How many miles does a Honda Clarity last?
The Honda Clarity’s mileage depends on the variant:Plug-In Hybrid about 340 miles of total range, Electric about 89 miles on a full charge, and Fuel Cell about 360 miles on a full hydrogen fill.
Beyond the numbers, the question varies by how you drive, climate, and fueling/charging access. This article breaks down the official ranges and what they mean for daily use.
Variants and official mileage ranges
Honda publishes EPA estimates for each Clarity variant. The figures below reflect typical EPA ratings cited for these models when new.
- Clarity Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): Approximately 340 miles of total range, with about 47 miles of electric-only range. After the battery is depleted, it operates on gasoline with a combined efficiency in the low 40s mpg (varies by year and trim).
- Clarity Electric: About 89 miles of range per full charge (all-electric operation).
- Clarity Fuel Cell (FCV): Around 360 miles of range on a full hydrogen fill; availability is limited to regions with hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
Real-world results can differ from EPA estimates due to temperature, driving style, terrain, and the use of climate control or other accessories.
How these numbers translate to daily driving
PHEV owners can typically rely on electricity for short commutes and use the gasoline engine for longer trips, while Electric-only drivers need to plan charging stops for extended travel. FCV drivers must consider access to hydrogen fueling stations, which remains limited in many areas.
Real-world longevity and reliability considerations
The lifetime mileage of a Clarity depends on maintenance, driving conditions, climate, and how regularly the vehicle is serviced. Modern Hondas are known for durability, and with proper care, a Clarity (like many modern vehicles) can reach high mileages. Battery health for the EV and PHEV variants, as well as the reliability of the hydrogen fuel-cell system for FCVs in the appropriate markets, are important factors that influence long-term performance.
Because the Clarity lineup uses three distinct propulsion systems, potential buyers should consider not only the forward-range numbers but also the availability of charging/fueling infrastructure, maintenance support, and warranty coverage in their region.
Summary
The Honda Clarity’s miles-per-charge or per-fill depend on the version: Plug-In Hybrid ~340 miles total range (about 47 miles electric), Electric ~89 miles per charge, and Fuel Cell ~360 miles on hydrogen. Real-world range will vary, and long-term durability hinges on regular maintenance and the specific drivetrain—electric, plug-in, or hydrogen—being properly cared for. Selecting the right variant should align with daily driving needs, access to charging or fueling, and local support networks.
How many miles does a Honda Clarity get?
approximately 47 miles
Electric-Only Mode Range
On a full charge, the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) offers an electric-only range of approximately 47 miles.
Can a hybrid battery last 200K miles?
Hybrid batteries typically last 100K–200K miles, with most warranties covering 100K miles, depending on usage and maintenance.
How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Honda Clarity Hybrid?
A Honda Clarity hybrid battery replacement can cost anywhere from \$2,000 to over \$8,000, depending on the specific battery and where you have the service done. Dealerships typically charge more, potentially between \$6,000 and \$8,000, while aftermarket and remanufactured options, like those offered by companies like Greentec Auto, can be more affordable. Factors like the newness of the battery, installation fees, and the specific service center all contribute to the final price.
You can watch this video to learn more about how much it costs to replace a hybrid battery: 59sDrive.com.auYouTube · Dec 14, 2024
Cost breakdown
- Dealerships: Expect costs to be on the higher end, potentially from \$6,000 to \$8,000.
- Aftermarket/Remanufactured: Prices can vary, with some options ranging from approximately \$2,000 to \$4,000.
- OEM Part: The original part itself can cost around \$4,941.64 or more, before installation labor.
Factors influencing cost
- Service center: Dealerships generally charge more than independent or aftermarket shops.
- Battery type: The cost varies depending on whether you choose a new, remanufactured, or refurbished battery.
- Labor costs: This is a significant part of the total price and will vary by location and service center.
- Vehicle model: The specific model and year can affect the price of the replacement battery.
What to do
- Get a quote: Contact a few different service centers, including your local dealership and independent specialists, to compare quotes.
- Check your warranty: If your battery is still under the 8-year/100,000-mile (or 10-year/150,000-mile for CARB states) warranty, it may be covered for a defective part.
- Consider a remanufactured battery: If your vehicle is out of warranty, a remanufactured option can significantly reduce costs.
What is the reliability score of the Honda Clarity?
The Honda Clarity's reliability is generally considered average to great, though some model years have received lower scores and a few specific issues have been reported by owners and reviewers. Reported problems include electronic glitches like warning lights and faulty sensors, issues with the charging port, and in some cases, specific parts like the AC condenser have needed attention. However, many owners report excellent reliability, with long-term ownership showing few problems beyond standard maintenance.
This video reviews the Honda Clarity's reliability and ownership experience over two years: 50sAdam's Everything EVYouTube · Jul 2, 2020
Positive aspects of Clarity reliability
- Long-term durability: Many owners have reported high mileage with no major issues, with some only needing standard maintenance like oil changes.
- Advanced features: Systems like lane assist and adaptive cruise control are often reported to work well.
- Strong core components: Overall, the powertrain is generally considered durable, with few issues reported beyond specific problems.
Potential issues and concerns
- Electronic glitches: Some owners have experienced electronic issues, such as multiple warning lights appearing for no apparent reason and a faulty cabin temperature sensor.
- Charging problems: There have been reports of charging port issues, though many were covered under warranty. Some owners have also noted that the car may not consistently charge on public Level 2 chargers.
- AC condenser recall: A recall has been issued for the AC condenser, and the warranty for this part has been extended.
- Other specific issues: A few owners have reported problems with the trunk failing to open or minor rattles in plastic parts.
- Charging behavior: The car's tendency to switch to hybrid mode when the battery is depleted on long trips can surprise some drivers.
This video discusses a specific issue where the Honda Clarity might lose power: 1mNet Zero Carbon BuildingYouTube · Aug 27, 2023
Recommendations
- When buying a used Clarity, it is wise to have a pre-purchase inspection, check the Carfax for accidents, and use an OBDII scanner to check for any issues.
- When test driving, ensure the battery is at least 50% charged to get a better feel for the car's performance.
- Familiarize yourself with the car's hybrid system to avoid unexpected behavior, particularly regarding how it uses the battery charge on long trips.
