SIDE TO SIDES BEFORE IT WILL COMPLETELY STOPS THIS CAR. DURING RUNNING WHEN THE DRIVER WILL STEP THE BRAKING SYSTEM, THE REAR OF THE CAR WILL WOBBLES / SHAKING AND DRAGGING IT'S REAR BRAKING AND IT IS VERY DANGEROUS FOR THE NEW DRIVER PERSON TO DRIVE SHE / HE MAY PANIC AND CAUSE TO CRASH THE THIS CAR.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-14
- VIN: JHMZE2H71CS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION AT APPROXIMATELY 60,000 MILES. CHECK EMISSION SYSTEM LIGHT ON, LOW OIL HOWEVER OIL LIGHT DOES NOT ALERT ME. HAVE TO REGULARLY ADD OIL BETWEEN RECOMMENDED OIL CHANGES.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-22
- VIN: JHMZE2H59CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE SPARK PLUGS FAILED DURING DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY RESULTING IN A DANGEROUS SITUATION. I LATER LEARNED THAT THE SPARK PLUGS FAILED BECAUSE 2 OF THE CYLINDERS WERE BURNING EXCESSIVE OIL. HONDA HAS RECALLED THIS CAR DUE TO EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION BUT HAS REFUSED TO REIMBURSEMENT ME AFTER I HAD THE CAR REPAIRED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-19
- VIN: JHMZE2H58CS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: HIGH OIL CONSUMPTION BEFORE EVERY OIL CHANGE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-25
- VIN: JHMZE2H36C8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NTSB: 2012 HONDA HAS PROBLEMS WITH BOTH SHOCK ABSORBERS WERE LEAKING FLUID ALL OVER THE WHEEL WELLS. *BF THE CONSUMER REQUESTED INFORMATION ABOUT THE VEHICLE'S AIRBAG RECALL THAT WAS PERFORMED.THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT REPAIRING THE TPMS WOULD COST $700.00. UPDATED 04/17/2017*JS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-01
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2012 HONDA INSIGHT. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEALERSHIP POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AND NO REPLACEMENT PARTS TO REPAIR AIRBAG RECALL. *SMD
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-16
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: OIL CONSUMPTION WAS WAY OFF AND ALL 8 OF THE SPARK PLUGS HAVE BEEN CHANGED TWICE IN A YEAR. CAR HAS ONLY 80,000 MILES ON IT AND NOW THEY WANT TO DO A COMPLETE TEAR DOWN OF THE ENGINE AT MY EXPENSE. I SHOULD NOT BE PAYING FOR THESE REPAIRS HONDA SHOULD BE LIABLE. I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE IN THE HIGHWAY AND WITH NO WARNING IT SUDDENLY STOPPED AND WENT TO LIMP MODE . VERY DANGEROUS. SERIOUS ACCIDENTS CAN AND WILL HAPPEN ITS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME. THE PROBLEM: OEM PISTON RINGS THAT CAME ORIGINAL TO THE CAR GO BAD AROUND 60,000 MILES. AND HONDA IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE!!!!!********
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-01
- VIN: JHMZE2H32CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. I AM ADDING 1 QUART EVERY 1000 MILES SINCE I GOT THE CAR AT 65000 MILES.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-01
- VIN: JHMZE2H37CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION AT 70000. ADDING MORE THAN A QUART OF OIL EVERY 1000 MILES.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-27
- VIN: JHMZE2H78CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION
2012 Honda Insight recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2012 Honda Insight.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon, 2010-2013 ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2008-2010 Civic GX NGV, 2012-2015 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2014 Fit EV, 2010-2014 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are F5F and Q5E.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2013 TSX Sport Wagon, and 2010-2012 ZDX and 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV, 2012-2014 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2013 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The front passenger air bag inflator may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed air bag inflator may not properly deploy the passenger frontal air bag in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator installation and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 5, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are M4O, P4R, T4Q, and W4P.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014 Honda Insight and Acura TSX and TSX Wagon, 2014-2015 Honda Crosstour and Pilot vehicles nationwide, as well as certain 2014 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles in Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Honda is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Acura TSX, TSX Wagon and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Insight, Fit and Pilot vehicles, 2011-2012 Honda Accord and 2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Lastly, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot, 2011-2013 TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord and 2010-2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are M2J and S2K.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 22, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are K1P, and M1O.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX, ZDX, Honda Accord Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot vehicles, 2011-13 Acura TSX Sportswagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord,, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles and 2013 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2012 Acura TSX, Honda Accord, Accord Crosstour, Fit and Pilot, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid and CR-V, and 2010 Acura ZDX and Honda Insight vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Unless included in Zones A or B above, Honda is recalling certain 2009 Acura TSX, Honda Accord, Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Fit, and Pilot vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 16, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are B0K and L0J.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2008-2012 Accord, 2010-2012 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2012 Fit and Pilot, 2010-2012 Insight, and 2009-2012 Acura TSX vehicles that received replacement passenger frontal air bag inflators. One dealership may have incorrectly installed the replacement air bag inflators.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, an incorrectly installed passenger frontal air bag inflator may deploy the air bag improperly, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are O07, Y0A, N06, G05, M04, Y01, and O09.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Acura TSX, 2011-2012 Acura TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Acura ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2012 Honda Accord Crosstour and Honda Insight, 2009-2012 Honda Fit, 2009-2012 Pilot, 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2012 Honda FCX Clarity and 2006-2011 Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid, Civic NGV vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain 2009 Acura TSX, Honda Fit and Pilot, 2008-2009 Honda Accord, 2006-2009 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV, and 2007-2009 Honda CR-V vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, if not included in "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling certain 2008 Honda Accord, 2006-2008 Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV and 2007-2008 Honda CR-V vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has mailed an interim notification, and will send a second notification when parts are available. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KE1 and KE2.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JY0, JY1, and JY2.
Negative 2012 Honda Insight car reviews
Positive 2012 Honda Insight car reviews
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We're so glad to share that our car gets an impressive 41 MPG in the city and up to 48 on the highway! We've been driving it for about 7 months now and we haven't found the road noise to be excessive. We also have to give a shoutout to our amazing dealer and their local and loyal mechanics - one of whom has been there for over 20 years! The only downside we've noticed is that taller or heavier people may have a bit of trouble riding comfortably.
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I recently traded in my 2004 Pontiac GTO for a more fuel-efficient car, the Insight. While I'm not particularly concerned about being environmentally friendly, I am excited about the amount of money I'm saving on gas. With a 10-gallon tank, I'm now getting over 60 MPG, which is triple what I was getting before. Instead of spending $45 on gas every three days, I now only spend $30 every seven days. Plus, I've started using a solar panel to further increase my MPG. Overall, I'm really happy with my decision to switch to the Insight!
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Hi there! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2011 EX after your experience with the 2010 Insight LX. It sounds like the EX has some great features that you're really enjoying, and that it's driving much better overall. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this - it's always helpful to hear from someone who has firsthand experience with a car!
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This sounds like an amazing car! You've been able to get an average of 43 mpg, which is fantastic. It's great to hear that you've been a loyal Honda customer since 9/1979 and have owned several models, including 3 Civics, 2 Insights, and 1 CRX. Your current Insight seems to be the best one yet, and I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying it so much!
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This is my final review of my 2011 Insight Base. I purchased it used in 2013 for a little over 12k (with 12k mileage) and just traded it in last month. Throughout my ownership, I found it to be an extremely reliable car with great gas mileage. In fact, the MPG exceeded EPA standards, averaging 45mpg with a high of 63 and a low in the high 30s. It's also an easy car for first-time drivers or city dwellers. However, in my opinion, the front seats can be uncomfortable for longer drives and the fabric is easy to stain. Even by economy car standards, it's a bit slow. Some items of note include the fact that maintenance items are easy to change (oil/trans fluid), the brakes were changed at 115K and the front pads still had about 10K life left, the engine is a twin sparkplug design, and the CVT fluid changes every other oil change (approximately every 18K), which is easy to do and good insurance. Lastly, the hybrid battery pack had no appreciable degradation over the life of the car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Honda Insight problems:
2012-Oil Consumption issue, now not driveable | Honda Insight Forum
Jul 8, 2017 ... The increased oil consumption 'issue' is due to oil control rings getting clogged with carbon deposits. The cause is using general gasoline ...
Advice on 2012 Honda Insight : r/UsedCars
Jul 8, 2023 ... Carcomplaints.com and NHTSA are good places to look for common issues with vehicles as they age. Consumer Reports annual auto issue (April) is ...
Common problems with 1st and 2nd Gen Insights. | Honda Insight ...
Oct 7, 2013 ... I'm looking for a high mpg car for commuting 50 miles a day 7 days a week and came across the Insight. I did some basic searching on common ...
Honda Insight Hybrid's Most Common Problems | Bumblebee Batteries
The Honda Insight Hybrid Battery Light Of all the problems reported by Insight drivers, none were more commonly reported than the warning light indicating a ...
Honda Insight Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top Honda Insight Problems · Intergrated Motor Assist Battery Fail. 49 people have reported this · Shudder From CVT Transmission. 26 people have reported this.
Other years of Honda Insight
Are you having problems with your 2012 Honda Insight?
Tracey Cremin 2024-10-23
I've had this car for four months and I'm trading it in next week. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can be a bit annoying as there is a delayed reaction when you step on the gas. Additionally, it revs noisily during the entire acceleration arc and can feel a bit gutless. However, I have found that in the city, it averages about 39 MPG which is great. Although, above 65 miles per hour, the MPG drops to the low 30s. One thing to note is that in Econ mode, the AC stops with the engine at stoplights. Another issue I have encountered is that the rear seatbelts get pinned behind the seats after folding them up. Lastly, the back seat can be a bit cramped which leads to dirty upholstery when kids with dirty feet climb in. The paint job is also quite soft and easily scratched. While the body style may not be to everyone's taste, I do find the grille to be a bit inexplicably gray and would prefer it to match the body. Overall, I have had some issues with this car but it has also had some positives as well.
Bryon Stroman 2024-09-11
We recently purchased a 2012 car with 96,000 miles on it. Although the mileage was a bit high, we were able to get a great deal on it. My husband has been driving an 11-year-old Accord without any issues. However, during our last oil change, our mechanic noticed that the oil level was low and assumed it was due to our negligence for not bringing it in sooner. Unfortunately, the engine died 6 months later and it was beyond repair. The cost to replace the engine was estimated at $10,000 and that still wouldn't have fixed all the problems we had. Our mechanic was surprised to see a Honda with such poor quality, and unfortunately, our experience is not unique. We strongly recommend considering other options, such as a Prius, which we ultimately decided to purchase and have been extremely satisfied with.
Owen Carroll 2024-05-01
I have owned my Insight since March 2011 and have driven 50,000 miles. Throughout the life of the car, I have averaged an impressive 41.3 MPG, which is exactly what I expected. The vehicle has been incredibly reliable, requiring only routine maintenance such as oil changes, air filter replacements, cabin filter replacements, and one CVT trans fluid change as recommended. The only issue I have encountered is that the tires are finally bald and will need to be replaced at 50K miles. However, the numbers speak for themselves. After doing the calculations, it is clear that with its lower price and excellent fuel economy, the Insight is a better investment than the Prius. In fact, it would take 7-8 years of owning a Prius before it would start saving you money over the Insight.
Trevion Ortiz 2024-02-22
I really enjoyed the test drive, although I wish I had spent more time on it. Unfortunately, I realized that the car wasn't the right fit for me as soon as I got on the highway after leaving the dealership. I noticed a few issues right away, such as road noise, a bumpy ride, and poor passing power. After driving it for a few days on my daily commute, I started experiencing some pretty bad headaches. This was the final straw that led me to sell the car. I suspect that the hybrid motor and wires running through the cabin may have had something to do with it. I've decided to hold off on buying another hybrid until more studies are done on this issue. Unfortunately, I did end up losing $7k when I sold it back just two months later.
Salvatore Tremblay 2024-01-28
The car has experienced multiple instances of rodent damage to its hoses, resulting in gas leaks. As a result, I am hesitant to drive it. Additionally, the IMA and tire lights frequently illuminate. Unfortunately, the car's value has significantly decreased, making a trade-in unfeasible. Furthermore, the car lacks Bluetooth and has poor rear visibility. Its only technological features are a single USB hub and a FireWire connection.