Owners have filed 130 complaints
about the 2012 Honda FIT with NHTSA between 2012 and 2026.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 10 of 13 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 31
Against the median year of the Honda FIT. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 52
10% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 71
42% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
55.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1214.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1416.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1517.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2023.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1315.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
44.7%
150,000+ miles
33.5%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jan 2012peak 13Mar 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2012 Honda FIT
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA19001Opened 19 Apr 2019Closed 19 Sep 2024AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
Electrical overstress
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect. During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air bags and other restraint system devices in severe crash events. The subject vehicles may be equipped with an airbag control unit (ACU) for the supplemental restraint system (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manufactured by ZF-TRW. The ECU receives signals from crash sensors mount...
Recalls on the 2012 Honda FIT
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
20V770000
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Acura ILX, 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid, and 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles with a manual transmission and 2009-2013 Honda Fit vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The drive shafts' protective coating may not have been applied properly during manufacturing, making it more susceptible to damage from road salt, or other contaminants, and potentially cause it to break.
Risk: A broken drive shaft may cause a sudden loss of drive power. The vehicle could also roll away if the parking brake has not been applied before the vehicle has been exited. Either condition can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
19V500000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013 Acura ILX, 2015 RDX, 2005-2010 and 2012 RL, 2009-2014 TL, 2010 and 2012 ZDX, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2011-2013 and 2015 CR-Z, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013 Fit EV, 2010-2011 and 2013 Insight and 2007-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver 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.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V502000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V378000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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.
Risk: 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.
18V661000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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 Hampshir
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
18V268000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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.
Risk: An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
18V042000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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 ev
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V545000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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.
Risk: 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.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202061075,460 units in Canada
Powertrain
Issue: On certain vehicles, the paint on the front axle shafts could delaminate or become damaged by road debris. As a result the axle shaft could corrode. If this happens, the axle shafts could break and cause a loss of power to the wheels. Also, if this happens and the vehicle is parked without the parking brake applied, the vehicle could roll away. Safety Risk: A loss of power to the wheels or a vehicle rollaway could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Honda will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to inspect, and if necessary, replace both axle shafts.
Recall 20194205,327 units in Canada
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.
Recall 2018523263,289 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator.
Recall 2016046269,201 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the driver frontal airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will inspect/replace the driver's frontal airbag inflator. Note: Honda Canada has created a special Airbag Inflator Hotline for immediate assistance. For more information, please contact: For Honda Owners: 1-877-445-7754 For Acura Owners: 1-877-445-9844
Recall 20132398,871 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system may not function as intended. In some instances, this could allow the tires to lose traction and the vehicle to skid without intervention by the VSA system. If the vehicle strikes a curb or slides off the roadway, it could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the Vehicle Stability Assist software.
Recall 20131312,016 units in Canada
Other
On certain Honda Fit Sport models, the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system may not function as intended. In some instances, this could allow the tires to lose traction and the vehicle to skid without intervention by the VSA system. If the vehicle strikes a curb or slides off the roadway, it could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the Vehicle Stability Assist software.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 44,000 milesPorterville, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL- WENT TO DEALERSHIP TO GET MY AIR BAG REPLACE, WHICH THEY DID'T HAVE NEEDED TO BE ORDER AND WAITED 6 WEEKS. ON OCTOBER THE 09, 2016 I WAS ON A VEHICLE ACCIDENT DRIVING 25 MILES AND HOUR THE RIGHT SIDE TIRE HIT AND EMBANKMENT AND DAMAGED MY CAR FOR A TOTAL LOSS. THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG HIT MY CHEST WITH SUCH FORCE THAT MY STERNUM WAS FRACTURE AND BRUISE THROUGH OUT MY CHEST. I HAVE BEING HAVING SEVERE PAIN FOR THE PAST THREE WEEKS. THE ROAD IS AND UPHILL CURVE WHICH THE SPEED LIMIT IS 25 MILES AND IS TWO LANE ROAD THE VEHICLE BEHIND ME HAD LIGHTS ON WHICH I BELIEVE ALSO WERE A FACTOR BECAUSE THE LIGHTS REFLECTED ON THE REARVIEW MIRROR AND WAS TO CLOSE. WILL SUMMIT A CHP REPORT WHEN NECESSARY.
NHTSA complaint #10920047 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,970 milesRock Hill, SCCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA FIT. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED AND THE CONTACT REAR ENDED THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LEFT LEG INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A COLLISION LOT WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED FOR THE DAMAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,970.
NHTSA complaint #10855708 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,970 milesRock Hill, SCCrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA FIT. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED AND THE CONTACT REAR ENDED THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LEFT LEG INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A COLLISION LOT WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED FOR THE DAMAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,970.
NHTSA complaint #10855708 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesIndianapolis, IN1 injured
SEATS
I JUST STARTED DRIVING MY CAR LONGER DISTANCES TO WORK AND MY NECK AND SHOULDERS ARE KILLING ME. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH IT IS BECAUSE OF A TERRIBLE DECISION FOR "SAFETY" HOW CAN IT BE SAFETY WHEN DRIVING EVERY DAY INJURES YOUR BACK AND NECK. I TURNED THE HEAD REST AROUND BACKWARDS AND IT IS SLIGHTLY BETTER BUT FOR SOMEONE MY SIZE (5'1" WOMAN) IT IS TERRIBLY UNCOMFORTABLE TO DRIVE WITH THESE HEAD RESTS. I PLAN ON STRAIGHTENING THE CURVE MYSELF THIS WEEKEND. WHIPLASH HAS TO BE BETTER THAN THIS. PLEASE TEST THIS SAFETY BS ON HUMANS AND NOT JUST CRASH DUMMIES. I WOULD SERIOUSLY NEED A CHIROPRACTOR IF THIS CONTINUED.
NHTSA complaint #10759893 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 12,700 milesEureka, CACrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA FIT SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD RECUR INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS ADVISED THAT THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE OR THE ELECTRIC THROTTLE PEDAL COULD HAVE BEEN DEFECTIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,700 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 19,000. UPDATED 05/12/14 MA THE CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN 2 ACCIDENTS, DUE TO THE VEHICLES SUDDEN DECELERATION AND ACCELERATION. UPDATED 05/15/14
NHTSA complaint #10574437 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 12,700 milesEureka, CACrash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA FIT SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD RECUR INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS ADVISED THAT THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE OR THE ELECTRIC THROTTLE PEDAL COULD HAVE BEEN DEFECTIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,700 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 19,000. UPDATED 05/12/14 MA THE CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN 2 ACCIDENTS, DUE TO THE VEHICLES SUDDEN DECELERATION AND ACCELERATION. UPDATED 05/15/14
NHTSA complaint #10574437 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 88,052 milesColumbus, OH
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Fit. The contact stated that while making a turn from a complete stop at the exit of a gas station, the vehicle became immovable, and there was an abnormally high-pitched grinding sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to AAA Auto Body Shop, where the contact was informed that the passenger's side CV axle was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. AAA informed the contact that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V770000 (Power Train), and the VIN was included in the recall. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the driver's side CV axle had failed due to corrosion test and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired free of charge. The manufacturer was contacted but denied the reimbursement claim for the passenger’s side CV axle repair, despite receiving the repair bill. The failure mileage was 88,052.
NHTSA complaint #11723931 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Occidental, CA
STEERING
The electronic steering power assist failed several times in the past two weeks. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The safety of occupants was put at risk because of the difficulty of steering safely in traffic. The car has not yet been taken to my dealer for evaluation. The vehicle or component has not yet been inspected. No warning lamps or other symptoms of the problem appeared prior to the failure.
NHTSA complaint #11592516 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Millbury, MA
STEERING
While driving my regular commute to work with the radio on, the radio and interior lights (not sure if headlights because I can't see them) flashed on and off and the power steering warning light flashed on and off. At that time, the car jerked and I lost power steering for a moment. This happened several times and the radio stopped working. This did not happen on the way home, but reoccured a few days later. I made an appointment with the dealer They had my car for the day and were not able to locate the issue, but they fixed my radio and told me to bring it back if it happened again. They checked alternator, fuses, and looked for an electrical short. A few weeks later, it happened again, I brought the car back and they could not find the problem, but fixed the radio. The car was fine for a month and it is happening again. Losing power steering while driving is a serious safety hazard for myself and others.
NHTSA complaint #11567103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Millbury, MA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving my regular commute to work with the radio on, the radio and interior lights (not sure if headlights because I can't see them) flashed on and off and the power steering warning light flashed on and off. At that time, the car jerked and I lost power steering for a moment. This happened several times and the radio stopped working. This did not happen on the way home, but reoccured a few days later. I made an appointment with the dealer They had my car for the day and were not able to locate the issue, but they fixed my radio and told me to bring it back if it happened again. They checked alternator, fuses, and looked for an electrical short. A few weeks later, it happened again, I brought the car back and they could not find the problem, but fixed the radio. The car was fine for a month and it is happening again. Losing power steering while driving is a serious safety hazard for myself and others.
NHTSA complaint #11567103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Millbury, MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving my regular commute to work with the radio on, the radio and interior lights (not sure if headlights because I can't see them) flashed on and off and the power steering warning light flashed on and off. At that time, the car jerked and I lost power steering for a moment. This happened several times and the radio stopped working. This did not happen on the way home, but reoccured a few days later. I made an appointment with the dealer They had my car for the day and were not able to locate the issue, but they fixed my radio and told me to bring it back if it happened again. They checked alternator, fuses, and looked for an electrical short. A few weeks later, it happened again, I brought the car back and they could not find the problem, but fixed the radio. The car was fine for a month and it is happening again. Losing power steering while driving is a serious safety hazard for myself and others.
NHTSA complaint #11567103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pewaukee, WI
ENGINE
Three instances of engine misfiring, causing the car to immediately go into a speed limiting mode during driving. This is a major safety hazard and can happen in the middle of high speed driving. The first instance was a 52K miles, second at 69K miles, and third at 130K miles. The most recent instance resulted in the spark plug ejecting from the cylinder head, melting into the coil pack, and stripping out the cylinder head thread. This resulted in a costly repair.
NHTSA complaint #11529075 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Fit. The contact stated he noticed a strong odor of gasoline inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the mechanic stated that spark plug #3 was loosened. The ignition wire was replaced, and the spark plug was tightened. The manufacturer was contacted, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #11492292 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Fit. The contact stated he noticed a strong odor of gasoline inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the mechanic stated that spark plug #3 was loosened. The ignition wire was replaced, and the spark plug was tightened. The manufacturer was contacted, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #11492292 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Flanders, NJ
ENGINE
Driving down the highway the spark plug was blown out of the engine head and the car lost power immediately. The car has approximately 12,000 miles and all OEM parts from the manufacture. Maintenance was kept up on the car. This is extremely dangerous since this highway is usually busy with cars and tractor trailers. My son was in the left lane and was almost hit by a tractor trailer due to the violent explosion of the spark plug being blown out of the engine. In addition, was unable to get over to the shoulder of the road and had to stop in the left-hand lane on route 80 in NJ which is very dangerous. Both of my sons were in the car when this occurred. The car was towed to my licensed mechanic who confirmed that the spark plug was blown out of the engine which caused the loud noise and loss of power. There was no warning, symptoms or messages before this occurred which is why I am extremely concerned for the safety of others who own this type of vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11464459 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 147,000 milesBaltimore, MD
TIRES
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Fit equipped with Continental General Tires, Tire Line: Altimax RT43, Tire Size: 195/50/R16, DOT number: 6539wby54618. The contact stated that the driver’s side front tire had started to show signs of bubbling on the sidewall of the tire. The contact had taken the vehicle to a certified tire mechanic who notified the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21T001000 (Tires) and 21T018000 (Tires). The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the Vin was not under recall. The vehicle failure mileage was 147,000 and the approximate tire failure mileage was 13,000. The manufacturer who and confirmed that their vehicle was not included in any recall. The approximate vehicle was 147,000 and the approximate failure mileage was 13,000.
NHTSA complaint #11424370 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesSouderton, PA
ENGINE
SPARK PLUGS NUMBER 1 & 2 CAME LOOSE AND CAUSE VEHICLE TO SUDDENLY LOOSE POWER ON HIGHWAY. THE LOOSE SPARKPLUGS DAMAGED THE IGNITION COILS AND THE CAR WOULD ONLY RUN AT ABOUT 15 MPH WHICH WAS DANGEROUS ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN INSPECTED THE NUMBER 3 & 4 PLUGS WERE STILL TIGHT. SPARKPLUGS AND IGNITION COILS NEEDED REPLACEMENT. AROUND 90000 MILES ON VEHICLE. DATE IS ALSO APPROXIMATE
NHTSA complaint #11396580 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 84,250 milesEast Walpole, MA
POWER TRAIN
I WAS STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN, WAITING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN, WHEN I STARTED MAKING THE LEFT TURN I FELT AND HEARD A LOUD BANG. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE BUT I WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, PUT VEHICLE IN PARK BUT IT WOULD STILL ROLL, I THEN APPLIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. I THEN PROCEEDED TO CALL MY SON, HE ASKED ME WHAT HAPPENED, I TOLD HIM THAT I HEARD A LOUD BANG & THE VEHICLE WOULDN'T ACCELERATE & THE VEHICLE KEPT ROLLING AFTER IT WAS IN PARK, HE SAID IT SOUNDS LIKE I HAD A BROKEN AXEL I THEN CALLED AAA. AAA ARRIVED & ASKED ME WHAT HAPPENED & IF THE VEHICLE ROLLED WHEN PUT IN PARK, I SAID YES IT STILL ROLLED & THE DRIVER TOLD ME I HAD A BROKEN AXEL. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO MY SON'S GARAGE, WHERE HE REPLACED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AXEL, THAT INDEED HAD SNAPPED IN HALF. THIS HAPPENED AS I WAS TURNING ONTO BUSY RT 27 IN SHARON, MA. NOW I'M WORRIED THAT THE DRIVERS SIDE AXEL COULD SNAP IN HALF WHILE I'M DRIVING MY VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #11388448 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 79,000 milesNaugatuck, CT
STEERING
OUR WELL-MAINTAINED HONDA FIT HAS DEVELOPED AN ISSUE WHERE THE EPS STEERING LIGHT COMES ON SPORADICALLY DURING DRIVING. IN EACH OF THESE EVENTS, THE STEERING ASSIST SOMETIMES CUTS OUT FOR A SECOND OR TWO CAUSING ME TO HAVE TO MANUALLY CONTROL THE STEERING. IN ALL EVENT INSTANCES, CABIN POWER IS AFFECTED: POWER TO RADIO WILL RESTART, AND SOMETIMES DASHBOARD LIGHTS GO AS WELL. IN MORE SEVERE INSTANCES DASHBOARD LIGHTS AND SEATBELT LIGHTS CUTOUT MOMENTARILY AND A STEERING DTC SHINES QUICKLY IN THE DUMMY LIGHT CLUSTER. ENVIRONMENT: EPS STEERING ISSUES HAPPEN AT ALL MANNER OF SPEEDS AND MANUEVERS - REGULAR BACKROAD DRIVING, PARKING LOTS AND EVEN SITTING IDLE. CAR HARDLY HAS BEEN DRIVEN THE PAST FEW YEARS (UNDER 7500/YEAR) AND HAS NEVER HIT ANYTHING, BEEN BUMPED (OR IF IT DID, WE DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT IT) NOR BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT OF ANY KIND. WE ARE IN A SALT-BELT STATE. PROBLEM STARTED OCCURRING LATE DECEMBER 2020, DURING REGULAR COLD WEATHER (30-45 DEGREES CONSISTENTLY); IT IS NOT GARAGED.
NHTSA complaint #11387309 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 87,000 milesUpton, MA
POWER TRAIN
WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP, I HEARD A LOUD BANG FOLLOWED BY A BUZZING/GRINDING SOUND. THE ENGINE WAS STILL RUNNING BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE FORWARD OR IN REVERSE. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO MY MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME THE AXEL HAD SNAPPED AT THE LOCATION OF A VIBRATION DAMPER.
NHTSA complaint #11383793 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 152,000 milesFlorissant, MO
POWER TRAIN
THE PASSENGER SIDE AXLE SNAPPED IN TWO INSIDE THE RUBBER DAMPER WEIGHT AT ITS CENTER. AS HONDA FORUMS ON THE INTERNET SHOW, THIS IS BECOMING MORE COMMON AS FITS AGE. THE DAMPER IS HELD IN PLACE BY ONLY ONE STAINLESS STEEL CLAMP ( AT ITS LOWER END). SINCE WATER AND SALT CAN ENTER ITS UPPER END , WITHOUT A CLAMP THERE, IT STAYS IN THE SPACE BETWEEN THE AXLE AND DAMPER AND THE CORROSION BEGINS. EVEN AFTERMARKET MANUFACTURERS HAVE DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AND LEFT THE DAMPER OFF THEIR AXLES. WHEN THIS BREAK HAPPENED THE VEHICLE WAS STARTING OFF FROM A STOP AND TURNING RIGHT ON A CITY STREET.
NHTSA complaint #11374654 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesGotha, FL
ENGINE
#2 SPARK PLUG EJECTED AT 90K MILES. IN MOTION. ROUGH IDLE RESULTED AND LOW RPM'S. TOWED FOR REPAIR. READ ONLINE OF MANY OTHERS WITH SAME SITUATION.
NHTSA complaint #11361365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 47,800 milesEastlake, OH
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA FIT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING OUT OF HIS DRIVEWAY THE FRONT AXLE FRACTURED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE THE CONTACT WAS SHIFTING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE. THE CONTACT HEARD A GRINDING AND CLICKING NOISE AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO MOVE FORWARD OR BACKWARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND DIAGNOSED WITH A FRACTURED FRONT AXLE MID-SHAFT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY CORROSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,800. *BF
NHTSA complaint #11360189 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 143,000 milesMedford, NY
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA FIT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT AXLE WAS FRACTURED DUE TO WATER SETTLING INSIDE OF THE RUBBER DAMPER CAUSING SEVERE RUST AND THE PART TO FAIL. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER AND INFORMED THAT A REPRESENTATIVE WOULD GIVE HIM A CALLBACK. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SUBJECTED TO A RECALL RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
NHTSA complaint #11342910 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesFairhaven, MA
POWER TRAIN
THE CAR HAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000 < MILES. I WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT THAT LED TO A HIGHWAY. WHEN THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN, I PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR AND HEARD A LOUD BANG. THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING BUT THE CAR DID NOT MOVE.I HAD THE CAR BROUGHT TO A HONDA DEALERSHIP. UPON THEIR INSPECTION, I WAS TOLD BOTH FRONT AXLES WERE BROKEN. ACCORDING TO THE SERVICE REP, ONE AXLE DISINTEGRATED AND THE OTHER HAD A NOTICEABLE CRACK IN IT. I REQUESTED THE DAMAGED COMPONENTS BE SAVED FOR AN INVESTIGATION ISN'T THIS A SAFETY CONCERN? WHAT IF THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY?
NHTSA complaint #11320182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,000 milesCape Coral, FL
STEERING
ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING LIGHT TURNED ON INTERMITTENTLY. THIS CAUSED THE STEERING WHEEL TO LOCK UP OR BE REALLY HARD TO STEER. THIS TYPICALLY HAPPENS AT LOWER SPEED OR WHEN IDLE. THIS CAN OCCUR MID STEER AT TIMES AS WELL.
NHTSA complaint #11302835 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,000 milesCape Coral, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING LIGHT TURNED ON INTERMITTENTLY. THIS CAUSED THE STEERING WHEEL TO LOCK UP OR BE REALLY HARD TO STEER. THIS TYPICALLY HAPPENS AT LOWER SPEED OR WHEN IDLE. THIS CAN OCCUR MID STEER AT TIMES AS WELL.
NHTSA complaint #11302835 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 168,849 milesGreenup, KY
POWER TRAIN
WHILE COMING TO A STOP ON A HILL ON A 4 LANE HIGHWAY, THERE WAS A SUDDEN LOUD NOISE AND THE CAR STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARD.
NHTSA complaint #11291398 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesIrving, TX
STEERING
I HAVING INTERMITTENT LOSS OF POWER STEERING. SO FAR IT HAS HAPPENED MOSTLY WITH LOW SPEED TURNS. I WILL HAVE TO USE MORE EFFORT TO COMPLETE THE TURN WHEN THIS HAPPENS. I HAD THE POWER STEERING LIGHT COME ON WHILE DRIVING STRAIGHT AHEAD ONCE FOR A FEW SECONDS. 60,000 MILES ON CAR SO FAR WITH NO PROBLEMS IN THE PAST AND NO ACCIDENTS.
NHTSA complaint #11291175 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,032 milesBlue Island, IL
POWER TRAIN
THE LEFT FRONT AXLE SHAFT BROKE IN JUNE 2018, WITH 89,032 ODOMETER MILES, AND THE RIGHT AXLE SHAFT BROKE DECEMBER 3, 2019 WITH 105,436 MILES. IN THE MOST RECENT INSTANCE I WAS STOPPED ON A HILL, WITH A CAR BEHIND ME, AND WHEN I TRIED TO ACCELERATE THE AXLE BROKE AND MY CAR STARTED ROLLING BACKWARDS. I APPLIED THE BRAKES QUICKLY ENOUGH TO AVOID HITTING THE CAR BEHIND ME. IN THE FIRST INSTANCE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE CAR MILES FROM HOME WHERE SHE WAS STRANDED UNTIL A TOW TRUCK COULD BE CALLED. MY MECHANIC SAYS HE IS SEEING THIS WITH SOME FREQUENCY ON HONDA FITS, AND IT SEEMS TO BE THE RESULT OF RUST WHERE HONDA INSTALLS A RUBBER VIBRATION DAMPER AT THE AXLE. THE POTENTIAL FOR A SERIOUS INCIDENT IS OBVIOUS IF THE CAR WERE TO LOSE PROPULSION ON A BUSY HIGHWAY AT HIGH SPEED, OR WHERE THE CAR SUDDENLY STARTS TO ROLL BACKWARDS AS I EXPERIENCED. AND APPARENTLY THIS IS BECOMING A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE HONDA FIT, AND MAYBE OTHER MODELS WITH THE SAME DESIGN.THE REPAIR OF BOTH AXLES HAVE COST US A TOTAL OF $740.00.
NHTSA complaint #11286747 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 98,825 milesColumbus, OH
POWER TRAIN
CAR WAS STOPPED IN A ROUNDABOUT. UPON ACCELERATING THERE WAS A LOUD CLUNK AND THE CAR QUIT MOVING UNDER IT'S OWN POWER. THE PASSENGER SIDE DRIVE AXLE HAD SNAPPED UNDERNEATH THE VIBRATION DAMPNER. EXAMINATION OF THE BROKEN AXLE SHOWS EXTREME RUST HAD OCCURRED UNDER THE VIBRATION DAMPNER REDUCING THE AXLE'S DIAMETER AND THUS WEAKENING THE AXLE.
NHTSA complaint #11257175 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.