Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2021
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a strong positive bias among long-term owners who appreciate the vehicle's core value proposition.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentAir Conditioning System Failures
Recurrent and costly failures of both the evaporator and condenser components, described as a "ticking timebomb" in used vehicles. Repairs reported in the $2,500 USD range.
- RecurrentTraction Battery Failure
Complete failure of the main hybrid battery pack preventing the vehicle from starting or running, requiring replacement. One report of failure at approximately 65,000 miles.
- RecurrentInfotainment Software Bugs
Issues with Android Auto voice navigation cutting out when music is playing; auto day/night mode for the display not functioning; system requiring resets.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedWindshield Washer System
Inadequate fluid distribution, particularly on the driver's side wiper blade, leaving the top third of the windshield dry. Dealer service often states it is "to spec.".
- IsolatedCharging System Problems
Intermittent failures to charge, especially on Level 2 chargers, sometimes putting the vehicle into a "limp mode." Difficulty in diagnosing and repairing.
- IsolatedHeadlight/Turn Signal Electrical Faults
"Headlight Problem" warnings, turn signal failures, and intermittent operation traced to shorts within the headlight assembly or related fuses.
- IsolatedOil Pan/Splash Shield Reattachment
Mechanics failing to properly re-secure the aluminum splash shield after an oil change, leading to screws vibrating out and the shield potentially falling off.
The version owners recommend
The Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) variant is overwhelmingly the version discussed and recommended by owners. The Fuel Cell (FCV) and Battery Electric (BEV) variants are mentioned only in the context of the model's history and discontinuation, with no substantive owner feedback provided in the data. Within the PHEV model years (2018-2020), no specific trim level is singled out as superior; feedback applies broadly to the PHEV powertrain.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Insight, Toyota Prius Prime, Chevrolet Volt, Ford C-Max Hybrid and Tesla Model 3.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a strong positive bias among long-term owners who appreciate the vehicle's core value proposition. The Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) variant is consistently praised for its exceptional all-electric range (frequently cited as best-in-class at the time), refined and quiet cabin, comfortable ride quality attributed to a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, and high-quality interior materials that exceed typical Honda expectations, offering an Acura-like feel. Owners report high satisfaction with the ability to conduct daily commutes entirely on electricity while having a gasoline engine for longer trips. However, significant and recurrent criticisms focus on major component failures, particularly with the air conditioning system (evaporator and condenser) and the high-voltage traction battery, which are described as costly, time-consuming repairs. Additional complaints include infotainment software bugs, quirky design elements like the windshield washer system, and concerns about dealership service competency for this specialized model. The consensus indicates deep appreciation for the car's design and efficiency when operational, but frustration with reliability issues that contradict Honda's reputation.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a premium, spacious plug-in hybrid sedan offering superior electric-only range and interior refinement compared to mainstream competitors like the Prius Prime and Chevrolet Volt. Frequently described as offering Acura-level comfort and features at a Honda price point, especially when purchased used. Seen as a practical alternative to early-generation battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) by providing long electric range for daily use without "range anxiety," but at a significant cost advantage at time of purchase. Its discontinuation is noted as limiting its visibility compared to ongoing competitors.
Recommended configurations
Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) configuration is strongly recommended for its combination of usable electric range and gasoline backup. For owners who drive primarily in EV mode, using ethanol-free gasoline is suggested to avoid fuel degradation during long periods of tank inactivity. Learning to use the HV (Hybrid) mode button proactively for highway driving to preserve battery charge or recharge the battery using the engine is advised. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the health of the air conditioning system and main traction battery is critical for used models.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers seeking a comfortable, refined, and efficient sedan with ample electric range for daily commuting, provided they are comfortable with potential out-of-warranty repair costs. Particularly compelling as a used vehicle purchase where significant depreciation has occurred. NOT recommended for those expecting typical Honda bulletproof reliability, as several major, expensive failures are reported. Essential to have a dedicated 120V home charging outlet. Prospective buyers should budget for potential major repairs (AC system, traction battery) or seek an extended warranty that explicitly covers these components. Test drives should verify all HVAC functions and check for any warning lights related to the hybrid system.
Remarks
Owner feedback is exclusively for the 2018-2020 model years, with the 2018 model year being the most frequently discussed. The vehicle was discontinued in 2021, which impacts parts availability and manufacturer support. The Clarity was designed as a multi-powertrain vehicle (PHEV, BEV, Fuel Cell), with the PHEV inheriting premium components like its suspension from the more expensive Fuel Cell variant, explaining its above-segment ride quality. A significant portion of negative sentiment is directed at Honda dealerships' inability to properly diagnose and repair the unique systems of this vehicle, exacerbating reliability concerns. The consensus is that the Clarity PHEV is an underrated, high-value vehicle when functioning correctly, but its ownership experience is marred by a few severe, expensive failure points not typical of the brand. Analysis based on approximately 30 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2018. Years to avoid: 2019, 2018Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Honda Clarity years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 7 | 0 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2020 | 10 | 0 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2019 | 45 | 2 | engine |
| 2018 | 160 | 3 | engine |
| 2017 | 5 | 3 | equipment |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices8 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · seat belts:rear/othercampaign 20V326000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2019 Clarity Fuel Cell, Clarity Electric, and Clarity Plug-in Hybrid vehicles with rear seat belt assemblies with a dual-mode locking mechanism. The seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended.
2019 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 23V858000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2018 · equipment:electricalcampaign 19V315000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles. Internal components may corrode and cause the water pump to fail.
2018 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 18V921000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles previously repaired under recall 18V-068. The previous software remedy may have been incomplete. As a result, the fuel cell control unit (FC-ECU) may misinterpret a small cell voltage drop, causing the vehicle to have a partial or complete loss of power.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 23V858000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2017 · equipment:electricalcampaign 19V315000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles. Internal components may corrode and cause the water pump to fail.
2017 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 18V921000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles previously repaired under recall 18V-068. The previous software remedy may have been incomplete. As a result, the fuel cell control unit (FC-ECU) may misinterpret a small cell voltage drop, causing the vehicle to have a partial or complete loss of power.
2017 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 18V068000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017 Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles. The fuel cell control unit (FC-ECU) may misinterpret a small cell voltage drop, causing the vehicle to have reduced, or a complete loss of, power.
Specifications
25.5 kWh Electric
Electric · 163 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2016–2019