2019 Honda Insight Safety Report

The 2019 Honda Insight demonstrates a strong overall safety profile based on NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover categories. This indicates excellent performance in protecting occupants during various crash scenarios. However, despite these high ratings, the vehicle has accumulated 94 total complaints, with 6 resulting in injuries, though no crashes, fires, or deaths have been reported. A significant portion of these complaints revolve around the 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE' (14 complaints) and 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' systems (10 complaints), suggesting potential areas of concern in real-world driving. The recall history for the 2019 Insight is notably extensive, with 7 recalls issued. Three of these recalls specifically address issues with the 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP', which can lead to engine stalls and increase crash risk. This aligns with the high number of related complaints. Other critical recalls include 'SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY' and 'SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER' issues, both of which could compromise occupant restraint during a crash. Furthermore, a recall for 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE' highlights potential malfunctions in critical systems like wipers, defroster, and lighting, while a 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA' recall addresses rearview camera failures, all increasing crash risk. Common complaint patterns, beyond the fuel pump, include issues with the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' system, where drivers report false positives leading to sudden, unintended braking. This is a significant safety concern, as evidenced by multiple complaints describing unexpected stops at clear intersections or on highways. Additionally, 'AIR BAGS' (6 complaints) and 'SERVICE BRAKES' (5 complaints) also appear as notable complaint categories. The recurring nature of fuel pump and forward collision avoidance system issues, coupled with multiple recalls addressing these areas, suggests these are the primary safety vulnerabilities for the 2019 Honda Insight, despite its excellent crash test performance.

Our recommendation: While the 2019 Honda Insight boasts excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous recalls and recurring complaints, particularly regarding fuel pump failures and the forward collision avoidance system; ensure all recall repairs are completed before purchase and consider an extended warranty for the A/C system.