How do you start a Honda Clarity engine?
Short answer: start the car by pressing the Power/Engine Start button with your foot on the brake. The exact process varies by model: the Plug-in Hybrid may trigger the gasoline engine as needed, while the Electric and Fuel Cell versions have no conventional engine to start.
Understanding the Clarity family and how it affects starting
The Honda Clarity lineup included three powertrains: Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), Electric (BEV), and Fuel Cell (FCEV). Each uses a push-button style start instead of a traditional ignition key. In the United States, Honda phased out new Clarity models after the early 2020s, so many owners have a used vehicle. Procedures can vary slightly by model year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual for exact steps.
Starting a Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
Step-by-step overview
The following steps outline how to start the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, which combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with electric drive. The engine may start automatically as needed for power or charging.
- Sit in the driver's seat, fasten your seat belt, and ensure the vehicle is in Park (P).
- With your foot on the brake, press the Engine Start/Stop button (often labeled Power) to wake the vehicle’s systems.
- Observe the instrument cluster for the power/Ready indicators as the system boots up.
- Move the shift lever from Park to Drive (D) or Reverse (R) using the selector.
- Drive as normal. The gasoline engine may start automatically if the battery needs charging or extra power is required; otherwise you can operate in electric mode.
- When you’re finished, bring the car back to Park and press the Engine Start/Stop button to turn off.
Concluding note: The Plug-in Hybrid’s starting routine emphasizes readiness of the electric drivetrain, with the gasoline engine stepping in only when needed for efficiency or power.
Starting a Clarity Electric
What changes with a BEV
The Clarity Electric is fully electric, so there is no internal combustion engine to start. You simply wake the car and begin driving once the system is ready.
- Get in, buckle up, and confirm the vehicle is ready to be powered up (doors closed, key fob inside if required).
- With your foot on the brake, press the Power button to power up the vehicle’s electrical system.
- Look for the instrument cluster to indicate readiness (often a “Ready” or illuminated gauges).
- Shift from Park to Drive (D) and gently apply the accelerator to begin moving.
- When you’re done, shift to Park (P) and press the Power button to switch off.
Concluding note: Since there’s no gasoline engine, the starting process centers on enabling the electric drivetrain and battery systems for driving.
Starting a Clarity Fuel Cell
What to expect with the hydrogen-powered model
The Clarity Fuel Cell uses a hydrogen fuel-cell stack to generate electricity for electric motors; there is no traditional internal combustion engine to start.
- Enter the vehicle, fasten your seat belt, and ensure the vehicle is in Park (P) with doors closed.
- With your foot on the brake, press the Power button to initiate the system’s startup sequence.
- Wait for the system to warm up and display “Ready” or similar indicators that the fuel-cell stack is prepared to deliver power.
- Move the gear selector to Drive (D) or Reverse (R) to begin driving.
- When finished, return to Park (P) and turn off the vehicle as you would with other Hondas.
Concluding note: Fuel-Cell operation relies on hydrogen supply and the fuel-cell stack delivering electricity; always ensure you’re at a certified fueling station and observe safety guidelines specific to hydrogen vehicles.
Safety and maintenance tips when starting any Clarity
Before attempting to start any Clarity variant, keep these best practices in mind to ensure a safe and smooth startup:
- Always brake firmly and ensure the vehicle is in Park (P) or Neutral when starting if the manual specifies, and keep doors closed.
- Use the Power/Engine Start button only when your foot is on the brake and you’re ready to drive.
- Check for warning lights or messages on the instrument cluster. If any appear, consult the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer.
- For the Plug-in Hybrid, ensure you know whether you’re operating in EV mode or hybrid mode, as battery charge level can influence engine behavior.
- Be mindful of fuel or charging requirements: Plug-in Hybrid relies on battery charging and gasoline, Electric relies on battery charge, and Fuel Cell requires hydrogen supply.
Concluding note: Following the official startup sequence for your Clarity variant helps protect the drivetrain and maximize efficiency, especially given the model-year differences and evolving availability of the Clarity lineup.
Summary
The Honda Clarity family comprises Plug-in Hybrid, Electric, and Fuel Cell models, each with a distinct startup routine. In all cases, modern Clarity variants use a brake-press and Power/Engine Start button rather than a traditional ignition key. The Plug-in Hybrid may start the gasoline engine automatically as power needs arise; the Electric and Fuel Cell versions do not have a conventional engine to start and rely on their electric drivetrains (and, for the Fuel Cell, the hydrogen stack) to propel the vehicle. Always refer to your specific model year’s owner’s manual for exact steps and safety instructions, and be aware of the availability and support status of the Clarity in your region.
Why won't my Honda Clarity start?
Common Causes for Your 2020 Honda Clarity Not Starting and How to Resolve Them. The most common reasons a 2020 Honda Clarity won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. Battery: A weak or failing battery can result in difficulty starting the engine and electrical system malfunctions.
How to start a Honda engine?
Position. Second turn the fuel. On it's the black lever push it towards the engine. Third close the choke it's the gray lever pull it away from the engine.
How to start a Honda hybrid engine?
Starting Your Honda Hybrid Car
Once inside the car, press the brake pedal and then press the “Power” or “Start” button, typically located near the steering column or on the dashboard. The car's instrument panel will illuminate, indicating that the vehicle is ready to operate.
How does the Honda Clarity engine work?
When driving in electric-only mode, the vehicle runs solely on the electric motor, which is powered by the onboard battery. Once the battery charge drops to a certain level or if more power is required for acceleration, the gasoline engine automatically kicks in.
