CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Honda›
  4. Clarity›
  5. 2017

2017 Honda Clarity Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional initial quality demonstrated by zero recalls and zero NHTSA complaints.
  • Remarkable fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 68 MPG combined.
  • Hydrogen fuel cell technology offers a unique, emissions-free driving experience.
  • Front-wheel drive and automatic transmission provide a familiar driving dynamic.
See the 4 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Honda Clarity

The 2017 Honda Clarity represents a forward-thinking approach to alternative energy vehicles, utilizing a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain. For the used car shopper, this translates to an exceptionally clean bill of health from a reliability standpoint, with no recalls or complaints filed with NHTSA. Its fuel economy figures are outstanding, offering a glimpse into efficient motoring. However, the hydrogen infrastructure remains a significant consideration for potential owners.

Critical Failure Risk

Exceptional initial quality demonstrated by zero recalls and zero NHTSA complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
68
MPG
City
69
MPG
Highway
67
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.7/ 10

Practicality

7.4/ 10

Watch-outs include small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers with consistent access to hydrogen fueling stations.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers without readily available hydrogen fueling infrastructure.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Honda Clarity Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Honda Clarity.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Hydrogen
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (A1)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
68

CarFocal account required

See the full 2017 Honda Clarity buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Check) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Brake Fluid Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $150

15,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Honda Clarity reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Honda Clarity is 9.7/10. Reliability score is 9.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Honda Clarity for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 7.4/10. Watch-outs include small boot. EPA combined economy is 68 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 314 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Honda Clarity is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.1/10. Practicality 7.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Check) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Brake Fluid Inspection at 15,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $150 - $300.

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

Base MSRP is $36,620.

What transmission does the 2017 Honda Clarity use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Honda Clarity, transmission is Automatic (A1). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 Clarity require Hydrogen gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Hydrogen.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

EPA combined estimate is 68 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2017 Honda Clarity use?▾

Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Honda Clarity, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Honda Clarity?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Honda Clarity, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Honda Clarity use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Honda Clarity, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (A1).

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.