VIN REPORT

JHMGK5H53HS0095062017 HONDA FitLX

0of 100
Low Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
Clear
No open recalls
Safety Grade
B-
80/100 composite
Complaints
42
NHTSA filed
Vehicle Age
9 yrs
Made in JAPAN
BUYPurchase Verdict

2017 HONDA Fit was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. 42 owner complaints include 1 reported injury, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

34 MPG
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2017 HONDA Fit

2017 HONDA Fit was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. 42 owner complaints include 1 reported injury, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 1 injury reported across 42 owner complaints
  • Common owner-reported issues: engine noise, check engine light, electrical problems
  • Engine or platform shared with models that have documented failure issues
Owner Complaint Intelligence

42 owner complaints filed — top areas: Engine/Powertrain (26%), Electrical (26%), Other (19%). Common issues: engine noise, check engine light, electrical problems. 1 injury reported.

Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
HONDA
Model
Fit
Year
2017
Trim / Series
LX
Body Style
Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 1.5L 130 hp
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Doors
5
Manufacturer
HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
Assembly
SUZUKA, MIE, JAPAN
GVWR
Class 1B: 3,001 - 4,000 lb (1,360 - 1,814 kg)
Base MSRP
$15,990

Assembly Plant Quality

Plant: SUZUKA, MIE

CQuality55/100
Standard📍 SUZUKA, MIE

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

B-
Score: 80/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety30/30
Complaint History30/30
0/100Clear

✓ No high-risk recall components found

15/100
Basic
5 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning

1.5L VTEC Turbo: documented gasoline fuel diluting engine oil in cold climates — Honda extended warranty and class action settlement

Also affects: CR-V, Civic, HR-V

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Indirect
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake SupportStandard
Keyless Ignition?Unknown

Fuel Economy & Environment

EPA fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov

32
City
Good
34
Combined
Good
37
Highway
Very Good
Annual Fuel Cost$1,800
5-Year vs AverageSave $2,000
CO₂ Tailpipe260 g/mi
Annual Petroleum8.8 barrels
EPA GHG Score8/10
EPA Fuel Economy Score8/10
🌿
EPA SmartWay Certified
Lower emissions than most vehicles
Emissions: T3B125
Recalls

Deferred Failure Risk

Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones

36/100
Monitor Deferred Risk
The engine/powertrain system is the most-reported problem for the 2017 HONDA Fit — 11 NHTSA complaints (26% of all filings). Prioritize it in a pre-purchase inspection.
No odometer data on record. Items marked VERIFY below are age-based maintenance reminders — general guidance, not confirmed findings for this specific vehicle. Confirm actual mileage and service history with the seller.
COMMONLY REPORTEDCriticalEngine/Powertrain
11 owner complaints · 26% of all filings
Inspect the engine/powertrain system before purchase — the most-reported problem for the 2017 HONDA Fit
Owners of the 2017 HONDA Fit report engine/powertrain issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
COMMONLY REPORTEDCriticalElectrical
11 owner complaints · 26% of all filings
Inspect the electrical system before purchase — the 2nd most-reported problem for the 2017 HONDA Fit
Owners of the 2017 HONDA Fit report electrical issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
COMMONLY REPORTEDCriticalBody/Structure
6 owner complaints · 14% of all filings · 1 injury
Inspect the body/structure system before purchase — the 3rd most-reported problem for the 2017 HONDA Fit
Owners of the 2017 HONDA Fit report body/structure issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
VERIFYCriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Typical interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify timing chain tensioner service history with the seller
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
VERIFYCriticalWater Pump
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 8 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify water pump service history with the seller
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
VERIFYHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Typical interval: 60,000 mi / 5 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify transmission fluid / service service history with the seller
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
VERIFYHighCoolant Flush
Manufacturer interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify coolant flush service history with the seller
per Honda owner's manual maintenance schedule
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
VERIFYModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 8 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify spark plugs (iridium/platinum) service history with the seller
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
VERIFYModerateFuel Injectors
Typical interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify fuel injectors service history with the seller
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

CLEAR
0found
No Recall Campaigns Found
NHTSA has no active or historical recalls for this 2017 HONDA.
Complaints42

Complaint Intelligence

42 complaints analyzed across 9 system categories

Engine/Powertrain
11
Electrical
11
Other
8
Body/Structure
1 inj6
Suspension/Wheels
2
Fuel System
1
Visibility
1
Steering
1
2017
2
2018
4
2020
4
2021
5
2022
4
2023
12
2024
5
2025
6
102% trend in recent years (increasing complaints)
Declining -29%
10
Last 24 months
14
Prior 24 months
Engine stalling3
Electrical failure2
Sudden acceleration1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (5)Startup (4)Rain/wet (4)Cold weather (3)

Owner Complaints

HIGH VOLUME

42 safety complaints filed with NHTSA

42found
1
Injury
ODI #11699810FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE

The contact owns 2017 Honda Fit. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle hesitated. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and it was determined that cylinders #1, #2, and #4 had failed and cylinder #3 was currently operating. The mechanic performed a pressure test on all cylinders and that the cylinders needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure, and the contact was transferred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.

ODI #11686890ENGINE

Rattling noise coming from engine when starting engine cold

ODI #11686891ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

When starting or stopping the engine with the push button, a mechanism makes a loud grinding noise.

ODI #11686893VISIBILITY/WIPER

Blue metallic paint has clear coat peeling and exposed base paint. Paint should last longer than 8 years, this is a manufacturing defect.

ODI #11664615STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER1 INJURY

my wife's wedding finger was nearly amputated near the fingertip from our 2017 honda fit , it happened when she was getting out of the car and I was closing the electric windows on May 22 2025, luckily we had lots of napkins in the glove box to catch all of the blood,we went to emergency room and finger was x-ray'd and found out it was broken, they had to cut off wedding ring, er doctor stitched back together, prescribed antibiotics, and told her she needed to see a orthopedic surgeon in a week to do repairs I called and reported this to honda corp. And they said they would call and setup time to inspect vehicle, still have not received call yet There were no warnings or messages

ODI #11634959STRUCTURE

The contact owns a 2017 Honda Fit. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact discovered that the paint all over the vehicle was delaminating and rusting. The failure occurred on several different occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the vehicle needed to be repainted. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000. 

ODI #11631079ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Fuel gauage/odometer display glitches out and does not show the information. It is just a blank reading.

ODI #11629134ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

After replacing fuel injectors recently I have no warning lights on but the car has been stalling and pulling. Today on the freeway as I attempted to accelerate from 30 mph my car jerked and pulled 3 times harshly almost causing an accident. Still no warning lights and this has happened multiple times. I have submitted a prior concern and it has not been addressed and the problem only continues and has gotten worse.

ODI #11620651ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The car will stall while on the freeway. Had fuel injectors replaced and still does not drive well. I am now being told I may have to look at the fuel pump which should be working automatically. I have now invested almost 3,000 on a car with less than 90,000 miles on it that is maintained religiously so that nothing happens to it.

ODI #11619550FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Fuel injectors failed. Check engine light suddenly came on. There was fuel in the oil, putting safety at risk. Problem confirmed by a private auto service center. Had to replace fuel injectors and fuel joint pipe. The warranty on fuel injectors has been extended for 2015-2016 Honda Fits. Please help this get extended to the 2017 Honda fit because it is the same part and the same problem.

ODI #11602356WHEELS,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

7/14/24 This scenario has happened previously. The first time the engine light, steering light, tire light have come on and remained on. Driving around 65 mph the car judders, loses power, & engine light flashes. Thankfully, there was a shoulder to pull over onto because the ability to maintain speed is lost. Also, the highway I was on has extremely busy portions without any shoulder, so the situation could have been much worse. With traffic all around, I have to put on hazard lights and pull over onto a shoulder filled with tons of debris, which I then got a flat tire, which I then I had to change in the side of the highway. The immediate loss of power and subsequent events is extremely dangerous. The vehicle is well maintained. When taken for diagnosis shops have referred me to the dealer. I’ve called Honda America customer service and am also referred to the dealer. Dealerships are extremely difficult, expensive, & unreliable. Through research I’ve found fuel injector and carbon buildup issues that may be the cause, which of course can cause damage of the engine and catalytic converter. The cost of these repairs is very high. Therefore, I am unable to use a basic economical vehicle I purchased out of necessity, which I can barely afford already, and has now become much more expensive due to major repairs that are needed but incomplete due to lack of funds. If I try to drive it I become a potential hazard on the road. This seems like a manufacturing defect if it is an injector issue. If it is carbon buildup on the intake valves it requires an expensive service not disclosed at purchase in the owners manual, which seems dishonest and deceptive. The private shops I’ve been to have diagnosed the issue as faulty fuel injectors, catalytic converter, or unsure. Honda says go to the dealership, yet without any assistance from Honda they will require a diagnostic fee of around $200 and will require expensive out-of-pocket repairs of a likely Honda defect.

ODI #11557499ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2017 Honda Fit. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the instrument cluster started to flicker. The contact stated that the speedometer, fuel gauge, and other gauges were fluctuating. The contact stated that the failure became a regular failure and occurred at various speeds. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the clutch gauge needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

ODI #11553238ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The odometer is completely useless, unable to tell mileage, fuel level and such. Several reports online of the same issue with honda fits. I could run out of gas unexpectedly, I don't know when its time to change oil.

ODI #11539956ENGINE

Like 4 others on NHTSA, I am reporting intermittent cold start rattle coming from the VTC actuator. I have tried the following: cleaning the intake valves, changing the oil every 3k miles, using a high quality oil filter with a silicone drain back valve, and using Top Tier fuel on every fuel up. 2015-2016 Honda Fits have a TSB regarding this issue, and my 2017 Honda Fit also has this issue. @HondaMotorCompany, please right this design defect by releasing a TSB. I recommend replacing the VTC Actuator (Part#:14310-5R1-013), CAM CHAIN (Part#:14401-5K9-004), CAM CHAIN TENSIONER ARM (Part#:14520-5R0-003) and CAM CHAIN TENSIONER (Part#:14510-5R1-003). Thank you. Related to Complaint NHTSA ID NUMBERS: 11518951, 11507525, 11455247, and 11431811

ODI #11526780ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The fuel gauge on the dash goes blank, especially when the weather is cooler, so you can't see how much fuel is in the car. This is obviously dangerous because you could run out of fuel. The problem has been reported by other honda fit owners and a google search brings up many complaints about this issue. It appears to be a design defect. Feel free to contact me if you would like to inspect the car.

ODI #11523184STEERING

At about 79330 miles, sharp right or left steering elicited a clunking sound. The dealer "found rack and pinion going bad, recommend replacing rack and pinion," If the steering mechanism were to fail while the car was moving, severe injury or death to the occupants or other persons could result. As noted, the car was inspected by the dealer's mechanic but not by a manufacturer's representative.

ODI #11521173STRUCTURE

Chipping paint from the hood and drivers por and all four passenger doors have chipped paint and the bare metal is exposed. Started happening a couple months after I bought the vehicle and progressively getting worse. I have taken it to the dealer at Checkered Honda of Virginia. They said this car didn’t have any paint recalls but they mentioned some Honda civics and accords had paint issues.

ODI #11518951POWER TRAIN

Has about a 3 second engine rattle on cold start up, believed to be a defective variable valve timing gear.

ODI #11511253POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle is experiencing intermittent fault with air-fuel ratio of cylinder. Problems began at 50,000 miles and the dealer recommended engine cleaning due to carbon buildup. This did not solve the issues. Warranty repair was refused at that time, and has since lapsed out of warranty. This results in a malfunction indicator lamp on the dash. Car has additionally failed to start on occasion, and varies greatly in the number of cranks necessary to start. Also sometimes experience shuddering and movement of the vehicle when stopped. The reliability of the vehicle is compromised, which is a significant safety issue.

ODI #11508216UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

P0420 code on a 2017 Honda Fit. The vehicle only has 46,000 miles on it. It’s too early for me replace my catalytic converter. I know previous fit has the same problems but Honda said it was fixed. It’s too expensive to go to the dealership to get it diagnosed properly to look for the problem. I just want this problem figured out before I spend monoey on getting it fixed the right way. Dealership hasn’t diagnosed the vehicle but wanted me to bring the car and get a new catalytic converter and new oxygen sensors. Needs to know what the main problem instead if replacing something that still currently works and no need to replace parts.

ODI #11507525ENGINE

The VTC actuator is showing signs of failing. Upon starting the car cold, there is a harsh rattling sound for about 2 seconds. If the VTC actuator fails it could do serious damage to the engine and cause an accident if the engine fails while driving, potentially resulting in death. The 3rd Generation Fits seem to have the same issues with them that the 2015-2016 models had. I have had issues with my fuel injectors also. Honda has failed to address these issues claiming that these issues were remedied with the 3rd generation car when they really were not.

ODI #11507024FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My car started having issues with sputtering when accelerating. The check engine light came on and is throwing a P0420 code as well as a P219a code. These codes paired together appear to be related to faulty fuel injectors. Honda supposedly corrected the previous fuel injector problems in the 2015-2016 models that they extended the warranty for. A local mechanic told me he believed my issue was pertaining to fuel injectors. This will potentially cause damage to be done to my engine as well as to my catalytic converter. The light was intermittently coming on and going back off but is now staying on.

ODI #11501905UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My 2017 Honda Fit has pools of water on the floorboards and has mold around the outside edges of the carpet (under the windows). This is the second time this has happened during a heavy rain. The first time I thought maybe I did something wrong or there was a leak somewhere. This time I know that something is going on. There was no windows down, the doors were closed tight, the sunroof was closed and had no water around it. I googled to see if there was a recall or if anyone else is having problems. I found a forum of other people having the same issues. Apparently it’s the door seals. The water is leaking between the inner door panel and the liner.There hasn’t been a recall on this but there should be. The mold is definitely a safety issue and the water damage will ruin the car and the electronics on the door. There are others online with this complaint. Hopefully they will do a recall and fix the problem. Here is the link to one forum. https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/general-fit-talk/24589-water-back-floorboard-help.html

ODI #11496652ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The problem involves the Blue Tooth application in the radio console. On one occasion I was attempting to add a phone number to the list that I may use to effect hands-free calling by paring my blue-tooth phone with the car radio. On the second instance I was involved in a phone call with this system. In each case the console suddenly went dead, and it became impossible to start the vehicle. I had a power bank to jump-start the car and it had no effect. When I cranked the vehicle a light on the console blinked rapidly, but there was no ignition. On the first occasion I called for roadside assistance. When that arrived the agent used a battery pack to try to start my vehicle; but first he tested the battery and said there was not a problem. After he did that I was able to start the car. I do not remember whether his pack was connected to the vehicle when I started the car. However, the car worked without a problem until the next time I was on a phone call. Two events occurred each time; on the first event I had cleared out the phone numbers and was reprogramming them; on the second event I had purchased a new phone and was trying to re-enter phone numbers. I noted that, while the phone was paired with the car's radio, it was failing to show names associated with the numbers or to show display the names of contacts which are provided to the phone from my Google contacts list -- even though they show up on the phone. I believe there is some type of electronic signal that is generated when the blue tooth is being engaged, and that this signal cancels the ability to start the car by using a key in the ignition switch. I believe this is a serious hazard for two reasons: 1. If a person is in a remote area, it might become impossible for the driver to operate his vehicle to reach safety. 2. If this defect were to occur making the car inoperable on or near a roadway could result in a serious accident.

ODI #11461406FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

P0420. Per Honda problem was fuel injector. 88000 miles. Seems too early to fail.

ODI #11455247FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

VTC actuator is beginning to fail. If it catastrophically fails while driving, it could cause bent/seized valves, broken timing chain, broken piston rings, broken piston rods, etc. If these things were to fail whilst a person is driving at speed, it could cause an accident in which people are killed. At the very least, a failed VTC actuator could cost the vehicle owner several hundreds of dollars to repair or replace. Honda, Toyota, and other auto manufacturers are aware of this issue as demonstrated by Tech Service Bulletins (TSB) put out by the manufacturers. As an example Honda issued TSB # 16-0188. This TSB clearly identifies the issue, the root cause (VTC actuator failure), and the repair required to remedy the problem. However, Honda has not yet made a recall in regard to the faulty VTC actuator. They have not even identified what mechanical, or pneumatic process, causes the problem in the first place. The root cause of the VTC actuator failure might be due to poor oil pressure, bent or weak spring inside the VTC actuator, oil sediment causing the spring or locking mechanism to malfunction, etc. The Honda mechanics merely follow the TSB instructions and replace the VTC actuator and throw away the defective one. Nobody is responsible to dismantle the VTC actuator and determine the root cause of the failure. I've talked to Honda local and corporate levels about this lack of follow-through to locate the root cause, and I've sadly learned there is no process in place to allow for early reporting and ownership/responsibility by Honda Corporate for rectifying and/or keeping the customer from having to pay for an engineering or material defect that might cause catastrophic engine failure. I talked to the Morristown TN Honda dealership and found that they have serviced several vehicles with failed VTC actuators and that the customer's have paid out of pocket for the repair with no recourse. I have found that no one us responsible to go back through the supply ch

ODI #11454229ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The fuel, temperature and time gauges intermittently stop working on my dashboard. This is dangerous because I could run out of gas. I looked on the internet and this appears to be a common problem with Honda Fits that many people are experiencing. Honda should be responsible for replacing these faulty parts. I’ve seen where people were quoted $800 to replace the gauges. I haven’t taken it to the dealer because I’m hoping Honda will have to pay for this .

ODI #11444652POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

After the routine transmission fluid flush at about 36K miles, the vehicle stalls out/jerks after switching the selector from P to D. The issue is intermittent though. Also, the vehicle got a worsened MPG which decreased from 38-39mpg (average) to 31-33mpg on the same driving routine. And most important, the CVT transmission "switches" to neutral every time you decelerate making the vehicle unstable at higher speeds. The vehicle was inspected at the two different dealerships and none of those bring out a solution, stating that this is beyond their ability to fix something since no warning lights or messages are being illuminating. Called the manufacturer, got advised to follow up with another dealership. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE WARMER FILTER IN THE CVT TRANSMISSION WAS IMPROPERLY INSTALLED. THIS CAUSED THE FLUID FLOW OBSTRUCTION WHILE DECELERATING. THE CVT SWITCHED TO NEUTRAL DUE TO LACK OF PRESSURE TO A HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT.

ODI #11441182SUSPENSION

I brought my Honda in to Easy Honda in Spring branch Texas for some electrical problems. Turned out to be a fuse but I had to wait two extra hours until a mechanic who could use the computer came in.The front tie rod ends are completely shot on a well cared for car after only 17000 miles. And they want $250 to fix it. My son is a licensed mechanic and let me know that on a Honda those should never wear out and even in a GM product they are good for 80,000 miles. I also had the rubber shield around the oil drain area and I had to cut most of it away so I could drive it. The service writer said it was unnecessary so they would remove the rest. Well of course they lied and did not. What is really incredible is after he did what he need to do my gas mileage increased 10%! So what was wrong before that the computer fixed that I didn't know and still don't. Everyone their is a BS artist out to rip you off. When Penske owned the dealership it was great now they lie cheat and doubled the prices. I wish there was someone at Honda with a brain and cared about there formerly great reputation I could speak to.

ODI #11431811ENGINE

At cold start up, the engine rattles loudly for about 2 seconds. This is intermittent and occurs on cold starts when the car has not been started for 6-8 hours.

ODI #11414066ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE DIGITAL ODOMETER, FUEL, MPG, TRIP ODOMETER DISPLAY STOPS WORKING INTERMITTENTLY. THIS IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE I CAN'T TELL HOW MANY MILES ARE ON THE ODOMETER FOR REGULAR SERVICE AND THERE'S NO WAY TO CHECK HOW MUCH FUEL IS IN THE TANK.

ODI #11404133ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE CAR'S LCD INSTRUMENT GAUGE, SPECIFICALLY THE ONE CONTAINING THE ODOMETER AND FUEL GAUGE, EITHER DISAPPEARS OR BECOMES A JUMBLED MESS. THE PROBLEM MOST OFTEN OCCURS IN COOL, HUMID TEMPERATURES. DURING COOLER, WETTER MONTHS IT HAPPENS ALMOST EVERY MORNING AND SOMETIMES AT OTHER TIMES OF THE DAY. IT TAKES ABOUT 10-15 MINUTES OF DRIVING AND WARMING UP, SOMETIMES MORE, BEFORE THE PROBLEM FIXES ITSELF AND I CAN SEE THE GAUGE AGAIN. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING MORE OFTEN AND THE PROBLEM LASTS LONGER AS THE CAR GETS OLDER AND I AM WORRIED IT WILL BECOME PERMANENTLY BROKEN EVENTUALLY. IT IS CONCERNING BECAUSE WITHOUT THE GAUGE I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH GAS OR RANGE IS LEFT IN THE TANK. I HAVE HEARD OF OTHER FIT OWNERS WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUE.

ODI #11383552STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THE PAINT IS PEELING OFF THE ROOF OF MY 2017 HONDA FIT. I HAVE READ UP ON THIS ONLINE AND IT SEEMS TO BE A VERY COMMON ISSUE. HONDA HAS ALREADY RECALLED THE OTHER WHITE VERSION OF MY CAR FOR THE SAME ISSUE, AND I GOT A LETTER SAYING NOT TO WORRY THAT DOESN'T APPLY TO ME. I HAVE READ FROM OTHERS EXPERIENCES WARRANTYING THEIR HONDA'S FOR THIS ISSUE THAT IT'S A ONE TIME FIX AND ANY FURTHER ISSUES WITH PAINT ARE 100% COMING OUT OF THE CONSUMERS POCKET. HONDA HAS STATED THAT THEY WILL NOT PROVIDE ME WITH A LOANER CAR OR RENTAL CAR IF I PUT MY CAR IN THE SHOP TO GET THIS 'FIXED'. THEIR RESPONSE IS 'THAT THEY CAN'T CONTROL WHAT THEIR DEALERS PROVIDE'. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE IN THIS MATTER.

ODI #11366458SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

THE VEHICLE INCLUDES AN EARTH DREAMS ENGINE, DIRECT INJECTION AND CUT TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE HAS AN ABNORMAL VIBRATION AT IDLE WHEN IN PARK, NEUTRAL, OR UNDER LOAD IN DRIVE AT A STOP. SOME COMPONENTS OF THE SUSPENSION ARE NOT ADJUSTABLE AND OUT OF SPEC.

ODI #11350236UNKNOWN OR OTHER

MY PAINT IS PEELING OFF.

ODI #11316428VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

I HAVE A 2017 HONDA FIT LX. AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN A DECLINE ON A CITY STREET I WAS TAPPING THE BRAKES TO SLOW DOWN THE VEHICLE TO KEEP IT AT OR UNDER THE SPEED LIMIT. AS I GOT TO THE BOTTOM OF THE DECLINE THE TRAFFIC LIGHT TURNED RED SO I APPLIED THE BRAKES SIGNIFICANTLY HARDER AND CONSTANT. AS I BRAKED FOR THE STOPLIGHT THE ENGINE REVVED UP AND I HAD A HARD TIME COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP BEFORE THE STOPLIGHT. EVEN AT A COMPLETE STOP THE ENGINE WAS REVVING. I PUT THE CAR IN PARK TO TRY TO STOP THE ENGINE FROM REVVING BUT IT DIDN'T HELP. THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV AT A CONSTANT RATE. I TRIED TO TAKE THE CAR OUT OF PARK AND PUT IT IN A LOW GEAR TO GET THE SYSTEM TO RESET BUT I COULD NOT GET THE VEHICLE OUT OF PARK. THE ONLY THING THAT STOPPED THE ENGINE FROM REVVING WAS TURNING THE CAR OFF. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT CAUSED THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION OF THE ENGINE AS I STOPPED AND WHY IT CONTINUED IN PARK BUT I FIGURED IF IT HAPPENED TO ME THAT IT COULD ALSO HAPPEN TO SOMEONE ELSE IN THE FUTURE SO IT SHOULD BE REPORTED

ODI #11128836SEATS

BOTH FRONT SEAT HEAD RESTRAINTS ARE ANGLED TOO FAR FORWARD. I AM 6 FT TALL AND AM NOT ABLE TO REST MY BACK AGAINST THE SEAT WITHOUT THE HEAD RESTRAINT TOUCH MY HEAD FIRST AND PUSH IT DOWNWARD. THIS IS THE CASE, REGARDLESS OF THE HEIGHT OF THE HEAD RESTRAINT. THE MOST NON-UNCOMFORTABLE POSITION IS WITH THE RESTRAINT COMPLETELY DOWN, BUT AT THAT POSITION, IT IS VERY AWKWARD. I AM CONCERNED THAT IF I AM REAR-ENDED, I WILL GET A CERVICAL COMPRESSION OR RELATED FREAK INJURY DUE TO THE UNNATURAL ANGLING.

ODI #11100743WHEELS

TAKATA RECALL, ORIGNAL TIRES COME FILLED WITH NITROGEN ON HONDA FIT LEAKING AIR DUE TO DEFECTIVE TIRES HONDA WAS STATIONARY WHEN ALL AIR LEAKED OUT. REGULAR AIR WAS PUT IN ALL TIRES AND CHECKED BY MECHANICS NO NAILS, SLASHES OR ANY PUNCTURES. VEHICLE LOOSES ALL AIR WHEN STATIONED.

ODI #11097965STRUCTURE

ROOF PAINT CLEAR COAT SEVERALLY PEELING AND FLAKING. COLOR IS BLUE.

ODI #11073971ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I BOUGHT THIS BRAND NEW $17K CAR IN AUGUST. I HAVE REPLACED SEVEN TIRES. ALL DIFF WHEELS. ALL DIFFERENT CONTINENTAL TIRES 185/60 15. .BREAKDOWNS ON MY COMMUTE HOME AFTER MIDNIGHT. FINALLY MY 7TH BREAKDOWN WAS BROADCAST AS I WAS TRYING TO CROSS THE GEORGE WASHINGTON BRIDGE AT 1 AM ON VALENTINES DAY AND WITH HONDA ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AND MY INSURANCE CO ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE, NO ONE CAME TO MY AID. I WAS BLOCKINTG TRAFFIC, AS I TRIED MYSELF TO CHANGE THE TIRE AFTER TWO HOURS OF FEAR THAT MY CAR OR I WOULD BE HIT BY A TRACTOR TRAILOR, AND THAT WOULD BE THE END OF ME. THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEM, ALL LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD ON BEGAN AFTER THE SECOND TIRE MALFUNCTION, AND CANNOT BE RESET. I NEED TO GO TO DEALER AND RENT A CAR FOR THEM TO FIGURE THIS ALL OUT. MEANWHILE, MY GAS MILEAGE HAS MAJOR ISSUES. I REFUEL EVER OTHER DAY. SAME COMMUTE FOR 6 YEARS. WHEN I DROVE MY MINI COOPER, I FILLED UP ONCE A WEEK. BUT THREE OR FOUR TIMES A WEEK? SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH MY CAR AT 10,000 MILES. IT FEELS LIKE A CLUNKER. I AM GOING TO GET RID OF IT. LOOK INTO MY STATES LEMON LAW AND RID MYSELF OF THIS HUNK OF JUNK. I AM ALSO WRITING TO HONDA. BUT THIS TIRE ISSUE HAS COST ME OVER $1500 DOLLARS IN SIX MONTHS AND TIME/SAFETY ISSUES. ONE BUYS A NEW CAR FOR FREEDOM FROM PROBLEMS. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT THE DEALERSHIP, (ESPECIALLY SINCE THEY KNEW OF THIS "TIRE" ISSUE.

ODI #11054370ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I BOUGHT A 2017 HONDA FIT EX ON AUGUST 9. ON DECEMBER 9, ALL OF THE WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON AND WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THEY INFORMED ME THAT RATS HAD CHEWED THROUGH THE ENGINE WIRING AND THAT THE REPAIR, WHICH IS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY, WOULD BE $1000. HONDA IS CLEARLY AWARE OF THE ISSUE OF RODENTS AFFINITY FOR THEIR SOY BASED WIRE COATING, AS THEY'VE DEVELOPED CAPSAICIN TAPE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO COMBAT THE ISSUE. I'M NOT SURE WHY I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS PRODUCT, OR APPLY IT MYSELF TO WIRING THAT I CANNOT PHYSICALLY ACCESS. I PARKED MY 2003 VOLKSWAGEN IN THE SAME SPOT FOR YEARS WITH NO ISSUE, NOR HAS MY HUSBAND HAD ANY RODENT PROBLEMS WITH HIS 2003 MITSUBISHI.

ODI #11048538STRUCTURE

THE PANEL UNDER THE OIL PAN FELL OFF. THE FASTENING CLIPS ARE MISSING AND THIS DESIGN IS FLAWED. MANY OTHER CONSUMERS ALSO COMPLAINED ABOUT LOSING FASTENERS ON THIS PANEL.

Complaint & Reliability Timeline

Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red

Annual complaints and reliability score for HONDA Fit — recall years marked in red
0612050100201720192021202320252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 42 total NHTSA complaints filed over 8 years, with the worst year being 2023 (12 complaints).

The amber reliability line averaged 97/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 92/100 in 2025.

Notably, despite 42 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.

Details & Analysis
Financial

5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate

Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs

$1,800
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$1,800
Annual Maintenance
9-yr-old vehicle avg
$265
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$28,325

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$25,193
~$420/mo over 5 yrs
$0.2/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$9,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$6,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$1,500
Depreciation
$1,193

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $25,193 (~$420/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Estimated Market Value

Depreciation-based estimate from original MSRP

$3,000
Low
$3,500
Est. Value
$4,000
High

Based on original MSRP of $15,990 with sedan depreciation curve. Range reflects ±15% market variance. Actual value depends on condition, options, and local demand.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2017 HONDA Fit — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for JHMGK5H53HS009506. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,350–$1,720/yr
~$113–$143/mo
Liability Only
$510–$640/yr
~$43–$53/mo
Category: Economy
9-year-old vehicle: −7% (moderate depreciation)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty History

Federal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations

HONDA has been fined $93M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2016: Additional penalties related to Takata airbag recall management.

2015$70MFailure to report deaths and injuries linked to Takata airbag defect
2016$23MAdditional penalties related to Takata airbag recall management

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VINJHMGK5H53HS009506
Model Year2017
MakeHONDA
ModelFit
TrimLX
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleHatchback/Liftback/Notchback
Doors5
Seat Rows5
Drive Type4x2
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionContinuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)1.5
Horsepower130

Manufacturer

ManufacturerHONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
Assembly CitySUZUKA
Assembly CountryJAPAN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)JHM
Check Digit (Char 9)3
Model Year Code (Char 10)H
Plant Code (Char 11)S
Sequence (Chars 12–17)009506

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count0
NHTSA Complaint Count42

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

J
1
H
2
M
3
G
4
K
5
5
6
H
7
5
8
3
9
H
10
S
11
0
12
0
13
9
14
5
15
0
16
6
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
J
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
H
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
M
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
GK5H5
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
3
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
H
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
S
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
009506
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Japan
From VIN position 1 (J)
Model Year Character
"H" → 2017
Could also be 1987
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 8/2/2026, 7:50:50 PM.