Not every Honda delivers an exhilarating driving experience, but they are vehicles renowned for their durability and dependability over many years, typically experiencing very few issues.
This is supported by Honda’s consistent ranking in the upper half of the annual table for the most reliable car brands, with the company placing in the top 10 for the past two years. It’s not just the newest Honda vehicles that perform well in terms of reliability.
In the most recent survey, Honda achieved an overall score of 96.6%, placing it in fourth position. This marks a slight improvement from the previous year, when the brand ranked sixth with a score of 95.9%.
Honda vehicles had a relatively low fault rate of 15%, with the most common issues cited by owners involving the 12-volt battery and non-engine electrical systems.
Impressively, Honda covered the repair costs in 85% of cases, and 60% of affected vehicles were repaired and back on the road within a day.
Honda Cars That Rarely Break
This article focuses on reliability data for Honda vehicles that are up to five years old. For models available in multiple body styles such as hatchback or estate all variations are included in the analysis.
1. Honda Civic (2022–present)
The Honda Civic is now in its 11th generation and has been on sale in the UK since 1972. The latest model is only available in a single hatchback body style and comes with one engine option, but it remains a strong choice for buyers.
It features a 2.0-litre petrol engine equipped with mild hybrid technology, which helps improve both fuel economy and performance.
The interior provides enough space to comfortably accommodate a family of four along with their luggage, making it a practical and appealing option.
When it comes to reliability, the Civic scores highly. Only 8% of the cars reported in the survey experienced issues, with the most common problem related to the steering.
However, all repairs were carried out free of charge by Honda and its dealers. While this shows the brand’s commitment to customer service, some owners were disappointed that a large number of affected vehicles were off the road for more than a week.
In contrast, 36% were repaired and returned to their owners in less than a day, showing a mixed picture in terms of repair turnaround time.
Despite overhauling nearly every other aspect of the new Civic, Honda has chosen to retain the same powertrain options found in the previous generation.
Entry-level trims are still equipped with a 158-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the optional upgrade continues to be a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder, now producing 180 horsepower. The latest Civic is available exclusively as a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
Unfortunately, the manual transmission that was offered on the previous-generation Civic sedan has been dropped for 2022, leaving only a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) as the available option; however, a six-speed manual remains on offer for the hatchback variant.
At our test track, the turbocharged Touring sedan took 7.5 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, which is a bit slower than the last generation’s performance. In contrast, the manual Sport Touring hatchback we tested posted a slightly quicker 0–60 mph time of 7.3 seconds.
Fortunately, the lively handling, responsive steering, and well-tuned ride that we admired in the last generation are still present. Sporty Si and high-performance Type-R versions are currently in development, and both will feature a manual transmission; we cover those models in separate reviews.
Per the EPA, the most fuel-efficient trim of the new Civic is the mid-level EX, which achieves fuel economy ratings of 33 mpg in the city, 42 mpg on the highway, and 36 mpg combined. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy loop, the 2022 Civic Sport hatchback managed 36 mpg.
The 2022 Civic debuts with a more refined interior layout, featuring sleek lines and a dashboard that incorporates a full-width honeycomb-pattern mesh element designed to discreetly conceal the air vents.
The wider center console appears more organized than the outgoing model’s and includes what seems to be a large, deep storage area in front of the gear shifter, ideal for holding smartphones, keys, or road-trip snacks.
According to Honda, passenger space remains largely unchanged. A hatchback model is also available, offering increased cargo capacity.
2. Honda Jazz (2020–present)
The Honda Jazz is more than just an economical and well-constructed small hatchback it’s also remarkably practical, managing to carry luggage as effectively as much larger vehicles.
This impressive versatility comes from its innovative ‘magic’ rear seats, which can be tilted and folded up against the back of the front seats to create a substantial and flexible load space.
With a fault rate of only 12%, the Jazz stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking worry-free driving.
According to owners, the most frequent issues involved the bodywork (5%) and the 12-volt battery (4%), followed by non-engine electrical components and the sat-nav/infotainment system, each at 2%.
Importantly, Honda resolved every reported fault at no cost to the owners. More than half of the cars (55%) were repaired and back on the road within a day, though nearly a quarter (23%) required more than a week in the workshop, which may have caused inconvenience for some drivers.
Honda continues its efforts to dominate the small segment with a compact MPV, even as most competitors focus on hatchbacks. Enter the new Jazz (also known as the Fit), a small MPV that has been part of Honda’s lineup since 2000 and is now entering its fourth generation. Previous iterations of the model were positioned primarily as urban vehicles.
With this latest generation, Honda has introduced a crossover-style version named the Jazz Crosstar. It sports plastic overfenders and SUV-inspired styling cues, although fundamentally, it remains a Jazz underneath. It’s worth noting that the crossover Honda HR-V also shares the Jazz/Fit platform.
Where the previous generation offered a hybrid as an option, the 2020 Jazz is exclusively hybrid-powered. A 98-hp gasoline engine is paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 109 hp. Honda has not released performance specifications yet, but updates will be provided as they become available.
Inside, the MPV form factor continues to deliver excellent interior space. Honda has retained its clever Magic Seats system for the rear, along with a foldable rear seatback. This configuration means the fuel tank remains positioned beneath the driver’s seat, contributing to a higher driving stance.
The dashboard design reflects today’s demand for connectivity and digital interfaces, featuring a large TFT instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The 2020 Jazz supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
3. Honda CR-V (2018–2023)
The previous-generation Honda CR-V may not be as refined or offer as much interior space as the latest model, but it remains a highly practical and well-equipped large SUV.
Buyers had the option of a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine producing either 171bhp or 190bhp when paired with a CVT automatic gearbox.
Alternatively, there was a hybrid version that combined a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 181bhp. Thanks to the extensive use of hybrid technology, all versions deliver impressive fuel economy for a vehicle of this size.
Just 11% of CR-Vs included in the survey experienced any issues, with the most common faults related to non-engine electrical systems (6%) and the 12-volt battery (2%).
In the majority of cases (90%), repairs were carried out at no cost to the owner, but a small number (10%) faced bills exceeding £1500.
Repair times varied as well while 40% of vehicles were back on the road within a day, 20% of owners had to wait more than a week for their cars to be fixed.
4. Honda HR-V (2015–2022)
Reliability rating: 97.1%
The Honda HR-V stands out as a solid used car choice thanks to its versatile seating and stylish interior. However, it does come with some drawbacks namely, a higher purchase price than many of its rivals and a generally noisy driving experience.
Engine options were limited to a turbocharged 1.6-litre diesel and a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol, available with either 128bhp or 180bhp. Both powertrains are on the noisier side, and the HR-V’s suspension delivers a rather firm ride.
Still, the HR-V proves to be a reliable vehicle. Just 12% of owners in the survey reported any problems, with the most common faults involving the air conditioning (6%), the 12-volt battery (3%), and the exhaust system (3%).
While half of the repairs were carried out at no cost to the owner, 25% of fixes fell into the £51–£100 range, and another 25% cost between £301 and £500. On a positive note, all repairs were completed within a day, meaning downtime was minimal for every affected vehicle.
The 2025 Honda HR-V offers a mix of strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, it provides roomy seating, easy entry and exit, and a larger cargo area than most other extra-small SUVs.
However, it is held back by slow acceleration and uncomfortable front seats. For the 2025 model year, the HR-V returns without any changes. It remains part of the second generation, which was first introduced in 2023.
As Honda’s smallest and most affordable SUV, the HR-V sits below the CR-V, Passport, and Pilot in the lineup. Its starting price is attractive, especially considering the interior space and cargo capacity it offers for its size. T
he infotainment system is user-friendly, though the standard 7-inch touchscreen may feel small for some users. While the HR-V delivers a lot of value, it doesn’t quite measure up to class leaders when it comes to acceleration, fuel efficiency, and front seat comfort.
Cost estimates for operating the 2025 Honda HR-V LX 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl CVT) are based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55% city and 45% highway split.
These figures also use a fuel cost estimate of $3.13 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota. Based on this data, the monthly fuel cost for the HR-V LX is approximately $136, compared to an average of $161 for other compact SUVs.
Every 2025 HR-V comes standard with Honda’s Sensing suite of advanced safety features, which includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a lane centering system. These features aren’t commonly standard among competitors, making the HR-V’s base price even more compelling.
Additionally, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is available on all trims except the base model. For more information about how these features work, refer to the “Honda HR-V models” section below.
While the HR-V is a solid option in the extra-small SUV category, shoppers should also look into some of its top rivals before committing. The Volkswagen Taos and Chevrolet Trailblazer are two of the best-performing models in this segment.
The Mazda CX-30 is another strong contender, and the recently redesigned Subaru Crosstrek is also worth considering for its overall package and capability.
5. Honda HR-V (2021–present)
Reliability rating: 95.9%
The third-generation Honda HR-V is a stylish, hybrid-only compact SUV that offers good fuel economy, a strong level of standard equipment, and innovative folding seats.
Despite these strengths, it faces tough competition in its class from rivals that offer better driving dynamics, increased practicality, and comparable pricing.
In terms of reliability, the current HR-V ranks slightly lower than the previous generation. This drop is largely due to the length of time required to resolve issues, with a quarter of reported faults leaving the cars undriveable.
The most common problems related to the 12-volt battery (8%), the sat-nav/infotainment system (6%), interior trim (3%), and non-engine electrical components (3%).
On the positive side, Honda covered 100% of the repair costs, and 50% of vehicles were fixed within a day. However, 25% of affected vehicles were off the road for more than a week. With an overall fault rate of 18%, the majority of HR-Vs remained trouble-free.
Honda Models You Should Steer Clear Of At All Costs
Honda is widely known for producing some of the safest and most dependable vehicles on the market. Many owners speak highly of their Hondas, often citing years of trouble-free ownership.
Overall, the brand continues to uphold its strong reputation for reliability. However, it’s important to note that not every Honda lives up to this reputation without exception.
Certain model years have proven particularly problematic, with hundreds of owners reporting issues and multiple recalls affecting various models.
These less reliable vehicles span some of Honda’s most popular nameplates and range in age from nearly classic models to those that are just a few years old.
To help identify these outliers, we gathered safety data from the NHTSA, including recall records, open investigations, and consumer complaints.
Using this information, they compiled a list of Honda model years to avoid if you’re in the market for a used car.
Each of these vehicles demonstrated significantly lower reliability compared to Honda’s usual standards, prompting the automaker to make improvements in later generations.
1. 2023 Honda HR-V
The 2023 model year introduced a new generation of Honda’s Civic-based HR-V crossover, featuring updated styling, modern technology, and refinements to both the powertrain and suspension.
Reviewers praised the vehicle for its appealing features and competitive pricing. However, in the time since its release, a peculiar issue has emerged that has concerned many owners.
Hundreds of drivers have filed complaints with the NHTSA, reporting that the rear window of their HR-V suddenly shattered without warning.
Honda has acknowledged the problem, attributing it to a manufacturing defect. According to the automaker, the issue stems from the rear defroster being installed in a way that caused it to overheat the glass.
This excessive heat eventually weakened the rear pane, leading it to shatter. Owners with affected vehicles are encouraged to reach out to Honda to arrange for repairs.
In addition to this issue, the 2023 HR-V is currently subject to three active recalls: one for a faulty fuel pump, another for an improperly installed seat belt pretensioner, and a third concerning a defective steering gearbox.
While the 2024 model HR-V is also affected by the latter two recalls, it has received significantly fewer consumer complaints and has not been linked to the rear window shattering problem.
Those familiar with the Honda lineup will notice that the Fit is no longer part of the brand’s offerings. As a result, the latest HR-V is no longer built on the Fit platform. Instead, it now shares its underpinnings with the larger Civic.
This change brings several benefits, most notably a more spacious interior, especially in the rear seat area, making it noticeably roomier than the previous generation. However, not all changes are for the better. One major loss is the removal of the unique storage feature that set the previous HR-V apart from competitors.
The beloved Magic Seat system, which allowed the rear seat bottoms to flip up so that taller items could be stored directly on the floor, is no longer available in this version. It’s a disappointing omission because that feature gave the HR-V a practical edge in its class.
With the new generation of HR-V also comes a new wave of technology, and much of it mirrors what’s found in the current Civic.
The central touchscreen display starts at 7 inches as standard, while the higher-trim EX-L version comes equipped with a 9-inch screen. Both sizes support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but wireless functionality is limited to the EX-L.
One key difference from the Civic, however, is the absence of a built-in navigation system in the HR-V. That could be a drawback for drivers who often travel to remote areas with limited or no cell reception, as they won’t have onboard maps to rely on.
The powertrain in the 2023 HR-V is arguably the least updated aspect of the vehicle. It comes equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque.
These output figures represent a modest increase—up 17 horsepower and 11 lb-ft—from the engine in the previous HR-V. However, considering the new HR-V’s larger dimensions, many had hoped for a bit more performance to match the extra size and weight.
Honda continues to market the HR-V as a gateway SUV for first-time or budget-conscious shoppers, and it’s aimed at competing with vehicles such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Mazda CX-30, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Volkswagen Taos. Overall, we think the HR-V will appeal to buyers looking for a practical and well-rounded compact SUV.
Stll, it’s worth noting that many of its competitors offer similar utility—and in some cases, with a bit more flair or personality. To see where the new HR-V stands in its segment, take a look at our test team’s Expert Rating below for a deeper dive into its strengths and weaknesses.
2. 2018 Honda Accord
Honda launched the 10th-generation Accord for the 2018 model year, bringing fresh styling, updated technology, and a new lineup of powertrains.
However, the newly redesigned model experienced some early reliability issues, as reflected in NHTSA data showing five recalls and over 1,400 owner complaints.
The latest recall, dated December 18, 2023, involves a defective fuel pump that could fail while driving. Notably, this isn’t the first fuel pump-related recall for the 2018 Accord the same issue prompted a recall back on May 28, 2020.
Braking problems were among the most commonly reported complaints from owners. These included premature wear and ongoing issues with the vehicle’s brake warning lights triggering without cause.
Engine concerns also surfaced, particularly cases of head gasket failure. Additionally, more than 100 drivers reported fuel pump malfunctions that support the concerns addressed in the recalls.
Perhaps the most alarming issue is with the forward collision avoidance system. Numerous owners have claimed their vehicles suddenly braked for no apparent reason, causing abrupt deceleration that posed a risk of being rear-ended by other vehicles.
The NHTSA has received dozens of injury reports allegedly tied to this problem and is currently conducting an investigation into the matter.
3. 2008 Honda CR-V
The third-generation Honda CR-V enjoyed strong commercial success by delivering the practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability that buyers expected from the brand.
Its elevated driving position, combined with passenger-car comfort, helped boost the popularity of crossover SUVs and bolstered Honda’s market share. Despite this, the 2008 CR-V has been troubled by numerous issues in recent years, resulting in a tarnished reputation.
The NHTSA has issued 11 recalls for the 2008 CR-V, with nine related to airbag systems. These span from February 2016 to June 2019 and are mostly linked to the notorious Takata airbag defect, which affected many Honda models as well as vehicles from other manufacturers.
Beyond the widespread airbag recall, the 2008 CR-V has two model-specific concerns that make it worth avoiding.
One of the main issues is corrosion, which prompted a 2023 recall and has been widely reported by owners particularly affecting the rear subframe.
Another frequent complaint involves the automatic locking system, with many owners claiming that their doors randomly lock or unlock, sometimes even while the vehicle is in motion.
4. 2016 Honda Pilot
The 2016 Honda Pilot marked a major redesign, introducing sleeker styling, a more modern interior, and updated powertrains. However, these updates also brought along a few build quality issues that impacted the vehicle’s reliability.
According to the NHTSA, this model year has been recalled seven times, covering a wide range of problems.
One 2021 recall involves a faulty hood latch striker that could cause the hood to fly open while driving, while another issued in 2023 relates to a connecting rod bearing defect in the engine.
While not every 2016 Pilot falls under the 2023 recall, some owners reported similar engine failures in vehicles not officially affected. This model year has amassed more than 1,300 complaints, with approximately half concerning electrical issues.
Additional recurring problems include faulty fuel pumps and frequent emission system warnings, often accompanied by reduced engine performance.
Our Pilot experienced no significant mechanical failures, apart from the well-known replacement of the nine-speed transmission at 21,428 miles. To clarify, this ZF-supplied transmission—offered as an upgrade over the standard six-speed automatic—was replaced under warranty as a precaution.
We had begun noticing distinct clicking and whirring noises during upshifts, which prompted the decision to have it swapped out.
Following the replacement, the new unit performed reliably for another 20,000-plus miles. Still, our impressions of the transmission remain mixed.
While it delivers a smooth experience during highway cruising, the nine-speed struggles to provide consistent refinement in stop-and-go urban traffic. In situations where the throttle demands frequent adjustments, the gearbox becomes problematic, exhibiting hesitation and abruptness during both upshifts and downshifts.
Additionally, several staff members reported hearing a faint but very high-pitched whine—seemingly originating from the transmission—when applying the throttle. However, no one could determine its exact cause. Was it affected by ambient temperature, engine load, or the incline of the road? We’re still uncertain.
Routine service expenses for our Pilot totaled $378.62, which aligns with what we spent on the previous three-row SUV in our fleet, a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL AWD. That vehicle accumulated 26,871 miles, and we paid $341.96 for similar upkeep, though it required one fewer oil change than the Pilot.
These numbers are consistent with the maintenance history of our 2015 Honda CR-V AWD, the Pilot’s smaller sibling. That vehicle received three oil changes, one tire rotation, and rear differential service for a total of $349.50.
5. 2001 Honda Civic
The Civic remains Honda’s top-selling model, with over 30 million units sold since its 1973 debut. Its appeal has long been rooted in its affordability and dependability.
However, not all model years are created equal, and the 2001 Civic has proven to be one of the more problematic. With more than 1,100 complaints filed with the NHTSA, this model year has drawn substantial criticism, particularly for its airbags.
Like many other Honda models, it was part of the massive Takata airbag recall that led to the manufacturer’s eventual bankruptcy.
In addition to airbag concerns, the 2001 Civic has a notable number of transmission-related complaints. Many drivers have reported sudden transmission failure, sometimes while traveling at high speeds, and often with little to no warning.
Despite the frequency and severity of these incidents, Honda has not issued a transmission-related recall, and the NHTSA is not currently investigating the issue.
Following extensive research into what Civic owners want, Honda has increased the interior space of the vehicle. The Civic now firmly sits within the EPA’s compact category rather than teetering on the subcompact borderline.
It gains 2.6 additional cubic feet of interior volume and nearly two more inches of rear legroom. Honda has also improved both efficiency and performance: all models are now certified as Ultra Low-Emission Vehicles, and the new engine has been expanded from 1.6 to 1.7 liters.
This was achieved by increasing the stroke by 4.4mm. Despite the increase in displacement, the engine is lighter and more compact.
For DX and LX trims, horsepower increases from 106 to 115, and torque rises from 103 pound-feet at 4600 rpm to 110 pound-feet at 4500 rpm.
The EX models, such as the coupe featured here, use Honda’s VTEC-E engine. Although horsepower remains the same at 127 hp at 6300 rpm, torque improves from 107 pound-feet at 5500 rpm to 114 pound-feet at a more usable 4800 rpm.
Among the range of updates made to the Civic lineup, the most unexpected is Honda’s switch to a strut-type front suspension.
Engineers claim this change allowed them to shorten the car’s nose by raising the steering gearbox and improve crash energy absorption—both reasonable justifications. Still, the shift away from Honda’s renowned double-control-arm setup is somewhat disappointing given its elegance and precision.
The 2001 Civic retains the trailing-arm, multilink rear suspension in principle, but the trailing arms have been shortened, and the forward-mounted locating links have been removed to allow a flatter, tunnel-free floor.
A distinctly styled Civic coupe debuts for the 2001 model year alongside the sedan, sharing the same front clip, powertrain, and suspension.
The coupe introduces unique design elements such as a different windshield, doors, and fastback rear, although its wheelbase and track are identical to the sedan’s—indicating a shared floor pan. The coupe’s total length is 0.1 inch longer than that of the sedan.
Despite having a roofline that sits 1.6 inches lower than the sedan’s (while the previous coupe was only 0.6 inch lower), the interior of the new two-door still offers marginally more space than the outgoing version.
However, our EX test model had slightly less headroom than last year’s due to a raised seat hip point—implemented to improve entry and exit—and not because of the sunroof, which is standard on EX trims.
Still, Honda claims the car satisfies the expectations of a hypothetical buyer named Jennifer, as described by their marketing department. That should mean there’s enough space inside—unless, of course, Jennifer happens to be unusually tall.
Coupes aren’t typically about maximizing interior room, and in that context, the decision to create more distinct Civic variants should prove worthwhile.
With its extended door and lowered roofline, the fastback coupe also features a more steeply angled A-pillar, a wedge-like window profile, and a shorter roof overall. Visually, it stands apart with a single crossbar grille and a body-colored top grille garnish, in contrast to the sedan’s chrome trim.
At the back, the coupe differentiates itself further with a lower-mounted taillight setup and sharper cut-lines. Inside, it shares the same redesigned, expansive instrument panel and cleaner center-console layout as other models in the range.
The interior materials are well-executed, featuring contrasting surface textures and titanium-colored trim accents that help elevate the feel beyond what its budget price might suggest.