🇩🇪 Deutsch
Honda · Compact · 2009–2014

Honda Insight ZE2

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Honda Insight ZE2 is available with one engine variant at 88 hp.

1.3L IMA Hybrid · Benziner Hybrid· 88 PS
2009 2014
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Honda 1.3L IMA Hybrid (Benziner Hybrid, 88 PS) has the LDA (1.3L IMA Hybrid) — rated: "Stay Away!", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖IMA hybrid battery degradation

The IMA hybrid battery (NiMH) typically lasts 8 to 12 years. The electric assist drops out and fuel consumption rises noticeably.

Symptoms: IMA warning light illuminates; electric assist drops out or cuts off early; fuel consumption rises noticeably; battery gauge stays in the lower range.
from 150,000 km
Ad Insight ZE2 IMA battery1D070-RBJ-003
 High
!IMA battery discharges quickly in cold weather

At temperatures below 0°C the IMA NiMH battery loses significant capacity and can fully discharge after extended parking.

Symptoms: After extended parking in frost the vehicle no longer starts; IMA display shows few or no bars; electric assist completely absent.
Ad Honda Insight IMA cold weather
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
267 complaints · 2009–2014
Airbags
107 ⚠ 14
Engine
75 ⚠ 1
Brakes
20 ⚠ 12
Body Structure
16 ⚠ 2
Cruise Control
15 ⚠ 8

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (107 complaints)
⚠ Engine (75 complaints)
⚠ Brakes (20 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Audi A3 8V

Kompaktklasse (2012–2020)

Same Segment

Audi S3 8V

Kompaktklasse (2012–2020)

Same Segment

Hyundai i30 GD

Kompaktklasse (2012–2015)

Same Segment

Kia Ceed JD

Kompaktklasse (2012–2018)

Same Segment

Mercedes-Benz A-Klasse W176

Kompaktklasse (2012–2018)

Same Segment

MINI MINI Roadster R59

Kompaktklasse (2012–2015)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 7 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Insight ZE2 (2009–2014) — 3 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. One problem engine: LDA (1.3L IMA Hybrid). Typical issues affect Electronics, Brakes, Interior.

Insight (LDA, 2009–2014) — Stay Away!: IMA high-voltage battery degradation — total failure possible, DC-DC converter failure — 12V battery no longer charges, IMA fault code prevents MOT/vehicle inspection pass. Power: 88 PS.

What to watch out for with the Honda Insight? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda Insight ZE2 have? +
The Honda Insight ZE2 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 4 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Insight ZE2? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the LDA (1.3L IMA Hybrid). Problem engine: LDA (1.3L IMA Hybrid) — stay away!
Which Honda Insight ZE2 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda Insight ZE2 — rated: "Not Really". {description} 88 hp and 11.7 seconds to 100 — the IMA system always keeps the combustion engine spinning. CVT with a rubber-band feel, light steering with no feedback. Fuel-saver concept, no driving experience.
Is the Honda Insight ZE2 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Honda Insight ZE2 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Insight ZE2? +
The Honda Insight ZE2 is available with engine variants from 88 to 99 hp. Petrol: LDA (1.3L IMA Hybrid).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee