As you consider purchasing this eco-friendly vehicle, you’re likely wondering which model years to focus on and which to avoid. You’ve made a smart decision to research, and now you’re about to uncover the best and worst years of the Honda Clarity. From impressive reliability to frustrating defects, the Clarity’s track record is a mixed bag. Let’s delve into the top model years that boast high praise and the ones plagued by problems, giving you a clearer picture of your investment.
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Key Takeaways
- The 2021, 2020, and 2017 models are the best, with high praise from auto industry reviews and low reported problems.
- The 2018 and 2019 models are the worst, with numerous complaints and low ratings from Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book rated the best years highly and the worst years poorly.
- The worst model years have received low ratings from Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book, indicating reliability issues.
- The best model years have received high ratings from Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book, indicating a solid reliability record.
- The Honda Clarity has a solid reliability record, backed by extended warranty coverage for certain components.
Best and Worst Model Years
When considering the Honda Clarity, you’ll want to focus on the best model years, which are clearly 2021, 2020, and 2017.
These models have received high praise from auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
If you’re in the market for your next car, you’ll want to steer clear of the worst model years, which are 2018 and 2018, with numerous complaints and problems reported.
Purchasing and Incentives
You’ll find the Honda Clarity is an attractive option with its competitive pricing, ranging from around $23,000 to $34,000, depending on the trim level and features.
As a savvy buyer, you’ll appreciate the federal tax credit of up to $7,500, making it a great investment. Some states and utilities also offer additional incentives, such as rebates or lower electricity rates.
These perks can significantly lower your overall cost of ownership. With its impressive fuel economy and lower operating costs, the Honda Clarity is an intelligent choice for environmentally conscious buyers on a budget.
Model Year and Trim Level Differences
The Honda Clarity’s model year and trim level differences are crucial considerations for buyers.
You’ll want to research thoroughly to find the right fit.
- The Touring model offers more adjustable seats, which can be a game-changer for taller individuals.
- Base models lack leather seats, but this may not be a deal-breaker for some buyers.
- Year-to-year model changes can impact the availability of certain features, so be sure to check the specifics of the model year you’re interested in.
Reliability, Maintenance, and Performance
As you own and operate your Honda Clarity, you’ll benefit from its solid reliability record, which is backed by extended warranty coverage for certain components.
To guarantee your car runs smoothly, you’ll want to prioritize maintenance, taking steps to protect vulnerable components like the A/C condenser.
Solid Reliability Record
Honda’s commitment to durability shines through in the Clarity’s solid reliability record.
You can drive with confidence, knowing that certain components are backed by extended warranty coverage.
To further protect your investment, consider these accessories:
- Rock shields to safeguard the A/C condenser from damage
- 3D max-pider mats to keep your interior clean and protected
- Infotainment screen protector to prevent scratches and cracks
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Clarity running smoothly.
Protecting Key Components
Your Clarity’s key components require attention to prevent wear and tear.
Regular maintenance is essential to extend their lifespan. For instance, protecting the A/C condenser with rock shields can prevent damage.
You should also inspect your OEM charge cables regularly to prevent damage.
Additionally, switching to HV+ mode can help maintain EV miles and prevent high-RPM scenarios.
Daily Driving Habits
You can significantly impact your Clarity’s reliability, maintenance, and performance through your daily driving habits.
By being mindful of your driving habits, you can prevent wear and tear on certain components, maintain EV miles, and optimize performance.
- Switch to HV+ mode to maintain EV miles and prevent high-RPM scenarios, especially during mountainous or unfamiliar terrain.
- Be aware of your driving habits when climbing steep grades, as this can impact performance.
- Regular maintenance is essential to prevent wear and tear on certain components, and driver awareness and mode selection can mitigate potential issues.
Inspection, Test Drive, and Maintenance
When shopping for a used Clarity, you’ll want to create a pre-purchase checklist to guarantee you’re covering all your bases.
This list should include a thorough vehicle condition assessment, which will help you identify any potential issues or needed repairs.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
Before buying a used Honda Clarity, a thorough pre-purchase checklist is essential to avoid costly surprises down the road.
You’ll want to take a close look at the vehicle’s history, inspecting for any signs of damage or needed repairs.
- Review maintenance records to guarantee all necessary work has been done.
- Take a test drive to identify any performance issues.
- Check for any outstanding recalls or manufacturer notices.
Vehicle Condition Assessment
The vehicle condition assessment is a critical component of the pre-purchase process, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the Honda Clarity’s overall state.
You’ll want to inspect the vehicle’s exterior and interior, looking for any signs of damage or wear.
Take it for a test drive to identify any issues with the engine, transmission, or brakes.
Review maintenance records to see if the vehicle has been properly serviced.
A thorough vehicle condition assessment will give you a clear picture of the Honda Clarity’s condition, helping you make an informed purchase decision.
Additional Considerations
As you weigh the pros and cons of buying a Honda Clarity, you’ll want to factor in some additional considerations that might impact your decision.
These factors can make a significant difference in your overall ownership experience.
- Fuel efficiency and cost: Will you prioritize saving on gas or have a larger budget for fuel costs?
- Maintenance and repair costs: Are you prepared to handle unexpected repairs or maintenance needs?
- Personal preferences: Do you prioritize features like heated seats or advanced safety features?
What Are The Best Years For The Honda Clarity?
When researching the Honda Clarity, you’ll likely want to know which model years stand out from the rest.
The 2021 Clarity is a top pick, with an Edmunds rating of 4.3/5.0 and a Kelley Blue Book rating of 4.5/5.0. It boasts a comfortable cabin filled with standard safety and entertainment features.
The 2020 Clarity is another excellent option, with a 4.1/5.0 Edmunds rating and 4.5/5.0 Kelley Blue Book rating. Both models are modern, reliable, and among the final two years produced, making them great choices for those seeking a dependable Clarity.
What Are The Worst Years For The Honda Clarity?
You’ll want to avoid certain model years of the Honda Clarity due to recurring issues.
Specifically, you’ve likely heard about power issues reported in some models, which can be frustrating to deal with.
Additionally, poor exterior lighting and sudden acceleration complaints have also been raised by owners of certain years.
Power Issues Reported
The Honda Clarity’s power issues have been a significant concern for many owners, particularly those who’ve experienced problems with their vehicle’s battery, electric motor, or fuel cell.
You might be wondering what exactly is going wrong.
- The 2018 model has issues with its electric motor, leading to reduced power output.
- Some 2019 owners have experienced problems with their fuel cell, causing the vehicle to stall or lose power.
- Additionally, certain 2020 models have had issues with their battery management system, resulting in decreased battery life.
Poor Exterior Lighting
While power issues can be frustrating, poor exterior lighting can be a safety concern. You’ll want to be aware of the models with subpar lighting. The following table highlights the affected years and their corresponding lighting issues.
| Year | Lighting Issue |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Weak low-beam headlights |
| 2019 | Dim fog lights |
| 2020 | Faulty LED taillights |
| 2021 | Insufficient backup lights |
| 2022 | Inadequate high-beam headlights |
Sudden Acceleration Complaints
Sudden acceleration can be a hair-raising experience, especially when you’re cruising down the highway.
You expect your car to respond smoothly, not lurch forward unexpectedly. Unfortunately, some Honda Clarity models have been plagued by sudden acceleration complaints.
- 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid: Owners reported sudden acceleration when pressing the brake pedal.
- 2020 Honda Clarity Hybrid: Drivers experienced unintended acceleration when shifting from “D” to “R” gear.
- 2019 Honda Clarity Electric: Some owners reported sudden acceleration when driving uphill or merging onto a highway.
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Honda Clarity?
If you’re in the market for a fuel-efficient vehicle, you may want to weigh options in lieu of the Honda Clarity’s impressive features and performance.
The Honda Accord Hybrid is a strong alternative, with a score of 8.6 and an MSRP of $26,137-$36,682.
The Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry Hybrid are also viable options, with scores of 8.5 and MSRPs ranging from $25,109 to $34,536.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider the Honda Insight or Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, both with scores of 8.3 and MSRPs under $30,000.
Car Depreciation Calculator
When buying a car like the Honda Clarity, you’re not just paying for the sticker price – you’re investing in its future resale value.
A car depreciation calculator is an essential tool to understand the resale market.
- Provide historical depreciation curves for hundreds of cars, going back 12 years
- Offer customized results based on your inputs for the next decade
- Rank results from highest to lowest resale values, enabling you to compare models and make informed decisions
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Honda Fit, Honda HR-V, Honda Civic and Honda Accord. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
