What is the reliability score of a Honda Clarity?

The Honda Clarity does not have a single, universal reliability score. Reliability ratings vary by model year and by variant—Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), Fuel Cell (FCV), and Electric (EV). Credible third-party sources generally place the Clarity lineup in a mixed-to-mid range, with some years performing better than others and with limited data for the FCV and EV because of smaller sales volumes. The exact numeric score depends on which variant and year you’re evaluating.

How reliability scores are measured

To understand the Clarity’s reliability, it helps to know how ratings are produced by major independent sources. The following panels publish numerical or categorical reliability assessments that you’ll often see cited in reviews and owner forums.

• Consumer Reports (CR) publishes predicted reliability scores based on owner surveys and repair data. Scores are typically shown on a 1–5 rating scale or as a percentage-like reliability metric. For the Clarity, CR has reported mixed results across its variants, generally placing the model in the mid-to-lower range within its class depending on year and variant.


• J.D. Power Quality & Reliability ratings evaluate the frequency of problems reported by owners and the severity of those problems. The Clarity family has tended to rank below average within its automotive segment in some years, with variation by variant and production run.


• National and industry recall databases (such as NHTSA) track safety-related recalls and service campaigns. A higher number of recalls or open campaigns can influence perceived reliability and ownership experience, even if a vehicle is otherwise well-built.


• Manufacturer warranties and service data influence the practical reliability picture. Honda’s standard coverage and warranty terms can affect owners’ long-term experience and maintenance expectations.

Taken together, these indicators suggest that reliability for the Honda Clarity is not uniform across all variants or model years; prospective buyers and owners should consult the specific year-by-year scores from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, along with recall data, for the precise variant they’re considering.

Reliability by Clarity variant

Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

Reliability reports for the Clarity PHEV have been mixed. Because this variant was among the more widely marketed Clarity models for several years, CR and J.D. Power have more data to draw on than for the FCV or EV. Owners have occasionally reported issues related to charging equipment, battery conditioning, and infotainment electronics, contributing to a perception of mid-range reliability in some years. As with many plug-in hybrids from that era, the reliability picture improved in some later updates, but data remains year- and region-specific. If you’re evaluating a used Clarity PHEV, review the CR and J.D. Power reliability scores for the exact model year and confirm active recalls have been completed.

Clarity Fuel Cell (FCV)

The FCV variant is the rarest and thus has the smallest reliability and owner-data sample. Because FCVs are limited to specific regions and a smaller pool of vehicles, reliability assessments rely on a smaller dataset, which makes year-to-year comparisons harder. Public reviews have highlighted the hydrogen-fuel-system concept as innovative but also more dependent on specialized maintenance and hydrogen fueling infrastructure. In practice, FCV reliability can feel more variable due to the limited service networks and parts availability, even when pure mechanical quality is solid. For potential buyers, the key is to check the latest recalls and service notices specific to the FCV and to verify near-term access to Honda-trained FCV technicians.

Clarity Electric (EV)

The Clarity Electric was produced in smaller volumes and overlapped with the plug-in hybrid and FCV in several years. Reliability data for the EV tend to be scarcer, but the model shared an approach with other mid-2010s electric vehicles: electrical-system complexity and battery-management software were common sources of owner-reported issues. In markets where the Clarity EV was available, early iterations sometimes faced higher maintenance needs or range-related concerns, which can influence perceived reliability. As with the PHEV, owners should review the most recent CR and J.D. Power scores for the exact year and confirm all battery-related recalls and software updates have been completed.

What to check when buying a Honda Clarity

If you’re considering a used Honda Clarity, here are practical steps to gauge reliability beyond a single score:

• Look up the precise Consumer Reports predicted reliability and J.D. Power Quality & Reliability ratings for the exact model year and variant you’re considering.


• Check for open recalls and service campaigns on NHTSA’s database and ensure all recall work has been completed by an authorized Honda service center.


• Review owner forums and user reviews for common, year-specific issues (charging, battery condition, infotainment, and warranty service experiences).


• Assess warranty coverage and the availability of trained service for Clarity’s specific powertrain technology (PHEV, FCV, EV) in your region.

With limited production numbers for FCV and EV variants and ongoing updates to software and powertrain components, reliability can vary more by year and region for the Clarity than for mainstream gas-powered rivals.

Bottom line

The Honda Clarity’s reliability score is not a single figure you can apply across all variants. The Plug-in Hybrid, Fuel Cell, and Electric versions each have their own data profiles, and recent third-party assessments typically place the lineup in the mid-to-lower range within their class depending on model year and region. Prospective buyers should check the exact scores for the specific year and variant, review recalls, and consider warranty coverage and service accessibility to form a complete reliability picture.

Summary

The Clarity’s reliability cannot be summarized by one universal score. Scores vary by variant and model year, with credible sources often placing the lineup in a mixed-to-mid reliability range. For the most informed view, consult up-to-date Consumer Reports and J.D. Power ratings for the exact year and variant, along with recall history and available service networks for FCV, PHEV, and EV models.

What problems do 2018 Honda Clarity owners report?

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

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. 

How much to replace a Honda Clarity hybrid battery?

A Honda Clarity hybrid battery replacement costs between $8,500 and $12,000 or more, while the battery for the full electric model may be around $10,000 to $12,000 or more. The cost depends on the specific model and the type of battery (e.g., all-electric vs. plug-in hybrid) and can vary significantly between the dealership and third-party repair shops.
 
Cost breakdown

• Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid: Around $8,500. 
• Honda Clarity Electric: Around $10,000. 
• Dealerships: May quote $12,000 or more, especially for the all-electric version. 
• Third-party specialists: Might offer a lower price, such as $8,500 for the plug-in hybrid model, according to Greentec Auto. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Model: The all-electric Clarity will cost more than the plug-in hybrid due to a larger battery pack. 
• Service provider: Dealerships may have higher prices for parts and labor than independent shops. 
• Battery type: The specific type of battery (e.g., lithium-ion) and whether it is new or remanufactured will affect the price. 
• Labor: The complex nature of a hybrid battery replacement requires specialized labor, which can be costly. 
• Additional parts: Depending on the issue, you may also need to purchase other parts like battery cable harness brackets or terminal covers, which can add to the total cost.