Why did Honda stop making the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid?

What the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid was

The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid was part of Honda’s Clarity family, introduced to offer a plug-in option alongside a fuel-cell version and a battery-electric variant. It paired a traditional internal-combustion engine with an electric motor and a sizable battery to allow short trips on electric power before the gasoline engine took over. This arrangement aimed to deliver the flexibility of a conventional car with the efficiency benefits of electrification.

Performance and design

The Clarity PHEV relied on a relatively large battery and an electric-drive system to provide an all-electric driving option, while preserving a gasoline range for longer trips. It offered five seats, a comfortable interior, and the kind of tech features buyers expected from modern Honda models. However, the vehicle’s electric range was modest by today’s crossover standards, and the car carried a premium price relative to competing plug-ins with longer electric range.

Why production ended

A combination of market dynamics and corporate strategy led Honda to phase out the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. The company cited weak demand for the model, the higher costs associated with a niche plug-in that competed with other electrified options, and a broader decision to refocus resources on newer electric-vehicle platforms and products.

• Weak sales relative to expectations and competing models


• Higher engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance costs for a small-volume option


• The plug-in’s relatively modest electric range compared with the rapid improvements in newer BEVs


• A strategic pivot toward battery-electric vehicles and next-generation platforms

Taken together, these factors made the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid economically unattractive to continue producing for Honda’s global lineup, especially as the company accelerated its electrification roadmap.

The broader shift: what Honda is pursuing now

With the Clarity lineup largely retired, Honda has redirected its electrification efforts toward new battery-electric vehicles and updated hybrid models. The company has spoken publicly about accelerating its electric-vehicle strategy, including partnerships and new platforms intended to expand BEV availability across markets, and to meet longer-term global emission goals.

• Development of dedicated BEV models and a broader electrified product line


• Collaboration on new platforms and technologies to scale battery-electric vehicles


• Important plug-in and hybrid variants within mainstream models, while ramping BEV offerings


• A strategic plan to electrify a larger share of Honda’s global sales in the coming years

These moves reflect Honda’s view that a diversified electrification strategy—combining BEVs, hybrids, and newer powertrain architectures—will better meet consumer demand and regulatory requirements as the market transitions away from traditional internal-combustion powertrains.

What this means for consumers and owners

For buyers who considered the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid in the past, the decision to discontinue means turning attention to Honda’s current and future electrified offerings. Honda continues to offer hybrids and is expanding its BEV lineup, while gaps left by the Clarity PHEV are being filled by newer models designed to deliver longer electric range and more competitive pricing as part of the company’s longer-term electrification strategy.

Summary

Honda stopped producing the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid mainly due to weak sales and a strategic pivot toward more scalable electric-vehicle solutions. The decision reflects a broader industry trend: automakers are retooling portfolios to emphasize BEVs and next-generation platforms while winding down less successful niche models. Honda’s current path focuses on expanding its BEV offerings and integrating electrified options across its lineup to compete in a rapidly evolving market.

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What is the problem with Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid 2019?

Common problems reported for the 2019 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid include issues with the air conditioning system (especially the evaporator after the condenser is replaced under warranty), a failing 12-volt battery, and occasional power loss caused by a variety of issues like a malfunctioning hybrid system, DC-DC converter, or fuel pump. Several recalls have also been issued for this model, particularly regarding the rear seat belt assemblies and fuel pump. 
Major problems 
This video discusses common problems and faults with the Honda Clarity, including issues with the 12-volt battery: 52sTechnical EvolutionYouTube · Sep 6, 2025

• Air Conditioning (AC): A frequent issue is AC failure, especially for the evaporator after the condenser has been replaced under an extended warranty. 
• 12-Volt Battery: The 12-volt battery can fail without warning, leading to a variety of warning lights and potential drivability issues. This is common in many hybrids and EVs. 
• Loss of Power: Some owners report sudden power loss while driving, which can be caused by problems with the hybrid system, a faulty DC-DC converter, a failing fuel pump, or issues with the electronic control module (ECM). 
• Hybrid System/Battery: Reports of the hybrid battery deteriorating, or "manufacturer control" codes, can indicate a serious problem requiring professional diagnosis and potential repair or replacement under the hybrid battery warranty. 
• Check Engine Light: The check engine light can illuminate for various reasons, from a simple sensor issue to more serious problems like a flashing light that indicates a severe engine misfire. 
• Rear Seat Belts: A recall was issued because the seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended. 

Minor problems

• Passenger Sun Visor: The spring on the passenger side visor can fail. 
• Wipers: Some drivers find the wiper blades loud and ineffective. 
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Some owners have reported issues with the LKAS and associated sensors. 

Important considerations

• Recall Repairs: Ensure all outstanding recalls have been addressed by a dealer. 
• Professional Diagnosis: When the check engine light comes on, or if you experience power loss, get a professional diagnosis, as it could indicate a serious problem requiring expensive repairs. 
• Battery Health: Pay attention to the health of both the high-voltage hybrid battery and the 12-volt battery, as issues with either can cause significant problems. 
• Winter Performance: The hybrid battery's electric range can drop significantly in cold weather. 
• Erratic Behavior: If the battery runs out of charge, especially on hills, the car may exhibit strange behavior, with the engine revving loudly as it struggles to accelerate. 

How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Honda Clarity PHEV?

A Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid battery replacement can cost anywhere from approximately $8,500 to over $12,000 at a dealership, depending on the service center and whether it's a full or remanufactured unit. Some independent shops may offer lower prices, sometimes as low as $8,500, though they might not use official OEM parts. Costs can also be lower if purchasing a used battery from a third-party source, but this is not a recommended option unless you have experience with this type of repair and are prepared for potential future issues. 
This video explains how much it costs to replace a hybrid battery and how to extend the battery's life: 49sGreentec EV and Hybrid BatteriesYouTube · Jun 11, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Dealership: $8,500 - $12,000+ 
• Independent shops: Can be lower, but depends on parts and labor 
• Used parts: Potentially cheaper, but often without a warranty and with high risk 

Factors that affect cost

• Part type: OEM vs. aftermarket vs. used
• Installation location: Dealership vs. independent shop
• Part quality: New vs. refurbished vs. remanufactured
• Labor costs: Can vary significantly depending on your location
• Drivetrain: All-electric versions might have slightly different replacement costs 

How to get an accurate estimate

• Contact a dealership: Get a quote from a Honda dealership in your area for an OEM battery replacement. 
• Contact independent hybrid/EV specialists: Get a quote from a reputable independent shop that specializes in hybrids and EVs. These shops may have different options for parts and labor that can lower costs. 
• Check online parts suppliers: Look up prices for replacement batteries from online retailers, but remember that this will not include installation costs. 

Can I charge my Honda Clarity at a Tesla charging station?

Yes, the Honda Clarity can use Tesla chargers, but it requires an adapter, and the method depends on the specific model. The Honda Clarity EV can use a Tesla Supercharger via an official Honda-approved NACS-CCS adapter, available starting in June 2025. For Tesla Destination Chargers and slower AC charging at a Tesla-style charger, you would need a third-party adapter, like a NEMA 14-50 adapter, to connect the Tesla's charger to the Clarity's J1772 port. 
For DC fast charging 
You can watch this video to learn how to use a NACS-CCS adapter: 54sTechnical EvolutionYouTube · Aug 20, 2025

• For models starting in 2025: Honda vehicles will adopt the NACS standard and gain access to Tesla Superchargers using the new Honda-approved NACS-CCS adapter, reports North Shore Honda and Honda Newsroom. 
• For models before 2025: You will need the Honda-approved NACS-CCS DC fast-charging adapter, which can be purchased at Honda dealerships or the Honda DreamShop website for approximately $225. 
• For Tesla Superchargers with a Magic Dock: Some Tesla Superchargers are starting to have a built-in "Magic Dock" which includes both a Tesla connector and a CCS connector, allowing a non-Tesla vehicle to charge directly from the station. 

For AC charging (e.g., a Tesla Destination Charger) 

• For Tesla Destination Chargers (Tesla's AC charging stations): You will need a third-party adapter, such as a third-party NEMA 14-50 adapter, to convert the Tesla's plug to a J1772 plug. 
• For other adapters: There are also third-party adapters available for Tesla AC chargers that can be used with a J1772 port.