2022 Honda Insight Safety Report

The 2022 Honda Insight presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance, achieving a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars in Frontal, Side, and Rollover tests, its complaint data reveals significant concerns, particularly with its advanced driver-assistance systems. With 28 total complaints, a notable pattern emerges around the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' system, which accounts for 6 direct complaints and several others where it's combined with other issues. Many owners report instances of the automatic emergency braking system activating without cause, leading to sudden and dangerous deceleration, even on clear roads. This 'phantom braking' issue is a critical safety concern, as it can increase the risk of rear-end collisions. Beyond the braking system, other recurring issues include electrical system malfunctions (3 complaints), with some owners experiencing BCM failures, starting problems in cold weather, and infotainment system glitches like freezing or 'phantom touches' that distract drivers. There are also reports of engine issues, including shaking, helicopter sounds, and deceleration/stalling, though these are fewer in number. The vehicle has two recalls: one for a fuel pump issue affecting a wide range of Honda models, which could lead to engine stall, and another specific to the 2022 Insight for a rear seat belt retractor defect that could compromise child restraint safety. These recalls, while important, do not directly address the prevalent 'phantom braking' complaints. In summary, the 2022 Honda Insight demonstrates robust passive safety through its crash test results. However, the high frequency of complaints related to its active safety features, specifically the forward collision avoidance system's unintended braking, raises serious questions about its real-world safety performance. The electrical system and infotainment issues also contribute to a less-than-ideal user experience and potential distraction hazards. Prospective buyers should be aware of these active safety system anomalies despite the strong crash ratings.

Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, prospective buyers should be aware of the prevalent complaints regarding unintended automatic emergency braking and electrical system issues; a thorough pre-purchase inspection and understanding of these active safety system quirks are highly recommended.