Many people choose subcompact cars because they are economical to operate, have plenty of interior space, require little maintenance, and are easy to park. It’s safe to say that the Honda Fit is a top pick among subcompact automobiles.
Since its introduction in 2007, the automotive and consumer press have widely praised the Honda Fit. In 2019, Honda received the “Best Value in America” award from Vincentric in the passenger car category largely due to the Fit.
The model years from 2016-2020 are the best Honda Fit years to buy, with excellent dependability and few reported issues. The worst model years include 2003, 2007-2013, and 2015. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book reviews.
The Honda Fit was on the American market for 14 years. To help you decide, we look at models from multiple years and give you insight into which model year is safe to buy and which should be avoided.
What Are The Worst Years For Honda Fit?
Like every other vehicle on the planet, the Honda Fit had a few subpar production years, which are better to avoid. Some of these years are listed below:
#8 Worst Year: 2015 Honda Fit (3.87 Rating)
Based on customer feedback, this model year is shortlisted as one of the worst models. Electrical issues were the most common complaint about this model. The 2015 Honda Fit had a widespread problem with failed starters. The car’s battery was so dead that it wouldn’t even turn over.
In general, the engine was overly noisy and had a high rate of timing belt breakage. The model’s highly uncomfortable seats were the icing on the cake and ultimately proved its downfall.
Common Problems:
- Extremely uncomfortable seats
- Starter failure
- Paint flaking
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2015 Honda Fit got 4 recalls and 233 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2015 Honda Fit got 4.0/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2015 Honda Fit got 76/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2015 Honda Fit got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.8 expert ratings.
#7 Worst Year: 2012 Honda Fit (3.71 Rating)
According to CarComplaints.com, there have been 163 problems reported with the 2012 Honda Fit. Unintended swerving, extremely uncomfortable headrest, and cracked windshield are the most common issues with this model year.
Other than that, Troubleshooting engine lights and stuttering are frequent complaints by owners of the 2012 Honda Fit. A problem with the engine, transmission, or other vehicle systems could cause the check engine light to illuminate.
Some 2012 Honda Fit owners have reported an issue with the fuel filler door not opening correctly. There are a number of potential causes for this, including a malfunctioning gasoline filler door mechanism, faulty latch, or hinges.
Common Problems:
- Unintended swerving
- Uncomfortable headrest
- Cracked windshield
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2012 Honda Fit got 11 recalls and 109 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2012 Honda Fit got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2012 Honda Fit got 82/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2012 Honda Fit got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 4.0 expert ratings.
#6 Worst Year: 2008 Honda Fit (3.71 Rating)
The 2008 Honda Fit has had 304 complaints on CarComplaints.com. Among the most common issues with this model are a failed clutch, chipped paint, and a slipping transmission.
The 2008 Honda Fit owners claimed that the clutch failed prematurely. One customer went through the trouble of replacing the clutch, which he said still didn’t work after the replacement. Usually, fixing this issue will set you back around $1,590.
The 2008 Honda Fit has been criticized for its peeling and cracking paint. Unfortunately, upon further study, it became clear that this specific model had various problems with the paintwork, the fixing of which would cost around $700.
Common Problems:
- Dangerously clutch went out
- Paint peeling
- Transmission slipping
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2008 Honda Fit got 8 recalls and 213 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2008 Honda Fit got 4.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2008 Honda Fit got 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2008 Honda Fit got 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
#5 Worst Year: 2010 Honda Fit (3.44 Rating)
The 2010 Honda Fit ranks fifth, just one spot above the 2009 model it succeeded. That solved the primary problem with the paint fading but also caused new paint issues. Also, this model experienced issues with the interior.
The poor clear coating issue of the previous model was still present in this version. Instead of fading, though, the paint would flake and chip off readily.
Also, many consumers complained that the vehicle’s seats were either hard or too soft. The car’s reputation suffered as a result of all of these factors.
Common Problems:
- Uncomfortable seats
- Crack windshield
- Defective clear coat
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2010 Honda Fit got 12 recalls and 178 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2010 Honda Fit got 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2010 Honda Fit got 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2010 Honda Fit got 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
#4 Worst Year: 2009 Honda Fit (3.34 Rating)
The Honda Fit, in its version for 2009, is next on the list. Due to the mild nature of the challenges this model faces, it ranks fourth on our list. Concerns with the car’s body and paintwork were this model’s most frequently reported problems. It’s not like the paint will dry out and flake off over time.
But even so, it would rapidly begin to fade. The vehicle’s paint job would lose some of its lustrous over time. This was because the impact wouldn’t hurt quite as much when the vehicle’s protective transparent covering wore away.
The Takata airbag recall also affected the Honda Fit 2009 model year. Dashboard warning lights accompanied numerous reports of power steering failure. Uncomfortable seats are another primary concern for this model.
Common Problems:
- The spark plug blew out the cylinder head
- Clear coat wearing off
- Uncomfortable seats
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2009 Honda Fit got 11 recalls and 282 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2009 Honda Fit got 4.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2009 Honda Fit got 82/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2009 Honda Fit got 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
#3 Worst Year: 2013 Honda Fit (3.26 Rating)
According to CarComplaints.com, there have been 220 problems reported with the 2013 Honda Fit. Rodent damage to the fuel pump, engine light failure, poor air conditioning, and uncomfortable seats are the most common issues with this model year.
One reviewer claimed that oil leaks in their 2013 Honda Fit were caused by rodents chewing on the soy-based coatings on the pump. Nevertheless, there was only one report of this specific complaint, so whether it’s a widespread problem is unknown.
Owners have also reported problems with the 2013 Fit’s air conditioning. The air conditioning is either malfunctioning or not powerful enough. Several users had the problem so bad that they stopped using their Fit during the day and only used it at night.
One reviewer mentioned that their vehicle’s check engine light was constantly on, even after a recent service where the mechanic found nothing wrong with it.
Common Problems:
- Engine light failure
- Rodents damage the fuel pump
- Faulty A/C
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2013 Honda Fit got 11 recalls and 282 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2013 Honda Fit got 4.1/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2013 Honda Fit got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2013 Honda Fit got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 3.6 expert ratings.
#2 Worst Year: 2011 Honda Fit (3.26 Rating)
Second place goes to the 2011 Honda Fit. There were a lot fewer issues with this model than there were with the 2007 version. Still, a sizable number of them made this place viable.
Honda Fit drivers frequently complain of engine stuttering, jerking, and the illumination of the “check engine” warning light. The engine, the transmission, or the emissions system could all be at fault.
One primary concern was that the fans wouldn’t be able to function at anything than maximum speed. Some customers have reported that their air conditioners no longer produce cold air when set to a temperature lower than level four.
Some owners have criticized the 2011 reliability. At 70 mph or more speeds, the wind gets under the car and makes it turn without the person touching the steering wheel. The transmission sounds like it’s going to explode when you hit the gas pedal hard.
Common Problems:
- Stalling issues
- Fans work only on high speed
- Rodents damage wiring
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2011 Honda Fit got 11 recalls and 109 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2011 Honda Fit got 4.2/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2011 Honda Fit got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2011 Honda Fit got 4.6/5.0 consumer and 4.8 expert ratings.
#1 Worst Year: 2007 Honda Fit (3.18 Rating)
The Honda Fit model 2007 is at the top of the list of worst models. This model has more complaints than any other year’s model, making it the clear winner in terms of worst years.
This model had a wide variety of problems. There are 485 complaints about it on CarComplaints.com, with the most common being the power steering failing, the clutch failing, and the uncomfortable seats.
One customer claims that Honda has admitted an issue with the electronic steering module and has extended the warranty by up to ten years. The steering issue is unpredictable and can lead the driver to lose control of the car anytime. The average price tag for a solution to this issue is $790.
Another issue with the 2007 Fit is the possibility of a clutch failing, which is both less common and more serious. Some Fit owners have reported the clutch giving up after only 40,000 or 60,000 kilometers. These factors make it the worst of all Honda Fit model years.
Common Problems:
- Power steering failure
- Clutch failure
- Uncomfortable seats
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2007 Honda Fit got 11 recalls and 363 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2007 Honda Fit got 4.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2007 Honda Fit got 82/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2007 Honda Fit got 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
What Are The Best Years For Honda Fit?
These model years of the Honda Fit are gems as they have few reported issues and are loaded with valuable and unique amenities, making them an excellent investment.
#5 2019 Honda Fit (4.32 Rating)
Number 5 on the list is the 2019 Honda Fit. The 2019 Honda Fit received an excellent reliability rating from Consumer Reports: 5 out of 5 stars. It has a stylish, capacious cabin, responsive handling, excellent fuel economy, and high safety ratings.
The 2019 Fit’s lone update is standard automatic high-beam headlights, which doesn’t diminish the car’s competitive pricing. The 2019 Honda Fit is an excellent option if you need a new car but have a limited budget.
Here are some of the features that made 2019 the best Fit year:
- Engine and Transmission: The 2019 Honda Fit has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and offers a six-speed manual transmission on LX and Sport trims.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2019 Fit achieves an EPA-estimated 33 mpg city and 40 mpg highway with the CVT.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2019 Honda Fit got 3 recalls and 51 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2019 Honda Fit got 4.3/5.0 consumer and 8.2/10 expert reviews.
- Jd Power: 2019 Honda Fit got 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2019 Honda Fit got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.6 expert ratings.
#4 2018 Honda Fit (4.37 Rating)
The 2018 Honda Fit is the third generation of the vehicle, and it has a stellar reputation for dependability, with few reported problems.
Despite being one year older, the 2018 model is superior to the 2019 model in terms of recalls and complaints, so I have ranked the 2018 model higher.
The 2018 Honda Fit, available in four distinct grades, features numerous subtle aesthetic improvements, including new bumpers and sports versions.
Most of the previous Honda Fit models would share the same 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine good for 130 horsepower, but the 2018 model year marked a significant step forward in handling.
Here are some of the features that made 2018 the best Fit year:
- Engine and Transmission: The 2018 Honda Fit has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2018 Fit achieves an EPA-estimated 36 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with the CVT.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2018 Honda Fit got 1 recall and 42 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2018 Honda Fit got 4.0/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2018 Honda Fit got 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2018 Honda Fit got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.6 expert ratings.
#3 2016 Honda Fit (4.38 Rating)
The 2016 Fit is praised as one of the best models ever made due to its unparalleled adaptability, novel back seat design and practicality, and exceptional fuel economy, despite having a touchscreen that is a little difficult to use which is why it is ranking at third position.
It would be unfair if we forgot to praise the entertaining four-cylinder engine, fun manual gearbox, and excellent gas mileage of the 2016 Fit. This model should give a try if you want something good in a better price range.
According to EPA fuel economy ratings, the manual gearbox version is estimated to achieve an excellent 32 mpg combined, 29 mpg in the city, and 37 mpg on the highway. Active head restraints, front-side airbags, side curtain airbags, and electronic stability control are some of the standard safety features.
Here are some of the features that made 2016 the best Fit year:
- Engine and Transmission: The 2016 Honda Fit has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2016 Fit achieves an EPA-estimated 33 mpg city and 41 mpg highway with the CVT.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2016 Honda Fit got 1 recall and 91 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2016 Honda Fit got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2016 Honda Fit got 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2016 Honda Fit got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.7 expert ratings.
#2 2017 Honda Fit (4.51 Rating)
The 2017 Honda Fit came in second place because it has a lot of space for cargo, a smooth ride, quick acceleration, and virtually no issues. It’s essentially the same as the 2016 model year but fixes many of the issues plaguing that year’s model.
The 2017 Honda Fit is a 5-seat hatchback offered in three different trim levels, each with its own standard amenities and gearbox (manual or automatic) options.
The innovative folding seat, Bluetooth audio streaming, and rearview camera are all included in this package. The car’s designers prioritized passenger comforts without sacrificing speed, making it a good option for families.
Here are some of the features that made 2017 the best Fit year:
- Engine and Transmission: The 2017 Honda Fit has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2017 Fit achieves an EPA-estimated 33 mpg city and 40 mpg highway with the CVT.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2017 Honda Fit got 0 recalls and 24 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2017 Honda Fit got 4.0/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2017 Honda Fit got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2017 Honda Fit got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.7 expert ratings.
#1 2020 Honda Fit (4.59 Rating)
Being the latest and with minimal reported complaints in this segment, the 2020 Fit is a cut above the competition, stating a clear winner. Not only is it the latest, but it is also the most refined and reliable.
The single-engine option is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. The four available trim levels are the LX, Sport, EX, and EX-L. Most advanced features are reserved for higher trim levels.
The 2020 Honda Fit boasts several desirable qualities, such as a big cabin, flexible rear seating, and advanced safety and entertainment technology as standard equipment. The 2020 Honda Fit is far and away the best option in the segment if you’re seeking a superb balance of quality and comfort.
Here are some of the features that made 2020 the best Fit year:
- Engine and Transmission: The 2019 Honda Fit has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission on the LX and Sport trims.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2020 Fit achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway with the CVT.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2020 Honda Fit got 1 recall and 9 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2020 Honda Fit got 4.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2020 Honda Fit got 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2020 Honda Fit got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.6 expert ratings.
FAQ
1. What Is The Reason For Honda Discontinuing The Fit?
The Honda Fit was first introduced in 2007, and since then, it has quickly become a fan favorite. But as time has passed, so has the demand for Honda Fit in the United States.
Although a refreshed Fit is now on sale in some international markets, the Honda Fit will be absent from the U.S. vehicle market after 2020 due to fewer sales in the US.
2. What Are The Most Common Problems Of Honda Fit?
- Uncomfortable seats
- Faulty A/C
- Power steering issues
- The spark plug blew out the cylinder head
- Paint peeling
- Clear coat wearing off
- Windshield crack
- Clutch failure
- Transmission slipping
3. How Long Does Honda Fit Last?
Honda Fits may easily reach 300,000 miles in mileage with routine service. This is roughly the equivalent of 13–20 years of use. The car has a reputation for being economical on petrol, and its longevity and low maintenance costs can increase its resale value significantly.
4. Which Is Better: Toyota Corolla Vs. Honda Fit?
While comparing, Honda’s Fit is a subcompact car, and Toyota’s Corolla is a compact car. Therefore, the Fit is considerably smaller than the Corolla.
The engine of the Toyota Corolla is significantly more potent than the one in the Fits. However, the Corolla seats are significantly more inviting than those in the Fit. That said, the answer is conditional on the type of car you need.
5. What Is Replacing Honda Fit?
The Honda HR-V is a compact sport utility vehicle which is the reason for replacing the Honda Fit. The market has evolved to this point that subcompact vehicles like the Fit are being phased out in favor of more spacious crossovers.
Conclusion
All things considered, the Honda Fit is a fantastic vehicle that shines in terms of comfort, convenience, and load capacity while delivering a respectable level of performance and power without skimping on any of these features.
In the Honda Fit lineup, the 2020 model year is generally agreed upon as the best year, while the 2007 model year was the most problematic of the lineup and should be avoided at all costs.
In the event that you decide to purchase a Honda Fit, this guide will help you avoid purchasing one from the list of the worst model years.
