Honda Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Honda cars?

Our database covers 13 Honda models and 159 documented faults across the range. Of these, 22 are classified as dangerous and a further 72 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Honda models fail at an average rate of 21.3%, roughly in line with the 22.7% average across all manufacturers we track. Reliability varies considerably between models. The CR Z is the strongest performer at just 15.3%, while the Stream has the highest failure rate at 27%.

If you are considering a used Honda, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are body & rust and engine, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Honda reliability summary

Where Honda problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Honda's 159 known issues break down by area.

Body & Rust problems dominate, accounting for 28 of the 159 faults we track (18%). Issues in this area include Subframe corrosion (CL/CM) and Structural corrosion and load-bearing member failure (EK9). The most affected models are the Civic (12), the CR Z (2), the FR V (2).

Engine is the next most common area, with 25 documented faults (16%). Common faults here include Emissions system failure (CL/CM) and Generally reliable (CL/CM). The most affected models are the Civic (15), the Jazz (3), the Accord (2).

We also track 23 suspension faults across the range (14%). Problems to watch for include Suspension component corrosion (CL/CM) and Axle fracture (FB/FN). The most affected models are the Civic (7), the CR V (2), the Jazz (2).

Transmission rounds out the top problem areas with 23 known issues (14%). Notable issues include Dual mass flywheel failure (CL/CM) and 3rd and 4th gear synchro wear. The most affected models are the Civic (15), the S2000 (3), the CR V (2).

Known Honda faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Honda range

The most common and severe problems found across all Honda models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Honda model

We track faults across 13 Honda models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Honda

Every used Honda deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since body & rust faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 22 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Structural corrosion and load-bearing member failure (EK9), Driver seat frame weld recall (FL5), Structural member fracture (FN hybrid). Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Honda has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 21.3% average failure rate across the Honda range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Honda repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Honda repair costs between £366 and £828 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £5,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Honda repair in our database is Structural chassis member fracture/deformation (FK8), which can cost £3,000–£10,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.