2011 Honda Insight Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Excellent fuel economy (40 MPG combined) makes it a cost-effective commuter.
- Extensive critical safety recalls, especially for airbag inflators, demand buyer vigilance.
- Verify all open recalls have been addressed by a dealer before purchase.
- The 1.3-liter engine and AV-S7 automatic transmission are generally reliable, but focus on the airbag system's history.
2011 Honda Insight
Critical Failure Risk
Extensive recalls address Takata airbag inflator modules. Degradation can cause rupture during deployment, posing a severe safety risk. This is the primary critical safety concern for this model.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Commuters prioritizing maximum fuel efficiency on a budget.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers prioritizing a flawless safety record or minimal recall history.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Honda Insight Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Honda Insight.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S7)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 40
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbag Inflator Rupture
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Hybrid Battery Degradation
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Honda Insight reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Honda Insight is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2011 Honda Insight for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 40 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Honda Insight?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Honda Insight is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Honda Insight?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Inflator Module (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What engine is in the 2011 Honda Insight?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.3.
What transmission does the 2011 Honda Insight use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Insight, transmission is Automatic (AV-S7). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Honda Insight?
EPA combined estimate is 40 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Honda Insight?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2011 Honda Insight?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Insight, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Honda Insight use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Insight, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S7).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Honda Insight?
NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Honda Insight?
This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.