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Honda · Known Issues

2010 Honda Insight Problems: 5 Known Issues

2010 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2010 Honda Insight has 5 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations) ($400-$4,000 repair) and CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen) ($150-$5,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Insight Electrical2
  • Insight Transmission1
  • Insight Other1
  • Insight Suspension1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Transmission1
  • Other1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS20222021202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003200220012000

On the 2000-2022 Honda Insight, all Honda Insight generations (2000-2006, 2010-2014, 2019-2022) experience IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) hybrid battery failures, typically between 75,000-175,000 miles (8-15 years). Symptoms include IMA warning light, reduced fuel economy, lack of electric assist, poor acceleration, and frequent battery recalibrations. The battery cells degrade over time, especially in hot climates. First and second generation batteries are more prone to failure. Third generation (2019-2022) batteries have better warranty coverage (8yr/100k miles in CARB states, 3yr/36k elsewhere). Replacement cost: $1,500-4,000 depending on generation.

This issue also affects: Honda Civic

Common Symptoms

  • IMA warning light on dashboard
  • Reduced fuel economy (MPG drops significantly)
  • Lack of electric motor assist during acceleration
  • Poor acceleration and sluggish performance
  • Battery gauge fluctuating or always empty
  • Frequent battery recalibrations
  • Check engine light with P1xxx hybrid codes

How to Fix

Options: (1) OEM Honda replacement battery ($2,500-4,000 installed), (2) Refurbished battery from specialist like Bumblebee Batteries or HybridReVolt ($1,200-2,000), (3) DIY battery rebuild ($400-800 in parts if mechanically skilled). For 3rd gen (2019-2022), check warranty coverage - 8yr/100k in CARB states (CA, NY, etc). InsightCentral.net forum has extensive guides on battery testing, reconditioning, and replacement. Some owners bypass IMA entirely and run as gas-only ($0-300) but lose hybrid benefits.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Best Hybrid Batteries complete remanufactured Honda Insight hybrid battery
    OEMBest Hybrid Batteries 2000-2006 Insight pack

    Complete assembled remanufactured pack with electronics; submit VIN, confirm transmission/application, core-return terms,

    Best Hybrid Batteries
  • Greentec Auto Honda Insight hybrid battery with new 8.0 Ah cells
    OEMGreentec 2010-2014 Insight new-cell pack

    Confirm VIN, diagnostic result, service-area/install option, core deposit/retu

    Greentec Auto

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipBattery doesn't "fail" instantly - slow charging/discharging gives warning weeks ahead. Monitor battery gauge and MPG for early detection.
  • WarningHot climates kill IMA batteries faster (Arizona, Texas, Florida). Parking in shade and avoiding extreme discharge extends life significantly.
  • TipDIY rebuild: Individual cells cost $5-10 each (20 cells total). InsightCentral has step-by-step guides - saves $2,000+ if mechanically inclined.
Typical repair cost:$400 - $4,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2010-2022 Honda Insight, honda Insight models (especially 2010-2014 and 2019-2022) experience premature 12V battery failures. The small 12V battery (not the IMA hybrid battery) dies unexpectedly, often within 2-3 years. Symptoms include no start, electrical gremlins, and hybrid system errors. The Insight uses a smaller 12V battery than other vehicles due to space constraints, and it's more sensitive to parasitic drain. Weak 12V battery can also trigger false IMA battery warnings.

Common Symptoms

  • No start condition
  • Clicking when trying to start
  • Electrical system warnings
  • Hybrid system errors (false warnings)
  • Battery dies after sitting overnight
  • Dim interior lights

How to Fix

Replace 12V battery with AGM battery (better than flooded) rated for hybrid vehicles ($150-250). Test for parasitic drain if battery keeps dying (normal is <50mA). Common causes of drain: trunk light staying on, aftermarket accessories, faulty BCM. Charge battery with low-amp charger (2-amp max) - high amp charging can damage hybrid system electronics.

What you need to diagnose it

The fix here starts with a test, not a part — which repair you need depends on what the test finds.

  • UNI-T UT210E Low-Current DC Clamp Meter

    1 mA resolution on the 2 A range — a 0.1 A meter reads a 50 mA drain as zero

    $40–$70View

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.

Testing and isolating the fault is DIY work. Replacing or reprogramming a control module is not — most are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • DieHard Gold 151R battery, 410 CCA
    OEMDieHard 151R

    2010-2014 replacement branch only after battery testing confirms loss of capacity Fitment/availability: 2010-2014 U.S. Confirm dimensions, terminal orientation, CCA and local availability; this is flooded, not AGM, and does not cure a pa…

    Advance Auto Parts
  • Genuine Honda 31500-TXM-100M AGM 46B24L 12V battery
    OEMHonda 31500-TXM-100M

    2019-2022 replacement branch only after battery testing confirms failure Fitment/availability: 2019-2022 U.S. Confirm VIN, drain tube condition and location-dependent hazar

    Honda OEM Parts Online

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningNEVER jump-start a hybrid - use proper jump points in fuse box (see manual). Jumping at battery terminals can damage hybrid electronics.
  • TipWeak 12V battery can cause false IMA battery warnings. Replace 12V first before assuming IMA battery is bad - saves $1,000s.
Typical repair cost:$150 - $250

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2010-2014 Honda Insight, the 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) CVT transmission experiences judder, shuddering, knocking noise during acceleration, and complete failure. Early CVT steel belt failures were identified. When CVT fails, the green "D" indicator on dash blinks. The transmission shudders at low speeds (15-35 mph) and makes knocking noises when shifting or accelerating. Honda extended CVT warranty to 10yr/150k miles on some models. CVT replacement: $3,000-5,000.

This issue also affects: Acura CL, Acura ILX, Acura MDX

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission shuddering or juddering
  • Knocking noise from CVT when accelerating
  • Green "D" indicator blinking on dashboard
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Grinding or whining noise from transmission
  • Complete transmission failure (no movement)

How to Fix

Early stage: CVT fluid replacement with genuine Honda CVTF ($150-250) may help. Severe cases: Complete CVT replacement ($3,000-5,000). Check if your Insight qualifies for Honda's extended CVT warranty (10yr/150k miles on some models). If CVT fails under warranty, Honda covers replacement. Keep records of all CVT fluid changes to support warranty claims. InsightCentral forum recommends changing CVT fluid every 25k-30k miles.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda CVT-1 transmission fluid 08200-9006
    OEMHonda 08200-9006

    Use only the quantity and level-setting procedure in current Honda service information; do not substitute HCF-2 and do not power flu

    HondaPartsNow
  • Genuine Honda 90471-PX4-000 18 mm CVT drain-plug washer
    OEMHonda 90471-PX4-000

    Confirm VIN and torque specification.

    HondaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipChange CVT fluid every 25k-30k miles (not Honda's "lifetime" claim). Owners who follow this schedule report CVTs lasting 150k+ miles.
  • WarningBlinking "D" indicator means CVT is failing - stop driving immediately and have it towed. Continuing to drive will destroy the CVT completely.
Typical repair cost:$150 - $5,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2010-2014 Honda Insight, the 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) has ground cables that corrode from the inside, preventing the vehicle from starting. There are three ground cables prone to corrosion: (1) between battery and firewall, (2) between left side and transmission, (3) between left side and air filter support. The cables look fine externally but are corroded internally, causing intermittent no-start conditions, electrical gremlins, and charging issues. Replacement: $50-200 for all three cables.

Common Symptoms

  • No start condition (engine won't crank)
  • Intermittent starting issues
  • Electrical system glitches
  • Battery not charging properly
  • Dim lights or electrical accessories not working
  • Clicking sound when trying to start

How to Fix

Inspect all three ground cables for internal corrosion (cut open cable end to check). Replace corroded cables with new OEM or upgraded aftermarket cables ($50-200 for all three). DIY-friendly repair - takes 1-2 hours with basic hand tools. InsightCentral forum has detailed guides with photos. Preventive: Apply dielectric grease to cable terminals to prevent future corrosion.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda 32600-TM8-A00 battery ground cable assembly
    OEMHonda 32600-TM8-A00

    Confirm VIN, routing, terminal hardware and local stock before purchase.

    Honda Parts Direct
  • Genuine Honda 32601-TM8-000 transmission ground cable assembly
    OEMHonda 32601-TM8-000

    Confirm VIN, routing and fastener condition.

    HondaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY fix: Buy pre-made ground cable kit ($50-100 on Amazon) or make your own with marine-grade cable. InsightCentral has step-by-step guide.
  • WarningCables can LOOK fine but be corroded inside - if you have intermittent electrical issues, replace all three ground cables preventively.
Typical repair cost:$50 - $200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2010-2014 Honda Insight, the 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) experiences rear suspension clunking and noise over bumps and rough roads. The rear shock absorbers fail prematurely due to the excess weight of the hybrid battery in the rear. The clunking is most noticeable over speed bumps and potholes. Replacement rear shocks: $200-400 per pair.

Common Symptoms

  • Clunking noise from rear suspension over bumps
  • Rattling sound over rough roads
  • Noise over speed bumps
  • Bouncy or loose rear end
  • Noise from one side or both

How to Fix

Replace rear shock absorbers with OEM Honda or quality aftermarket (KYB, Monroe, Gabriel) shocks ($200-400 for pair + labor). DIY-friendly if you have basic tools - takes 1-2 hours. InsightCentral recommends KYB or Monroe shocks for better ride quality than OEM.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • KYB Excel-G 348021 rear shock absorber
    OEMKYB 348021

    Matched left/right rear-shock branch after inspection confirms damper failure; order quantity two Fitment/availability: 2010-2014 U.S. Confirm VIN and inspect al

    CarParts.com

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY-friendly - rear shocks are easy to replace (2 bolts per shock). Takes 1 hour, saves $150-200 in labor.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $400

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:DC/DC CONVERTER

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020 CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and 2020-2021 Insight vehicles. The DC-DC converter may shut down and prevent the 12-volt battery from recharging, possibly resulting in a loss of drive power.

Campaign #20V79800017/12/2020

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.

Campaign #24V06400001/02/2024

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.

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Other Honda Models

Honda Civic74Honda CR-V64Honda Accord62Honda Pilot42Honda Odyssey25Honda HR-V24

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Honda Insight problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2010 Honda Insight has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations), CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen), 12V Battery Premature Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Honda Insight reliable?

The 2010 Honda Insight has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations) and CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Honda Insight problems?

Repair costs for known Honda Insight issues range from $50 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations), typically costs $400-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2000-2022 Honda Insight IMA Hybrid Battery Failure (All Generations)?

All Honda Insight generations (2000-2006, 2010-2014, 2019-2022) experience IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) hybrid battery failures, typically between 75,000-175,000 miles (8-15 years). Symptoms include IMA warning light, reduced fuel economy, lack of electric assist, poor accelerat… Repairs typically run $400-$4,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2010-2014 Honda Insight CVT Transmission Judder and Failure (Second Gen)?

The 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) CVT transmission experiences judder, shuddering, knocking noise during acceleration, and complete failure. Early CVT steel belt failures were identified. When CVT fails, the green "D" indicator on dash blinks. The transmission shudd… Repairs typically run $150-$5,000. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #26V33200021/05/2026

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Acura NSX, 2019 Acura RDX, RLX and RLX Sport Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R and HR-V, 2019-2020 Insight and 2019 Fit vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Campaign #20V31400028/05/2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, and 2019-2020 Insight vehicles. A software error may cause intermittent or continuous disruptions in communication between the Body Control Module (BCM) and other components. This may result in malfunctions of various systems such as the windshield wipers and defroster, rearview camera, exterior lights, audible warning of a stopped vehicle, and power window operation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems" and number 111, "Rear Visibility" as well as FMVSS numbers 104, 108, 114, 118, and 305.

Campaign #20V77100010/12/2020

+ 6 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2010-2022 Honda Insight 12V Battery Premature Failure?

Honda Insight models (especially 2010-2014 and 2019-2022) experience premature 12V battery failures. The small 12V battery (not the IMA hybrid battery) dies unexpectedly, often within 2-3 years. Symptoms include no start, electrical gremlins, and hybrid system errors. The Insight… Repairs typically run $150-$250. Severity: medium.

What is the 2010-2014 Honda Insight Ground Cable Internal Corrosion (No Start)?

The 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) has ground cables that corrode from the inside, preventing the vehicle from starting. There are three ground cables prone to corrosion: (1) between battery and firewall, (2) between left side and transmission, (3) between left side… Repairs typically run $50-$200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2010-2014 Honda Insight Rear Suspension Clunking (Shock Absorber Failure)?

The 2010-2014 Honda Insight (second generation) experiences rear suspension clunking and noise over bumps and rough roads. The rear shock absorbers fail prematurely due to the excess weight of the hybrid battery in the rear. The clunking is most noticeable over speed bumps and po… Repairs typically run $200-$400. Severity: low.