When people say wistfully that companies don’t make things like they used to, they might as well be talking about Honda. Hondas are legendary for their reliability, dependability, and durability. But that doesn’t mean some issues haven’t reared their ugly heads over the years.
While Honda is still more reliable than most automakers, it’s set a high enough standard that any missteps stick out like sore thumbs.
Honda’s Still #1 on Some Lists
RepairPal.com’s Honda Reliability Rating is 4.0/5.0 in 2024. That puts the Japanese automaker at the top of a list of 32 car brands. “The average annual repair cost for a Honda is $428, which means it has above-average ownership costs,” says RepairPal.com. “The other factors contributing to Honda reliability include an average of 0.3 visits to a repair shop per year and a 10% probability of a repair being severe.”
Honda’s average annual repair cost of $428 is lower than the average across all models, which is $652. Those costs include scheduled and unscheduled repairs.
Less Likely to Suffer Severe Problems
The RepairPal.com study also shows that an average of 10% of repairs across all Honda models are deemed to be severe, compared to 12% across all models. The report says top Honda models include the HR-V, Fit, Civic, Accord, CR-V, CR-Z, Element, and Crosstour.
So, What’s Not to Like?
Considering the above, you might wonder what’s not to like about Honda. There’s no denying the company is among the best automakers for reliability. But, as has been stated, Honda has set the bar high. So, even the tiniest slip-up is noticed—heavy is the crown!
While we don’t recommend anyone give Honda a wide berth, here are 13 reasons Honda’s reliability isn’t what it used to be.
Transmission Problems
One way Honda’s reliability isn’t what it used to be is the transmission problems in more recent models. If you scan the news, you’ll see that specific models, such as the Honda Civic and Honda Odyssey, have experienced transmission malfunctions that were less common in earlier model years.
Repairing and replacing a transmission can cost an arm and a leg. So, you’ll want to do your homework when researching which Hondas to buy and which to avoid.
Turbo Engine Oil Dilution
Oil dilution issues occur across various car brands. So, it’s not a Honda thing. While it’s been an issue for some Honda vehicles in the past, the problems are more prevalent with newer models. “Oil dilution is an issue for all engines, but the issue with this newer Honda engine is that it’s happening at a higher rate than what is allowed,” says Shadetree Automotive. It adds Honda’s 1.5-liter turbo engine is especially troubling.
Inconsistent Quality Control
While Honda built its reputation on high-quality standards, the perception is that quality has dipped over the years. An 11th Gen Civic Forum post reads: “I think quality control has suffered. Honda has been forced to get costs down to compete with cheaper competition, and the competition has been working to get reliability up…”
Another person on an online forum says the reliability decline is “mainly due to less investing in research and development.” The poster says Honda “shifted their focus from reliability to appeal and marketing.”
Electrical System Glitches
Another sign that Honda’s aren’t built the way they used to be is their electrical system. Some recent models experience more electrical issues with their power windows, infotainment systems, and lighting than earlier models. With the increasing complexity of modern cars, perhaps a rise in electrical problems shouldn’t be a big surprise.
Over-Reliance on CVT Transmissions
Honda now uses CTV transmissions extensively throughout its lineup. CTVs offer better fuel efficiency but also increase risks that can cost owners money. You may have heard about problematic CTV transmissions offered by other automakers. Well, add Honda to the list. Its CTVs are more problematic than older automatic transmissions.
Paint Quality Decline
Don’t get Honda owners started about paint quality. Some say the quality of paint has declined over the years. “Honda transitioned from oil-based to water-based paint,” says a poster on another online forum. “Hence, it’s more likely to scratch and take damage than in prior paint types.”
Excessive Road Noise
Some believe that Honda vehicles have become noisier over the years. “My 2022 Civic is much louder than my 2017 10th gen. Is anyone else also having loud road noise?” asks an online poster. Another user adds, “My 2022 Civic Touring is much louder than my 2020 Insight. Was especially loud when I increased the air pressure up 3 lbs hoping to improve my gas mileage.”
Premature Rusting
Any vehicle can rust if not rustproofed regularly. But how many carmakers have issued recall notices for rust-related issues? Well, Honda is on the list. Last year, the company recalled 564,000 vehicles due to rusting frames.
Engine Vibrations
Engine vibrations aren’t just annoying; they can also be symptoms of worn motor mounts, spark plugs, or hoses. Some newer Honda models have increased instances of engine vibration, which can negatively impact engine longevity.
Delayed Parts Availability
Another complaint by some Honda owners is that they must wait longer than they used to for parts. It’s frustrating to leave your vehicle at the shop for weeks or months while waiting for parts to arrive, and unfortunately, some Honda owners say it’s happening more often these days.
Excessive Tire Wear
While you can usually safeguard against premature tire wear and tear by inflating them properly, maintaining the suspension, and rotating the tires when getting oil changes, owners of newer Hondas have expressed dissatisfaction with uneven or excessive tire wear.
A/C System Failure
Honda has had its fair share of AC-related recalls, and it’s nothing new. However, instances of AC failure tend to be higher with more recent models.
Malfunctioning Fuel Pumps
It’s an understatement to say Honda owners don’t appreciate fuel pump problems. No one enjoys such nasty surprises. In 2021, the company recalled more than 600,000 vehicles from the 2019 and 2020 model years due to a fuel pump problem that resulted in engine power failure. Furthermore, Honda recalled 2.5 million vehicles in 2023 because of faulty fuel pumps.
Honda’s Quality Isn’t What It Used to Be
While Honda’s quality is still better than that of many of its competitors, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t slip up sometimes. It’s buyer beware at all times—exercise due diligence when buying a vehicle from any carmaker.
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