20 Reasons Mechanics Warn NEVER to Buy a Honda (2024)

While a Honda's interior might look pristine when you buy it, the quality of the materials reveals itself in just a short time, showing signs of age after just a few years. And the seating arrangement isn’t really doing any favors for your back, either.

Even if you upgrade your upholstery to leather or get the high-end infotainment option, you aren’t getting anything much better for your money. Ultimately, you get what you pay for, and it may be worth it to buy a better car if you want to keep it around for the next ten years.

Honda, typically renowned for fuel efficiency, has a few models that will make your wallet weep at the pump. Take the Honda Passport and Ridgeline, for instance — these vehicles are more interested in guzzling gas than saving it. Averaging only around 20 miles per gallon, they're far from economical when compared to competitors.

In an era where fuel prices rival your last Uber Eats bill, these models can feel like an unexpected drain on your budget. For those who love their vehicles, but not the frequent gas station visits, you might want to look elsewhere. Think of all the other things you could spend that extra gas money on — like a lifetime supply of avocados or a new hobby!

Out of all their vehicles, their trucks are perhaps priced the worst. In particular, the Honda Ridgeline, which is only a compact pickup, costs almost the same as a full-size Ford or Chevy Silverado.

For the price of one Honda Ridgeline, you could buy two Ford Mavericks – Ford’s compact pickup truck that also comes with a hybrid powertrain. Honda trucks just aren’t worth your money.

Sure, Hondas are known for their reliability, but don't let that fool you into thinking maintenance is cheap. While you might be saving at the pump, you could be spending a fortune on service. Parts and labor for Honda models often come with a premium price tag that can make even seasoned mechanics wince.

From pricey brake pads to costly oil changes, you might find yourself shelling out more than you bargained for. If you're thinking about getting a Honda, keep in mind that the sticker price isn't everything. The maintenance costs can make you wish you had gotten something cheaper!

Many critics argue that handling isn't always a strong suit. Compared to certain competitors, Hondas often prioritize a smoother, more comfortable ride over a sharp, sporty performance. That makes Hondas a lot less fun to drive, ultimately creating an inhibiting experience.

Also, as a result of Honda’s tunning, steering is less responsive thansportier options. This can make it feel less precise or responsive during sharp maneuvers.

If you’re considering a Honda, brace yourself for a ride that’s less cloud and more concrete. Honda’s sporty suspension can turn your daily commute into a jarring adventure, especially on rough roads. While it’s great for cornering like a champ, those same attributes might leave you feeling every bump and pothole as if they’re part of your personal obstacle course.

It’s not that Hondas lack comfort — far from it — but if you prioritize a smooth, cushioned ride over spirited handling, you might want to look elsewhere. In essence, if you dream of gliding over the pavement like a luxury liner, the Honda’s ride might not quite meet your expectations.

Off-road capability has never been one of Honda’s strengths, and most of its vehicles, including its truck, the Honda Ridgeline, are not well-suited for off-roading.

Arguably, the only decent vehicle with at least some off-road abilities is the Honda Pilot, and that’s pushing it. We’d still hardly call it an off-road vehicle.

If you’re dreaming of a car that stands out from the sea of grey, black, and white, Honda might not be your best bet. While their vehicles are reliable and well-engineered, their color palette often resembles a minimalist’s dream. For those who crave vibrant hues or unique finishes, Honda’s limited color options can feel like a splash of disappointment.

It’s as if their designers decided to play it safe, leaving your ride looking more “meh” than “wow.” If you’re looking for a car that makes a statement with its color as much as its performance, you might want to look elsewhere — or prepare for a life in the monochrome lane.

To make matters worse, Honda trucks are useless for towing. The Ridgeline, the only truck in the Honda lineup, has a towing capacity of just 5,000 pounds.

With a towing capacity that light, expect to tow only a small trailer or maybe a small boat – or a jet ski. Anything bigger, and you’ll be pushing the Ridgeline pastit* limits.

If you’re a tech enthusiast, Honda’s tech features might feel like they’re stuck in a time warp. While their cars are renowned for reliability, their in-car technology can seem a bit behind the curve. From clunky infotainment systems to limited integration with the latest apps, Honda’s tech can make you feel like you’re driving a time machine rather than a cutting-edge vehicle.

Features that have become standard in competitors' cars, like advanced driver-assistance systems and seamless smartphone connectivity, might be missing or outdated in a Honda. This means that Honda products might not be the best choice if you're trying to show off your affinity for cutting-edge technology.

Honda vehicles have long been lauded for their reliability and practicality. As such, they have a higher resale value than other vehicles. That’s not always a good thing if you plan to keep your car. For thieves, Honda’s resale value means they can make a quick buck.

In particular, the Honda Civic and Honda Accord are among the most commonly stolen cars on the market. Combined with a high production number and availability of parts, if you drive a Honda, you could be a target for theft.

Ever tried to have a conversation with your car’s engine? In a Honda, you might end up shouting. Many Honda models suffer from a noisy cabin, which means road and engine noise can drown out your favorite podcast or make phone calls a challenge. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising down the highway, the clamor inside can be a constant companion.

For that reason, the Honda's cabin noise may be too much for those seeking a peaceful trip in which their thoughts are the sole sound. Maybe it’s time to invest in some noise-canceling headphones — unless, of course, you’re into the soundtrack of a revving engine.

Across their lineup, Honda vehicles can sometimes feel hom*ogenous. Similarities in design elements between sedans, SUVs, and even minivans can lead to a sense of generic blandness, especially when parked next to all-new models from competitors.

Part of the reason is that vehicles like the CR-V have been using the same basic design for the past ten years, with very few distinctions between model years. Their flagship cars, the Civic and the Accord, also look the same.

If you're after adrenaline-pumping thrills, a Honda might not be your go-to. Despite their reputation for reliability, these cars often come up short in the performance department. Think of them as the dependable friend who’s great for study sessions but not for wild parties.

While their engines get the job done without complaint, they're rarely the ones that make your heart race. Whether it's the zippy acceleration or the thrilling cornering, Honda vehicles are more about smooth rides than speed demons. The next time you're in the market for a high-performance vehicle that will satisfy your need for thrills on the road, consider options outside of Honda's inventory.

Honda has replaced nearly every V6 engine in its lineup with a turbocharged four-cylinder. While this is done for efficiency and better gas mileage, the result is a vehicle that struggles to keep up with traffic.

Their weaker engines have compromised the driver experience, and now Hondas are just riding on the coattails of their brand name. They are certainly no fun to drive.

When it comes to automotive passion, Honda often misses the mark with its lack of enthusiast models. While reliable and practical, the brand’s lineup skews heavily towards the sensible and the economical. You won’t find a high-performance option like the old Civic Type R that ignites the same excitement as its rivals.

Enthusiasts crave cars that deliver thrills, not just commuter convenience. So, if you’re seeking a vehicle that sets your heart racing, Honda might leave you cold — unless, of course, your idea of excitement is really good gas mileage. For those craving a bit more spice, other brands offer models that might just satisfy your inner speed demon!

Trying to keep the cost of production low, Honda offers customers inferiority in terms of the more technological aspects of its cars.

From clunky infotainment systems to missing features that have become a standard in most other models, Honda has been cutting costs where it can, charging customers more for better technology, or throwing it out the window altogether.

While Hondas are known for their reliability, their resale value might not be as impressive as their engine performance. Despite their strong reputation, Honda vehicles often depreciate faster than some competitors. This can be a deal-breaker if you’re planning to sell or trade-in your car down the road.

That gleaming new Civic may not be the best investment if you want to recoup all of your money when it's time to upgrade. Sometimes, the long-term cost of ownership includes a bit more than just regular maintenance — especially if you're thinking of cashing in on that 'like-new' look!

One area of concern has been the electrical components that control the infotainment system and other features. These issues can manifest in various ways, such as flickering screens, unresponsive buttons, or even complete system failures.

Another concern is electrical problems related to the battery or alternator. A failing battery can lead to difficulty starting the car, while alternator problems can prevent the battery from being properly charged, causing a range of electrical issues.

If you’re dreaming of cramming an epic road trip’s worth of gear into your car, a Honda might not be your best bet. Despite their impressive reliability and sleek designs, Honda models often come with a trunk space that feels more like a shoebox than a spacious storage area.

Sure, the compact dimensions might be great for city parking, but if you’re packing for a weekend getaway or transporting your latest flea market finds, you might end up playing a game of Tetris with your luggage. Consider a Honda if you’re okay with a trunk that’s more “cute” than “cavernous” — otherwise, you might want to explore some alternatives that won’t leave your bags begging for mercy.

As practical as they may be for some families, the Honda crossover lineup looks seriously dated at this point. The Honda CR-V and HR-V, especially, look almost like minivans.

If you love minivans, that’s great, but the crossover design has changed radically among competitors, and Honda has been using the same design for its vehicles for almost a decade. On top of that, it offers pretty much the same lackluster performance as its sedans.

If you're in the market for a Honda, you might want to take a seat — literally. Honda’s seats have often been critiqued for their lack of long-term comfort. While they may look stylish, they sometimes fail to provide the support needed for those marathon road trips or daily commutes.

Whether it’s the firmness that feels more like a wooden bench or the lack of lumbar support that leaves your back aching, these seats might not be your idea of a cozy ride. Therefore, you should probably sit in a Honda before buying it, unless you enjoy "will-this-ache-go-away?" road trips.

You used to be able to get a car like the Honda Civic for around $20K in recent years or a Honda Fit for even less. But now, the Honda Fit has been discontinued and the Honda Civic costs over $25K.

Honda’s no longer offer the affordability they offered in the past years. You can find a ton of other options, like the Subaru Impreza or Volkswagen Jetta for a lot less.

When it comes to Honda, customization isn’t exactly their strong suit. Unlike some brands that practically roll out the red carpet for aftermarket accessories, Honda tends to keep things pretty standard. If you’re someone who dreams of a car that’s as unique as your Netflix watch history, you might find Honda’s limited customization options a bit of a letdown.

From paint colors to trim choices, the options can feel as sparse as a vending machine in a desert. Look elsewhere if you're desperate to add some flair and pizzazz to your vehicle. Honda might keep things simple, but it’s not exactly a playground for car enthusiasts craving custom mods.

For their sedan, cargo space in Honda models, tends to be limited, posing a huge problem for the needs of families. The Civic, for instance, has under 15 cubic feet, while the Chevy Malibu has over 15.

Even many of their SUVs, like the Honda HR-V, are limited in space. For example, the HR-V offers just 55 cubic feet of space, while the Jeep Compass provides nearly 60 cubic feet.

reliability and efficiency, they don’t exactly deliver the thrill ride you might expect from sportier brands. The handling is precise but can feel more like a commuter's delight than a driver’s joy.

With many models prioritizing comfort and fuel economy over excitement, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more pizzazz behind the wheel. Thus, a Honda might not be the most thrilling ride for those seeking exhilarating acceleration or precise, aggressive turning.

Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with distinct gear shifts, CVTs can feel less engaging to drive and often provide a sluggish experience.

Worse yet, CVT repairs can be more expensive than repairs for traditional automatic transmissions. This is because CVTs are more complex and require specialized knowledge and parts.

When it comes to interior materials, some Hondas might leave you feeling a bit underwhelmed. While the build quality is generally solid, the choice of materials often leans towards the utilitarian rather than the luxurious. You might encounter a lot of hard plastics and uninspiring surfaces that can make the cabin feel a bit “cheap.”

It’s like getting a fancy dessert that looks great but doesn’t taste as delightful as it appears. For those who value a plush, high-end interior experience, the Honda’s budget-friendly materials might not meet the mark. You might want to look elsewhere if you're after something with a more luxurious feel or a more tactile air of refinement.

While Hondas have a reputation for reliability, those ratings don't always come from years of ownership, and they don’t nearly have the word of mouth and reputation of a Toyota. The truth is that Hondas have many common problems that owners face later on.

For one, transmission failure is a common occurrence and a costly fix that will set you back thousands of dollars. Other problems, such as airbag defects, engine issues, and electrical issues, have been known to occur. And if you live in a hot climate, high temperatures can lead to cracked power steering hoses.

Despite what people would have you believe, Honda has not yet perfected the automobile, and every year, their vehicles have plenty of kinks they need to work out.

In 2023, almost 5 million Honda vehicles were recalled. And things aren’t looking great for the current model year, either. In 2024, over 750,000 vehicles were recalled over an airbag issue – a pretty important safety feature, we’d say.

Honda vehicles, particularly sedans and certain compact SUVs, have been criticized for offering less spacious interiors than some competitors. This can be a significant drawback for taller drivers and passengers who need a little more space.

A cramped interior can make for unpleasant weekend getaways, along withmany complaints if there are kids tagging along.

Considering the cramped interiors of the Honda and the lack of cargo space, there aren’t many choices other than the Odyssey that are great options for families.

When it comes to Honda, the climate control system can leave much to be desired. Imagine being stuck in traffic on a scorching summer day, and your car’s A/C is more of a lukewarm breeze than a cool oasis. It's like expecting an Arctic chill and getting a faint whisper of wind instead.

In winter, the heating system can take its sweet time to warm up, leaving you shivering in your seat. For a brand known for reliability, the hit-or-miss nature of their climate control is a bit of a letdown. If you value comfort and consistent cabin temperatures, Honda’s inconsistent climate control might just be a dealbreaker.

In recent years, especially since COVID-19, Honda has suffered from some inventory problems. That issue, combined with the popularity of certain Honda models, has meant limited availability at Honda dealerships.

Due to the limited availability of many Honda models, many dealerships are marking up the prices, charging buyers more than the MSRP. Shopping for a Honda means you’re less likely to get a great deal.

While many Honda models looked packed with features at first glance, they hold behind a select few, putting them in package deals that can quickly add to your overall cost.

While features like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control might seem like great standard features to get for your money, arguably more useful ones like blind-spot monitoring are saved for a higher-level trim or a package that will add a few thousand more to your final price. It’s a scam!

Author James Stephens Last Updated: July 31, 2024