Problems · by component

2015 Honda Fit engine problems

40 owner complaints to NHTSA about the 2015 Honda Fit cite engine, 14% of all 284 complaints for this model year.

Complaints
40
14% of all complaints
Crashes
0
Reported by owners
Fires
0
Reported by owners
Injuries
0
Reported by owners
01 —Owner reports

What owners say about the engine

Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first
“The contact owns a 2015 Honda Fit. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Check Charging System" warning light illuminated. Additionally, the engine start button intermittently failed to start the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was initially diagnosed with battery failure. However, the failure persisted after the battery was replaced. A diagnostic scan retrieved 6 Diagnostic Trouble Codes stored in the computer. Upon further diagnostic test, the independent mechanic identified Technical Service Bulletin: 20-098 (Warranty Extension: 2015–17 Fit Keyless Start System Error with DTC B12C5). The vehicle could not be repaired under the TSB because the vehicle was outside of the warranty period. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 42,000.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 15, 2026Electrical system, EngineODI 11750584
“I am the owner of a Honda Fit, and I am reporting a persistent and worsening issue that began during the winter of 2024. The vehicle produces a rattling noise during cold start-ups, which has become increasingly loud and frequent over time. This vehicle has only 89,646 miles, which is considered relatively low mileage for a modern engine to begin exhibiting such symptoms. This suggests that the issue is not due to normal wear and tear, but rather a premature mechanical defect. Based on my research and discussions with other Honda owners, this issue appears to be linked to a defective Variable Valve Timing Control (VTC) actuator, a problem that has been documented in other Honda models and addressed through Technical Service Bulletin 16-088. I am concerned that this is not merely a cosmetic or nuisance issue. The noise suggests a mechanical defect that could lead to premature engine wear or even total engine failure if left unaddressed. Given the number of similar complaints across various Honda models, I believe this may be a manufacturing defect that warrants further investigation. I respectfully request that Honda acknowledge this issue in the Honda Fit and…”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jun 10, 2025EngineODI 11666085
“My Honda Fit was purchased new in Portland, Oregon. I am the original owner. I began having issues that are documented after moving to Florida, and took the car to Honda in Palm Bay. The issues were grinding noise at the first start of the day, or after sitting for several hours and then restarted. The noise is noticed upon start in am or 1st start and is a grinding noise from the motor area. It sounds like a knock/grinding, like the motor is starting and has no oil in it. But the oil level is okay and it is not out of oil. This continues today, after being at the same dealer several times. The service department stated that they needed me to leave the car overnight to try to diagnose the issue after the car sat all night because the noise only comes after sitting all night or long periods. I left the car more than once at the dealership. The dealer in Palm Bay stated "they were unable to re-produce the knocking/grinding that has been occurring since about 11,000 miles. The car is still grinding or knocking and after taking to another dealer in Tampa, Fl I was told it was a DTC and they refused to fix it. It is now just over mileage under warranty, and was…”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Feb 13, 2025Electrical system, EngineODI 11642603
“recall notice for starter system, took in for repair, part in notice replaced but car now not starting again and had starter system lights on again. As per service records car has has the problems since 2016/17 while under warranty and recall repair done at Honda. The “ grinding” knock/tap noise from engine has never been repaired and until 7/2023 Honda was “ unable to diagnose” it. Westshore Honda- Tampa diagnosed it as “ VTC” ( which is inside the motor) and other folks have had the well documented problem The no start is seemingly with the electrical system, per Honda service records and switch replaced when in for recall repair in 7/23 as well but car again having same problem. I’m unable to drive car.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Nov 23, 2024Electrical system, EngineODI 11626989
“While driving. the engine failed. Loss of power, smoke. Would not start. Entire engine compartment covered with oil. Car towed to mechanic. Who said a hole had been blowout the size of a fist. Engine would have to be replaced.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Mar 12, 2024EngineODI 11576903
“P219alA code appears; supposed fuel injector issue after trying smaller fixes (MAF sensor, air filter) with no luck. Just purchased from local dealer a few weeks ago.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Feb 13, 2024Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11571574

Showing 6 of 40 reports. Read every report on NHTSA.gov.

Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Oct 30, 2026NHTSA vehicle page

Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.